These days, a honeymoon is all about doing something a little bit different and indulging in a way you probably haven’t ever allowed yourself to before.

Your honeymoon is meant to be the trip of a lifetime so why stick to a typical run-of-the-mill package deal, when you could be white water rafting down the Zambezi, going in search of orang-utan in Borneo, or simply relaxing on your private deck in the Maldives, watching the sun set over the horizon.

Katy Pannell, online travel editor at Audley Travel, writes about her pick of the top five honeymoon destinations with a difference.

1. SRI LANKA

For a fusion of beach and culture, why not consider a honeymoon in Sri Lanka. An island set off the coast of India, you could spend your time meeting the residents of an elephant orphanage, driving through lush tea plantations and relaxing on the country’s beautiful sandy beaches. Consider tagging on a stay in the Maldives at the end of your trip if you crave a little beach luxury.


2. KENYA


Kenya
is the safari destination of story books and television programmes: a country where prolific wildlife and outstanding properties go hand in hand. After a thrilling day tracking the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant), you can spend a night under the stars, literally, at Loisaba Starbeds, where your bed sits high on a platform, surrounded by the elements.


3. JAPAN


Japan
presents the ultimate honeymoon for the culture junkie. From frenetic cities to peaceful spa towns, a world-renowned cuisine and a cherry-blossom season envied the world over, Japan is a real contender if you’re considering somewhere a little different for your honeymoon. It’s even possible to end a honeymoon in Japan with a stay on the Japanese archipelago of Okinawa – a peaceful haven of turquoise seas and unspoilt reefs.


4. BRAZIL

The giant of Latin America, just the name ‘Brazil’ conjures up images of vibrant cities, flamboyant cultures and lush jungles. Relax with the locals as you stroll along Copacabana Beach, climb up to the top of the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain, or enjoy the view from Iguaçu Falls. Couple this with some fine accommodation and you have a honeymoon that will have even the most devoted travellers frothing at the mouth.


5. FRENCH POLYNESIA

Now I know that some people want a honeymoon that focuses solely on relaxation after months of planning the biggest day of their lives, and there is no better destination for this than French Polynesia. A tropical island idyll with picture-perfect sands and crystal clear seas, you can spend your time relaxing in your overwater bungalow or strolling through the islands’ varying landscapes. A honeymoon in French Polynesia is the epitome of luxury and style.


Katy Pannell is online travel editor at Audley Travel, an award-winning tour operator that specialises in tailor-made trips and small group tours to over 80 countries around the world. Using their extensive, first-hand knowledge, Audley’s country specialists build itineraries that match their clients’ individual interests, budget, pace and accommodation preferences to create unique travel experiences.

May 2013