An Essex Wedding - Mar/Apr 2017 (Issue 79)

With news of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s 2018 wedding, Britt-Marie Monks, the Honeymoon Fixer at Not Just Travel, looks at the potential honeymoon hotspots they might choose to relax in after their nuptials. She says, “The couple are said to be fond of Botswana, with many speculating that this is where they’ll decide to head after the big day. The date for the wedding has been set for May, and the weather in Africa is generally favourable at this time of the year. At the same time, this date rules out some of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, Sri Lanka and Mauritius, since these countries all experience their wet season at this time.” In 2017, 43 per cent of Britt’s honeymoon clients chose to visit the Maldives which, although warm, is also rather rainy in the spring and makes a far better option for those who marry in the early autumn. The Caribbean and Mexico was the choice for 26 per cent of Britt’s clients, but in May, Harry and Meghan would run the risk of hurricanes and torrential rains – clearly not a recipe for relaxation! Stunning Sri Lanka was the third most popular destination, followed by Bali and the USA. Wherever Harry and his future wife decide to take their honeymoon, we’re sure it will be amazing! For more information, contact Britt-Marie Monks by email at britt.monks@notjusttravel.com Fly here… THE SEYCHELLES British Airways has revealed its annual travel predictions for the year ahead, selecting the top 18 must-see destinations for 2018, including Croatia, NewYork, Barbados and Muscat. Top of the list though is the Seychelles, famed as some of the most idyllic islands on the planet. It’s the perfect choice for honeymooners, whether you’re a sun- seeker looking for serious relaxation, or a thrill-seeker wanting to scuba dive or trek through the jungle. British Airways is the only airline to offer direct flights to the Seychelles from the UK.Visit ba.com to find out more. Honeymoon like a royal Travel editor’s pick I love these fun and funky cases featuring the iconic Radley Dog in red, white and blue. Available in four sizes – small, medium, large and vanity – they’re the perfect companion for any honeymoon. Prices start from £75. To purchase, visit caseluggage.com Stay here… Due to open in May 2018, Zuri Zanzibar is located in Kendwa, on the idyllic northern west shores of Zanzibar’s Spice Island, Unguja.The beachfront 13-acre resort will feature 55 stylish bungalows, villas and suites all with spacious private terraces overlooking a 300m stretch of west-facing private beach. Ideal for newlyweds seeking relaxation, at the centre of the resort will be a lush tranquil spice garden brimming with an array of indigenous plants and trees, complete with dedicated relaxation pods, ideal for meditation and yoga. The resort spa will be a sanctuary of wellness featuring a dedicated yoga centre, three treatment rooms offering restorative spa rituals, outdoor wild fitness area, fully-equipped gymnasium, swimming pool, relaxation lounge and library.  Find out more at zurizanzibar.com 119 HONEYMOON NEWS