Honeymoon guide to inspire the self-proclaimed foodie couples..
Bangkok, Thailand
The dynamic blend of culture, history, and modernity is what hits those visiting the Bangkok for the first time. Check into Four Seasons for rooms overlooking the Chao Phraya River. A tranquil oasis in the midst of Bangkok’s enigmatic energy. Couples can explore ornate temples, the artsy district of Charoen Krung Road, take a romantic dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife. Join the hotel’s private tour of Charoen Krung Road to sample street food and pop into easily missed galleries in the back alleys.
A trip to Bangkok isn’t complete without a trip to the infamous Jay Fai. Check their instagram for latest update on reservations availability (currently suspended at the time of writing). Make sure to order the crab omelette and tom yum soup. Of course, Pad Thai is a must when in town and Pad Thai Fai Ta Lu is the place to get a good plate of it. A visit to night markets like Chatuchak and Khao San Road is a must for the atmosphere if not for the wide variety of street food. For a luxurious Thai affair with a modern twist, make a reservation at Nusara for an unforgettable 10 course meal. For those who are not unfamiliar with Thai Cuisine, Sorn boost an elevated 22 course meal inspired by southern Thai cuisine using rare ingredients, some of which even Thais have never experienced. And don’t forget to pamper yourself with the world renown- Thai massages.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An is a charming and romantic destination with its lantern-lit streets, ancient architecture, and serene riverside setting. Couples can enjoy leisurely bike rides through rice paddies and sunset cruises on the Thu Bon River. Check into the charming and cosy Mulberry Collection Silk Village,
Hoi An offers a delightful mix of local and French-influenced cuisine. Savor Banh Mi, Cao Lau, and White Rose Dumplings. Hoi An’s cooking classes are a perfect introduction for foodies looking to bring Vietnamese flavors back home, we recommend taking one at Vy’s Market. No trip to Hoi An is complete without trying Banh Mi (a baguette sandwich), get yours at Madam Khanh, crowned the Bánh mì Queen by the late Anthony Bourdain. For a romantic dinner, pop into Mai Fish at the edge of old town is a great option. Must try dishes include: slow cooked duck leg curry served with taro root and sweet potato, the pan-seared red snapper fillet with a mango garlic sauce and Tom Rang Me, a seafood dish with local spices.
Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island is a popular romantic destination with its scenic beaches, volcanic landscapes, and serene waterfalls. Imagine checking into the JW Marriott Resort and Spa, perched atop scenic cliffs overlooking the azure sea. This hotel beautifully blends local culture, Jeju’s landscape, and eye-catching architecture, offering an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Jeju is an easy island to navigate by car, and renting one gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Discover the iconic Seongsan Ilchulbong peak, hike the Jeju Olle 7-course trail conveniently located next to the hotel, and visit charming tea plantations and scenic beaches. However, it’s worth noting that exploring the island independently can be challenging for non-Korean speakers, especially when it comes to dining, so prior research is highly recommended.
If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss the chance to sample Mulhoe, a refreshing dish of fresh raw fish served in an icy bath of tangy, spicy red pepper soup. Abalone, a star ingredient of Jeju, either served in porridge, cooked on a hot plate, or raw is best enjoyed at Myeongjin Jeonbok, where the abalones are sourced directly from the adjoining farm. Be prepared for a wait, as this popular spot can have lines up to an hour. No trip to Jeju is complete without trying Jeju black pork, a delicacy not exported outside of South Korea. The Flying Hog at JW Marriott prepares this prized meat over a fire grill, serving up tender cuts that melt in your mouth. For a unique twist, visit 15 Degrees, a rustic delicatessen that dry ages and ferments black pork, offering it as dry-cured hams or pastramis—perfect for packing a lunch for a day of hiking Jeju’s beautiful trails.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali, the quintessential honeymoon destination, is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and luxurious resorts. Imagine yourself and your partner unwinding in a private villa, surrounded by tropical gardens, indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments, and exploring the island’s rich cultural sites and natural beauty.
For food enthusiasts, Bali is a true culinary delight. The island offers a plethora of local delicacies such as Babi Guling, Nasi Goreng, and Bebek Betutu. Wherever you choose to stay, you’ll find upscale restaurants with breathtaking ambiance and exquisite settings. Our top picks for modern local cuisine include Ayung Terrace at Four Seasons in Ubud, Merah Putih in Seminyak, and The Warung at Alila Villas in Uluwatu. To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, make sure to sample meals at a few warungs. Warung Ibu Oka in Ubud is famous for its succulent Babi Guling, while Warung Ibu Ella in Jimbaran is renowned for its delicious Ayam Betutu. These local eateries provide an authentic taste of Bali, allowing you to get a real feel of Bali and the people living here.
Shanghai, China
Shanghai offers a unique blend of modern skyscrapers and historic neighborhoods. Couples can stroll along the Bund, enjoy the view from the Oriental Pearl Tower, and take romantic boat rides on the Huangpu River. Check into Amanyangyun, a luxury retreat on the outskirts of Shanghai featuring antique homes that were relocated and reassembled on this 25-acre nature retreat.
Shanghai’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting. Start your day like the locals with ‘Four Breakfast Warriors,’ namely Chinese crullers or youtiao, glutinous rice balls, sesame pancakes, and soy milk. It may be difficult to spot a street vendor for someone new to this city, thus the chain restaurant Good Morning Hill would be the best place to sample these items. Sample Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) at Jia Jia Tang Bao which we promise will be worth the wait. For pan-fried buns, Yang’s dumplings (an eatery with over 20 outlets) will do the Shanghainese staple justice. Bustling areas like Yuyuan Garden and Nanjing Road are great for sampling various street foods. The city’s fine dining scene is also top-notch, with many upscale restaurants offering innovative takes on traditional Chinese cuisine, Fu He Hui and Obscura are 2 award winning establishments that require reservations months in advance. If travelling from September to December, make sure to enjoy hairy crabs.
Tokyo, Japan
Japan, renowned as one of the greatest culinary destinations in the world, is the perfect honeymoon spot for any self-proclaimed foodie. Tokyo, the world’s most populous metropolis, offers a mesmerizing blend of traditional and modern attractions. Wander through serene temples and gardens, shop in bustling districts, and soak up the neon-lit nightlife. Romantic experiences abound, from cherry blossom viewing in spring to serene boat rides in Ueno Park. Outside of Tokyo, treat yourselves to a stay at the luxurious Fufu Kawaguchiko, a boutique hotel enveloped by the tranquil Kawaguchiko forest. Each suite boasts a stunning view of Mount Fuji and features open-air natural hot spring baths lined with volcanic stone. Don’t overlook the nearby Itchiku Kubota Kimono Museum, its stunning kimono collection will be sure to captivate you.
For the food lover, Tokyo is a dream, boasting more three Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere else in the world. You’re probably ready with a list of must-visit eateries, but remember to check if prior reservations are needed. For those that accept them, bookings typically open three months in advance and fill up quickly. While in Tokyo, don’t miss the vibrant izakayas and street food in the alleyways of Shibuya and Shinjuku. Whether you’re savoring high-end sushi or indulging in savory street snacks, Japan promises a honeymoon filled with unforgettable culinary delights and romantic adventures.