Too exhausted planning the wedding to even think about a honeymoon? Budget blown out and the big day hasn’t even arrived? Guess a lavish getaway is out of the question then. Maybe work schedules or family commitments mean jetting off after the last dance just isn’t practical.
You’re not alone. And there is a fabulous alternative – with a cute name to boot – mini-moons. Mini-moons are gaining momentum as a popular and savvy solution for time-poor newlyweds with pressing priorities.
A long-weekend or short break to recover from the festivities opens up a raft of possibilities. Head to a plush pad nearby and you’ll be enjoying a bubble bath and crisp hotel sheets before your last guest has hit the hay.
When money matters, a short escape makes financial sense. Take the opportunity to upgrade and indulge. You might not be able to afford the super-swish suite with the stellar view for a fortnight but a long weekend? Could be a different story.
If you’re a family of more than two, leaving the kids home for a prolonged period mighn’t be appealing – or possible – while bringing them along is less than romantic. Either way, a few days’ hiatus keeps everyone happy.
Sometimes it’s just the timing that’s off. You can’t take an extended break now, but heading back to work on Monday just wouldn’t seem right. Why not postpone the official honeymoon and opt for a preview instead? You’ll still get to unwind in style and have something left to look forward to.
From elegant five-star resorts to vineyard retreats, luxury lodges to high-rise hotels, let’s hope the mini-moon trend is here to stay.
Five of my favourite Mini-moon destinations:
1. Tasmania, stay at the luxurious
Saffire Freycinet and discover one of Australia's best kept secrets.
2. New Zealand's South Island, so close to our shores yet its landscape is so different to ours... for a honeymoon that you'll never forget and never want to end stay at
Blanket Bay 
3. The Whitsundays is an island paradise right on our door step and for a Mini-moon escape it makes perfect sense. Sail off into the sunset on a luxury Catamaran, picnic at Whitehaven Beach (pops up on all the world's best beaches lists) and treat yourself to a few nights at the newly renovated
Hayman Island 
4. Perennial favourite
Paperbark Camp, near Jervis Bay on the NSW Coast was one of the pioneers of the “glamping” concept with its deluxe safari style tents, private indoor/outdoor ensuites perfect for birdwatching and an award-winning restaurant. Take a canoeing challenge, enjoy a gourmet picnic along the way then sip on a sundowner as the bush comes alive at dusk – just divine!
5. Eco Beach on the Western Australian coast is another top glamping spot with accommodation options including swish tents, villas and beach houses, from which you can enjoy a diverse mix of activities including yoga, whale watching and monitoring the local turtle population.
Tory @ i-do