SOME may not think of Australia as a honeymoon destination, it being so close to Singapore and an oft-traversed place.

Yet many, like Ms Cindy Chua, 28, a marketing executive, are finding it attractive nonetheless.

Ms Chua and husband Mr Tan Cheng Hsien, 29, travelled to Hallet Cove in Adelaide to take their wedding pictures there, and to have a short honeymoon trip.

The couple, who are wine collectors,,also took a trip into the South Australia wine country, where wines like Jacob's Creek are made.

"The entire trip was romantic, people were friendly, and the pace was relaxed," said Ms Chua. "If things go well, we'll travel there for our anniversary next year, too"

Likewise, Mr Roger Ng and his wife Patricia, both 27, honeymooned at the Gold Coast in November last year, and had a blast.

Mr Ng, a sales manager, had just a week for his honeymoon, and so chose the Gold Coast for its proximity to Singapore, as well as its variety.

There, they visited theme parks like Warner Brothers Movie World and Sea World, shopped, and visited farms as part of a tour.

Ms Ruth Lim, marketing and communications manager at SA Tours, says that the short haul to Australia is attractive to honeymooners as flight times vary between just four to eight hours.

"More time can be put into soaking in the sights of the city," she says. "Australia offers farm stays, vibrant city life, fun theme parks and wildlife, and nature reserves that are not usually found in one single place."

Around 30 per cent of the company's customers choose to spend their honeymoons in Australia, which is finding a rise in Asian tourists.

For those on a budget, Australia is also more affordable as compared to the USA or Europe, also popular destinations for couples.

Indeed, Mr Ng spent $3,500 for air fare and a tour package, and put another $4,000 towards shopping.

"There was lots to do and see," says Mr Ng. "And we had enough time off from the tour as well to spend time together, just the two of us."

Check out SA Tours packages at www.satours.com or call 6535-2611. Prices start at $1,598 for six days.

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