Romantic Travel News

073007: Test Drive Your Sandals Honeymoon This Fall

Honeymooners-to-be can “test drive” their honeymoon during a jet-setting, one-day getaway to Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island in Montego Bay, Jamaica for a spectacular Champagne beach barbecue and honeymoon preview.

Cost: $179 per person, including roundtrip airfare on Air Jamaica from New York (JFK), Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago or Philadelphia, couples can experience all of the luxurious amenities offered as part of the Sandals Resorts honeymoon during their one-day stay. Couples who book a minimum 6-night stay at any one of the 12 Sandals Resorts located in Jamaica, Antigua, St. Lucia and the Bahamas within two weeks of their “Test Drive” visit, will have the cost of the day trip credited to their Sandals honeymoon.

With Sandals Resorts’ “Test Drive” program, couples considering a destination wedding will get the chance to learn more about the resort’s exclusive Preston Bailey Signature WeddingMoons® packages and getting married in the Caribbean.

Dates: The “Test Drive” offer is available from New York (JFK), Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago or Philadelphia for nine select dates beginning this fall. Flights depart in the morning and return the same evening on October 3rd, 10th, 17th and 31st, November 14th and 28th and January 16th, 23rd and 30th.

What's Included: In addition to the Champagne Beach Barbecue and roundtrip airfare, the one-day getaway includes: a private tour of the resort and the resort’s exclusive private island, Sandals Cay, access to some of the top experts in the wedding industry, Red Lane® Spa sample treatments, all land and water sports, Reggae dance lessons, scavenger hunts, exciting entertainment, a VIP beach bag filled with free goodies, the chance to win great prizes and more. Whether couples choose swimming, sunning, sailing or simply walking on the sand, it’s all included for the day.

For more information:
• call 1-800-SANDALS (1-800-726-3257)
• visit www.sandals.com/testdrive

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:28 PM

073107: Mexico's Inn at Loreto Bay Offering Destination Weddings

Mexico is the leading location for destination weddings, with couples flocking to resorts along the coast in search of the perfect beach ceremony. The Inn at Loreto Bay, located in Baja California Sur, Mexico, turns the standard beach wedding into a more intimate affair with its new wedding packages.

“Couples who decide on a destination wedding are seeking an unforgettable ceremony with family and close friends,” said Don Weintraub, vice president of destination marketing and sales for Loreto Bay Company. “The Inn at Loreto Bay takes the feeling of intimacy and applies it to every detail of this special occasion, so the entire experience is completely personalized and unique. With a wide variety of ecotourism and other outdoor activities ranging from snorkeling to golf, wedding guests can also experience the beauty and excitement of Loreto during their stay.”

The Packages: The wedding packages at the Inn at Loreto Bay include a stay at the beach-front resort, along with various options to customize the wedding to individual tastes. Options include an indoor or outdoor ceremony, traditional Mexican cuisine or American fare, the selection of live music or a disc jockey, as well as various décor choices. Whether it is a sun-soaked beach ceremony with a Mexican-style instrumental trio playing softly in the background, or a sunset patio ceremony overlooking the water, the Inn at Loreto Bay can accommodate every couple’s dream wedding.

“What is so special about destination weddings is the opportunity to combine the wedding ceremony with the honeymoon,” said Weintraub. “At the Inn, we offer numerous activities to entertain newlyweds and their guests, as well as provide the perfect setting for a peaceful, romantic honeymoon experience.”

Legalities: One of the main considerations for couples choosing a destination wedding, are the logistics of getting married outside the United States. In order to be legally wed in Mexico, the bride and groom must have certain documents including tourist cards, original birth certificates, valid 10-year passports, driver’s licenses, statutory declarations and a blood test.

Why It's Dreamy: The Inn at Loreto Bay features 155 rooms and suites, all with spectacular views of the ocean, mountains or both. Couples can spend their honeymoon enjoying all of the luxurious amenities and fun-filled activities the Inn at Loreto Bay has to offer. Couples can bask in wedded bliss relaxing on the warm sand or enjoy private meals overlooking the secluded beach. Amazing adventures await newlyweds in Loreto, including the chance to scuba dive, snorkel, windsurf or go whale-watching together. Golf, tennis, and miles of gorgeous hiking and biking trails are another option for active pairs.

The Inn at Loreto Bay is unique not only because of its location, but because of its dedication to preserve the natural beauty of Loreto. As a part of the largest sustainable community in North America, the Inn at Loreto Bay is taking steps to ensure the protection of this locale for generations to come. These include using environmentally friendly housekeeping products and light bulbs, as well as regulating the temperature of water and air conditioning to ensure energy conservation.


For more information:
• visit www.loretobay.com

Labels: Mexico

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:19 PM

072407: Puerto Vallarta Resort Relaunched After Renovation

We've just received word that Puerto Vallarta's Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa has completed renovations which have been underway since November 2006. The hotel formerly called the Buenaventura Hotel & Beach Club is now the Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa, reflecting the hotels' top to bottom transformation and new 'Grand' look.

Why It's Dreamy: Set in the heart of lively Puerto Vallarta just a five minute walk from Puerto Vallarta's beloved "Malecon" promenade. Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa provides a first-hand experience of local Mexican excitement and charm, and 238 newly renovated rooms and suites plus two handicapped accessible rooms warmly host guests between daily beach activities and a night in town. All rooms have been remodeled, upgrading floors, bathrooms, furniture, amenities, accessories, linen and air conditioning Hands-on service includes concierge and 24-hour room service, 24-hour medical service, car rental, travel agency link, baby sitting, laundry and dry-cleaning. Wireless Internet throughout the main areas (including lobby and pool side) and Business Center. The open air Buenaventura Armonia Spa features Germaine Capuccine(TM) products and highly trained personnel. Guests are treated to the complimentary head and hands Welcome Massage when arriving for a spa
treatment. A full menu of massages, scrubs, facials and therapeutic
body treatments are available.

Bringing the Family? The renovation includes tha addition of a new supervised children's program. The hotel welcomes couples who want a romantic getaway combined with a family vacation. The hotel's Kidz Club offers soccer, baseball and sandcastle creations. The pool offers water polo, swimming lessons and volleyball. In the shade, the Kidz Club is the place for crafts, football, movies, X-Box, board games, toys and music.

Prices: Fall 2007 all-inclusive rates start at $110 per person, per night based on double occupancy. Winter 2007 all-inclusive rates start at $122 per person, per night based on double occupancy. All-inclusive rates include accommodations, all meals, snacks, 24-hour room service, themed nightly dinners, all drinks, cocktails and wine, daily activities, kayaking, snorkeling, introductory scuba lesson, hotel taxes and tips.

For more information:
• call 1-888-859-9439
• email ventas@hotelesbuenaventura.com.mx
• visit www.hotelbuenaventura.com.mx

Labels: Mexico

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 8:20 PM

072207: USVI Extends Promotion

The US Virgin Islands has extended its 90th Anniversary promotion; if booked between now and October 1 for travel between September 1 to October 31, 2007, the 90th Anniversary Celebration Package features a complimentary 4th night based on a four-night minimum stay at participating hotels, plus savings up to $500 on a variety of included experiential activities, tours and extras.

What It Includes: Guests who book the package with a St. John or St. Thomas hotel will receive two tickets to Coral World, Atlantis Submarine, VI Ecotours and the Paradise Point Tramway; an island tour for two with Tropic Tours; use of a GPS unit for two days provided by Calabash Technologies; $90 off a purchase of $500 or more at Diamonds International; $90 off a purchase of $500 or more at Cardow Jewelers; and $90 gaming dollars compliments of Southland Gaming.

Guests who book the package with a St. Croix hotel will enjoy a welcome bottle of Cruzan rum and a special gift; $100 match-play at Divi Carina Bay Casino, plus two of the following complimentary options: Buck Island excursion for two; a sunset sail for two; a rental car for three days; an island tour for two; golf with greens fees and cart for two at The Buccaneer or Carambola Beach Resort; a scuba two-tank dive or dive lesson with a one-tank dive for one; or a 50-minute spa treatment.

Participating St. Croix hotels include The Buccaneer, Hotel Caravelle, Carambola Beach Resort, Chenay Bay Beach Resort, Club St. Croix, Colony Cove and Divi Carina Bay, Sand Castle on the Beach and King Christian Hotel.

**Don't forget: US citizens, you don't need a passport to visit the USVI!

St. Thomas and St. John hotels include Frenchman's Reef Marriott, Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, Best Western Emerald Beach, Best Western Carib Beach, Secret Harbour Resort, Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa, Anchorage and The Westin St. John Resort & Villas.

Many tour companies are booking the 90th Anniversary Celebration package: Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, US Airways Vacations, GOGO Tours, The Mark/Funjet, Travel Impressions, Inter Island/Cheap Caribbean, Island Resort Tours, Bookit.com, Fiesta Holidays/The Vacation Travelmart, Apple Vacations, Aliday Tours, Konrad Tours, Aurotravel and TNT Vacations.

Dates: Guests must book the 90th Anniversary Celebration Package between now and October 1 and travel between September 1 and October 31, 2007.

For more information about the 90th Anniversary Celebration Package:
• visit www.usvitourism.vi

For reservations:
• call 1-877-LIB-USVI or local travel agent

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 8:27 PM

071807: Villa Premiere Hotel & Spa Announces Honeymoon Package

Villa Premiere & Spa, the 83-room beachfront retreat in Puerto Vallarta, has announced its new Premiere Honeymoon Package. The resort invites couples to this serene city filled with cobblestone streets and old world charm for a romantic honeymoon in Mexican paradise.

The Package: The 'Premiere Honeymoon Package' is priced at $389 USD per couple, per night and includes:

• Spacious accommodations in a Premiere oceanfront guestroom with indoor Jacuzzi
• Welcome glass of champagne
• One five-minute anti-stress neck massage upon arrival per person
• In-room aromatherapy, choose from seven exquisite essences
• Butler service
• In-room Wi-Fi internet
• Complimentary access to sauna, steam room and gym
• Weekly meditation workshops, yoga and reflexology classes
• One candlelit, four course romantic dinner on the beach
• One bottle of complimentary red or white wine
• Daily American breakfast served en suite
• Room amenities including flowers, fruit basket and one bottle of sparkling wine

The 'Premiere Honeymoon Package' is based on double occupancy, includes all hotel taxes, and is valid for travel from July 1 to December 21, 2007. This offer only applies to direct bookings only and is non-refundable, subject to hotel availability, and may not be combined with any other offers. A minimum stay of three nights is required. To book, call 1-877-886-9176 or email reservations@premiereonline.com.mx.

Why It's Dreamy: Tucked on Bahia de Banderas, Villa Premiere Hotel & Spa is located on a serpentine stretch of golden sand beach walking distance from downtown Puerto Vallarta. The hotel's contemporary Mexican ambiance houses just 83, beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites come complete with Mexican furniture and art, private terraces, whirlpool tubs and sliding doors overlooking miles of Pacific blue. Stone-patterned flooring, stucco walls, Tepescohuite tree beams and rope ceilings, and palm mats provide textural contrasts while flowering plants, hand painted murals of angels by local artists done in subdued colors, Huichol Indian handicrafts, tranquility fountains, and aroma candles create an inviting and relaxing setting.

The 83-room and suite Villa Premiere Hotel & Spa features ocean views, a full service spa, whimsical vibe with eclectic décor and warm, personalized service. Couples will enjoy this beachfront, boutique hotel conveniently located within walking distance of the colonial district and its famous boardwalk. New amenities include: pillow menu for extreme comfort, butler service for the ultimate in pampering and rejuvenating Oxygen Bar.

For More Information:
• visit www.premiereonline.com.mx
• call 1-877-886-9176

Labels: Mexico

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 8:38 PM

071707: Luxe Destination Weddings at The Caves

Looking for a wedding venue your guests will always remember? The Caves, one of Jamaica's most exclusive boutique hotels, is offering a new package that combines LUXE's planning services with one of the Caribbean's most sensuous sites.

The Wedding Package: The Caves LUXE Wedding Package provides four nights of accommodations (for up to 26 people), inclusive of all food and beverages. A welcome Champagne party features a steel drum band. Two private Caves dinners offered daily. Bride and groom indulge with VIP spa treatments. Wedding ceremony, reception and rehearsal dinner are all beautifully executed. Personal concierge helps ensure the party enjoys every minute. Priced at $57,100 during high season and $47,600 in low season. Rooms are subject to an 18.25% nightly surcharge. The Caves LUXE Wedding Package also includes:

- Welcome gift for each room upon arrival
- Private round trip airport transfers
- Private group sunset catamaran cruise party
- Limousine for bride and groom

For the wedding:

- Minister, marriage license, on-site wedding coordinator
- Live music
- Special wedding menu (plated or buffet)
- Premium wedding cake
- Pastry station
- Premium bar & signature cocktail
- Professional photography
- Floral arrangements: bouquets, boutonniere, etc.
- Festive décor and lighting

Why It's Dreamy: The Caves' 13 guest rooms are perched in a cliff-top garden overlooking the azure Caribbean Sea. Exuding sensual romance, the resort offers outdoor showers, cliff-top Jacuzzi, private hot tub in cave and tropical vegetation. The Caves caters to groups through a host of local activities, including snorkeling, water rafts, kayaks and biking. Mini gazebos, salt water pool, sunning decks and an evening dining room and lounge are also on-site.

LUXE Destination Weddings: LUXE Destination Weddings is a boutique destination wedding consulting firm and travel agency specializing in luxury destination weddings in the Caribbean and Mexico. Luxe means 'one-stop-shop' for brides and grooms; the company has built its reputation by handcrafting luxury weddings for clients at the world's most exclusive resorts.

For More Information on The Caves:
• visit www.islandoutpost.com/thecaves

For more information on the package:
• call 1-888-LUXE-WED
• visit www.luxedestinationweddings.com

Labels: Caribbean, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 8:48 PM

071007: Sandals Extends 50% Off Sale

Here's a good deal that just came across our desks: Sandals has extended its 50% off sale until the end of this month (it was set to expire last week.)

All 12 resort locations in Jamaica, Antigua, St. Lucia and the Bahamas are included for bookings by July 31, 2007. Couples who book their stay at any Sandals Resort by this date for travel between now and December 26, 2007 will receive up to 50% off their entire stay.

Labels: Caribbean

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

071107: Cancun Package For Under $100 Per Day

We've received word that Blue Bay Getaway & Spa, Cancun has announced its "Summer Sale" promotion--one that saves guests 30% offf regular rates. Through August 19, you can enjoy an Ocean View Room starting at $105 per person, per night or, for just $94 per person, per night, stay in a Superior Room, based on double occupancy. The Summer Sale promotion is based on double occupancy. Rates are quoted per person, per night in US dollars and valid for travel through August 19, 2007. This offer is subject to hotel availability, may not be combined with any other offers and blackout dates may apply.

What It Includes: Rates include accommodations, all meals, gourmet dining, room service for continental breakfast, all drinks and cocktails, daily activities, nightly entertainment, non-motorized water sports, billiards and ping-pong, scheduled shuttle between the two resorts and hotel taxes and tips.

Who's There: Blue Bay Getaway & Spa is for couples and singles age 21 and over. Blue Bay Getaway's entertainment "Cast Members" lead fun, sexy and adventurous activities. A variety of activities are offered from water and beach-sports, pool games and contests filled with temptations to warm even the iciest of contestants. Vacationers can choose to be front and center; sit back and watch the excitement or find an intimate spot to relax and recharge away from the crowds.

Upgrade Your Stay: For an additional $30 per person, per night, upgrade to the Silver Plan, which includes everything in the all-inclusive plan, plus:

• Premier Menu at A la Carte Restaurants
• International brands in alcoholic beverages
• Room Service
• Lobster Dinner (seasonal)
• Bottle of water in the room daily
• Free use of Sauna, Steam-room and Jacuzzis at The Spa
• Safety box without charge
• 10% discount in all services and treatments at the Resort Spa
• 10% discount at the Beauty Parlor
• 10% discount in tours at the hotel Travel Agency

For More Information:
• call 1-800-BLUE BAY
• email reservcun@bluebaycancun.com
• visit www.bluebaycancun.com

Labels: Mexico

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:22 PM

070407: Desire Resorts Offer Hot Package For Clothing-Optional Getaway

Looking for a getaway that's hot, hot, hot? Mexico's Desire Resorts, located in Los Cabos and on the Riviera Maya offer couples age 21 and over a clothing-optional getaway that's as luxurious and elegant as it is uninhibited.

Special Rates: Feel the vibe of Latin Fever at Desire Resort & Spa Los Cabos August 8-12, 2007 with rates starting at $140 per person, per night.

Indulge in this spicy and sensual weekend at Desire Resort & Spa Riviera Maya, September 19-23, 2007 with rates starting at $185 per person, per night.

Why It's Dreamy: Devotees of alternative lifestyles have a stylish retreat on the sugar-white coast of the Mexican Caribbean: Desire Resort & Spa Riviera Maya and an oasis on the rugged Baja Peninsula: Desire Resort & Spa Los Cabos. These two all-inclusive resorts give couples a luxurious backdrop for allowing themselves to enjoy their every whim and indulge their fantasies.

What It Includes: Rates include all meals and premium alcoholic beverages in any of the restaurants and bars (including the discotheque), room service 24/7, day and evening entertainment programs, a sauna and steam room, access to the fitness room, hotel taxes and tips and more.
All rates and promotions are subject to hotel availability and are subject to change.

For More Information:
• call 1-888-201-7551
• email reserv@desireresorts.com
• visit www.desireresorts.com

Labels: Clothing-optional, Mexico

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:16 PM

070107: Destination Proposal Package in the USVI

With a recent USA Today poll showing that when it comes to proposing marriage, 87% of women prefer a romantic proposal over a “huge diamond ring,” it’s time for grooms-to-be to get on the ball! And with “proposing on vacation” being the number one sample proposal idea on thegroomguide.com, there’s not much work left to be done besides getting down on one knee and actually popping the question.

Grooms-to-be should grab their lucky lady and escape to the romantic and relaxing Frenchman’s Reef and Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort in St. Thomas where the Escape! Wine and Dine “On Bended Knee” package help ensure their proposal will be a moment to remember.

The "On Bended Knee" Package: The package includes:

* Private consultation with a Weddings in Paradise representative (for the
groom-to-be) on the most romantic places to propose on St. Thomas
* Photo session where the couple will receive (1) 8X10 engagement photo
* $100 credit toward a future Weddings in Paradise package
* (1) in-room couples massage
* champagne and strawberries in the couple’s guestroom the evening of the
proposal
* (1) private, candle-lit dinner for two (2) at Windows on the Harbour
(including two glasses of champagne)
* Unlimited water ferry tickets from resort to downtown St. Thomas
* Daily breakfast buffet
* Room, tax and gratuities for bellman & housekeeper
* Welcome rum or fruit punch upon arrival

Price: 2007 Package rates starting from:

$532/night, through August 19, 2007
$445/night, August 20 – October 31, 2007
$591/night, November 1 – December 20, 2007

Rates are based on double occupancy; four-night minimum stay is required.

Why It's Dreamy: Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort on St. Thomas has long been considered one of the finest properties in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The property has 408 (recently renovated!) guestrooms and overlooks a secluded beach with warm, aquamarine waters and sweeping vistas of the Caribbean’s most majestic harbor. With the close proximity of the US Virgin Islands to the United States, travelers can look forward to a quick trip of no more than two to four hours to get to this sunny paradise!

For more information:
• visit www.frenchmansreefmarriott.com
• call 800-524-2000

Don't forget: Passports are NOT required for the United States Virgin Islands!

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:07 PM