It’s still not over. When will the pandemic be over? At this point, you’ve likely planned 1,000 honeymoons. Who says, in the end, that you’ll have to limit yourself to one? Here’s what we’re thinking: What if you had several honeymoons over an undisclosed period of time? You could start now with safer options — or wait but take the honeymoon of your dreams — the one you deserve — when it’s time. We’ve been inside for so long , perfecting sourdough bread and perfect pasta carbonara recipes. At the very least, we ought to be spending time dreaming for the future. On that note, we’ve collected a trio of splendorous villas, splurge-worthy, over-the-top, certainly extravagant bolt holes to seal your deal. Are you ready to go … whenever that is?
Vavavoom
Known as the Pink Palace, the Beverly Hills Hotel, part of the Dorchester Collection has been a social institution that dates back to silver screen’s heyday. But that doesn’t mean that if you stay among its fragrant gardens, you must actually see other people. God forbid. Both Howard Hughes and Marilyn Monroe hid out here regularly, back in the day. Now you can follow their lead when you and your one true love rent stunning Bungalow 1, known as Marilyn’s pad — a spot where she fell in love (you’ve got her beat, as you’re already in love), gorged on ice cream sundaes (a very good idea) and lounged between blockbusters (we had you at lounge — who cares about blockbusters). A den of grandeur and resplendence, the villa sets a fantastical mood with curvy furniture, gold leafed ceilings, abstract floor coverings and a hedonistic bath. Book the “Live Like Marilyn” package, which includes a chilled bottle of Dom Pérignon champagne, Chanel bath amenities, a Marilyn Monroe Champagne Bath Bubble Experience (which features “Some Like It Hot Bubble Bath,” Ceara pure Atlantic sea salt from the coast of Brazil and Sweet Orange and Grapefruit Oils, bath pillow, wood back brush, bath mitt, and another bottle of Dom Perignon) and Marilyn’s Menu (delivered) For Two, inspired by an interview that appeared in the 1952 issue of Pageant Magazine. There, the access revealed her penchant for simple meals and ice cream. In her honor, you’ll eat prawn cocktails, heirloom carrot salad, DiMaggio’s Spaghetti and Meatballs, Grilled New York Steak and Marilyn’s Ice Cream Sundae. A library featuring Monroe films and books keeps the spirit alive. First introduced in 1915 to accommodate families that needed more space and privacy, the iconic bungalows remain an important part of Beverly Hills Hotel’s character. Awash with legends and anecdotes, they have stories to tell. Now, make your own stories. We assure you that yours will beat such tales as Liz Taylor spending six of her eight honeymoons here. You’ve got this!
Fiji Fun
Get regal, like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle did at Vatuvara Private Islands Resort, an enchanting escape set in the lesser traveled Lau Group of islands in Fiji’s east. Boasting just three, one-bedroom villas situated across 800 acres, this epitome of opulence feels like lording over your own island. Secluded, surrounded by cobalt lagoons, each villa has its own private beach, infinity-edge pool, private outdoor massage bure and jaw dropping vistas. Accessible by its own airstrip, the solar-powered island retreat grows its own organic products and immerses guests deeply in Fijian culture. Besides holding hands, indulge in water sports, golf hiking and hammock sleeping in the sun — something you’ve been craving. Carefree is the word.
Lake Life
For those unsure of being ensconced amid a hotel’s resort community (too many people, perhaps?), take a gander at the vast collection of meritorious villas and homes around the world managed by laudable Turnkey Vacation Rentals. You’ll get the milieu and coddling, including service and amenities, of a five-star hotel, but be on your own, in honeymoon solitary confinement. We know you aren’t going to complain about that! TurnKey homes get professional cleanings, have zero-contact check-in, offer starter supplies and loads of concierge support. One nearby to think about? In Austin, TX , a waterfront retreat on Lake Austin promises to be the lakehouse of your dreams. Way too big for the two of you with five bedrooms, you’ll find a way to take over the entire estate — from the private pier to the gourmet kitchen. Close enough to downtown to grab take out from those restaurants you’ve been reading about in Bon Appetit, the house will also lure you into poolside cook-offs or picnics on a boat.
