A couple at a tropical island destination. Picture: Pexels
While December may be known as the festive season, for lovers, it’s also wedding season.
Many South African soon-to-be newlyweds dream of tropical beaches, luxury lodges, and romantic escapes. That said, many are surprised at how timing matters and how cost-effective off-peak travel can be.
According to Flight Centre South Africa’s “South Africa’s Year In Travel 2023 Report”, 70% of couples booking honeymoon or romantic getaways chose international escapes, with Mauritius, Thailand, and the Maldives topping the list.
Lynette Machiri, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa said what many couples don’t realise is that by choosing to travel in the off-peak season, they’re not just saving money – they’re opening up a world of quieter, more intimate experiences.
“They’ll also have extra flexibility when it comes to choosing travel dates, accommodations, and experiences,” she said.
Machiri shares some top destinations for couples getting married this December and breaks down why off-peak honeymoons and South African couples are a match made in heaven.
Mauritius
Mauritius is an ideal honeymoon destination for South African newlyweds. The best time to travel to the island is from May to early October.
“These months fall within Mauritius’ ‘winter,’ but don’t let that fool you. The weather remains warm, with a daily average high of 20 to 23 degrees Celsius. Mid-May through September offers lower humidity, while still offering plenty of sunshine for beach honeymooners,” said Machiri.
She said that while some water sports might be windier than usual during this time, excursions like snorkelling, boat rides and hiking trails like Black River Gorges are still available.
“Opt for a couple’s spa day at a luxury resort to cosy up during occasional cooler spells. Plus, fewer tourists mean quieter beaches and private dinners under the stars,” said the travel expert.
Bali, Indonesia
Another hot destination for South African couples is Bali.
Machiri noted that Bali has long been known for its affordability, with the South African rand going a long way towards accommodations, dining and pampering services. Also, off-peak season means lower prices for honeymooners looking for luxury stays.
“January to April (rainy season) and September to December (just before Christmas) is off-peak and the best time to visit.
“Bali’s rainy season typically sees afternoon showers, but mornings are bright and perfect for exploration with average daily highs of 33 to 34 degrees Celsius. September to December often sees good deals and fewer crowds ahead of the Christmas high, with average daily highs of 31 to 33 degrees Celsius,” said the travel expert.
Travelling during Bali’s off-peak can mean a quieter, more intimate honeymoon where you’ll see the true heart of Balinese culture without throngs of tourists.
“Enjoy peaceful rice paddies, jungle resorts, fewer crowds in Ubud’s temples, and private sunset beach walks in Seminyak,” said Machiri.
Thailand
Thailand is one of the most affordable destinations for South Africans making it an ideal honeymoon spot. Machiri said it is renowned for incredible value, from street food and accommodation to shopping and activities
“Off-peak season is from May to October. Though this period coincides with Thailand’s rainy season, storms are typically quick-moving showers, leaving plenty of time for sunshine-laden days, while the average daily high ranges between 27 and 28 degrees Celsius,” she said.
The travel expert also said that newly weds can look forward to enjoying Thailand’s gorgeous scenery at its greenest during the off-season.
“Expect practically empty beaches, incredible sunset views in Phuket, and relaxed island-hopping in Krabi.
“Even with quick rain showers, your adventures in cooking classes, temple visits, and jungle walks will leave you with perfect honeymoon memories,” she said.
The Maldives
Machiri said that the Maldives are famous for their luxurious overwater villas, which come with a hefty price tag compared to regional alternatives. However, travelling off-peak can uncover some incredible deals.
“Prices on overwater villas dip significantly. Most resorts focus on offering romantic in-villa experiences, with intimate dining and spa packages at incredible prices,: she said.
Off-peak season is from May to October and the rainy season, especially June to August, keeps tourist numbers down.
She said despite the weather, this period still features plenty of sunshine and warmth with days typically reaching 28 to 29 degrees Celsius to enjoy some discounted beachfront luxury.
Seychelles
Lastly, the travel expert revealed that Seychelles can be pricey, especially during school holidays, but off-peak travel in this tropical paradise can mean good deals on flights and accommodation.
She said that off-peak is from May to September and, during these months, the weather remains lovely with an average daily high of between 24 and 25 degrees Celsius.
“Expect fewer tourists and better rates at luxurious resorts and island-hopping boat trips. You’ll still enjoy excellent beach weather but need to watch for some windier conditions for water sports during the cooler dry season,” she said.