In an era where the quest for the perfect “romantic getaway” has surged by 83% in global Google searches year-on-year, the Maldives has been unequivocally named the top destination for newlyweds. According to new UK search and booking data from travel experts Travelbag, the island nation remains the most coveted long-haul honeymoon spot for 2025.

To determine where couples are heading to celebrate their nuptials, Travelbag’s specialists analyzed average UK Google search volumes alongside year-on-year booking trends from April 2024 to April 2025. The results highlight a clear winner, with the Maldives’ enduring popularity shining through.

Despite fierce competition from other idyllic locations, the Maldives holds the top rank with a staggering 19,200 average UK annual searches and a steady 5% year-on-year growth in bookings. This demonstrates the nation’s unshakable position as the quintessential honeymoon paradise in the minds of couples.

Here are the top long-haul honeymoon destinations according to Travelbag’s data:

1. Maldives: 19,200 annual searches; 5% booking change
2. Seychelles: 10,560 annual searches; 50% booking change
3. Bali: 12,000 annual searches; 0% booking change
4. Zanzibar: 8,640 annual searches; 86% booking change
5. Costa Rica: 5,760 annual searches; 10% booking change
6. St Lucia: 5,760 annual searches; -20% booking change
7. Dubai: 3,840 annual searches; 30% booking change
8. Antigua and Barbuda: 2,040 annual searches; 75% booking change
9. Banff: 360 annual searches; 100% booking change
10. Kyoto: 240 annual searches; 400% booking change

While destinations like Kyoto and Banff show remarkable growth in booking percentages, their search volumes indicate they remain niche choices compared to the mainstream appeal of the Maldives.

Danny Hugill, the designated Maldives destination expert at Travelbag, shared his advice for couples planning their romantic escape.

“The Maldives is the ultimate honeymoon destination, offering a mix of luxury, seclusion, and natural beauty,” he stated. “For a truly romantic and peaceful honeymoon, consider visiting between December and April, when there is plenty of sunshine and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxing on white-sand beaches and exploring vibrant coral reefs. At this time of year, temperatures range between 24°C and 31°C, so you’ll need to make sure you pack your sunscreen.”

Hugill also highlighted the diverse activities that await newlyweds: “Relaxation and romance take centre stage here. You can enjoy day-diving trips or head out on a glass-bottomed kayak together. But if you’re looking for something more exciting, there are plenty of watersports available on the islands, including water skiing and parasailing. You could even try a Maldivian cooking class to take some culinary skills back home with you.”

This latest data from Travelbag solidifies the Maldives’ esteemed status, proving that its unique blend of breathtaking scenery and luxurious intimacy continues to capture the hearts of couples worldwide, setting the standard for honeymoon destinations in 2025 and beyond.

Angsana Velavaru, a distinguished nominee for Most Romantic Resort at the South Asia Travel Awards, has unveiled a thoughtfully curated collection of proposal experiences. These offerings are designed to transform a deeply personal commitment into a lasting legacy, all within the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives.

Located in the secluded South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru exudes an atmosphere of understated elegance. The resort’s natural surroundings create a stunning backdrop for meaningful moments, where the serenity of the islands fosters genuine intimacy. At this idyllic retreat, a proposal becomes more than a question—it becomes a landmark moment shaped by the shimmering seascape and the expansive Maldivian sky.

Each proposal experience is meticulously designed to go beyond the conventional, with a focus on the unique narrative and aspirations of every couple. Acknowledging the individuality of each relationship, Angsana Velavaru offers a range of distinct settings for this significant occasion. Couples may choose a private beach, where the soft rhythm of the waves accompanies a heartfelt declaration at sunset. For those seeking an even more exclusive moment, proposals can be staged on the rooftop of the resort’s iconic InOcean Villas—standalone water villas that are unique to the Maldives. This elevated location provides sweeping ocean views and a sense of dramatic privacy as daylight gently fades into evening.

Every setup is crafted with careful attention to detail, ensuring the ambiance reflects the couple’s story. The resort’s dedicated team provides discreet yet comprehensive support, allowing couples to be fully present in the emotion of the occasion. Enhancements such as private dining beneath the stars or a discreet photographer to capture the moment can be arranged to further personalise the experience, preserving its intimacy and authenticity.

Surrounded by pristine turquoise waters and the boundless horizon of the Indian Ocean, Angsana Velavaru offers more than a stunning destination—it presents an environment where true connection and lasting memories flourish. With the launch of these carefully considered proposal experiences, the resort invites guests to Say Yes to the Moment and embark on a meaningful new beginning.

Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives, a tropical paradise known for its vibrant energy and playful luxury, is elevating the destination wedding experience with the launch of its exclusive 2025 packages. These packages offer couples the chance to celebrate their love in one of the most extraordinary settings in the world. Located in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Finolhu is celebrated for its pristine natural beauty, world-class service, and seamless fusion of Maldivian charm and contemporary luxury. Surrounded by a secluded environment, a mile-long sandbank, and stunning kaleidoscope-inspired architecture, Finolhu offers the perfect canvas for couples to create a truly unforgettable celebration.

The resort’s bespoke wedding packages have been thoughtfully designed to cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, from intimate beachfront ceremonies to grand celebrations under the stars. Each package combines the highest level of service, attention to detail, and the unparalleled beauty of the Maldivian landscape. Couples can choose from four exclusive packages, each offering a distinctive ambiance and luxurious inclusions:

• ISHGI “Romantic”: A serene ceremony on a secluded sandbank, featuring elegant floral decor, a dedicated wedding coordinator, a one-tier wedding cake, and Taittinger Brut Reserve Champagne. Additional touches include 10 digital photos, a decorated buggy for the ceremony, in-villa bed decoration, a bridal bouquet. Package pricing starts at $1,600 USD.
• DHAAIMEE “Everlasting”: Building on the ISHGI package, this elevated experience features a Maldivian drumming performance, a four-course sandbank dinner, and an intimate in-villa celebration with beautifully arranged bed and bath decor. Package pricing starts at $2,600 USD.
• HITHU VINDHU “Heartbeat”: A stunning ceremony at Finolhu’s iconic 5° North venue, a sunset cruise on the “Little Seahorse” Dhoni, a four-course dinner at 5° North, in-villa romantic decor with a floating breakfast, two-tier wedding cake, and a 20-photo digital album. Package pricing starts at $3,400 USD.
• LOABIVERIN “Lovers”: Offering the ultimate wedding experience, the LOABIVERIN package features Champagne Billecart-Salmon Brut Rose, flower ladies, traditional Maldivian drummers, and a choice of a Beach Bubble experience or a private sandbank four-course dinner for the newlyweds. Package pricing starts at $5,000 USD.

To make their day even more memorable, couples can indulge in a rejuvenating day at the property’s Fehi Spa, with beauty services available to pamper the bride and groom before the ceremony. Finolhu also offers a range of personalised enhancements, including pre-wedding hair and makeup services, private fireworks displays, saxophonist performances, a romantic night under the stars in the exclusive Beach Bubble Experience, and curated wedding photography and videography packages by IM Studio.

“We believe that every love story deserves a one-of-a-kind celebration,” said Steven Philips, General Manager of Finolhu Baa Atoll. “Our new 2025 wedding packages have been curated to offer not only a stunning setting but also a level of service that is tailored to each couple, ensuring their special day exceeds all expectations.”

For a fully immersive property experience, couples are encouraged to arrive at Finolhu at least two days before their ceremony. Finolhu’s dedicated wedding specialists will work closely with each couple to curate a personalized and unforgettable celebration. Please note, package prices do not include accommodation, meal plans, transfers, or any additional items not specified in the package.