JASSMIN PETER takes you on a romantic tour of intimate getaways and divine wedding destinations, and offers tips for your big day.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert's bestseller Eat, Pray, Love and the subsequent film adaption, Tourism Western Australia has come up with its own "eat, pray, love" journey - giving you the chance to discover Western Australia, while rediscovering your loved one along the way.
Eat Embark on a culinary adventure to the famed Margaret River region. Just a three-hour drive south of Perth, it's a perfect location for indulging your gastronomic senses with locally-produced chocolate, fudge, ice cream and of course wine. Stop at Margaret River Providore (www.providore.com.au) and browse through a spectacular array of homemade jams, wines, oils and sauces made from vineyard produce, an organic olive grove, orchard and vegetable garden. For a romantic meal, be spoilt for choice at winery restaurants such as Vasse Felix (www.vassefelix.com.au), Leeuwin Estate (www.leeuwinestate.com.au), Cullen (www.cullenwines.com.au), Clairault (www.clairaultwines.com.au) and Xanadu (www.xanaduwines.com).
Pray A two-hour drive north-east of Perth, New Norcia is a tranquil and spiritual town reflecting monastic, Aboriginal and European heritage. Tour the 160-year old historic monastery and stay at its guesthouse to share in the daily rhythms and routines of the resident Benedictine monks - without the abstinence.
Love Complete your journey by falling in love with Western Australia's beautiful Coral Coast. Embrace the sights of one of Australia's most unique landscapes, the Pinnacles, marked by towering limestone spires and Shell Beach - one of only two in the world, whose sand is formed by billions of tiny shells. Marvel at stromatolites, the oldest living marine fossils known to man, at Hamelin Pool in Shark Bay, one of only two places in the world they can be found. www.westernaustralia.com
THAILAND
Zeavola Resort, Phi Phi's only luxury villa resort, is ideal for a relaxing and romantic getaway. SPECIAL OFFER: Until March 31, take advantage of the Zweet @ Zeavola package (THB35,700). Stay three nights in a garden suite, enjoy a daily breakfast for two, be pampered with a complimentary 60-minute massage and end the night with a seductive candlelit dinner on the beach. www.zeavola.com Email: reservation@zeavola.com
BALI
Rather than visiting the traditional tourist enclaves of Kuta and Seminyak, surprise your loved one with a luxury stay at Villa Juno, Bali's first bed and breakfast, located in the private villa colony of Canggu. Modelled after typical B&Bs in Europe and Australia, Villa Juno is a cosy, intimate retreat which hosts a maximum of six guests at any one time.
Unlike hotel rooms and other luxury villas, Villa Juno units are designed for maximum privacy. Built in traditional Balinese style, the villa comprises three luxuriously-appointed, air-conditioned bedroom units, each with their own patio, oversized bathtub for two surfaced with mother of pearl and outdoor shower area, set amidst a miniature rock garden. Introductory rates start from US$120 (per room) and from US$290 (whole villa), inclusive of breakfast and afternoon tea. www.villajuno.com
Industry experts reveal the most romantic destinations in the world...
Bali has a mix of old-world traditions and modern luxury. Ubud is especially laidback and charming and is a great place to reconnect with someone special.
Perth Margaret River is Australian countryside at its best. Dotted with impressive vineyards, you'll find an array of great wines and unpretentious Aussie fare.
Paris is such a romantic place - day or night. Hearts are a flutter and romance is virtually assured!
Maldives is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Think sandy white beaches, idyllic sunrises and sunsets and pristine waters. Spend at least one night in over-water accommodation to immerse yourself in the beauty of the place. The feeling is out of this world! Jetabout Holidays www.jetabout.com.sg/
New Zealand For something different go on a self drive holiday and enjoy good food and wine. Charming boutique hotels promise total privacy and breathtaking views.
African safari Stay in the wilderness and enjoy close encounters with nature. Stopover at a sky camp and peer into the starry night's sky from beneath the comfort of your blanket - an unforgettable experience.
Greece Island-hop amidst azure waters, sip cocktails while the sun sets and enjoy evening strolls in the birthplace of romantic mythology.
Mediterranean cruise Set at an unhurried pace, a cruise gives you plenty of time to enjoy each other's company, while making ports of call at various countries. Country Holidays, www.countryholidays.com.sg
Fiji Choose one of 33 islands for romantic strolls on shimmering white sandy beaches. For the adventurous - snorkel, dive, surf, sail or kayak pristine oceans, or visit the rainforest for white water rafting and trekking. Visit villages and immerse yourself in unique culture and history.
Japan Hakuba is a perfect ski destination with snow until the end of February. Currently offering up to two metres of powder-soft snow, it's ideal for skiing or snow boarding. Spend your evenings snuggled up in a chalet in front of a cosy fire with a glass of brandy in your hand. You can also visit snow monkeys, or take a trip to an ancient temple and have your fortune told. Barefoot Traveller www.barefoot-traveller.com.sg
Posted Feb 2011
