Koh Samui, Bali, and Tulum top the 2024 honeymoon rankings
Planning a truly memorable honeymoon involves choosing a destination that perfectly captures the essence of this unique moment. In 2024, a prestigious study by a renowned travel agency has highlighted the most sought-after destinations for an unforgettable honeymoon experience.
Among these irresistibly charming locations, Koh Samui, Bali, and Tulum have risen to the top positions, surpassing classics like Bora Bora and Mauritius.
What makes these destinations stand out, and which criteria place them at the summit? Let’s dive into this fascinating ranking that transports us to the boundaries of romance and escape.
A Ranking Based on Seven Key Criteria
To develop this highly anticipated index, the travel agency examined 25 iconic destinations across seven fundamental criteria:
- 5-Star Hotels: With focus on the average cost per night for luxury accommodations
- Romantic Atmosphere: Taking into account enchanting landscapes, breathtaking sunsets, and idyllic settings
- Intimate Dining Experiences: Where the average cost of a romantic meal for two is evaluated
- Mobility: Including car rental and taxi costs for getting around
- Privacy: Measured by access to peaceful, less crowded locations
- Local Hospitality: The warmth and quality of service offered to couples
- Safety: Studied to ensure a serene and pleasant experience
Koh Samui: The Big Winner
Leading the rankings, Koh Samui shines with its exceptional value for money. This Thai island offers newlyweds a perfect combination of affordable luxury and tranquility.
With 5-star hotels accessible from €100 per night, pristine beaches, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s no surprise that it attracts so many couples.
Activities ranging from oceanfront yoga sessions to romantic waterside dinners significantly enrich the experience.
Bali: A Balance Between Adventure and Romance
In second place, Bali attracts with its unique blend of luxury and culture.
The Indonesian island stands out for its refined accommodations nestled among rice fields and majestic temples.
Lovers can enjoy traditional massages and sumptuous sunsets on the beaches, all at competitive rates with a romantic dinner costing around €30.
Bali manages to create a romantic atmosphere while inviting adventure—a perfect balance for newlyweds.
Tulum: Mexican-Style Romance
In third position, Tulum in Mexico captivates with its paradise beaches and captivating Mayan ruins.
This destination is synonymous with discreet luxury and preserved nature, offering exclusive addresses for a honeymoon that is both intimate and bohemian.
Tulum distinguishes itself through its relaxed atmosphere and commitment to ecological preservation, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.
Bora Bora: A Myth Declining in the Rankings
Once at the top of romantic dreams, Bora Bora now ranks fourth.
Although it remains a dream destination with its famous overwater bungalows, its high costs and less convenient access explain its drop in the rankings.
Bora Bora remains an enchanting place, but its prohibitive price and logistical remoteness make it less attractive for young couples seeking simplicity.
Fiji: A Romantic Getaway in the Pacific
In fifth place, Fiji offers a unique experience with wild beaches and exceptional hospitality.
Private dinners on deserted sandbanks and cultural immersion in an idyllic setting enhance this destination’s appeal.
Fiji captivates with its warm hospitality and the natural beauty of its islands, making this archipelago an attractive choice for a honeymoon.
Mauritius: The Notable Absence from the Podium
Usually cited among honeymoon destinations, Mauritius doesn’t feature in this top 5 due to a less renewed offer and a more generalist attraction.
Although the island possesses undeniable charm, it fails to compete with new trends and expectations of young couples seeking a unique and personalized experience.
What If True Luxury Was Elsewhere?
Beyond classic choices, the study also highlights the appeal of less conventional destinations for a honeymoon.
The Scottish Highlands seduce with their wild romanticism, Kyoto offers a peaceful atmosphere, and Norwegian fjords provide total immersion in nature.
These atypical places reveal that true luxury perhaps resides in the journey one personalizes according to their own desires and aspirations.
The Modern Honeymoon: Authenticity Over Postcards
Observing the trends in this ranking, it’s clear that today’s newlyweds seek much more than postcard landscapes.
They aspire to authentic experiences, mixing affordable luxury, local culture, and intimacy.
Whether choosing Koh Samui for its excellent value, Bali for its perfect balance between adventure and romance, or Tulum for its bohemian charm, modern couples favor destinations that reflect their quest for simplicity and authenticity.
In this perspective, it’s time to reinvent the honeymoon according to one’s desires and create memories that will resonate for a lifetime.