Honeymoon and travel ideas for couples in the North East

The Ruby Bea Hotel & Bar is a new hotel in Florence, Italy

Ruby Hotels has unveiled its 19th hotel, The Ruby Bea Hotel & Bar, alongside the state-of the-art Ruby Dante Workspaces, both nestled in the heart of Florence. The exciting launch marks Ruby's entry into the Italian market, heralding a significant milestone as it introduces its luxury hotel experience to the enchanting city. Set in a beautiful, historic 19th-century building overlooking the grand, tree-lined Piazza della Libertà, The Ruby Bea Hotel & Bar has 118 rooms, including a number of large maisonette-style rooms.

Ballygally Castle in Northern Ireland has introduced its latest aquatic experience

Ballygally Castle, positioned on the waters of the Antrim Coast, has introduced its latest aquatic experience. Sauna by the Sea is an overnight package ideal for autumn and winter stays that enables guests to refresh and revive the mind, body and soul with an icy dip right outside the charming four-star hotel, immediately followed by a warming sauna experience on the beachfront, courtesy of local company Scenic Sauna.

Angsana Quan Lan is a new property nestled in Vietnam’s Bai Tu Long Bay

Angsana Quan Lan is a new property nestled in Vietnam's Bai Tu Long Bay. The hotel boasts 156 rooms and suites offering stunning views of the Gulf of Tonkin.The resort blends Vietnam's multifaceted culture and natural scenery and offers a rooftop mini-golf course and Vietnam's first and only coastal zipline integrated into a resort.

The rooms and suites are designed with contemporary elegance and heritage charm. All of the accommodation includes a freestanding bathtub and a private balcony with either garden or sea views. The Junior Suite features a plush king bed, sleeping and dining areas, a walk-in closet, and large bathrooms. The one-bedroom suite includes a pantry, dining space, and a panoramic balcony. For larger groups, the Angsana Suite can be connected to an ocean-view room for additional space.

Rosewood Schloss Fuschl in Austria has opened its doors as a new luxury resort

Perched upon the breathtaking blue waters of Lake Fuschl, Rosewood Schloss Fuschl has opened its doors as a new, enriched luxury resort. Rosewood Schloss Fuschl preserves and re-births Austrian traditions through its thoughtful restoration of the 15th century castle and embracing of the natural surroundings through sustainable practices.

The property features 98 furnished guestrooms, including 42 suites and six chalets, and sits as the gateway to Austria's Salzkammergut region, offering unparalleled access to its exquisite scenery. Couples can enjoy guided fishing excursions on the lake, forest foraging with an expert herbalist, and local-led cooking demonstrations in nearby alpine huts, complemented by a bespoke spa rooted in Austrian wellness philosophies and a leisure beach club with direct access to the water.

King Jason Zante in Greece is a new all-inclusive lifestyle hotel designed for adults

King Jason Zante is a new all-inclusive lifestyle hotel designed for adults. Set in a peaceful location, the highly anticipated resort is surrounded by shimmering water nestled amidst the captivating beauty of Zakynthos. At King Jason Zante, the dining scene takes centre stage, from the elevated Eastern Mediterranean food at Haroub to the vibrant world of Peruvian fusion at restaurant Pisco, where culinary excitement and a zest for flavours collide, paying homage to the ancient traditions of Peru.

The Purai Spa offers a series of techniques and therapies that optimise wellness, introducing easy new habits that can be implemented in daily routines back home. King Jason Zante is a destination for those seeking to slow down, reconnect with nature, and indulge in the finer things in life.

Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels in Mauritius has launched a coral restoration and preservation programme

Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels in Mauritius has launched a coral restoration and preservation programme. This initiative involves creating a land-based coral nursery and setting up an educational space to raise awareness about marine biodiversity protection. The centre welcomes hotel staff, couples, and local residents to awareness workshops on the importance of reefs.

With eight resorts and a ninth on the way, Beachcomber continues to be one of the biggest hotel groups on the island. Implementing a strong commitment to environmental responsibility to ensure its properties use natural resources efficiently, Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels has embarked upon a major innovation project in terms of sustainable development and energy management and was the first hotel group in Mauritius to install solar panels.

Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives has announced new underwater activities

Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives has announced new underwater activities that are available year-round. Home to a pristine reef teeming with rare aquatic species, Gili Lankanfushi provides the perfect place to enjoy unspoilt diving and snorkelling, with the opportunity to achieve a range of PADI certifications.

Eco-minded couples will have the chance to participate in Gili's Coral Lines Sustainability Initiative, while surfing, paddle-boarding, boat trips and a variety of other watersports provide endless fun.

Italian fashion house Missoni has partnered with Rocco Forte’s Verdura Resort in Sicily

Italian fashion house Missoni has partnered with Rocco Forte's Verdura Resort in Sicily to create a stunning new beach club experience. The Missoni Beach Club will be a haven for couples seeking relaxation against the backdrop of the sun-kissed Mediterranean coastline.

There will be a Missoni pop-up store on-site, where guests can purchase a selection of Missoni's beachwear and accessories. The partnership extends from the beach to the bar with the Missoni and Verdura Resort cocktail list.

Destress with a pre-wedding getaway

Since the pandemic couples booking a pre-wedding wedding break, or "earlymoon" as they are now called, usually two or three months before the ceremony, has seen a surge in popularity. Bearing in mind how time-consuming and frantically busy the lead-up to a wedding is, it isn't really surprising that the idea of having a well-earned break is very appealing.

Grabbing the opportunity to get away gives couples the chance to remove themselves from the pressures and stress of organising their wedding and enjoy a bit of downtime together before the big day. Whether it is a few days or two weeks, having an earlymoon has been cited as "a great way to step back, to reconnect and to recharge the batteries."

Kempinski Hotel The Dome Belek has undergone a comprehensive renovation

Kempinski Hotel The Dome Belek, located on the shores of the Turkish Mediterranean Sea, has undergone a comprehensive renovation of all its 158 rooms and suites. The hotel offers a sense of private luxury with its new restaurant, Seljuk, and the fully refurbished restaurant, Lale.

With its colourful light green and beige colour scheme and glass décor elements, couples can enjoy a relaxed setting overlooking the hotel's gardens with easy access to the main pool, the beach and the kid's club.

Lemala Osonjoi Lodge is the latest property in Lemala Camps & Lodge’s portfolio

Lemala Osonjoi Lodge is the latest property in Lemala Camps & Lodge's portfolio. Set to open in March 2025, it's perched on the cliffs of Tanzania's Great Rift Valley by the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact volcanic caldera. The lodge will be a tranquil 20-suite retreat with panoramic views of the crater floor below. Each accommodation will feature expansive living spaces, private plunge pools and sweeping views of Lake Eyasi, ensuring a blend of luxury and nature against a truly mesmerising backdrop.

Couples can spend their days discovering the region's abundant wildlife through various activities, including game drives, guided walks into the Rift Valley's flora and fauna, cultural visits to nearby communities, or relaxing with a spa treatment at the property's on-site wellness centre.

Alternative honeymoon spots for cold-weather lovers

Honeymoons are a special time for newlyweds wanting to spend quality time together. These usually take the form of a safari or a paradise beach hut in the Maldives, but rarely in the snowy peaks of the Alps. One of Europe's leading ski tour operators, Sunweb, has compiled an alternative honeymoon list for those couples who enjoy thrill-seeking, snow carving and a proper fondue in the shadow of Mont Blanc.

Magma Resort Santorini has opened a new restaurant

Magma Resort Santorini has opened a new restaurant. Magma Soul is a must for foodies travelling to the island this season. Diners can expect a contemporary and innovative take on the diverse flavours of Greece, with a focus on exceptional seasonal ingredients. Curated by head chef Lefteris Soultatos, the menu offers a variety of fresh seafood and meat dishes, ranging from hand-dived scallops paired with Jerusalem artichokes and artisanal 'skioufichta' pasta with red prawns and shellfish bisque to wagyu beef carpaccio and traditional lamb 'kleftiko'. All dishes are inspired by chef Lefteris' passion for Greek culture, showcasing the best of the nation's culinary heritage.

Celebrate love at Hotel Maria in Helsinki

Finland offers its own interpretation of Valentine's Day, known as Ystävänpäivä or "Friend's Day." While the tradition only dates back to 1980, it has become cherished amongst the Finns to honour special friendships through shared meals, coffee and activities, including visits to traditional Finnish saunas, leaving no room to feel down if there's no romance in your life. This heartwarming celebration adds to Finland's distinction as the 'Happiest Country in the World' for the sixth consecutive year, making it a destination to spark joy in any traveller.

Escape to the wilderness at Kuru Private Resort

Escape to the wilderness with your special someone at the idyllic Kuru Private Resort. Ultra-luxury meets off-the-grid retreat at this adults-only resort in Saimaa, Finland - the first of its kind in the country. Stay in one of the 16 elevated private villas situated on the edge of Lake Saimaa, surrounded by the stunning Finnish forest. These secluded hideaways include a private sauna for maximum romance, allow couples to completely switch off with no televisions, and have optional Wi-Fi in the rooms, perfect for spending quality time together. Guests can also make it a holiday to remember with experiences such as ice fishing, ice swimming, hiking and seal spotting safaris to catch a rare glimpse of the endangered Saimaa Ringed Seal.

Embrace romance in Grenada’s tropical paradise

The tri-island state of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique unfolds as an ideal romantic destination with its uncrowded soft-sand beaches, dreamy sunset cruises and verdant mountainous landscapes. Tucked away in this Spice Isle, couples can discover intimate retreats, lively coastal bars and a serene ambiance, making it the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Grenada's Laluna Hotel is one of the most romantic hotels in the Caribbean, ideal for couples looking for an intimate escape and island charm. This secluded and serene hotel is well known for its romantic atmosphere, as well as the beach yoga pavilion, Asian Spa, Italian restaurant, and warm style that blends Balinese, Caribbean and Italian influences. The on-site concierge is on hand to arrange romantic hikes to the rain forest with a swim in the waterfalls, sunset sailing cruises, a chocolate factory tour or snorkelling at the Underwater Sculpture Park.

The ultimate romantic retreat for newlyweds launches at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Resort & Spa has launched the Romantic Retreat package for couples wanting to experience a magical honeymoon in the breathtaking Maldives. Located on the private island of Vagaru nestled within the serene Shaviyani Atoll and surrounded by azure waters this exclusive resort offers an idyllic setting for couples seeking an unforgettable romantic getaway. As part of the new Romantic Retreat offering guests will be treated to a personal butler (Thakuru), breakfast in their pool, dining on the beach at sunset and bespoke couple's spa treatments. Couples can experience culinary journeys unlike any other at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, with a range of dining options offering exquisite flavours. From private dinners on the beach under the stars to exclusive wine-pairing dinners, every meal is a celebration of love and togetherness.

Iconic Italian hotel celebrates its 190th Birthday

This year, Southern Italy's iconic Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria celebrates its 190th anniversary. Founded by the Fiorentino family in 1834, the hotel has hosted celebrities from around the world and has been the backdrop of many films. Perched upon the cliff in Sorrento with views of the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius, it remains one of the most iconic hotels in Italy.

The 80 rooms and suites are furnished with fascinating antiques collected over the years. In addition to its iconic terrace and renowned Michelin-starred restaurant, the property recently opened a new champagne bar, La Pergola, which allows guests to sip champagne overlooking the main square of Sorrento and the sea.

To find out more, visit www.excelsiorvittoria.com

A honeymoon hotel with a woodland spin

Calling all couples! High-end hotel 'The Montenotte' has recently announced an all new Woodland Suite Experience – all-inclusive access to the luxurious Clubhouse, Ireland's finest sets the standard for top-quality honeymooning. Perched atop a hill that overlooks Cork Harbour, the beauty of the suite really does start with the view. Intricately detailed bathrooms, terraces and luxuriously furnished throughout, the bespoke touches of timber that appear throughout the room really bring the woodland within. The Panorama Restaurant, The Panorama Terrace and cocktail bar, The Glasshouse, top off the classy guest experience, a hard hotel to pass up! For more information check The Montenotte

Walk Japan launches a new mountain-to-sea walk

Walk Japan has launched a new tour exploring Kyoto Prefecture. Kyoto: Mountains to the Sea is a fully guided, eight-day tour that ventures through Kyoto's backcountry, where the pace of life is still measured by seasons and a multitude of colourful festivals take place throughout the year. The tour follows ancient trails that weave their way through valleys and over high passes until culminating on the rugged coast at Amanohashidate, rightly considered one of Japan's three classic vistas. En route, it passes through little known villages and aside historic temples and shrines, some grand and some very rustic.

Accommodation each night will be in Japanese inns, where friendly hosts provide warm welcomes and mouth-watering meals composed of locally sourced and grown ingredients.

For more information, visit www.walkjapan.co