The Honeymoon Phase

THE MALDIVES -- SWEET SECLUSIONThe
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is the kind of
remote beach getaway ideal for newlyweds. The resort spreads
out over two coral islands and is surrounded by
nothing but white sand and the cerulean Indian Ocean.
The sumptuous villa suites, all built over the water
on stilts in a traditional thatched-roof style, are
outfitted with iPod docks, Wi-Fi, and luxury bedding.
Treatments at the Over-Water Spa (one of two spas at
the resort) include the resort’s signature Siddhartha
rituals for couples, which use a variety of natural
aphrodisiacs to awaken your senses. For dinner,
descend 16 feet below sea level to the glass-encased
undersea restaurant, Ithaa, where diners savor freshly
caught reef fish with bittersweet orange essence and lobster
with Maldivian beach grass and lime.

BOTSWANA -- NATURE AND NURTURE The massive Okavango Delta can be seen from
outer space, and Conservation Corporation
Africa’s newest properties, the Xudum Delta
Lodge and Xaranna Tented Camps, are right in the heart
of it. The luxed-out Xudum Lodge has private plunge pools
and rooftop sleep-outs that overlook a
hippopotamus-filled lagoon, while the elegant
air-conditioned tents are only slightly more rugged.

Couples also can
view the Moremi Game Preserve, the indigenous Bushmen
known as the San, and Chobe National Park, home to some of
the largest elephant herds in the world. Twice-daily
treks in four-wheel-drive safari vehicles, mekoro
(dugout canoes), or powerboats offer guests ample
opportunity to investigate the surroundings. After the
safari, personal butlers arrange lantern-lit, private
alfresco dinners before tucking you into comfy
mosquito-netted beds