Most people assume that long-haul destinations are best during the long winter months when we're desperate for some sun, and the Mediterranean is not at its hottest. However, these exotic destinations can be just as lovely during our summer months, and of course much more affordable! Here, we look at the weather in the popular long-haul destinations...
Australia
Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, to the northeast of Australia, has great weather all year, although it can get very hot during our winter months. Ayres Rock and Alice Springs are hot and dry year round; indeed the Alice Springs annual boat race takes place in a dry river bed. During our summer, the popular destinations of Sydney, Melbourne and Perth can get quite cold and rainy (Melbourne winters tend to be on a par with our Spring/Autumn months so don't expect to see too much sun). Australia is not a cheap honeymoon destination and with the long flight, this honeymoon is not for the faint-hearted!
Flight time: 22 hours.
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Bali
Just north of Australia, Bali enjoys good weather through the summer months and avoids the monsoons that hit other Asian countries. July and August can be very busy with Australians travelling there, and as August is also the religious festival of Ramadan, visiting the neighbouring islands of Lombok and Flores can be tricky. September is a really good time to visit Bali when it becomes quieter and the weather is still good. However, Bali is a long flight and therefore an expensive honeymoon location.
Flight time: 17 hours.
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The Caribbean
The Caribbean boasts a perfect climate over our cold winter months and throughout our Spring, with plenty of sunshine and low rainfall. Expect rain during the summer months on most of the Caribbean islands, and of course, there is a possibility that you could encounter hurricanes too, especially during August and September. However, prices can be up to 40% cheaper than during the winter months, as long as you avoid school holidays, so this could be worth the risk! If you don't mind holding on until the last minute to book your honeymoon, then you can pick up some fantastic deals in the Caribbean as there are plenty of big hotels, many with all inclusive deals.
Flight times: 8-10 hours depending on the island.
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Dubai
Perfect for a short honeymoon - most trips to Dubai are just 5-7 days - with year-round sunshine and very little rain. Avoid the summer months as it can become far too hot. Top tip: if at all possible, pay a little extra for premium economy flights; there are always a large number of babies on flights to Dubai as it is such an inexpensive family destination.
Flight times: 7 hours.
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Africa
Africa is such a huge continent, and its position straddling the Equator means that the weather varies from country to country. No matter when you plan to visit, there will be a part of Africa with perfect weather conditions for you!
Flight times: 8 - 11 hours.
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The Maldives
The summer months is when the weather is worst in the Maldives. So, although the rainy downpours don't last long, the skies tend to be cloudy. If you want to bask by the swimming pool or on the beach, which tends to be the main reason for coming to the Maldives, visit during the winter months.
Flight time: 10 hours.
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MauritiusÂ
Mauritius tends to be cooler during our summer months and you can expect temperatures in the low to mid-20's. If you don't like hot climates then this could be the perfect honeymoon destination for you!
Flight times: 12 hours.
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Seychelles
The honeymoon destination of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge! If you are looking for a long haul destination to visit in our mid-summer, the Seychelles is probably your best option as our summer coincides with their dry season. All Seychelles beaches are public, so look for hotels that are not right on the beach front to save money without losing the option of spending time on the beach!
Flight times: 12 hours.
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Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has a mixed bag of weather during the summer months. The east tends to be the driest and hottest with the south and the west getting the majority of the rain. The rain is typical monsoon with violent and heavy storms but these don't generally last too long. Because of this, Sri Lanka tends to be lush and green. No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without a trip to the elephant orphanage and tea plantations. With lots of history and culture, jungles and mountains, there is lots to explore!
Flight time: 11 hours.
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Thailand
Avoid going to the west of Thailand, like Phuket, as this has the heaviest rain during the summer. Instead, head for the Gulf of Thailand and the islands of Samui and Phangan.
Flight times: 11 1/2 hours.
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Vietnam
Vietnam is becoming renowned for being one of the most beautiful and untouched honeymoon destinations in the world. The best time to visit Vietnam is spring (February to April) and autumn (August to October). The temperatures are more moderate and rainfall is lighter. It’s a honeymoon experience with amazing sights that will make any honeymoon unique.
Flight time: 11-12hrs.