Romantic Travel News

The Balmoral Celebrates Romance in Scotland

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND -- Located on Princes Street in Edinburgh’s esteemed shopping district, The Balmoral is a stylish, five-star hotel boasting a true landmark on its doorstep. The hotel’s majestic clock tower extends above the hotel, offering guests views of Edinburgh Castle and Old Town. The Balmoral, located near Edinburgh’s prominent attractions, is comprised of 188 luxurious suites and elegant rooms overlooking the city’s renowned 11th century architecture.

Celebrate Scottish Style

Help your favorite couple commemorate their wedding in true Scottish style. Guests are treated to a bottle of champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries during their overnight stay, complete with a full Scottish breakfast featuring local indulgences. The bride and groom can relax during their Bath Butler Experience before enjoying the intimate Balmoral Champagne Afternoon Tea together. The cost of this package is £330 (about $624) from November through March and £380 (about $719) from April through October.

Spa Escape

Winner of the UK's Best Urban Day Spa accolade, The Balmoral Spa offers this rejuvenating and relaxing package to help couples make the most of their celebration. The bride and groom will relish their two-night stay in one of the hotel’s Spa rooms, where they will be lulled to sleep with serene music and awake to a spectacular in-room Fitness breakfast. The Bath Butler Experience provides a perfect romantic setting to prepare for their E'SPA Pure Indulgence Day Spa, which includes a nutritious lunch and over two hours of lavish treatments and unlimited use of The Balmoral Spa. The cost of this package is £675 (about $1,277) from November though March and £775 (about $1,466) from April through October.

To book:
• call reservations at +44 131 556 2414
• visit www.roccofortehotels.com

Labels: Europe

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:00 PM

Manchester's Lowry Hotel's Pampering Package

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – Manchester’s most fashionable hotel, the award-winning Lowry Hotel is the ideal contemporary retreat for couples. Situated on the banks of the River Irwell in the recently-developed Chapel Wharf area on the Salford-Manchester boundary, The Lowry Hotel highlights bold contemporary architecture to create a light and airy ambiance. This five-star hotel consists of 165 rooms and six spacious suites. As the first hotel in Greater Manchester to become a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, The Lowery Hotel promises newlyweds a modern romantic escape.

Gourmet Chocolate or Vinotherapy Day

The couple will awake to an invigorating chocolate or grape toning body treatment created with extracts of chocolate, coffee and orange or Pinot Noir and Chianti Grapes. Following a two-course Spa lunch, guests will continue their pampering with a luscious chocolate or wine facial. This package costs £175 (about $331).

Simply Celebrate at The Lowry Hotel

Couples can indulge themselves with The Lowry Hotel’s VIP service and hospitality. Upon arrival at their deluxe king bedroom, the bride and groom will receive a bottle of Billecart Salmon Brut NV Champagne, fresh strawberries and a bouquet of flowers. Guests will enjoy a dinner in the renowned The River Restaurant, or choose to have the meal moved to the privacy of their own room, and will be treated to a leisurely gourmet breakfast the next morning. This package costs £350 (about $662).

For more details:
• call Hotel Reservations +44 (0) 870 460 5040
• email reservations.lowery@roccofortehotels.com

Labels: Europe

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 2:58 PM

St. David’s Hotel & Spa Offering Honeymoon Package

CARDIFF, WALES -- Located on the waterfront of Cardiff Bay, St. David’s Hotel & Spa has been a revered landmark on the waterfront since officially opening in January 1999. Only five minutes from the center of Cardiff and adjacent to the famed entertainment and leisure destination, Mermaid Quay, St. David’s Hotel & Spa offers guests contemporary comfort and an abundance of nearby choice restaurants, bars and entertainment. Designed with 132 guest bedrooms, including 20 suites, St. David’s Hotel & Spa exudes luxury and style, providing a romantic backdrop for the bride and groom’s vacation.

Deluxe Honeymoon Package

Couples can celebrate in style while enjoying a stay in the spacious Deluxe Suite, featuring stunning bay views through floor to ceiling windows. Romance abounds with a dusting of rose petals on the bed and candles illuminating the private sanctuary. The bride and groom will enjoy a half bottle of Champagne under the stars on their private balcony, and start the next day with a breakfast on the terrace and a trip to The St David‚s Marine Spa for a relaxed body massage. The cost of this package is £700 (about $1,324).

Ultimate Luxury at The St David's Hotel & Spa

Indulge the newlyweds with day of pampering, including lush treatments at one of only two locations in the UK where the famous Chantecaille facial is available. This spa experience includes a luxury massage, manicure/pedicure, the Chantecaille Flower Facial, Aromatherapy Body Massage with Hot Stone and Holistic Hand or Foot Treatment with Hot Stones. The cost of this pamper-filled package is £210 (about $398).

To book:
• call St. David’s Hotel & Spa at +44 (0) 29 2045 4045
• visit www.roccofortehotels.com

Labels: Europe

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 2:49 PM

St. Kitts: Where to Go "Liming" with the Locals

One of the most frequent questions we get here at Lovetripper is "where can I go to feel like a local?" More and more couples are looking to get off the tourist track and experience the "real" destination outside the resort world.

Because of that, we were especially interested in a new press release we just received from the St. Kitts Tourist Board that's custom made for your couples who want to get away. Here's a list of places to go "liming" with the locals in St. Kitts:

1). BET Soundstage: Combining karaoke, dancing, video games, entertainment and music ranging from smooth jazz or the latest hip-hop tunes to traditional soul or R&B, this three-story downtown venue has been "the" place to see and be seen on St. Kitts since its opening in Summer 2005. A great place to catch the Caribbean vibe and 'lime' with the locals, a sense of belonging permeates throughout the entire venue and the friendly, fun environment makes people want to return again and again.

2). Oasis Bar: For another great place to kick back on the beach, this little sports bar is a big draw for individuals of all ages who want to watch their sport of choice on the large screen plasma TV with friends and casual acquaintances. Visitors can join in easily on conversations about what's on the screen and toss back a refreshing, cold beverage with the crowd. Lucky visitors who stop in when there's a cricket match being played might even get into the game and learn what a "googly" is from the Kittitians, who are passionate and enthusiastic about their national pastime and eager to introduce the sport to newcomers.

3). Mr. X Shiggidy Shack: Whether looking for a roaring bonfire, live band, karaoke or even a fire-eater show, ask any Kittitian and be directed to the famous Mr. X's. There's a different activity every night of the week often presided over by Mr. X himself! This place will feel like home, only better, as the sound of the waves upon the beach provides a perfect complement to the easygoing Caribbean music playing in the background. For a real Kittitian treat, ask the bartender for a Brinley Gold Vanilla Rum on the rocks.

4). Fisherman's Wharf: Seafood is the specialty every day at this always busy Bassettere restaurant that's become a St. Kitts institution. Located, literally, on the wharf across from the Ocean Terrace Inn and overlooking the city lights at night, patrons dine on ackee, lobster and other freshly caught fish which they can watch the chefs prepare on an open charcoal grill. Everyone feels like a part of one community here, with the lighthearted ambiance created by lively conversations of locals and visitors and the shared enjoyment of a good meal.

5). Bobbsy's: Tucked into a little shopping center on the road between Basseterre and the Southeast Peninsula is the nightclub of choice for Kittitians who want to dance the night away. Located on the second floor, the vibrations from the music can be felt from the first stair and the Caribbean rhythms lure visitors as well as residents from all across the island. There's karaoke, latin night, weekend entertainment, non-stop dancing and a fabulous blend of sounds that everyone can enjoy.

6). Ballahoo: Located right in the heart of downtown Basseterre and overlooking the Circus, this West Indian eatery is at its busiest during the lunch hour. Business people and government officials from the surrounding offices often meet and eat here while tourists especially love the second-story location with a balcony offering an excellent view of this bustling city center. The hottest menu item is the local conch chowder, so it's advisable to arrive early to ensure a portion of this scrumptious dish before it sells out.

7). Bambu's: Located on a street off the Circus is this fantastic little café that seems to capture the essence of island appeal. Colorfully decorated in zesty colors and boasting a lively nighttime crowd tempted by the wide array of cocktails, this indigenous spot is ideal for anyone seeking to make a new acquaintance or simply relax and unwind in signature Kittitian-style. The food here is delightful, too, with a menu selection that ranges from tasty local treats to various international flavors.

8). Monkey Bar: Party on into the wee hours of the morning or choose to turn in early at this beachfront bar where "it's all good" either way. No matter where else islanders might go for evening entertainment, sooner or later they all make their way to this inviting nightspot to enjoy the music and have a chance to greet island guests. Recommended drinks include locally-brewed Carib beer or a refreshing CSR and Ting combination that's a preferred choice of many Kittitians.

9). Royal Beach Casino: Located at the St. Kitts Marriott, the island's exclusive casino is a draw for both Kittitians and visitors who want to have fun trying their luck at one of the many slots or tables available. To exchange a warm "hello" with the locals as well as fellow travelers, take a gamble on this place any night of the week.

10).Turtle Beach Bar & Restaurant: With a slogan like "Live de Life" and such diverse activities as beach volleyball, ocean kayaking, deep sea fishing, snorkeling, relaxing on the beach, monkey feeding and casual dining at a open air bar & grill area, Turtle Beach is an island "must" for chillin' out and meeting both locals and tourists alike. All equipment rentals are located on-site and there's even a gift shop for souvenirs of the occasion.

11).Spratnet: Set just outside of Basseterre in Old Road Town, this unassuming little restaurant is a favorite of the Kittitians and is one of the island's most hoppin' places to be on Friday evenings! Get a taste of what the locals love to eat while enjoying a meal here among them seated at everyday picnic tables on a covered outdoor patio. It's casual dining at its best with simply the most delicious authentic Kittitian food to be enjoyed on island.

12)."Bob & Elvis" The Party Bus: Just one St. Kitts night spot not enough? Those who want to have fun at more than one establishment per evening have the option of booking this lively tour. Dynamically painted in a bright tie-dye pattern, the bus makes stops at four different venues and includes dinner in a traveling party that can last up to six hours! Dancing in the aisles is not uncommon and even more importantly, guests taking full advantage of the nightlife have a designated caretaker transporting them safely from place to place.

For more information about St. Kitts:
• contact the St. Kitts Tourism Authority toll free from the US at 1-800-582-6208 or from Canada 1-888-395-4887
•e-mail info@stkitts-tourism.kn
• visit http://www.stkitts-tourism.com

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 4:39 PM

Sandals Offering $59 Companion Airfare to St. Lucia

If you live in the New York area, here's a really good deal that just came into our office: Sandals Resorts is offering a special $59 companion airfare deal available on all 7-night stays or more to any Sandals resort in St. Lucia.

The trip must be booked between September 7 and November 22, 2006. You'll need to travel round-trip, economy-class travel on Air Jamaica from JFK to St. Lucia on a Thursday, Sunday or Monday. Your trip can take place from the time of booking through February 11, 2007.

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 1:39 PM

Prague for Lovers

Prague makes an easy choice for lovers thanks to its historic buildings, Old World atmosphere, and extremely walkable downtown. Check out our special Prague for Lovers section for details on everything from romantic hotels to dining and attractions.

Labels: Europe

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 1:46 PM

Send Us a Question...Live!

Do you have a question about destination weddings? On Tuesday, August 22, we'll be hosting "Trip Coach" on Budget Travel magazine's website. From noon to 1pm Eastern Time, we'll be answering questions in the live forum. You can send us your question during the chat or send it early on the Budget Travel site. See you then!

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 12:28 PM

Jamaica Offering Several BabyMoon Packages

Looking for one more romantic getaway before the two of you become three? Jamaica is now offering several Babymoon packages aimed at parents-to-be:

Half Moon
Rose Hall, Montego Bay

Half Moon offers a custom five-night Babymoon package where mothers-to-be can train by learning special hair braiding techniques on the beach, while dads-to-be can learn to build a high chair or crib in the wood shop. Both parents-to-be will enjoy relaxing on the sandy crescent beaches dotted with palms, white washed cottages surrounded by fragrant gardens. While in the first trimester expecting mothers can swim with the dolphins.

Grand Lido Resorts & Spas
Negril and Runaway Bay

This fall, the AAA Four Diamond Grand Lido Resorts & Spas in Jamaica are launching five-day “Babymoon” packages, designed to pamper and spoil parents-to-be with unique customized amenities.

Available from September 1, 2006, the four-night/five-day “Babymoon” packages start at $2,200 per couple, with accommodations in gracious suites, thoughtfully supplied with extra pillows for the comfort of expectant moms. First floor suites are also available on request. Doting husbands can take a break from late-night foraging errands, since in-room fridges are stocked daily with a jar of pickles and a chocolate bar, as well as soothing Ginger Ale and bottled water.

For urgent cravings that can’t be satisfied with a few bites, the in-room menu -- available 24/7 -- comes to the rescue offering luscious desserts, such as, banana split, brownie a la mode, and hot fudge sundae.

While moms enjoy a specialized in-room manicure and pedicure in their well-ventilated patio or balcony, dads can hit the gym for a 30-minute personal training session to develop and strengthen their upper body in preparation for the bundle of joy - and the accompanying baby gear.

Alone time is key in babymoon vacations, and couples can look forward to plenty of romance at Grand Lido Resorts & Spas. Relax and unwind together with a rejuvenating couples foot massage, dine over a candlelit dinner at the elegant Piacere restaurant, and reserve a hammock on the beach for cuddling time at sunset.

Babymoon packages start at $2,200 per couple, land only, and include the amenities described above. An added bonus for stays of five nights or longer is an additional spa credit of up to $350 per room. Babymooners enjoy all the benefits of a Super-Inclusive luxury vacation, including: accommodations; fine dining; 24-hour room service; land and water sports; complimentary golf; complimentary manicures and pedicures; entertainment; dry cleaning; hotel taxes; airport transfers; and even tips.

Franklyn D. Resort
Runaway Bay, St. Ann

If you're already parents and would like to combine a romantic vacation, Babymoon, and family getaway, check out FDR. On the Babymoon package, Mom and Dad are given a his and hers half hour massage while Their dedicated Vacation Nanny takes care of the kids.The Resort provides a CD player in their suite and Mom can have her choice of music for baby to hear. The Resorts have offered their unique Vacation Nanny program or 15 years now which is included in the price of their package.

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 12:04 PM

First Annual St. Lucia Food & Rum Festival in October

If the two of you love food, rum, and romantic islands, mark your calendar for the first St. Lucia Food & Rum Festival. Scheduled for October 26-29, the event will attract food and rum aficionados and travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind authentic Caribbean experience.

To celebrate, Coco Palm hotel is offering a special package that includes an all-access pass to the weekend’s featured events including music concerts by Third World, Monty Alexander and Arrow.

The Package: Coco Palm’s “Food & Rum Festival” package rates start at $650 per person and include a three-night stay in a Garden View Room, a Food & Rum all-access event pass granting entrance into the rum pavilion, music concerts, and three special four-course dinners with tasting menus. This deal is based on double occupancy, and is valid for travel October 26-29, 2006 with additional nights available at a separate rate. (Based on availability and tax not included.)

The Event: The St. Lucia Food & Rum Festival will attract the best chefs, wine connoisseurs, rum fanatics, food critics and music fans from across the Caribbean and internationally. This fun-packed weekend will feature food demonstrations, rum and wine tastings, nights at top restaurants with visiting chefs, rum boat cruises to the Piton twin peaks and music concerts on the “Caribbean Boulevard” with live performances from Third World, Monty Alexander, and Arrow among others. Featured chefs include Andy Rose (chef/owner of La Floridita, UK), Jason Inniss (Barbados native and chef/owner of the acclaimed Amuse Bouche, Toronto), Kahlid Mohammed (chef/owner of Batty Mamzel, Trinidad), Bobo Bergström (native of Sweden and chef/owner of The Edge, St. Lucia), and Richardson Skinner (Trinidad native and executive chef of Ti Bananne at Coco Palm hotel, St. Lucia). Festival hosts will be cookbook author and TV personality Judy Bastyra, as well as culinary critic Rosemary Parkinson.

Located in the heart of Rodney Bay Village, Coco Palm offers 71 rooms and 12 suites. Among the hotel’s unique features are the signature swim-up rooms that allow guests to literally step into Coco Palm’s free form swimming pool from their terrace. The hotel also offers Rodney Bay Village’s hottest new restaurant, Ti Bananne Caribbean Bistro & Bar. Ti Bananne overlooks the pool and boasts light Caribbean Creole fare and nightly entertainment in an alfresco dining setting.

For more information:
• visit Coco Palm
• For reservations and to book the “Food & Rum Festival” package, call 866-588-5980 or email us-reservations@coco-resorts.com. For complete information about the St. Lucia Food & Rum Festival, please visit www.foodandrumfestival.com.

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 11:53 AM

Traveling in Tense Times

Today's news of the terrorist plot against US-bound planes leaves many travelers wondering how to best enjoy romantic travel during such high security times. Be sure to read our five-part article "Romantic Travel in High Security Times" for tips on everything from flying safely to trip cancellation insurance to staying secure at your destination.

If you're flying this month, be sure to check with your airline before you leave home for the latest recommendations in terms of carry-ons (and especially what not to carry on), check-in times, delays, and cancellations. Travelers to and from the UK will face special challenges in terms of carry-ons. You'll find a detailed explanation on most carrier's websites such as this page on American Airlines. Basically, don't plan to carry a purse, just a wallet in a clear bag.

Some carriers are relaxing their rules and fees regarding rebooking; check with your carrier for the latest.

Labels: USA

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:43 PM

Weddings in Maggie Valley, North Carolina

Just a couple of weeks ago we returned from the Smoky Mountains, a lovely area that's becoming increasingly popular as a wedding destination. While Gatlinburg is home to the lion's share of wedding chapels in the area, you'll also find a charming chapel on the "quiet" side of the mountains in Maggie Valley. Read more...

Labels: USA, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 4:48 PM

Florida's Pink Shell Beach Resort Offering Wedding Packages

ESTERO ISLAND, Fla. – August 9, 2006 – Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa, Ft Myers Beach’s premiere family destination for over 50 years, has introduced new destination wedding packages. Whether it is a beachside wedding set along the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico against the backdrop of Southwest Florida’s famous sunset, a poolside celebration, or a black-tie affair in the resort’s Lido Grand Ballroom with views of Matanzas Bay, Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa’s new destination wedding packages offers couples a lifetime of cherished memories.

Destination weddings are a growing trend for couples uninterested in the planning and costs involved in hosting a traditional wedding. Destination wedding also provide couples with an opportunity to create a more personalized event. With family and friends often scattered throughout the country, a destination wedding at a resort such as the Pink Shell can also serve as a family reunion, as well as a mini-vacation or weekend getaway for guests who can enjoy water sports, beachside and poolside activities, a full-service spa and the many other amenities offered at the resort.

Pink Shell’s professional catering staff work closely with the couple to assist in coordinating every detail - from the wedding ceremony to the reception that follows. To make it easy and affordable for couples planning a destination wedding, Pink Shell also offers three destination wedding packages:

White Sands Package - $1000 plus 20% service charge and 6% tax, includes:

Wedding Ceremony Setup (Decorated Arch, Chairs, Urns with Topiary trees, Tiki Torches)
Bride’s Wedding Bouquet
Groom’s Boutonniere
Wedding Coordination Services
Taped/CD Music


Captiva Package - $2100.00 plus 20% Service Charge and 6% tax, includes:

Wedding Ceremony Setup (Decorated Arch, Chairs, Urns with Topiary trees, Tiki Torches)
Bride’s Wedding Bouquet
Groom’s Boutonniere
Wedding Coordination Services
Taped/CD Music
Champagne Toast - For up to 25 guests
Dinner at JoJo’s - For up to 25 guests


Banyan Package - $2700.00 plus 20% service charge & 6% tax (valid 05/01/06- 12/20/06 and 05/01/07-12/20/07); $2900.00 plus 20% service charge & 6% tax (valid 12/21/06 - 04/30/07), includes:

Wedding Ceremony Setup (Decorated Arch, Chairs, Urns with Topiary trees, Tiki Torches)
Bride’s Wedding Bouquet
Groom’s Boutonniere
Wedding Coordination Services
Taped/CD Music
Champagne Toast - For up to 25 guests
Dinner at JoJo’s - For up to 25 guests
Welcome Amenity
Honeymoon Suite – 1 Night Stay @ 1 Br White Sands Villa
Couples Massage at Aquagïne


Why It's Dreamy:
Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa offers wedding couples and their guests a myriad of accommodations and amenities, including studio, one or two-bedroom accommodations; a full-service, state-of-the-art spa for couples and the whole family; water sports activities; two restaurants; KiddsKampp, an adult-supervised children’s and youth program and “Octopool,” an expansive pool and terrace area.

Located on Estero Island along the beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel, the 12-acre Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa caters to families and small groups seeking a memorable four-star resort experience. The property features a broad range of facilities and amenities, including Aquagene, a 6,000 square foot, state of the art full-service spa, meetings facilities, 180 deluxe rooms, two restaurants, KiddsKampp®, a specialized children’s program with separate activities for teens, and a myriad of water sports activities.

For information:
• call 1-888-309-2912
• visit Pink Shell Beach Resort

Labels: USA, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 4:44 PM

New Wedding Planner Podcast

Have you ever wanted to be a wedding planner? We often hear from readers who loved the planning of their own wedding so much that they'd like to be a wedding planner themselves.

If you might like to be a wedding planner -- or if you're planning a wedding and have some questions -- we've got a good resource for you. We heard from one of our affiliate partners this week that they're now hosting a new radio show!

The American Academy of Wedding Professionals™ invites you to call their live radio talk show “UNBRIDLED™” with Deborah McCoy and Tim Roberts to get your wedding questions answered. To ask your questions on the show, call 866-720-7481 during showtime.

The radio show takes place every Monday afternoon at 3pm EST.

To find out more about the show, check out the AAWP website.

Labels: weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:36 PM

Cool Getaways in Canada

Yesterday it was 104 degrees at our house so every August we always start dreaming of trips to cool destinations (at least cooler). One good choice for couples: Canada. Check out our article on Cool Summer Getaways in Canada for some ideas for your August getaway.

Labels: Canada

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:30 PM

Sexy Getaways

Ready to turn up the heat on your relationship? We've got ideas for all types of getaways to spice up your life, whether that means a couples-only resort, a romp on a clothing-optional beach or a visit to a resort like Hedonism II. Check out our special Sexy Getaways section.

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 1:57 PM

Need Honeymoon Brochures?

If you're like us, you're a brochure junkie. We pick them up every place we go, gathering them not only as research materials for current trips but also as little wish books, ideas for places we'd like to visit one day. We found out about a neat brochure order service this week; it allows you to order brochures for resorts and destinations around the world at no charge. Check out the listing and see if any fit with your upcoming travel plans:

Honeymoons & Romantic Vacations
Naturist Resorts
Spa Resorts
USA
Caribbean
Canada
Mexico
Europe
South
America
Asia
Australia

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 1:46 PM

Pamela Anderson's St. Tropez Wedding

There's no doubt that celebrities are trendsetters around the world...so we wonder if Pamela Anderson's planned multiple destination weddings will set a trend. The curvy actress just married Kid Rock in Saint Tropez and more ceremonies are planned in Malibu, Detroit, and Nashville.

Labels: celebrities, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 4:09 PM

Learning Together in Mexico

Think about a Mexico honeymoon and you picture the fun, the sun, the margaritas, and the mariachis. But the two of you can take a Mexico getaway and come back with much more than a tan...pick up the lifelong souvenir of a new skill. We cover equestrian classes, weaving classes, language lessons, and even cooking classes the two of you can enjoy together during your romantic vacation. Read more...

Labels: Mexico

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:45 PM

Trendy Urban Weddings

There's one thing you know for certain: this is not your mother's wedding. Today's destination wedding trends are changing the look of weddings, and we've found that trends start first in the largest urban areas. To check on the latest wedding ideas, we've talked with Cindy Doyle, Marriott Certified Wedding Event Planner for Renaissance Chicago Hotel for her insight into today's urban wedding trends. Read the interview...

Labels: weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:38 PM

Moonlight Fun in the USVI

The U.S. Virgin Islands is hot, hot, hot in so many ways but when the sun goes down, the two of you will still find a full menu of romantic fun. Check out this selection of after-dark activities to heat up your evenings:

Moonlight Kayaking: On St. Croix, guests paddle under the light of the moon while enjoying the quiet of nature and the beauty of a dimly lit town from the water during moonlight kayaking tours. Kayaking at night provides a fun and adventurous way for visitors to experience a beautiful maritime evening, while meandering through coves along the coastline. The tour is approximately two-and-a-half hours long and perfect for a romantic evening.

Night Snorkeling: Maho Bay Camps in St. John offer night snorkeling trips on the Ocean Quest yacht, which sails out of Little Maho Bay. Each visit ensures a unique adventure when the captain takes snorkelers to locations "du jour," making this journey aptly named Captain's Choice. Night scuba dives are also available for adventure seekers who want a vibrant nocturnal view of the ocean‚s inhabitants.

Off the beaten path in St. Thomas, visitors can snorkel in Hull Bay. There, snorkelers are issued an underwater light, snorkel gear and wet suit, and are taken on a guided tour of the nearby reefs to experience the unique phosphorescent ocean life at night. The exhilarating snorkeling trip culminates with a relaxing and delicious local-style barbeque featuring fresh fish and a bonfire on the beach.

Sunset Cruise: Elsewhere on St. Thomas, Coral World Ocean Park offers a "Splash, Dance and Dine Package," where passengers cruise into the sunset aboard Adventure Isle, a spacious double- decker 3,500-square-foot power catamaran. Guests watch the sun settle into the west, swim in a secluded cove, enjoy a typical West Indian buffet under the stars, and dance the night away surrounded by the spectacular illuminating lights of St. Thomas and St. John. The four-hour cruise departs from Redhook, St. Thomas, at the American Yacht Harbor Dock.

On Saturday nights, visitors on St. Thomas are also invited to take a ferry to Water Island for a dinner on the beach. Visitors and local residents flock to Heidi's Honeymoon Grill for good food, great people and lots of fun.

For more information:

• contact Kayak Tours at (340) 778-1522 or visit St. Croix Kayak

• Maho Bay Camps, contact (340) 776-6240 or visit maho.org

• night snorkeling at Hull Bay, contact (866) 719-1856 or visit nightsnorkel.com

• Splash, Dance and Dine cruise at Coral World Ocean Park, contact (340) 775-1555 or visit coralworldvi.com

• dining on Water Island, visit vinow.com/waterisland/dining/.

• For information about the United States Virgin Islands, call 800-372-USVI (-8784),

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:13 PM