Romantic Travel News

Carnival Offers All-Inclusive Wedding Package

About 2200 couples will tie the knot aboard a Carnival cruise ship this year--up about 60% from just five years ago.

Prices & Packages: Prices for Carnival’s “Just for the Bride & Groom” package start at $750 and includes an official civil ceremony, a champagne toast with keepsake flutes, flowers for both bride and groom, a wedding cake with cake topper, pre-recorded wedding music, a decorated bridal aisle and photographic services.

The “Welcome Aboard” package costs $1,350 and offers all the amenities of “Just for the Bride & Groom” as well as a reception with one-hour open bar and hot-and-cold hors d’oeuvres, a traditional two-tiered wedding cake and coffee service. Couples may also select the “Deluxe Romance” package for $1,450, which includes a one-and-a-half hour reception and an ice carving, as well as all the features of the other programs.

A wide variety of options such as videography services, live music and tuxedo rental are also available at additional cost.

Where You Can Marry: Shipboard ceremonies are available on embarkation day in any of Carnival's continental U.S. ports, as well as in Vancouver during the line’s summer Alaska season. On-island ceremonies combining a variety of all-inclusive amenities with a romantic tropical setting are available, as well.

For additional information on Carnival’s wedding packages:

• call the line’s Bon Voyage Department at 1-800-933-4968

Labels: Caribbean, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 4:19 PM

Fall Foliage Options in the Northeast

It's not too late to make some leaf peeping plans in the Northeast. The folks at Bedandbreakfast.com have release their picks of good options for fall foliage viewing; here are their choices in the US Northeast:

Old Mystic Inn, Old Mystic, CT: Located in the peaceful hamlet of Old Mystic, yet just minutes from all the attractions of downtown Mystic. Rates: $145-195.

Mountain View Inn, Norfolk, CT: Framed by a brilliant sugar maple tree, this century-old Victorian inn sits on a hilltop, with vistas of the Litchfield Hills in all directions. Rates: $110-250.

Devonfield Country Inn, Lee, MA: This 1800s country home on a pastoral 29-acre estate is surrounded by colorful fall foliage with the rolling tapestry of the Berkshire mountains beyond. Rates: $225-325 nightly.

Inn at Sunrise Point, Camden, ME: Soak up fabulous views of Penobscot Bay from private decks and patios. Set between the sea and mountains of Camden Hills State Park. Rates: $230-510.

Victorian by the Sea, Camden, ME: Beautiful foliage views are enhanced by vistas of schooners sailing on Penobscot Bay. The inn is perfect base for hikes to the Camden Hills or exploring the colors of Midcoast Maine. Rates: $160-235.

Aunt Louise's Lake House B&B, Skaneateles, NY: Relax on the porch overlooking park like lawns dotted with colorful foliage, and take in views of Skaneateles Lake in the distance. Rates: $110-165.

Adair Country Inn, Bethlehem, NH: This 200-acre wooded estate in the White Mountains with private walking trails and gardens offer splendid foliage vistas. Rates: $245-375.

Darby Field Inn, Conway, NH: See breathtaking views of the Moat Mountain Range up to Mount Washington from the dining room and many of the inn's rooms. Rates: $160-290.

Cliff Park Inn, Milford, PA: The only lodging located in the 70,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Park, this hilltop inn is surrounded by a nine-hole golf course and miles of trails sporting the reds, oranges and yellows of fall foliage. Rates: $129-249.

Four Columns Inn, Newfane, VT: Tucked into the base of a mountain, brilliant foliage surrounds this inn and acclaimed restaurant. Rates: $160-385.

Labels: USA

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 8:51 PM

Mount Nevis Hotel Offers High Season Sale

Not every hotel has a mountain in its backyard, but the Mount Nevis Hotel, famed for its panoramic Caribbean views, is cradled between high green hills and the cloud-topped, 3,000-foot Nevis Peak.

Taking advantage of this superb location, the resort is offering savings of 20% on the “Mount Nevis Hotel’s Peak Experience” from December 15, 2006 to April 15, 2007. The 5-night/6-day adventure package costs $2,499 double and includes:

· Accommodations in a luxurious superior suite

· Round-trip airport transfers (the hotel reimburses guests for the taxi rides)

· Welcome rum punch

· Full American breakfast daily

· Two dinners for two persons on the terrace of the hotel’s restaurant,overlooking the lights of sister island St. Kitts

· Hike for two to the summit of Mount Nevis with Lynell Liburd of Nevis’s Sunrise Tours. A certificate of achievement is awarded at the end.

· Mountain bike ride for two with Winston Crooke, touring Nevis’s old sugar plantations and the villages of Newcastle, Camps and Fountain. (This is for the novice or intermediate rider with an interest in Nevis history.)

· Two (much-needed) private massages in the comfort of your own room

· Complimentary video rental

· Complimentary internet service

The “Peak Experience” is subject to availability and does not include a 10% service charge or 9% government tax.

For more information:
• visit www.mountnevishotel.com
• call 800-756-3847

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 8:13 PM

Listen to Us on AroundtheWorldRadio.com

On Thursday, September 28, we'll be guests on Around the World radio at 10:27 Pacific Time. The Southern California radio show airs three times per week; you can catch the live feed online at www.aroundtheworldradio.com .

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 8:06 PM

Special October Rates in Capri

The Isle of Capri makes an easy choice for romantics and, this October, there's another good reason to visit the dreamy island: reduced rates at the Hotel Caesar Augustus. The newly renovated, 5-star cliffside retreat will offer 20% off standard rates for all guest rooms, based on double occupancy plus tax and service (subject to availability, with a minimum two-night stay). The sale extends from October 1-31.

Why It's Dreamy: Set high on a cliff 1,000 feet above the Bay of Naples, Hotel Caesar Augustus offers the most exuberant views on Capri, including Sorrento, Ischia and still-active Vesuvius. With stunning Romanesque architecture, thoroughly modern conveniences, and click-heeled service, Hotel Caesar Augustus celebrates the best of Italian living - in style.

Rates: Rates at Hotel Caesar Augustus begin at 360.00 Euros for a Superior Deluxe guest room.

For more information:
• call 1-800-448-8355
• visit www.caesar-augustus.com

Labels: Europe

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:14 PM

Free First-Time Passports for Ladera Guests

Do the two of you have passports? Americans traveling to the Caribbean will need passports to return home starting January 1 and St. Lucia's Ladera Resort is making it much easier to get that first passport. Their "Passport to Paradise" promotion, effective January 1 until the end of 2007, offers all guests who travel to St. Lucia, and check-in at Ladera using their first U.S. passport a reimbursement of the $97 passport processing fees. (In other words, your passport will be free!)

As an added incentive, the package will also include:
• a handsome leather passport case
• a complimentary 30-minute Jet-Lag massage at the Ti Kaye Posé Spa
• a tall drink created especially for these newfound explorers by the resort's Tcholit Bar head drinkmaster, Peter Joseph. The debuting "Juanderlust Cocktail" was developed in honor of the Spanish explorer Juan de la Cosa who is widely credited for discovering St. Lucia in the early 1500's. It is a mix of gin and Spanish vanilla liquor served on the rocks with a splash of fresh Caribbean-grown limes.

The fine print: Ladera will reimburse guests for the full cost of a U.S. passport for first-time overseas travelers, (Valued at $97, based on the routine processing. Not valid for rush delivery fees, or shipping costs.) Guests need to present the original receipt and passport at check-in for reimbursement.

Why It's Dreamy: Ladera is an eco-lodge style property with six villas and 21 suites, each modeled on luxurious tree house living and located at an altitude of 1,100 feet above sea level feet and surrounded by the lush St. Lucian rainforest. Since November 2006, Ladera was named the "Best of the Best" Hotel in the world by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler and the #2 hotel in the Caribbean by Travel + Leisure. The guest rooms were intentionally designed with just three walls, affording spectacular, unobstructed views, while remaining sheltered, safe, and completely private.

For More Information:
• visit www.ladera.com
• call 800-738-4752
• email ladera@candw.lc

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 10:17 AM

Dominican Republic Sets 2007 Festival Calendar

One of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the Caribbean is the Dominican Republic, home to many expansive all-inclusives as well as a growing number of intimate inns and villas. We just received a calendar of major festivals planned for 2007; make your plans for these early as airlift is always in demand for big festivals as former residents make their way back to join in the fun.

Carnival - February 2007 (La Vega, Santo Domingo & various small towns throughout the DR)
The festival boasts a lively parade each weekend in February and honors Dominican independence, music and culture. Visitors needn't be surprised to find Dominicans dancing in devilish costumes encouraging all to have a good time.


Dominican Cocktail Festival - June 2007 (Santo Domingo)
The distinctive competition features the DR's most talented bartenders who represent the country's finest restaurants and resorts. Each year, new drink concoctions are developed, making the DR's cocktail offering ever-evolving.

Bachata Festival - July 2007 (Sosua)
The festival is a celebration that honors bachata, a wildly popular Dominican form of song and dance. Internationally known artists from throughout the country perform.

Merengue Festival - July 2007 (Santo Domingo)
A lively celebration that honors merengue, the DR's most beloved music and dance. Widely recognized artists from throughout the country perform in Santo Domingo, the island's capital.

Presidente Latin Music Festival - October 2007 (Santo Domingo)
An annual celebration combining music, dance, cuisine and of course, drink. In the past the festival has featured international Latin superstars such as Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony.The festival is sponsored by Presidente Beer, the DR's most popular brand of cerveza.

Jazz Festival - October 2007 (Puerto Plata, Cabarete and Sosua)
The annual event is held on the beaches of the North Coast and features recognized jazz musicians from the U.S., Cuba, Puerto Rico and the DR. Approaching its eighth year, the Dominican Jazz Festival is the largest festival annually held in the DR and attracts jazz aficionados from around the world.

Merengue Festival - November 2007 (Puerto Plata)
The annual festival showcases the DR's top merengue artists. Performances occur on Puerto Plata's beachside Malecon, featuring restaurants, bars and beautiful Victorian-style architecture.

For more information:
• visit www.godominicanrepublic.com

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 4:07 PM

CheapCaribbean.com Now Offers Groups Dept. for Weddings

Planning a Caribbean wedding? CheapCaribbean.com has now launched a new Groups and Events department to provide planning, booking, and management services that will smooth out the wrinkles in the group travel booking process in the Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda. The Groups and Events department has also negotiated air contracts for special group rates and discounts.

CheapCaribbean.com also offers "Free Your Mind" travel insurance with every booking and an exclusive "Hurricane Cancel/Change One-Time Waiver."

CheapCaribbean.com

Labels: Caribbean, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:17 AM

Designer Launches Destination Wedding Dress Collection

Destination brides have special needs when it comes to a wedding dress including portability and the ability to match the atmosphere of the destination with the style of the dress. We're seeing more designers taking destination weddings into consideration these days with dresses especially made for their special day.

"The bride will want to consider the length and style of the gown when selecting a dress for her destination wedding. The dress can set the tone for the entire occasion, and she wants to look effortless, yet elegant," says Michael Shettel, head designer for Alfred Angelo. "Today's destination bride is searching for the perfect take-along wedding dress that will travel easily, while reflecting the bride's individual personality and style."

The 2007 Destiny Collection from Alfred Angelo features dresses for destination brides. This year, trends range from the whimsical baby doll look with an empire waist to gorgeous goddess gowns accented with jeweled straps. Lace tiers offer a fluid look that will make her appear as if she is floating on air. Hemlines range from above the knee to tea-length to long and flowing styles.

The trend hasn't overlooked bridesmaid. "Bridesmaid dresses have come a long way," says Shettel. "Short dresses are especially popular for weddings on location."

Alfred Angelo is unveiling a sneak peek at their 2007 collection online at http://www.alfredangelo.com. This fall, you can see even more styles from Alfred Angelo at Alfred Angelo On Tour events throughout the country.

Alfred Angelo gowns are available in over 1,000 bridal shops nationwide and at 33 Alfred Angelo designer-owned stores. Every style is available in sizes 2-28W in short, tall and regular length and shades of white and ivory. Trains can be extended on most styles and many designs are available.

Prices: Prices start at $399.

For more information and store locations:
• visit alfredangelo.com
• Call 877.7ANGELO for exclusive Alfred Angelo designer stores, or call 866.8ANGELO for stores selling Alfred Angelo dresses anywhere in the U.S. or Canada.

Labels: weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:03 AM

Couple's Discount on Trafalgar's Winter Europe Vacations

Here's a good deal for couples headed to Europe: for a limited time, couples booking any nine-day or more air-inclusive Winter Europe vacation by October 30, 2006 can save up to $200.

The promotion is valid for departures from November 1, 2006, through April 15, 2007, which enables travelers to take advantage of savings up to 25 percent on summer vacations with Trafalgar's Winter Europe & Britain Book. Trafalgar's new 2006/07 Winter Europe & Britain Book features over 30 winter vacations in Europe.

Trafalgar's winter vacations include: first class accommodation, many meals including breakfast daily, sightseeing, touring by luxury coach, the services of a professional tour director and tour driver and airport transfers.

For more information and reservations:
• see your travel agent
• call Trafalgar at (866)544-4434
• visit www.trafalgar.com

Labels: Europe

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 5:51 PM

Palace Resorts Sets New Hurricane Policy

Every couple headed to the tropics during hurricane season worries about the potential of storms and fortunately more and more resorts are relieving those worries with hurricane policies and guarantees. We just received this information from Palace Resorts about its new hurricane policy:

Miami, Florida, September 18, 2006 – Palace Resorts, the company that set the standard in five-star, all-inclusive resort accommodations, is pleased to announce the implementation of the new “Hurricane Policy” throughout its family of nine all-inclusive properties located in Cancún, the Riviera Maya, Nuevo Vallarta and Cozumel.

“Historically, the months between June and November are considered hurricane season,” said Roberto Chapur, President of Palace Resorts. “Unfortunately, during this time of year, even the most well-laid plans may be dampened by hazardous weather. So, in an effort to eliminate certain inconveniences to our guests, Palace Resorts has designed a hurricane policy to take the stress out of planning a getaway during this unpredictable season.”

The Palace Resorts Hurricane Policy includes the following points:

Rebooking:

In the event the United States National Weather Center issues a Category 1 hurricane warning or higher that is predicted to make land-fall in the vicinity of a Palace Resort property, all affected guests will receive a non-transferable certificate to rebook at the resort between April 15th and December 15th, 2007. Dates are subject to availability, blackout periods and do not include airfare or transfers.

Relocation:

e event of a hurricane, guests have the option to transfer their reservation to an alternate Palace Resort destination that is not within the storms projected path. Through this option, guests will be offered a room for the same rate based on availability. In the event that the relocating resort offers a lower rate, guests will be issued a monetary credit for the difference.

Rescheduling:

Palace Resorts understands that schedules vary from person to person and will allow guests to postpone their stay for up to one year following the original departure date. Guests wishing to utilize this option must reschedule their trip within 30 days following a storm and will be guaranteed their original rate. Blackout periods apply. Rate protection will only apply to the number of original nights and number of guests booked. Additional nights or guests will be booked at current rate. No name changes allowed.

Cancellation:

In the event of a hurricane, guests will not be charged a penalty if they cancel their reservations 72 hours or less prior to their scheduled arrival. Guests must contact the travel professional who originally booked their vacation package in order to make the cancellation valid.

No Shows:

Palace Resorts will also waive the standard “No Show” penalties for up to five days following the original travel dates.

Palace Resorts Hurricane Policy is subject to change and may be discontinued without notice. Airfare and transfers are not included. This policy is for individual travel and groups booked through tour operators. It does not apply to groups booked directly with Palace Resorts. Groups contracted directly with Palace Resorts shall refer to their specific contract policies. Airline ticket holders are subject to Airlines’ policies and guidelines.

For more information:
• call (800) 635-1836
• visit www.palaceresorts.com

Labels: Mexico

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 5:47 PM

Royal Hideaway Playacar Offering Free Wedding Package

Royal Hideaway Playacar, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, Virtuoso and winner of AAA Four Diamond Award, is now offering free services for guests when reserving a minimum night stay of four nights through December 15, 2006.

The Package:
The complimentary wedding and vow renewal package includes:

Wedding coordinator services
Justice of the Peace
Marriage License & Certificate - All Spanish documents & legal fees.
Blessing & Ceremony
Champagne Toast
Wedding Ceremony Venue
Ceremonial Table
Room Upgrade for Bride & Groom (based on availability)
Late Check-Out
Red Carpet for Ceremony
White linen & ribbon decoration for table and chairs
Stereo System with Traditional Wedding March, Microphone

Additional services available at a nominal fee include:

Health Certificate & Blood Test for 2 persons
Decoration of wedding location (gazebo, terrace, or other hotel setting).
Two table-top flower arrangements.
Bridal bouquet & Groom's boutonniere.
Wedding cake for up to 20 people.
Witness services upon request, must be requested in advance through guest services.
Translator.

Why It's Dreamy: This all-inclusive upscale resort merges New World elegance with Old World Mexican charm to afford visitors a premiere retreat of uncompromising luxury. Situated on 13 lush oceanfront acres just 45 minutes south of Cancun International Airport and five minutes from the charming town of Playa del Carmen, Royal Hideaway is dedicated to providing the most discerning adult traveler with gracious and efficient service.

For more information:
• call 011 52 984 87 34500
• call 800-858-2258
• visit www.occidentalhotels.com

Labels: Mexico, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 5:27 PM

Sandals Offering Fall Sale: Up to 45% Off

Fall is a great time in the Caribbean: you'll save a bundle compared to high season (winter) prices. We just received these sales offers from Sandals Resorts:

Jamaica:

Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa—Save 45% off all published rack rates for bookings September 26th onwards for stays between December 1 and December 26, 2006

Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa—Save 40% off all published rack rates for bookings September 26th onwards for stays between October 1 and October 31, 2006

Sandals Montego Bay—Save 40% off all published rack rates for bookings September 26th onwards for stays between October 1 and December 26, 2006

Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island—Save 40% off all published rack rates for bookings September 26th onwards for stays between October 1 and December 26, 2006

Sandals Grande Ocho Rios Beach & Villa Resort—Save 45% off all published rack rates for bookings from now until further notice for stays until October 31, 2006

Sandals Dunn’s River Villaggio Golf Resort & Spa—Save 45% off all published rack rates for bookings September 26th onwards for stays between November 1 and December 26, 2006

St. Lucia:

Sandals Regency St. Lucia Golf Resort & Spa—Save 45% off all published rack rates for bookings September 26th onwards for stays between October 14 and October 22, 2006 or November 24 and November 30, 2006

Bahamas:

Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island—Save 40% of all published rack rates for bookings September 26th onwards for stays between December 1 and December 26, 2006

The Details: A three-night minimum stay is required. These offers are not available for group bookings and may not be combined with any other consumer savings promotion. However, it is combinable with Signature Guest Points, Free Weddings, Waterford/Wedgwood promotions where applicable.

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:21 PM

Renew Your Romance with Hawaiian Vow Renewal Program

HONOLULU, OAHU, HAWAII - Fifty years after falling in love, couples are heading for Hawaii to re affirm their romance, sometimes as a duo, but increasingly, together with their children and even grandchildren. And, they keep adding pages to Luana Maitland's memory book.

Maitland is the events and activities manager at the Outrigger Reef on the Beach in Waikiki, Hawaii. One of her responsibilities includes the hotel's popular Hawaiian Vow Renewal Ceremony program, a free activity for its guests and guests staying at its sister property, Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach. Since the program's inception, more than 4,000 vows have been exchanged on the sands of famed Waikiki Beach, in front of the Outrigger Reef.

"We talk with our guests on a regular basis," Maitland said. "I heard many, many stories of how couples would've liked to have gotten married in Hawaii on the beach, but weren't able to because their families wanted the wedding to take place back home, or because they couldn't afford a trip to Hawaii back then. Some of them have waited 50 years to take their first romantic trip to Hawaii."

Maitland consulted with the hotel's Hawaiian cultural advisor, and together with a team of employees, introduced the Hawaiian Vow Renewal Ceremony, a non-denominational ceremony on the sands of Waikiki Beach in which couples recite their vows in the Hawaiian language and are honored by a Hawaiian kahu (priest) with chanting, traditional hula dance and song. Each ceremony is open to a limited number of couples in order to retain a sense of intimacy.

Kimberly Agas, Outrigger's vice president of operations overseeing both the Outrigger Reef and Outrigger Waikiki hotels, credits the Vow Renewal Ceremony's popularity to its location and the authenticity of the cultural experience, both of which are hallmarks of Outrigger's beachfront properties.

"Outrigger Reef and Outrigger Waikiki sit directly on the sands of Waikiki Beach," Agas said. "For couples, it's more than just a beautiful place; it's Waikiki Beach, legendary as one of the most romantic places on earth.

"We also take great pride in our commitment to celebrating and sharing our islands' history and heritage. The Hawaiian Vow Renewal Ceremony was developed with the guidance of a Hawaiian cultural expert, and draws upon an ancient custom called ho'ao pa'a, in which a man and woman formed a lasting union together. So in addition to being romantic, our ceremony is also a culturally rich experience, which is something we want all of our guests to enjoy when they stay with us."

One of Maitland's favorite vow renewals took place this summer: a pair of parents and four of their grown children, plus spouses, who renewed their vows on Waikiki Beach as a group, witnessed by their grandchildren. The family vow renewal was in celebration of marriages ranging from 4 to 39 years.

Another fond memory involved a visiting youth baseball team staying at the hotel. "One of the coaches wanted to surprise his wife at our vow renewal," Maitland recalls. "She was the team mother and chaperone. The entire team served as their witness, and presented the couple with a tiki to commemorate the event."

Vow Renewal Ceremony

Outrigger's Hawaiian Vow Renewal Ceremony is open to registered guests of the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach and Outrigger Reef on the Beach, and takes place every Tuesday and Friday at 8:00 a.m. Couples must sign up at their respective hotel's concierge desk by 3:00 p.m. the day before. A commemorative certificate to remember the day is presented to each couple at the conclusion of the ceremony.

For more information:
• call 800-OUTRIGGER (1-800-688-7444) within the United States, Guam and Canada.
• call direct to 303-369-7777 (long distance charges apply)
• visit www.outriggerwaikiki.com or www.outriggerreef.com

Labels: USA, vow renewals

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

Downtown Destination Weddings

Beach ceremonies aren't the only option for destination weddings...are you perhaps considering a downtown destination wedding? City weddings can be perfect for a weekend wedding giving your guests can walk to downtown attractions. We interview the wedding planner of the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Center for advice on planning a downtown wedding.

Labels: USA, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:00 PM

Acapulco Update After Hurricane John

We've received an update from the Acapulco Convention & Visitors Bureau about post-hurricane conditions in the popular tourist resort:

The Acapulco Convention & Visitors Bureau, announced today that the destination, its airport and all hotels are operating as usual and all visitor services are available. Acapulco weathered Hurricane John in stride on Thursday, August 31 and is proceeding with normal recovery processes. Though certainly of impact, Hurricane John‚s effects are being quickly assessed and addressed with progress being made under sunny skies.

"Acapulco luckily suffered nothing more than a good rain," said President of the Acapulco Hotel and Tourism Association, Mary Bertha Medina Cortes. "Today, the weather is a bit cloudy but business is as usual."

As of Friday, September 1, Acapulco's Juan Alvarez International Airport had resumed normal operation after approximately 24 hours of limited service.

Hotels employed precautionary emergency procedures to ensure the comfort of guests and evacuation was deemed unnecessary.

Post-hurricane measures are being taken to further ensure the safety of all tourists in Acapulco. Acapulco authorities recommend all persons within the destination be attentive to notices released by the Civil Protection Agency. Also, authorities advise that all official documents such as birth certificates, state identification and passports are kept readily available.

For more information on Acapulco:
• visit http://www.visitacapulco.com.mx

Labels: Mexico

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:14 AM

Luxury Wedding Package at the DR's Casa Colonial

Spanish-colonial architecture, chic interior design and old-world charm await guests at Casa Colonial Beach & Spa, ideally located on the golden sand beaches in the city of Puerto Plata. This luxurious boutique resort has introduced a menu of wedding offerings, ideal for creating a uniquely romantic celebration. Featuring an exceptional array of services, the Casa Colonial's "Tailor-made Wedding" package provides the ultimate in luxury weddings.

"Tailor -Made" Basic Wedding Package: This package includes:

Cake
Trio (music)
Flower décor, includes center piece, bridal bouquet & boutonniere
Viuda Seguras Champagne
Legal certification
Judge
Wedding translation

• The cost of the Basic Wedding Package is $675.

Honeymoon Retreat Package:

Couple's body exfoliations
Couple's massage
Rose petal bath in a private Jacuzzi
Couple's Footloose Pedicure
Honeymoon gift box
Lunch for two

• The cost of the romantic Honeymoon Retreat package is $625.

Guest Rooms: Casa Colonial offers guests a variety of suites, from intimate junior suites to the extravagant Presidential Suite, ranging from $260 to $790 per night. 2007 rates range from $260 to $680 per night during summer months and $350 to $990 per night from January through high season.

Why It's Dreamy: Designed to reflect the Victorian architecture of Puerto Plata, the three-story, oceanfront resort consists of 50 suites, and features the finest amenities, including a rooftop Infinity Pool, four ocean-view Jacuzzis, a fitness center, a private dining room and wine cellar and an outdoor oceanfront event pavilion ideal for gatherings.

Couples can be pampered with lavish treatments at Casa's Bagua Spa. Designed by Dominican architect Sarah Garcia to create a serene sanctuary, the spa is noted for unique therapies that incorporate minerals and tropical plant extracts indigenous to the area and features 10 indoor treatment rooms and three outdoor oceanfront treatment gazebos. The spa also includes two private couples treatment rooms that house a Jacuzzi and a relaxation balcony for two.

For added sophistication, couples can opt to serve gourmet, Dominican-inspired dishes from Casa Colonial's upscale dining venue, Lucia. Star Executive Chef Rafael Vásquez entices guests with his expertise in local cuisine and creation of exotic dishes, such as his Grilled Dominican lobster tail or Duck Delight, a sautéed breast of duck, crispy leg confit and fresh foi gras served with a brandy, honey, hoi-sun and apple cider sauce, chives, mashed potatoes and spinach. Customized menus for celebrations and gatherings are available upon request.

For more information:
• call (800) 847-0291
• visit www.casacolonialhotel.com

Labels: Caribbean, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:06 AM

Wedding Weekend in Vermont's Basin Harbor Club

The Basin Harbor Club, one of Vermont's premier destination wedding locations, is offering the ultimate in all-inclusive wedding packages. In addition to exclusive use of the entire 700+ acre resort-- including 77 lakeside cottages, a golf course, private air landing strip, an elegant dining room, and spectacular views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack mountains--wedding parties will benefit from an experienced staff of 250, whose only purpose for the weekend is to make sure every detail of the wedding is perfect.

What It Includes:

• unique additions such as lakeside cottage accommodations for up to 150 guests
• rehearsal dinner at the resort's formal dining room
• all meals, snacks and alcohol for the wedding party and guests
• fireworks
• a first anniversary stay for the couple
• a jazz brunch
• custom letterpress invitations
• Adirondack chairs for the bride and groom
• a professional photographer
• favors for the guests

Price: The Ultimate Wedding Weekend at Basin Harbor costs $250,000. The first wedding weekend will be available spring 2007.

Why It's Dreamy: Basin Harbor Club was established in 1886 by Ardelia Beach and has remained family owned for 120 years. Today, guests are greeted by fourth generation hosts, Pennie Beach and Robert H. Beach, Jr. Originally a 225-acre working farm catering to summer boarders, the resort has expanded to cover 700 acres of Vermont's most pristine land along the shores of Lake Champlain, encompassing the main lodge, cottages, a private golf course, spectacular gardens, a 3,200 foot grass airstrip, and the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Lake Champlain.

For a complete list of services and amenities:
• visit www.basinharbor.com/ultimatewedding
• call 1-800-622-4000

Labels: USA, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 8:55 AM