As editor of Brides.com, a new wedding portal from the publisher of Brides and Modern Bride magazines, Theresa DiMasi hears about all the top honeymoon destinations. So we asked her to pick the five best places to go this season, either because these spots are buzz-worthy or little-known (for now) destinations. In addition to being great honeymoon spots, many of these places also will host weddings.

The Seychelles

DiMasi: This archipelago of 115 remote islands off the coast of Africa is one of the last truly pristine and secluded paradises because the government has carefully managed tourism--and construction is strictly regulated. For the
ultimate African adventure, spend a week at the Banyan Tree Resort (pictured above), then head to Kruger National Park, the largest wildlife sanctuary in South Africa, for an overland safari. Starting rate per night (three-night minimum): $1,320. 

 

 

 

Turtle Island, Fiji

DiMasi: This island’s exclusive resort, which caters to only 14 couples at a time, has generated a great deal of buzz with famous honeymooners such as Britney and Kevin, Jessica and Nick, and Trista and Ryan. Start your day off horseback riding at dawn, followed by a relaxing massage on the beach; take an afternoon nap or enjoy a champagne picnic, then share dinner under the stars. Starting rate per night (six-night minimum): $1,975. Cost of renting the whole island for the week: $275,000.

 

Costa Rica

DiMasi: Costa Rica in Central America still offers great value for your dollar.  High season, when most tourists are there, runs through the end of April. Rainy season runs from May through mid-November; afternoon rain showers are possible, but your surroundings will be lush, you’ll save money on your hotel and tours (compared to high season), and you’ll
deal with fewer tourists (ideal for any romantic getaway). Stay in one of the open-air palm-thatched bungalows at Lapa Rios, a five-star resort on a private nature reserve, surrounded by a beach (for sea turtle and dolphin tours, or horseback riding) and tropical rain forest (for hiking). Starting rate per night: $242 (double).

Canouan Island/Grenadines 

DiMasi: Canouan Island, in the heart of the Grenadines, offers a romantic, less touristy--at least for now--getaway. Stay at the luxurious and secluded Raffles Resort Canouan Island,set on private estate with powdery beaches, private pools, and surrounded by one of the world’s largest coral reefs—not to mention home to Trump  International Golf Club. This sloping, 18-hole course, designed by Jim  Fazio, offers sweeping views of the sea; spend the afternoon golfing together. At night, enjoy a romantic dinner at Jambu's, followed by a spin at the roulette wheel. Starting rate per night: $385.

Riviera Maya

DiMasi: Parts of the Riviera Maya like Playa del Carmen and Tulum (for its famed Mayan ruins) attract crowds, but it's still relatively inexpensive and feels remote though close in proximity to the U.S. You can take a day-trip to the ruins, but for a true escape stay in one of the 29 villas at the Ikal del Mar, a luxurious eco-resort in a jungle near the small village of Xcalacoco. Take a morning soak in your private plunge pool, then head down to the beach for a private couples massage; for a more active day, book a snorkeling trip for two. After an afternoon siesta, share a romantic dinner on the lush grounds of this resort. Starting rate per night: $575.