An Essex Wedding - November/December 2024 (Issue 119)

SRI LANKA Eden Villas, a luxury villa expert in Sri Lanka, has added the new Doornberg House to its portfolio of exquisite houses on the south coast. Built in 1712 for a Dutch admiral, Doornberg House is perched on an acre of manicured lawn, sitting above the ancient town of Galle, offering an 180-degree panorama with views of the UNESCO-heritage Galle Fort and the Indian Ocean beyond. In 2021, after a period of neglect, the current owner, Peter Harris, purchased the property and commenced a careful restoration to return the building to its former glory. The project was mainly carried out by hand in the absence of electricity and included sourcing 23,000 terracotta tiles from an old Dutch church north of Negombo. Doornberg House first opened as a private villa earlier this year and is available to book in its entirety or by individual room through Eden Villas. Discover more at www.edenvillas.com JAPAN Japan is a year-round paradise for culture, art, cuisine, and romance, and Wayfairer Travel’s new 14-day honeymoon itinerary offers couples a comprehensive introduction to this captivating country. Spanning key cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, historic landmarks such as Hiroshima, and relaxing stays in traditional ryokans, this journey blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge contemporary culture. Couples can enjoy a variety of customised activities during their stay, including an afternoon tea with a maiko at a traditional ochaya teahouse in Kyoto and a Samurai Kenbu sword-dancing class in Japan’s ancient capital, Nara. Private English-speaking guided tours will be arranged around both Tokyo and Kyoto, while a street food safari around Osaka’s famous Dotonbori canal district will give couples a taste of Japan’s rich culinary culture. Included in the price is a 14-day Japan Rail Pass, which will whisk couples between destinations by Japan’s world-famous Shinkansen bullet trains – a great way to see the rural countryside whilst traversing the landscape efficiently and in style. Check out www.wayfairertravel.com for more information. RWANDA Wilderness Rwanda Bisate near Volcanoes National Park has unveiled a new lodge called Bisate Reserve. Intended to redefine luxury, conservation and exclusivity, this intimate property will feature four spacious villas, continuing Wilderness’ legacy of driving conservation tourism in the region. Positioned on the rim of a weathered volcano, Bisate Reserve’s four expansive villas offer captivating vistas overlooking six majestic volcanoes. Through its groundbreaking reforestation and rehabilitation initiatives, each guest will become a partner in biodiversity protection and local community upliftment, directly contributing to the preservation of the iconic endangered mountain gorilla species. To find out more, visit www.wildernessdestinations.com SEYCHELLES Nestled in the breathtaking Petite Anse Bay, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles offers guests a cultural experience, complemented by a range of off-resort adventures. Surrounded by unspoiled landscapes, the resort is dedicated to sustainable practices, ensuring its natural splendour remains intact. Couples can indulge in luxury amenities such as Le Syel Spa, savour culinary delights at four diverse restaurants, and unwind in two stylish bars, allowing for the optimal blend of relaxation and exploration. Experience the allure of authentic island living and enjoy 20 per cent off bed and breakfast rates when you book your stay for three nights or more. Start your day off on a high with a signature Four Seasons breakfast, ensuring you are well-fuelled for exploring the stunning surroundings. Visit www.fourseasons.com for more information. HONEYMOON NEWS 93

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