Known for its beautiful seascapes and Unesco-recognised natural heritage sites, Jeju Island is a dreamy escape for ocean lovers.

And for lovers of a different kind, it’s also home to two rather offbeat destinations: the Museum of Sex & Health, an innovative institution dedicated to exploring wellness, sexuality and intimacy; and Loveland, a tongue-in-cheek erotic art park.

The Museum of Sex & Health spans interactive displays highlighting the importance of sexual health and site-specific installations celebrating diverse expressions of love. Its aim? To break down taboos around sexual wellness, foster open conversations, and promote a holistic understanding of human connection.

Meanwhile, Jeju Loveland showcases over 140 explicit sculptures. Their original intent was educational, as Jeju was once a popular, perennially warm honeymoon destination for newlyweds. The sculptures range from in-your-face obvious to abstract, and are sure to provoke discussion (and more than a few laughs).

Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Punakha region in Bhutan, Chimi Lhakhang is a monastery built in 1499. Also known as the Fertility Temple, this sacred site pays homage to Drukpa Kunley, a revered Tibetan Buddhist saint known for his unorthodox teachings. It is conveniently located about a half hour drive from the stunning Six Senses Punakha.

The temple’s most distinctive feature is its fertility blessings. Couples seeking to start a family often make the pilgrimage here, receiving symbolic phallus blessings and intricate rituals performed by the resident monks.

Beyond its cultural significance, Chimi Lhakhang offers a breathtaking panorama of the Himalayan countryside. Perched on a small hill, the temple invites pilgrims and visitors alike to traverse picturesque trails and immerse themselves in the tranquility of its surroundings. Adorned with vibrant prayer flags that flutter in the mountain breeze, Chimi Lhakhang and the village around it exude serenity.

What comes to mind when you think of aphrodisiacs? Perhaps oysters, dark chocolate or strawberries. But as far as potency is considered, there’s one more food that’s considered to be as powerful: honey (in fact, the term honeymoon originates from a medieval practice in which newlyweds would drink honey).

Nepal’s Himalayan region boasts a unique variety of this sweet ingredient that’s believed to offer mild intoxication, promoting relaxation and arousal. Harvested by local indigenous groups like the Gurung and Magar communities at treacherously high altitudes using minimal support—often with no more than rope ladders—this so-called “mad honey” derives its distinct sweet and spicy flavour from rhododendron flowers. It is highly coveted for its purported medicinal benefits. Mad honey hunting is a fascinating albeit a fast-fading tradition.

Kanamara Matsuri is a lively celebration held annually in Kawasaki in Kanagawa Prefecture, just a short train ride away from central Tokyo. Typically taking place in early April, this festival is a colourful and joyous event that embraces fertility, sensuality and protection against sexually transmitted infections.

The central focus of Kanamara Matsuri is a large iron phallus, which is paraded through the streets during a vibrant procession. The Kanayama Shrine, where the festival takes place, is dedicated to a divine deity who is said to be a guardian of smooth marital relationships.

Rooted in local legends and associated with the Shinto faith, today, the Kanamara Matsuri serves a modern purpose: promoting awareness and fundraising for sexual health issues. For example, in 2023, the market and food stalls raised money for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment.

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