Budget honeymoons in S.E Asia

One of the best things about Asia, is that not only is it a continent of exotic destinations, but traveling around is pretty affordable (compared to say a trip to London!). So if you’re a bride who wants a great honeymoon but on an equally great budget – then we’ve narrowed down a list of top South East Asian spots for you:

Vietnam

Phu Quoc island is a small teardrop shaped fishing island, where the locals seem a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. Rugged in beauty, and surrounded by clear flat azure blue waters, and miles of empty beaches, you’d be forgiven for believing that you have stepped into paradise.

Nestled on the north west of the island lies one of Vietnam’s best kept secrets; a hidden boutique lodge called Mango Bay. While away your time with your loved one by snorkelling right in front of your bungalow, sipping a chilled Chablis on the remote beach, or renting a motorbike and exploring the naked coastline.

Mango Bay is eco-friendly, and there are no televisions or air conditioning. Just you and your loved one. Enjoy!

Daily Flights to Saigon on Air Asia.

Daily flights to Phu Quoc departing from Ho Chi Minh City on Vietnam Airlines.

Thailand

With a population of around 60 million people, Thailand is one country that offers a bit of everything and anything. You’ll find most budget airlines fly into Thailand and getting around is relatively cheap be it taxi, cab or local airline. If you’re heading there for the first time, I suggest stopping in Bangkok for a few days of shopping, massages & (interesting) nightlife. Whether you want to have a bit of a laugh at one of the infamous tiger shows (head to Patpong) or stop by backpackers hub Khao san road, you’ll find that you can have an amazing time having not spent much at all. Don’t miss heading to Wat Pho (renowned temple with the Emerald Buddha) and the Grand Palace to get in touch with the Thai culture. Also make time for perhaps the BEST market in Asia, Chatuchak, which sells everything under the sun such as funky clothes, vintage wear, furniture, art and even pets! For cute boutiques, go to Siam Square and remember to bargain if it’s not an established brand name. Though you may be on a budget, put aside something for a drink at glamourous Sirrocco bar which sits on the top floor of the Lebua Tower. This is a must as it is perhaps the most romantic spot in town with a hard-to-beat view of the city.

Once you’re done with the city, make a trip to one of Thailand’s many beach destinations. My favourites are Hua Hin, Phuket (avoid Patong full of sleazy tourists), Samui (if you want to party it up together then go for the Full Moon party), Krabi and Khao Lak. There are many hotels to choose from so you shouldn’t have a problem finding something that fits your budget. To keep travel costs down, take the overnight bus from BKK down to the South. The buses are quite comfy (about USD 30 one way) and if you’re not a light sleeper you should be able to nod off.

Cambodia

What better way to spend a honeymoon then to visit one of the 7 wonders of the world – Angkor Wat. Found in Siem Reap, Cambodia, millions from around the world travel many a mile to make it to this mystic place. Though Cambodia has become a popular backpacker destination, Siem Reap has plenty of boutique guesthouses and resorts. This is the place to be if you want to zen out and meditate at perhaps the most iconic temple, Angkor Wat. Tip: Go to Angkor Thom to avoid the masses if you want to catch the sunset. It’s just as beautiful and you’ll have the whole temple to yourself.

Also, remember to treat yourself to the culinary delights of Bar Lane and lookout for some quirky Cambodia delicacies such as deep-fried spiders and snake blood!

Bali

The Balinese are known for their hospitality and peaceful nature, which is one of the reasons why Bali is so magical. A rather large island given it’s nine times the size of Singapore, don’t be fooled into thinking you can zip around everywhere in ten minutes! Bali has many different arenas that should fit any criteria for the honeymooner.

For cosmopolition chic, head to Seminyak with its funky restaurants and designer boutiques. Checkout Made Warung for good Balinese food at good (aka cheap) prices!

If you want immerse yourself in Balinese arts and spirituality, then trek into the island’s interior and stay in Ubud. This little hillside town has a bit of a hippie scene to it, there are art shops, cafes and one of the best massage houses, …..

Again, there are many beautiful beaches in Bali which you can make day trips to or even stay at. For a rustic adventure head to the Amed in the East Coast. It’s a sleepy fishing beach with volcanic black sand beaches – great to get away from it all (and everyone).

Tip: For bookings, we recommend agoda.com or your trusty tripadvisor.com for hotels. And for travel of course airasia.com, where now everyone can fly! xxx