Romantic Travel News

09272007: Death Valley's Furnace Creek Inn Offers Romantic Escape Package

Looking to heat up your romance? The historic Furnace Creek Inn, which opened in 1927, offers couples a new "Romantic Escape" package in Death Valley, California.

Dates: The package runs from October 19, 2007 through May 8, 2008.

The Package: The Romantic Escape package includes:
• three nights in a luxury room with a king bed and spa tub
• fruit and cheese welcome basket, bottle of Mumm Cuvee Napa Brut Blanc Champagne
• two Furnace Creek Inn terrycloth bathrobes
• a pre-arranged tour of Scotty's Castle - not otherwise available
• a horse-drawn carriage ride at sunset

Price: The package, including tax, costs $1,500 per couple. The package represents a savings of 14 percent off individually priced package components.

Why It's Dreamy: The Furnace Creek Inn is a AAA Four-Diamond resort overlooking desert salt pans with the Panamint Mountains in the background. With its mission-style architecture, oasis garden and spring-fed pool, the inn features 66 rooms, fine dining, tennis courts, gift shop, conference rooms and massage therapy. All rooms at the Furnace Creek Inn are non-smoking rooms and have air conditioning, televisions, data port telephones, pay-per-view movies, free HBO, Nintendo games, refrigerators, irons, ironing boards, hair dryers, bathroom amenities and terry robes. Most rooms have decks or terraces. Some rooms have spa tubs. The Inn is open mid-October through mid-May.

For More Information:
• call 1-800-236-7916
• visit www.furnacecreekresort.com

Labels: USA

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 5:32 PM

09262007: St. Lucia's Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa Offering Honeymoon Package

With its soaring mountains and fertile landscape, St. Lucia just looks like you think the Caribbean should...and we think it makes a great honeymoon destination. We just received word of a new honeymoon package offered by Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa which is set on St. Lucia’s exotic southern coast.

The Package: The CocoMoon Luxury Honeymoon Package, priced at an all-inclusive rate of $400 a night, offers couples the chance to enjoy the more intimate side exotic St. Lucia before settling down at home. Adding the icing to wedding cake, the resort’s extraordinary offer includes over $1,200 of additional complimentary amenities and upgrades.

Upon arrival honeymooners are greeted by a champagne welcome reception at check-in and then shown to their upgraded premium ocean view room. After settling in they can select and schedule any additional amenities that are of interest, the CocoMoon package includes:

• a Bubbles-in-Bed champagne turndown service
• an intimate beach picnic
• Couple’s Spa Day
• a private guided island tour
• preferred dinner reservation
• a sunset cruise
• his and her souvenir bathrobes
• a departure gift

Newlyweds can enjoy the tranquil setting of this tropical paradise while indulging in the perfect meal for two, a peaceful beach picnic. The culinary staff at the resort prepares a fine wine and gourmet cheese basket complete with a picnic blanket for CocoMoon guests to take anywhere on the resort’s 85 oceanfront acres. Newlyweds can soothe away those wedding worries at the Kai Mer Spa, situated oceanfront at the resort, which offers a day that includes a private steam bath or sauna for two, a signature coconut couple’s facial, couple’s spa manicure and pedicure and more. Guests can further savor their new life together over an intimate dinner for two at the Asian-inspired Silk one evening and at the Italian themed Bellagio the next.

Honeymooners also receive a fully guided, private tour of the island; the island's many attractions include one of the world’s few drive-in volcanoes, the soaring Piton Mountains that seem to almost rise from the sea, the romantic Diamond Botanical Gardens and Diamond waterfalls which send a spray of sparkly "diamonds" into the air.

A romantic honeymoon cruise is also included and a champagne toast marks the beginning of a magical voyage where guests enjoy the Caribbean as the sun slowly dips into the sea.

Why It's Dreamy: Located on 85 coconut palm-fringed acres along St. Lucia’s exotic south coast, just a short transfer from the Hewanorra International Airport, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa offers 254 rooms, three swimming pools, a full-service spa, the island’s largest water park and, perfect for those blending families, a supervised kids' club.

For more information:
• visit www.cbayresort.com
• call 866-978-6226

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 10:03 AM

09252007: Hawaii's Kona Village Resort Offers 4th Night Free

This is a first: the luxury Kona Village Resort is offering a 4th Night Free promotion. Lovers can extend their stay in individual thatched-roof hale (bungalows) on the resort's tropical landscaping, lagoons, black and white sandy beaches with this new package.

The Package: The 4th Night Free Package includes:

•accommodations in a hale
•use of fitness center, tennis courts and clinics, and ocean sports equipment such as kayaks, boogie boards, snorkel equipment and outrigger canoes
• complimentary children's program (ages 6 to12)
• complimentary daily in-room service of assorted beverages and 100 percent Kona coffee

Rates: Room rates at Kona Village Resort, which begin at $625 per night for two persons, also include three meals daily served oceanfront, Tuesday evening's Paniolo Night, Wednesday & Friday evening's 'aha'aina (lu'au), arrival greeting with fresh flower lei, two swimming pools, ocean sports equipment and daily activities such as nature walks and cultural tours.

Note: On the fourth night of the 4th Night Free plan, your meals are not included. Meals are subject to applicable meal plan rate on 4th night. Taxes, beverages and gratuities are not included. Offer, which is subject to blackout dates and availability, applies to new bookings only and may not be combined with other packages or special offers.

Dates: Travel must be completed by December 21, 2007.

For More Information:
• visit www.KonaVillage.com

Labels: USA

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:44 PM

09232007: The Landings St. Lucia Offering Grand Opening Packages

Phase one of The Landings St. Lucia will open in December under management by RockResorts. The all-suites resort will open with 62 initial guest suites, a five-story entrance pavilion, 7,000-square-foot spa, salon, fitness center, pool, watersports and Beach Club restaurant. Three additional phases will add more suites plus additional pools and restaurants; the final phase will be completed in 2010.

To celebrate the grand opening of phase one this December, the beachfront resort is offering two new packages of special interest to romantic travelers:

The Packages:

Opening Exclusive Package - Travelers who book by the grand opening date of December 14, 2007 will receive a free upgrade to a plunge pool suite, plus a framed picture of themselves and their suite guests sent to their home post-trip. Rates start at $467 per night for a one-bedroom suite.

Grand Spa Package - The Landings’ “Grand Spa Package” offers spa lovers a stay of seven or more nights and "a grand" ($1,000) in spa treatments at the resort's opulent 7,000-square-foot RockResorts Spa™. This package includes seven nights accommodations and a $1,000 RockResorts Spa credit, which can be used for facials, massages, body treatments and more. Rates start at $549 per night for a one-bedroom suite. Seven-night minimum stay is required. The RockResorts Spa at The Landings will feature eight treatment rooms (including one couples’ room), several relaxation rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness center and a full-service salon. Locally-inspired treatments will utilize indigenous elements such as St. Lucia rum, sugar cane, cacao, local herbs and flowers with healing properties. Sea marine inspired treatments will also be offered, as well as Yoga and Pilates classes.

Rates are subject to availability and blackout dates apply. Based on double occupancy per bedroom. Tax and gratuities not included.

Dates: Both packages are for travel from December 14, 2007 through April 12, 2008.

Why It's Dreamy: A luxury resort, The Landings will span 19 acres and nearly 800 feet of the island’s most stunning beachfront. All accommodations will be waterfront, offering views of the beach, harbor, lagoon or channel. One-, two- and three-bedroom suites will range in size from 900 to 2,300 square feet.

For more information:
• visit www.rockresorts.com
• call 877-657-ROCK (7625)

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:35 PM

092020007: Mexico's Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa Unveils Wedding Packages

One of the most popular questions we receive is "Where can I marry in Mexico?" Especially popular with West Coast residents, Puerto Vallarta, with its beautiful Bay of Banderas, makes a top choice. That coastal city is home to the newly renovated Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa, a resort which has just announced its two new Spiritual and Grand Wedding Packages.

The Spiritual Wedding Package: The Spiritual Wedding Package is priced at $1,099 USD per couple and includes:

• Upgrade to the next room category based on availability
• Fresh flower bouquet for the bride
• Fresh flower boutonniere for the groom
• One bottle of sparkling wine for the wedding toast
• Wedding cake (serves 10)
• One wedding photo
• Choice of ceremony site
• One candlelight, three-course dinner for two with one bottle of wine
• Breakfast served in room on honeymoon morning
• Pressing of wedding attire
• Personal wedding planner
• Taxes and tips

The Grand Wedding Package: The Grand Wedding Package is priced at $1,350 USD per couple and includes:

• Upgrade to Honeymoon Suite based on availability
• Marriage license and judge fee
• Blood test
• Premarital counseling
• Translation of legal documents
• Special in room decor with flowers, fruit basket and bottle of sparkling wine
• Fresh flower bouquet for the bride
• Fresh flower boutonniere for the groom
• Wedding cake (serves 10)
• One wedding photo
• Choice of ceremony site
• Decorated table setting for officiant
• One candlelight, three-course dinner for two with one bottle of wine
• One en room breakfast on honeymoon morning
• Pressing of wedding attire
• Personal wedding planner
• Witness if required
• Taxes and tips

Prices: The Spiritual Wedding Package is priced at $1,099 USD per couple, does not include room rate and is valid for travel from now through December 21, 2008.
The Grand Wedding is priced at $1,350 USD per couple, does not include room rate and is valid for travel now through December 21, 2008.

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.

Rates include accommodations, all meals, gourmet dining, 24-hour room service, all drinks and cocktails, daily activities, taxes? and non-motorized water sports.

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

Labels: Mexico, weddings

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

09182007: Barbados Launches Wedding and Honeymoon Site

Planning an island wedding or honeymoon? Be sure to check out the new site launched by the Barbados Tourism Authority, a one-stop resource for honeymoon and wedding planning in Barbados. Sections include 'Getting Married In Barbados', 'Accommodations', 'Wedding Services', 'Activities and Events', 'Getting Here,' 'Getting Around' and more.

Additionally, a special "10 Top 10" feature will provide in-depth insider's tips on what to do during the honeymoon that cannot be experienced any where else in the world including 10 "secret spots" in Barbados.

For More Information:
• visit www.idobarbados.com

Labels: Caribbean, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:59 AM

09172007: Aruba's Bucuti Beach Resort Offers Romance Package

Aruba is well-known for its large beach resorts but the 104-room Bucuti Beach Resort featuring Tara Beach Suites & Spa is an intimate getaway for couples. With an occupancy rate of over 90% and repeat visitors which make up half the clientele, this popular getaway is tops with lovers.

“When my husband and I opened Bucuti in 1987, we welcomed all types of travelers, including families,” said Owner and Director of Sales and Marketing, Susan Biemans. “As time went on, we learned that our most satisfied guests were couples who enjoyed our small size, wide expanse of beach, the lack of crowds and the personal attention from the staff. By becoming the only resort in Aruba to target this demographic exclusively, we were able to fine-tune our product, service and message. Instead of being everything to everyone, we decided to be the best at serving couples seeking romance and tranquility in a natural environment.” The strategy worked and Bucuti has received a number of awards and accolades from companies such as Expedia.com and, most recently, Trip Advisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award in the “Best Hotel for Romance” category.

The Package: Bucuti Beach Resort in Aruba offers a Swept Away Romance Package. The package packs value into the best romantic experience in Aruba and includes:

• Hotel Accommodations with large balcony or terrace
• All tax and service charges
• A bottle of chilled Champagne in the room
• Candlelight dinner for two on the beach at the Pirates' Nest Restaurant
• Daytime snorkel or sunset sailing cruise
• Gift Basket

Price: Rates start at $1720 per couple for seven nights through December 22, 2007.

From "I Will" to "I Do" Want to pop the question during your stay? You can rely on the resort’s staff to help you design unforgettable settings for marriage proposals, whether it is during a romantic walk on the beach or a playful snorkel excursion. And if you've already heard "I will" and are waiting to hear "I do," you'll find unlimited access to the on-site wedding planner prior to your arrival and once in Aruba to plan the wedding of your dreams. And no matter you're celebrating your honeymoon or 25 years together, Bucuti’s “Swept Away” package adds to the romance with activities like a candlelight dinner for two on the beach and a sunset sailing cruise.

Why It's Dreamy: Bucuti Beach Resort featuring Tara Beach Suites & Spa is Aruba’s premier, intimate, upscale boutique resort. Located on the white powder sands of Eagle Beach, Bucuti features contemporary European charm in addition to a caring and attentive staff, innovative technology including advance check-in, high-speed Wi-Fi access throughout the resort and loaner laptops, and a commitment to sustainable tourism. Bucuti Beach Resort is Green Globe 21 and ISO 14001 certified and has been recognized by notable organizations such as the Caribbean Hotel Association, American Express and the International Hotel and Restaurant Association for its environmentally responsible hotel operations.

For More Information:
• visit www.bucuti.com

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 2:42 PM

09142007: Pink Sands Extends Promotion Through 2008

So many times we see packages that are great deals for romantic travelers...but they're such short promotions we don't pass them along because we know most people need a little more lead time. But we just received word of this promotion that's not only good through the rest of this year but through the rest of next year as well!

Pink Sands, the 25-room chic retreat on sexy Harbour Island in the Bahamas, is extending its free night offer on stays of four nights or more through December 14, 2008. Now guests that stay four nights, earn a fifth night free...a savings ranging from $600-$2,350 based on the room category and season booked.

Price: Rates start at $600 USD per room, per night, for two persons with breakfast and dinner, plus 20% tax and service. Rates after October 26, 2007 will not include meals.

The free night promotion is not valid over certain US holidays and is based on availability. Some black-out dates apply. The hotel will be closed from October 1-25, 2007.

Why It's Dreamy: Pink Sands, a tropical 18-acre haven, is located on Harbour Island in the Bahamas, along the legendary three-mile strip of pink sands where privacy is key. Twenty-five pastel-colored cottages dot the area. Accommodations feature Anichini luxury thread count linens; the resort also includes a swimming pool, tennis courts, in-room spa services, along with the trendy beachfront Blue Bar and the Garden Terrace restaurant, which have international jet-setters flocking.

The property has consistently received the AAA Four Diamond Award and has been voted one of the Top 25 Hotels in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and The Bahamas, and The World's 500 Best Hotels by Travel + Leisure. It was also recently named one of the World's Sexiest Beaches 2007 and Best Beaches in the World, by Condé Nast Traveler.

For More Information:
• call 1.800.407.4776 or +1.401.847.4720 outside of the US and Canada
• visit www.pinksandsresort.com

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

09132007: St. Maarten's Sonesta Maho Offers Couples Package

Last year we had the pleasure of staying at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino in St. Maarten. Literally minutes from the airport, it's a great getaway for couples who love the beach and want to make the most of their time on this great stretch of sand.

We've just received word that the Sonesta Maho is offering another good reason to vacation at this resort: the new St. Maarten Romantic Rendezvous Package. The three-night experience pampers lovers with upscale accommodations and delicious extras ideal for a romantic Caribbean escape.

The Package: Start off sweet with a box of chocolates and bottle of champagne for a welcoming toast upon arrival. Couples can then luxuriate in their Pool or Ocean View guestroom, with beds so soft many will not bother to get up! Also included:

- Round-trip airport transfers
- Dinner for two including special dessert and house wine from room service
(one per stay)
- Breakfast in bed for two (one per stay)
- 20% off treatments at the Good Life Spa
- Turndown service

The Price: The Maho Couples Package is priced for the summer and fall at $199 per room, per night, based on double occupancy with additional nights at $150 through December 21, 2007. Winter pricing, valid from January 2, 2008 to March 28, 2008, begins at $349 per night, with additional nights at $299 per room, per night based on double occupancy.

Additional nights include room only. Rates are subject to 21% tax and service charge.

Why It's Dreamy: The Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino in Dutch St. Maarten has plenty for couples to enjoy: sun and sand during the day and sizzling nightlife including a casino, nightclub, and showroom. The 10-acre, 537-room beachfront resort is located on the island's southwest shore and features two outdoor pools and beach; three restaurants; a promenade of 40 boutiques and restaurants; four tennis courts; the world-class Good Life Spa, and fitness center.

For More Information:
• call 1-800-223-0757
• visit www.sonesta.com

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 2:59 PM

09122007: Puerto Vallarta's Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa Announces Honeymoon Package

The newly renovated Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa welcomes couples to experience the romantic charm of Puerto Vallarta with the announcement of the resort's new Honeymoon Package. Couples can stroll the pristine beach, discover the colonial district or relax and rejuvenate with spa treatments.

The Package: The Honeymoon Package is priced at $840 USD per couple and includes:

• Three-nights/Four-days all-inclusive accommodations in a spacious Honeymoon Suite with ocean view and Jacuzzi
• Private dinner on the beach with romantic décor
• One bottle of complimentary sparkling wine upon check in
• 30-minute couples massage

The Honeymoon Package is based on double occupancy and is priced at $840 USD valid for travel from now through December 21, 2007 and $1,415 USD valid for travel from December 22, 2007 through January 1, 2008. Package pricing for 2008 is $1,120 USD valid for travel from January 2, 2008 to March 31, 2008 and $819 USD valid for travel from April 1, 2008 through July 7, 2008 and August 12, 2008 through October 31, 2008.

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.

Rates include accommodations, all meals, gourmet dining, 24-hour room service, all drinks and cocktails, daily activities, and non-motorized water sports, and all hotel taxes and tips.

Why It's Dreamy: Set in the heart of lively Puerto Vallarta just a five minute walk from Puerto Vallarta's 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.

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 3:22 PM

09082007: City of Love Anniversary Contest in San Francisco

You didn't have to leave your heart in San Francisco...but you did have to marry or honeymoon there to qualify for this romantic contest.

Hotel Nikko San Francisco is celebrating its 20th anniversary and will provide a luxurious second honeymoon to a lucky couple who got married or honeymooned there. You can have married or honeymooned at the romantic hotel any time since it opened its doors.

The winning couple will receive a prize with an estimated value of over $11,000 including:

* transportation to San Francisco from anywhere in the U.S.
* six nights in the honeymoon suite
* breakfasts
* a dinner in the hotel's ANZU restaurant
* champagne

And not only must you have married or honeymooned at the hotel...but you must also still be married (yes, to each other!) You also have to be able to prove your wedding or honeymoon was at the hotel.

The deadline for contest entries is Sept. 25, 5 pm.

Full contest rules are available online at http://www.hotelnikkosf.com/specials.aspx
or by contacting Joe Curran,
jcurran@hotelnikkosf.com, fax: 415-421-0455, telephone: 415-394-1111.

Labels: USA

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 1:17 PM

09072007: Bermuda Package for Casual Couples

We're always on the lookout for romantic travel bargains but we don't often see incredible deals in Bermuda. (There's a good reason for that: between the great location, the high standard of living, and the great accommodations, they don't have to offer cheap deals...everyone already wants to go there!)

We did run across a good bargain today a 9 Beaches, a very casual resort with 84 cabanas including the only over-the-water cabanas in the area. With the Fall Beach Week SuperSaver package guests can enjoy one full week at 9 Beaches for as little as $81 per person per night. The SuperSaver package is the equivalent of receiving two nights free off the regular rates, a 28% savings. The SuperSaver package includes seven nights’ lodging in an ocean-view cabana for two and complimentary hot buffet breakfast daily.

The Package: The Fall Beach Week SuperSaver can save couples as much as $916 on their next Bermuda vacation. Depending on the dates and type of cabana, rates range from $162 to $328 per cabana per night for a seven-night stay. All government occupancy tax and service charges also are included in the package price. Valid September 6 through December 17, 2007, on reservations booked before October 12.

Why It's Dreamy: 9 Beaches is Bermuda’s only ultra-casual resort with 84 private cabanas stretched over 18 acres on the westernmost tip of Bermuda. Soft-sided cabanas stand on stilts and all have a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean. Some Cabanas even perch over the sapphire sea and Plexiglas floor panels reveal tropical fish underfoot. Ceiling fans and tropical breezes maintain comfortable temperatures, and for guests who need that extra bit of cool air, each cabana has air conditioning. All 84 Cabanas have ample windows and double doors that open onto ocean view verandas. These sturdy structures have aluminum frames and sailcloth-like material covering the aluminum frames, perfect for casual Bermudian living. While some guests have called 9 Beaches’ cabanas “luxury tents” they are more like private beach houses furnished with a queen-size bed, a small bathroom with shower and a veranda.

With 9 private beaches (even at high tide), the resort caters to active, down-to-earth individuals who are young at heart and love the great outdoors. Guests at 9 Beaches enjoy a most relaxed Bermuda atmosphere where flip-flops are required and stilettos banned.

Activities: Couples can hop a Hobie Catamaran, sailboard, or sea kayak. Bob aboard a floating lounge or relax on our aqua decks. Ripple the waves in a paddleboat or snorkel or snuba — a snorkeling-scuba hybrid — to the wreck of the HMS Vixen, a small, 1860s twin-screwed ironclad that is just off the coast of one of the 9 beaches. More adventuresome guests can skim the surface on kite boards, following lessons from instructors certified by the International Kite Boarding Association. Experience a thrill ride on our unique tow-able “Fly Fish.” Explore Bermuda’s beautiful coral reefs on the Reef Comber, our glass bottom boat. The cruise goes out 6 miles off Bermuda to the Reef Flats, extremely shallow waters with amazing coral and marine life. For an even closer look, snorkeling equipment is provided, as well.

If you absolutely have to check in at home, you'll find Wi-Fi over various hot spots around the resort. There’s an Internet station in Centre Stage for use free of charge. All guests also receive a complimentary Bermuda cell phone (one per cabana) for free local calls and for international calls (fees apply). Important numbers such as the Concierge, a la Carte food & beverage service and our Duty Manager– are pre-programmed. iPods with music to fit just about every taste also are available.

For More Information:
• call 866-841-9009
• visit www.9beaches.com

Photo courtesy 9 Beaches

Labels: Bermuda

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:34 PM

09042007: New Romantic Getaway Package at Four Seasons Las Vegas

If the two of you are expecting a new addition to the family, try to make time to squeeze in one more romantic getaway. We just received word of a new romance package especially for expectant parents offered by the Four Seasons Las Vegas.

The Expectant Parents Getaway Package pampers both soon-to-be parents during a time when the world focuses only on the expectant mother. It allows parents-to-be looking for romance before baby’s debut to spend the weekend in a one-bedroom Strip View Suite.

Upon check-in, parents-to-be will receive a basket of baby items, including specialized prenatal products from the spa, and a $500 FAO Schwarz gift certificate.

For more information:
• visit www.fourseasons.com/lasvegas/

Labels: Las Vegas

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 8:39 PM