If time or expense prohibits a regional honeymoon getaway, you might consider the closest possible option: Shenzhen.
The city has blossomed in terms of top-tier hotels and restaurant openings and, despite the rocketing value of the yuan, still offers good value.
According to Mindy Li, of Four Points by Sheraton Shenzhen, there has been an increase in Hong Kong couples going to Shenzhen for their weddings, honeymoons and even anniversaries in recent years. 'Last year, our hotel had 37 per cent of its wedding couples come from Hong Kong,' she says. 'And this year, it's even more. So far, until May, the statistics show around 50 per cent. Many Hong Kong couples choose a Friday to have their ceremony, then have the weekend as a short honeymoon before a longer one later.
'Shenzhen itself is not the final destination for honeymooners from Hong Kong or the mainland. Most select Shenzhen for two or three nights as the first stop before flying off to places like Thailand.'
Li says there are a number of honeymoon-friendly ideas available at Four Points by Sheraton, Shenzhen. 'Couples can have the body massage treatment in Spa first in order to freshen up, and then have the romantic sunset barbecue dinner at our executive lounge terrace,' she suggests. 'And, for romantic couples, I recommend a visit to Shenzhen's Dapeng Bay to enjoy its sandy beach and the ocean.'
Outside metro Shenzhen is a taste of Switzerland with Chinese characteristics. The Interlaken OCT Hotel, Shenzhen, in Dameisha, is some 30 to 40 kilometres northwest of the city and may make a good alternative.