THERE is nothing more romantic than going on a honeymoon trip with your new spouse. For many couples, the first sweet and happy moments of marriage can create memories that last forever.

The custom of newly-weds spending a holiday together to celebrate their marriage is a custom that dates back to 19th-century Britain.

The original tradition of the “bridal tour,” as it was first called, was for couples to visit relatives who were not able to attend the wedding. It gradually become a way for newly-wed couples to celebrate their love in a place filled with romance and charm.

Places with fairytale architecture, sapphire blue seas, and touching love stories have long been typical destinations for honeymooners.

These days though, honeymooners are traveling further and to more diverse destinations than ever before, according to information from online travel-service operator Ctrip. Places with unique cultural attractions are becoming increasingly popular.

Many couples also prefer exotic, romantic and exclusive destinations, rather than places with large crowds of tourists, according to information from Alitrip, the travel-service arm of Alibaba.

The company added that it is designing new wedding packages that allow couples to tie the knot underwater, or even in a hot-air balloon.

If you’re about to get married, or are currently planning a honeymoon, here are some of the world’s most popular destinations for newly-weds.

Hawaii, the United States

The magical land of Hawaii was described by American writer Mark Twain as “the loveliest fleet of islands that lies anchored in any ocean ... For me its balmy airs are always blowing, its summer seas flashing in the sun; the pulsing of its surf is in my ear.”

Twain spent four months on the islands in 1866 and fell in love with them.

The paradise that enchanted Twain is an exotic and picturesque locale perfect for a honeymoon. Hawaii is famed not only for its beautiful beaches, misty waterfalls and spectacular tropical forests — it’s also one of the world’s best places for outdoor sports and adventure.

On Oahu, one of the six major Hawaiian islands, couples can go sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, stand-up paddling or surfing.

Kauai, the oldest island in Hawaii, features sharp rugged cliffs, fertile gardens and lush valleys. It is home to several natural wonders such as Waimea Canyon and Wailua River, and was the shooting location for “Jurassic Park.”

Venice, Italy

There is no doubt that Venice is one of the most romantic cities in the world. It’s unique for being the world’s only pedestrian city and has served as the shooting location for countless films, including the romantic-comedy “A Little Romance.”

A romantic gondola ride complemented by a beautiful sunset view of Venice is a must in this enchanting city which is perfect for newly-wed couples.

It is said that lovebirds who kiss on a gondola under the Bridge of Sighs at sunset can ensure eternal love. It is this belief that makes it one of the most romantic bridges in the world.

Venice itself is constructed on 117 small islands linked by about 350 bridges. The 200 palace buildings and seven churches along its banks display a variety of architecture styles — like Byzantinism, Baroque and Gothic — making the city look like an art gallery rising from water. Venetian ice cream is also world famous.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali has long enjoyed a reputation as a paradise on Earth for its snow-soft sands, pristine beaches, azure waters, awe-inspiring coral reefs and colorful marine fauna.

Every year, countless couples come to Bali’s Jimbaran Beach to enjoy the sunset, performances from local singers and the taste of barbecued seafood.

Surfing and diving are popular sports on the island. Lovebirds can choose to explore a number of cultural attractions, or just daydream on a beach chair with a glass of fresh coconut milk.

The Pura Tanah Lot temple, the Kintamani volcano, and the Puri Saren palace are some of the island’s most famous attractions.

Many lovebirds come to the island to exchange their vows and have a honeymoon trip at the same time.

Kuta Beach is considered Bali’s most well-known and beautiful beach resort destination.

Heilongjiang, China

This off-the-beaten-path destination is an option for lovebirds who have already traveled to Sanya, Dali or Xiamen: three of China’s most famous honeymoon spots.

In addition to its stunning winter scenery and top-notch ski resorts, Heilongjiang also boasts pristine wetlands, crystal-clear lakes, striking volcanic landscapes and beautiful Russian-style buildings.

The Wudalianchi Scenic Area in nearby Heihe City features the world’s most complete and well-preserved volcanic landforms. Locals refer to it as an “open textbook on volcanology.”

These volcanoes also formed the nearby lakes, with green, blue, brown or yellow depending on the weather.

Viewing the dreamlike northern lights in Mohe County, the most northern place in China, can make for a romantic and unforgettable experience when traveling with a partner. Mohe is the only place in China where the aurora borealis is regularly seen.

Tibet, China

A honeymoon trip to Tibet can make your love feel like destiny, thanks to the purity and holiness imbued throughout this stunning land.

What better way to seal your marriage than to pray for eternal love on Barkhor Street, an old street considered to be the nearest place to heaven. It is called “a holy road” by locals and centers on Jokhang Temple.

Nicknamed “the roof of the world,” Tibet is an incomparably appealing destination filled with snowy mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, smiling locals and ancient architectural wonders.

Couples who travel there can also listen to the legend of Namtso, one of the three major holy lakes in Tibet, and learn the stories of Mount Kangrinboqe, a sacred religious site. In Tibet, it seems that time flows more slowly amid an ambience of tranquility and inner peace. Even a drink at a local bar or a rest under the warming Tibetan sun can make for romantic memories that you and your spouse will cherish forever.

Santorini, Greece

It is said that Santorini has the world’s most beautiful sunsets and most magnificent sea views.

A pearl on the Aegean Sea, Santorini attracts lovebirds from across the world with its sunshine, sapphire waters, unique white-washed homes and blue-domed churches.

Many brides bring their wedding dresses to Santorini to have their photos taken in this breathtakingly beautiful setting. Savoring a cup of coffee at a local cafe to experience the slow Mediterranean pace of life is also highly recommended.

The two best-known towns in Santorini are Oia and Fira, the former offering some of the area’s most spectacular sunset views.

There are scuba and snorkeling sites across the island.