April Vacation Bliss: Discovering Namibia, Bodrum, and Amanruya – Dream Honeymoon Destinations
In the northern hemisphere, April is a month filled with anticipation. It marks the beginning of the year when the sun starts to make its appearance, signaling the arrival of warmer weather. It’s a time for us to assess our swimming shorts and hit the gym in preparation. However, not everyone resides in the cold climates of London or New York. For some, April is a chance to escape the scorching heat of summer. Regardless of where you find yourself, it’s an ideal time to take a well-deserved break. To assist you in making the most of this month, we present to you the top six destinations for an April vacation.
Namibia is no stranger to sunny days, receiving over 300 days of sunshine each year. As you can imagine, the temperatures can get quite high. However, in April, the weather is at its most pleasant, averaging around 25ºC. This might explain why Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle have chosen Namibia as their honeymoon destination after their wedding. While it’s unclear where they will be staying, one excellent option is the Wolwedans Dunes Lodge. With its breathtaking views, attentive staff, and comfortable accommodations, this safari camp offers a unique experience amidst the awe-inspiring red-sand dunes. Guests have the opportunity to explore the desert or venture out to the stunning Skeleton Coast.
NAMIB DESERT, NAMIBIA
Wolwedans Dunes Lodge, Namibia
Rephrased Text:
Photograph credit: Courtesy of Ampersand Travel
Namibia enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year, making it a sun-drenched destination. April offers comfortable temperatures, around 25ºC, making it an appealing time to visit. It’s no wonder that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle chose to honeymoon there after their wedding. While their exact accommodation is unknown, the Wolwedans Dunes Lodge is a highly recommended option, offering stunning views, attentive service, and comfortable rooms. Situated amidst the majestic red-sand dunes, this safari camp provides opportunities to explore the desert, visit the Skeleton Coast, and the Etosha National Park, ensuring a memorable experience.
Insider Tip:
For a breathtaking experience, consider a hot-air balloon trip arranged by the hotel, providing a unique perspective of the Namib desert, followed by a champagne breakfast at the landing spot.
For more information, visit Wolwedans Dunes Lodge.
BODRUM, TURKEY
Amanruya, Turkey
Rephrased Text: Aman’s Photograph Courtesy
During the height of summer, Bodrum becomes an intense heatwave, with sweltering crowds and sunburned skin, and temperatures soaring into the mid-thirties and beyond. However, during this season, temperatures are more likely to be in the early twenties, making it perfect for exploring the peninsula, with its endless olive groves leading to the Aegean and its medieval stone fortress, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Amanruya is the ideal place to stay. Situated thirty minutes from the town center, it sprawls across 60 acres of forest-covered hillside. Its name, “peaceful dream,” perfectly encapsulates its enchanting beauty. The traditional 36 stone pavilions, with their marble floors, mahogany ceilings, and spacious baths, are likely to provide a tranquil retreat. Each pavilion boasts its own dining area and pool, offering a refreshing respite after a coastal stroll.
Insider Tip:
The sea-view pavilions’ infinity pools are situated on elevated platforms, providing uninterrupted views of the sea.
For more information, visit aman.com.
HAVANA, CUBA
Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana, Cuba
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Photograph provided by Kempinski Hotels
Oh, Cuba, we adore you immensely. Your captivating cities, vibrant culture, and pristine white beaches. March and April offer the most pleasant weather, with temperatures hovering around 25ºC. Visit Havana to admire the Spanish colonial-era architecture, cobblestone plazas, and civic mansions. Take a pilgrimage to the Museum of the Revolution or Nuestra Señora de la Merced, then venture outside the city for some beach relaxation. Stay at Havana’s newest luxury hotel, the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana, featuring a charming rooftop swimming pool, cigar lounge, and Confluencia restaurant.
Insider Tip:
Many restaurants in the large hotels here are state-run and may not always offer the best quality. However, the Confluencia avoids this by collaborating with local independent paladares restaurants, offering a unique dining experience.
For more information, visit kempinski.com.
TOKYO, JAPAN
Trunk Hotel, Japan
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Photograph courtesy of Design Hotels
For over 1,200 years, the Japanese have perfected the art of cherishing the cherry blossom season. This season has inspired countless haiku poems. According to the Cherry Blossom Forecast – yes, it does exist – this is the ideal time to partake in hanami, or “flower viewing”. Ueno Park in Tokyo is a great starting point, being one of the city’s oldest public spaces, housing several museums, shrines, and over 100 flourishing cherry blossom trees. Alternatively, venture to the blossom-filled cemetery in the Yanaka neighborhood in the east. Stay at the newly opened Trunk Hotel in Shibuya, a vibrant district filled with boutiques. With its stylish, minimalist design and commitment to using local suppliers through its “made in Japan” policy, it serves as the perfect base for exploring the city.
Insider tip:
If you visit in the first week-and-a-half of April, you’ll catch the cherry blossom festival at its peak. The park is adorned with a thousand lanterns, and visitors are invited to embrace the arrival of spring under the night sky.
AUSTIN, TEXAS
Hotel Van Zandt, US
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Photograph courtesy of Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt
Best Time to Visit Texas
Spring is unquestionably the ideal season for a trip to the Lone Star State, with its clear and bright days that are not overly scorching. Explore Austin’s bars and performance venues, such as the renowned Broken Spoke honky-tonk or The Little Longhorn Saloon. And when you need a break, venture into the Texan desert at Marfa and experience Mr. Donald Judd’s extensive art installation at the Chinati Foundation. For accommodation in Austin, the newly opened Hotel van Zandt is the place to be. With its exposed brick and original art pieces throughout, it embraces the city’s reputation as the creative hub of the south. The rooftop pool is particularly noteworthy for its Instagram-worthy appeal.
Insider Tip:
While Austin is known for its music scene, it is also renowned for something else: pork ribs. The city is famous for its delectable pork ribs. Head straight to Micklethwait Craft Meats and treat yourself to its flavorful, peppery ribs.
PALMA, MAJORCA
Hotel Sant Francesc, Spain
Photograph courtesy of Hotel Sant Francesc
Renaissance of Majorca’s Image and Tourist Offerings
In recent years, Majorca has undergone a significant transformation from being perceived as a somewhat outdated destination to becoming a thriving hub of luxury hotels and cosmopolitan attractions. The capital city, Palma, is at the forefront of this resurgence, boasting the royal castle, a spacious marina, and the recently inaugurated Hotel Sant Francesc. This boutique hotel, nestled in a mansion block constructed in 1860, offers 42 aesthetically pleasing rooms, three distinctive restaurants, and a rooftop pool that provides exceptional opportunities for people-watching.
Unwinding in Majorca
After a day of exploring attractions such as the Arab Baths or the UNESCO-designated Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, visitors can unwind by indulging in a refreshing swim in the warm waters of the Mediterranean sea before retreating to the alluring ambiance of the Sant Francesc. The hotel’s public areas are regarded as some of the most charming spaces one can encounter.
Local Insight
For those with an affinity for sailing, whether as a participant or spectator, a visit to Palma from March 30th to April 7th is highly recommended. During this period, the city will host the 49th edition of the Trofeo Princesa Sofía in the Bay of Palma, offering an exceptional experience for sailing enthusiasts.
For further details, please visit hotelsantfrancesc.com
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