Romantic honeymoon, travel, staycation and minimoon ideas for couples in Sussex

Beautiful Barbados

How lucky was I to visit this eastern Caribbean island, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pure white sand. Nestled in the bustling St. Lawrence Gap area with bars and restaurants, just a fifteen-minute drive from Bridgetown Airport, sits the five-star, fully inclusive O2 Beach Club & Spa, where I fell in love with the pink poolside theme as soon as I arrived! Having opened in late 2021, it's one of three Ocean Hotels Barbados properties, a Barbadian family owned group that also includes The Rockley and Sea Breeze Beach House (guests can access the sister properties for a day, oceanhotelsbarbados.com).

Smiles and sunsets

With the sun about to dip below the horizon, our yacht approached a curious-looking island. In the crystal-clear water ahead, there was a hive of activity, as a troop of Samae monkeys excitedly swam out towards the vessel. For the next 10 minutes, we took it in turns tossing segments of watermelon and cantaloupe towards the hungry macaques, with each of them scrambling to get their hands on their juicy tea-time treat, before looking up at us with adorable, red-tinted smiles. This encounter with the grinning primates was one of the many times during my trip to Bangkok and eastern Thailand in which I'd seen smiling faces. And I'm not just talking about the people and animals who call the place home, visitors to the southeast Asian country are also remarkably cheery and content – perhaps more so than ever before. I spoke to a number of honeymooning couples and other holidaymakers during the week, and despite the current trepidation surrounding travel, most didn't seem that concerned. "There are worse places to be stranded" or "we'll happily take another couple of weeks here", were two sentences I heard regularly.

Where romance meets the city

When it comes to London, there's no shortage of beautiful hotels to choose from. But after our recent stay, L'oscar London stood out as something truly special and easily one of the most memorable escapes I've experienced alongside my partner. Nestled on the edge of Covent Garden, just off the bustling cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops and cafés, L'oscar London stands proudly as an oasis of comfort and style. The stately historic building embodies classic London charm, boasting an impressive stone façade, elegant windows and refined luxury. Inside, the hotel is a perfect blend of historic and modern flair, with opulent touches and exquisite attention to detail. Every angle offers something for the senses, thanks to the renowned French architect and interior designer Jacques Garcia. He transformed a Baroque-style, Grade II-listed former church by introducing state-of-the-art amenities, beautifully balanced with historic features, for the best of both worlds.

Grand expectations

There are cities that feel cinematic, and then there's Edinburgh that surpasses them all; golden stone, hidden closes, and historic stories whispering on the wind. It felt like the perfect setting for a romantic escape, and from the moment we stepped into The Edinburgh Grand, we knew we were in for an exquisite stay celebrating out ten-year wedding anniversary. Located in St Andrew's Square in the former Royal Bank of Scotland's headquarters, The Edinburgh Grand, a Marriott Bonvoy Luxury Collection Hotel, stands proud alongside historic architecture, designer shops and cosmopolitan eateries.

Slow love in Zanzibar

Rachel Westall discovers this elegant four-star, eco-committed, adults-only resort, Matemwe Attitude; blending understated luxury with Swahili culture, inviting guests to swap schedules for sea breezes and discover the island through its people, food and gentle pace. Time moves differently here. Schedules and expectations become a thing of the past as you begin married life together, just the two of you. It's the hotel's understated definition of wellbeing: no rushing, no distractions, no sense that you should be anywhere other than exactly where you are. For newlyweds easing into married life, that gentle rhythm feels especially fitting.

Dreamy mini-moons

Whether you're looking for a relaxing pre-wedding getaway or a mini-moon, the UK has some truly dreamy options to choose from. While travelling abroad is always tempting, there are many positives to staying closer to home: no jet lag, flexible dates, dramatic landscapes, an abundance of boutique hotels and, perhaps most importantly, the luxury of slowing down and simply enjoying time together. In this feature, we break down some of the UK's most glorious regions and reveal why they make perfect mini-moon destinations.

2026 African honeymoon hotspots

Picture this: wide-open plains dotted with remarkable wildlife, sundowner bubbles - and just the right balance of romance, relaxation and adventure. Why not combine your safari with the barefoot luxury of an exotic private island, creating the perfect recipe for celebrating your nuptials! Africa is also famed for its luxurious hotels and lodges in unforgettable locations all creating those all-important memories of a lifetime!

A canvas of calm

The beauty of travelling to Mallorca begins with the quick-and-easy 2.5- hour flight. Even in late-October, sunshine embraced me the moment I stepped off the plane – 26 degrees of bliss. My short transfer from the airport was arranged through the hotel's concierge, escorting me safely to the boutique resort located in Santa Ponça. The hotel's signature scent, lighting and soothing colour palette worked in harmony to set the tone of the stay – serene and tranquil. Kimpton allows you to discover the artistic soul of Mallorca. The walls are lined with beautiful artwork, some of which are available to buy. With just 79 rooms, the boutique hotel feels intimate. From my balcony, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, my view overlooked the lush gardens and pool. I loved discovering secluded hideaways, a hammock for two here, a tucked-away daybed there – perfect for those quiet moments shared with your love.

A room with a London view

This Grade II listed building was opened in 1922 by King George V and Queen Mary as the headquarters of the local government in London, meaning the building and its woo- panelled chambers have been witness to many secret whispers over the years. Superbly positioned along London's dynamic and creative South Bank, London Marriott Hotel County Hall provides guests with iconic river views of the city's finest landmarks including the London Eye, Big Ben and Houses of Parliament. Just a short walk from Covent Garden and Soho, it's ideal for catching a West End show or exploring London's lively nightlife.

Love in the Caribbean

Being in this industry means I'm lucky enough to visit incredible locations – it's an opportunity I'll never take for granted. So, I felt very fortunate when the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority team reached out about a trip to East Winds Resort on the northwest coast. Before I knew it, my partner and I were boarding a flight for our eight-hour journey to the beautiful island. Oh, and did I mention it's right on the beach? After landing and breezing through immigration, we drove 90 minutes from Hewanorra International Airport to the Resort, giving us the perfect chance to soak in the island's vibrant spirit. From lush greenery and palm trees at every turn, to bursts of colour throughout the towns and the warm, welcoming locals, it was clear from the start that this island had captured our hearts. From winding through a rainforest to cruising by the coast, every moment was an experience!

Falling in love WITH ONTARIO

Natural beauty and man-made magnificence in Canada's largest province - By Richard Jones, travel editor. A lot can happen in 20 years – and even more in 12,000. As we sat down to celebrate our China wedding anniversary, the conversation between my wife Rachel and I switched between our big day two decades ago and the breathtaking Canadian Horseshoe Falls formed at the end of the last Ice Age. Whether you're a fan of natural landscapes, like the world-famous Niagara Falls, or man-made attractions like those in the big city of Toronto, you get the best of both worlds in Ontario, as we found out on a five-day celebratory break in Canada's most populous province.

Editor Olivia Gibson experiences the ultimate mini-moon in Marylebone Village

London is packed with iconic spots, but I'm always on the hunt for the city's best hidden gems. So, when the team at Marylebone Village invited me to explore some of their local treasures, I couldn't wait to discover what makes this charming neighbourhood so special for mini-moons. My partner and I embraced a romantic stay, enveloped by Marylebone's timeless charm, cobbled streets, secret corners, and an atmosphere that feels like a dreamy escape. Nestled in the heart of central London, Marylebone Village is a true urban setting renowned for its diverse and impressive collection of retailers, galleries, bars, pubs and restaurants, all set within a charming grid of Georgian streets.

Phun times in Phuket

A twin-centre trip to Thailand's capital and its largest island ticks every box fortravel editor Richard Jones. The views of Bangkok's neon-drenched skyscrapers were a distant memory amidst the swaying tropical palm trees. And instead of roaring motorcycle engines and car horns ringing in my ears, my senses were soothed by the Andaman Sea's gently lapping waves. "It's just more relaxed here," explained tour guide Teddy, as we travelled along the crescent-shaped Patong Beach in Phuket. "We call it the island life. "The serene tropical paradise felt like a world away from bustling Bangkok where I had spent the last three days. That's not to say I hadn't had a blast in the Thai capital, but by combining the two very different destinations, you can end up with a memorable twin-centre post-wedding getaway.

Make it the Maldives

For many, visiting the Maldives is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so you need to make sure you are getting the most from your honeymoon. It can feel overwhelming trying to work out what accommodation is worth booking and equally as exhausting organising the itinerary. Luckily, we have done the work for you and collected a small selection of some of the best hotels in the Maldives and activities to keep you both relaxed and entertained. The Maldives is known for its clear waters, so snorkelling feels like a natural fit on anyone's itinerary. Make the most of the crystal-clear water and explore the vibrant aquatic life.

Blush Hotel Farnham - A Hidden Gem

When driving through the historic town of Farnham, amidst the boutique shops, independent eateries, and standout characterful features of this town, it was hard to imagine behind the terraced buildings lies the Bush Hotel Farnham, a hidden gem waiting to be explored. An independent hotel that's been welcoming guests through its doors since 1618, its instantly recognisable ivy-clad frontage is renowned not only amongst the local community but the county.

AVA Moment in Mexico

It's one of my favourite holiday moments – when I first pull back the curtains or drapes, slide the glass doors open and admire the view from the balcony. On this occasion, the vista from the eighth floor of AVA Resort Cancun was unlike anything I've seen before. The pool was colossal, and while bathers were attempting to stay cool in its baby blue waters; on its shores, flamingo pink-shirted servers weaved in between the sun beds and cabanas carrying trays of frozen drinks and hot snacks.

Explore Italy and Fill Your Itinerary

Italy has the perfect combination of bustling cities and scenic countryside, which is why it has become a very popular honeymoon destination. But how to get the most out of your trip? In this feature, travel editor Issy Chamberlain outlines some of the best accommodation and romantic attractions to make your trip as memorable as possible. You'll never run out of gorgeous corners to explore when visiting Italy, it's one of Europe's most beautiful countries for a reason.

Sail Away Along The Rhine

Riverside Luxury Cruises is Europe's newest and most luxurious river cruise brand offering all-inclusive trips along the Rhine, Rhône, Danube and main rivers. Our deputy managing editor, Kelly Andrews, had the opportunity to experience a Rhine cruise, with some unexpected twists and turns along the way. Read on to find out more about her adventures in The Netherlands and Germany and discover how a relaxing river cruise could be the honeymoon you've always dreamed of.

The Magic of Mersea Island

Located just a five-minute walk from Monkey Beach, The White Hart Inn opened in summer 2022. This contemporary pub-with-rooms is the third establishment of Piers Baker, owner of The Sun Inn, Dedham and Church Street Tavern, Colchester – and it's one to be proud of! The White Hart Inn is a true Essex gem, I'm sure locals want to keep a secret but it's too good not to be shouting about!

Where to go?

The definitive list of honeymoon hotspots is here; the hardest part will be picking just one. The honeymoon is a highly anticipated holiday and the often-questioned next step for any newlywed, and with this comes a lot of pressure to get it right. But who's to say a two-week long tour of Scotland's most prestigious castles, staying in the best rooms possible, isn't as good as the Maldives? It's all about who you're with, as opposed to where you go. However, since coming out of lockdown and the world returning to business as usual, there has been a rise in abroad honeymoons, more specifically to destinations far from bustling civilisations.