Honeymoon in Barcelona

When it comes to food, wine and conviviality, the Spanish seem to have it nailed. Nothing better embodies this than the tapas crawl, one of Spain's favorite pastimes. Wandering from bar to bar over the course of an evening, you sample saucer-size portions of food like garlic shrimp, grilled octopus and thin-sliced ham, accompanied by glasses of red wine or sparkling cava. Some of the best tapas bars are in the Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter); arrive early to see the medieval Catedral de la Seu before starting your dining tour. 

But it's not all about food here. Park Guell, built by the famed Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, is an unusual 20th-century park that radiates romance. Architectural buffs will also want to visit La Pedrera, another Gaudi gem widely considered one of the most imaginative houses in the history of architecture. 

When night falls, ride the old-fashioned tram to Tibidabo, Barcelona's highest hill, and watch the city lights illuminate the sky. Or hit Harlem Jazz Club, where the intimate setting and varied range of local and international acts attracts an eclectic, energetic clientele. After the show, head over to the waterfront and wander the sexy, smoky chirinquitos (beach bars) till the wee hours of the morning. 

Honeymoon-worthy hotels:
Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona Just off Placa Catalunya and Las Ramblas in the heart of the city, this hipster hotel, opened in 2004, delivers high design and luxury with LCD TVs, modern art and lots of leather. From NZ$504.

Casa Camper Owned by the chic Spanish-owned footwear company, this El Raval-district boutique property is upscale yet unpretentious. Find platform beds, exposed shelving and minimalist white bathrooms across the hall from private sitting areas. From NZ$310.