Hi Reddit!

My wife and I have decided to go on a last-minute honeymoon, and we could really use some advice on destinations. We’re planning to travel between December 2024 and January 2025, for about 20–30 days. Our budget is capped at $10,000 USD (including flights). Here’s a little about us and what we’re looking for:

About Us:

• Location: We live in Europe.
• Travel Preferences: I dislike flying and get severe motion sickness on boats (except for big ferries). I also try to avoid heavy medication or seasickness pills because they ruin the experience.
• Interests:
  • We’d like to split our trip 50/50: half exploring a city and half relaxing with sun, warmth, and swimming.
  • We’re not into partying and would like to focus on a calm and romantic vibe.
• Dietary Needs: We’re Muslims, so having access to halal food is a must.

What We’ve Looked Into:

We’re considering Southeast Asia with a route like Bangkok -> Koh Samui -> Krabi -> Kuala Lumpur/Singapore, but we’re not sure if it’s the best option, especially since it feels a bit rushed for a honeymoon.

My wife really wants a private pool villa, and I’ve seen many in Bali. However, I’ve read that the weather in Bali during our travel period might not be ideal. Would it be better to postpone the trip until April for better weather in Bali? Or are there other destinations with similar accommodations?

What We’re Looking For:

• Minimal flights and no small boats.
• A mix of city exploration and beach relaxation.
• Private pool options for part of the trip.
• Halal-friendly destinations.

Open to Suggestions:

We’re open to other destinations outside Southeast Asia too! If you’ve been on a similar trip or know of places that fit the description, please share your recommendations. Timing-wise, should we stick with December/January or postpone to April/Or llater for better weather and experiences?

Thanks in advance for any tips or ideas! 😊