Romantic Travel News

10282007: New "Perfect Kiss" Package in Prague

We love Prague...its picturesque streets, historic buildings and numerous bridges make the perfect spot for a walk hand in hand. Now there's another good reason for lovers to visit Prague: the "Perfect Kiss" package now offered by the Mandarin Oriental, Prague. Armed with an insider’s guide to Prague’s most ‘kiss-worthy’ spots, guests can explore the city’s romantic appeal, then relax at the Mandarin Oriental, Prague.

The Package: ‘The Perfect Kiss’ includes:
• Round-trip airport transfers in a Mercedes S-class limousine
• Two nights luxury accommodation in a room or suite
• A bottle of chilled champagne, chocolate-dipped fruit and fresh flowers upon arrival
• Daily English breakfast served at the restaurant or in-room (the latter available all day)
• Choice of a romantic ride through Prague by a horse-drawn carriage, or by vintage car, or an 80-minute massage for two in a couples’ spa suite
• Choice of afternoon tea in the hotel’s Baroque colonnade or a deluxe picnic basket (seasonal)
• Two tickets to a private box at the opera (subject to availability) including return limousine transfer, plus a box of chocolates to provide nutrition during performance
• Special guide to Prague’s most romantic spots, including directions
• Complimentary late checkout at 6 pm (subject to availability)

Price: The Perfect Kiss package requires a two-night minimum stay; rates start at EUR 637 per room per night based on double occupancy, including service charge and excluding VAT.

Dates: Valid until August 31, 2008.

Booking: The package can be booked via www.mandarinoriental.com or by calling +420 233 088 888; guests are invited to select their desired leisure options directly with the hotel after the reservation has been confirmed.

Why It's Dreamy: Housed in a former Dominican monastery with origins dating back to the 14th Century, Mandarin Oriental, Prague’s 99 guest rooms and suites are enhanced by original architectural detail. With its Renaissance chapel housing the holistic Spa, European and Asian delicacies in the Essensia restaurant, and Asian-inflected design blending local history with modern luxury, Mandarin Oriental, Prague is an oasis of style in the heart of Prague.

For More Information:
• visit www.mandarinoriental.com/prague

Labels: Europe

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 12:39 PM

102220071: Verandah Resort & Spa Opens in Antigua

n the island of Antigua, there’s a new place to say your vows: the 200-suite Verandah Resort & Spa.

This luxury resort is located on the island’s northeast coast bordering the Devil's Bridge National Park. The eco-friendly luxury retreat, a member of Elite Island Resorts, offers lovers two beaches, a spa, the island's largest free-form swimming pool, a spa with treatments from around the world, a kid's club, fitness center and a mini-cinema, as well as a choice of restaurants and bars.

The resort’s 200 villa-style suites all feature the verandahs with sea views plus touches such as flat-screen TVs, king-size beds, Internet access, and romantic soaking bathtubs built for two.

Price: Through December 20, 2007, the resort features an introductory savings of 50 percent, with nightly all-inclusive double rates starting at $243.

Weddings: Complimentary destination weddings are available to couples who book a seven- night all-inclusive honeymoon in deluxe-category accommodations.

For More Information:
• call (800) 345-0356
• visit www.verandahresortandspa.com

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 5:26 PM

10192007: Fall Romance Package at California's Lake La Quinta Inn

Twenty miles from Palm Springs, California, the desert community of La Quinta is home to the exclusive 13-room Lake La Quinta Inn. This B&B offers rooms with various themes and décor, all uniquely designed and featuring fireplaces and fabulous lake and mountain views.

The Package: The Lake La Quinta Inn Romance Package includes:

• Three days and two nights in a lake view room

• Full cooked breakfast

• Dinner on one of the evenings at Amore Ristorante Italiano ($50 credit)

• Wine and hors d'oeuvres

• Add a full one-hour massage for $115 per person

Price: The price for the Lake La Quinta Inn Romance Package starts at $379 midweek.

Dates: This offer is good from October 1, 2007 through December 18, 2007. This offer is subject to availability and blackout dates apply.

Why It's Dreamy: Upon arrival at Lake La Quinta Inn, you'll feel you've stepped into another time and place. Full of old world charm, the inn is architecturally reminiscent of a French chateau, with each room overlooking Lake La Quinta toward the desert panorama. Rolling lawns, lush gardens and views of the Santa Rosa Mountains serve as a balm to the soul, providing a soothing and relaxing backdrop to your romantic escape.

In the morning, breakfast is served in the lakeside dining room and features fresh coffee, teas and juice accompanied by chef's daily cooked specialties. Later, in the afternoon, join the innkeeper and fellow guests and chat by the fire the lakeside living room, where delicious hors d'oeuvres, wine and cheese are served or take a dip in the resort's outdoor swimming pool and spa.

Within five miles of the resort, five PGA golf courses challenge players; tennis buffs find more than 600 courts located nearby. And to work out the kinks, Lake La Quinta Inn can arrange for a relaxing aromatherapy, Swedish, deep tissue or reflexology massage, or other spa services including facials at the on-site massage room.

For More Information:
• To book the Lake La Quinta Inn Romance Package, call 888-226-4546
• visit www.lakelaquintainn.com

Labels: USA

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 12:06 PM

10162007: Valentine's Package from Red Carnation Hotels

Sure, it's not even Halloween yet but it's not too early to start thinking about Valentine's Day getaways! The demand for romantic packages is at its peak during that time so if you want to snag a good package, now's the time to start looking.

We just received word of two Valentine's packages that will be offered next year by the Red Carnation Hotels in London. These packages are being offered the whole month of February and are available at all of Red Carnation’s five- and four-star London hotels – “41” opposite Buckingham Palace; The Milestone by Kensington Gardens; The Egerton House in Knightsbridge; The Montague in Bloomsbury (we've stayed here...a great boutique hotel atmosphere and terrific location); The Chesterfield Mayfair and The Rubens next door to “41” – two types of break are available.


The Valentine Romance Package: The package includes:

• Accommodation in a luxurious room for one night

• A book of poems to read to each other in bed

• Candles around the bath and petals within

• Half a dozen red roses

• A box of luxury chocolates

The Valentine Indulgence Package: With the Valentine Indulgence break you receive all of the above, plus:

• A bottle of Champagne in your room

• A hibiscus flower as your living memento

• A Love Hamper with fruits, love hearts, bath salts and body lotion

Price: Prices for the Valentine Romance break start at £280 per room per night, with Valentine Indulgence available from £365 per room per night.

For More Information:
• visit www.redcarnation.com

Labels: Europe, Valentine's

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 11:55 AM

10112007: What Will Be Hot for Destination Weddings in 2008?

It's no surprise that destination weddings are more popular than ever before, with couples definitely saying "I Do" to unique ceremonies at locations around the world. What might be surprising, though, are some of the forecasts for next year's destination wedding trends. LUXE Destination Weddings, a high-end consulting company focusing on custom weddings at the most exclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico, has just released their list of the top destination wedding trend predictions for 2008. "Destination weddings are no longer a one-size-fits-all affair," says co-founder Tara Soloway. "With all the different trends, tastes and temperaments out there, we know destination weddings for 2008 will be anything but ordinary!"

LUXE Destination Weddings top trends for 2008:

1. Brazen Beach Bridal Shoots

It's a new phenomenon in destination weddings ˆ brazen beach bridal shoots!

"Many destination brides want killer photos, capturing the essence of their colorful surroundings," says Soloway. "Create something extraordinary and cherish the bold action as a keepsake."

Whether seeking edgy, classy or sexy looks, couples are diving into the ocean or pool, heading into neighboring towns to mingle, or scaling cliffs by sea bluffs.

Daring photo shoots offer brides the chance to create a bold statement with their dress, rather than store it away for eternity. As many opt for more casual wear or a lighter, less intricate design, there's no pressure to keep the dress pristine (although you can opt for restoring afterwards). So jump into the water. Roll around on the beach. Dance with the locals. And take home an audacious wedding album for the ages.

2. Go Green For Weddings

Green weddings top many a wedding list. Couples are asking: How will their footprints leave a mark?

"Green weddings may be trendy, but it's also a great way for couples to incorporate deeper meaning into their big day," says Soloway.

Counteract travel with carbon-offsetting companies. LUXE recommends Climatecare.org and Offsetters.ca. Guests can calculate travel miles and donate a percentage back to the environment.

Incorporate local products into the ceremony. Many Caribbean islands offer an abundance of flowers like dendrobium orchids, lilies, and anthuriums. The "Natural Look," is growing in popularity LUXE advises -- branches with blossoms, greenery, palm leaves, burlaps and sandy hues.

LUXE offers further green wedding tips:

· Ban plastic water bottles.
· Research local recycling and environmental practices. Or be an environmental revolutionary! Teach the hotel about green practices.
· Pre-print dinner menus, programs, etc. on recycled paper.
· Consider the romance of candle light as a great way to conserve energy during the ceremony.
· Ditch wedding favors.

3. Entrances for the Ages

Tradition tends to go out the window when it comes to destination weddings. As such, LUXE is setting trends with their clients' wedding entrances.

"As beaches become the go-to destination, we find that the sky is the limit with our events," says Soloway. "Many brides want to make a splash with a grand entrance!"

Brides can be paddled to their ceremony at in a rowboat at sunset, or arrive on horseback in dramatic fashion. Evoke Cleopatra and be carried in on a chair or bed by four groomsmen, following a parade of walking singers and musicians. It's the first step in your new life -- make it memorable!

4. Make Wedding Scents

LUXE Destination Weddings thrives on creating exotic weddings that delight all bodily senses - even the sense of smell!

"Something as delicate as a customized scent can truly uplift the ceremony," Soloway advises.

LUXE suggests an array of enticing aromas at many of the luxurious resorts where its weddings are held, including the new Eurostars Blue -- Tulum Hotel & Spa in Riviera Maya, Mexico and The Caves in Negril, Jamaica.

From lavender to neroli, to vanilla and jasmine, the betrothed can pick and choose the scents that perfectly capture the mood of their nuptials, aided by the watchful guidance of LUXE's expert coordinators. LUXE's advice on wedding scents will help make the perfect finishing touch for a couple's perfectly planned destination wedding.

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

Labels: weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:39 PM

10102007: Sir Richard Branson Performs In-Flight Wedding

To inaugurate new service from San Francisco to Las Vegas aboard Virgin America, on October 10 Sir Richard Branson performed an in-flight wedding on the new flight. The party included showgirls from La Reve, Carmen Electra, World Series of Poker Champ Jamie Gold, and Kyla Ebbert (who you might remember was removed from another airline's flight because of an "inappropriate" outfit).

With 25 movies on demand, onboard instant messaging, videogames, 3,000 MP3 tracks and other features that add up to a different flying experience, Virgin America is also offering attractive fares: $44* one-way San Francisco-Las Vegas fares in the Main Cabin and $149* one-way in First Class. On November 4, Virgin America will add two more daily roundtrips to Vegas from San Francisco for a total of five flights a day.

Along with Virgin Group Founder and Chairman, Sir Richard Branson, the flight included famous guests and Virgin America friends on board the first flight to Vegas. Later that day, Penn & Teller hosted a daredevil "Virgin America Takes Vegas" stunt at the Palms, where Branson "dropped-in" with his usual derring-do. The fun continued that evening with a party at the Wynn Resort, which featured the cast of Showtime's hit series "Dexter" and a celebrity poker game hosted by Jamie Gold with all proceeds going to the winner's charity of choice.

Details on Fares: All fares are one way. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. All fares require a 14-day advance purchase. Changes or cancellations can be made for a $40 fee, plus any increase in fare if applicable. Tickets purchased from Virgin America through our reservation call centers will cost an additional $5 per itinerary. Seats are limited, subject to availability, and may not be available on all flights. Fares, routes, and schedules are subject to change without notice. Fares do not include Passenger Facility Charges of up to $9 each way, September 11th Security Fees of up to $5 each way and a Federal Segment Tax of $3.40 per domestic segment. A segment is a takeoff and landing. Fares will not be honored retroactively or in exchange for any wholly or partially used ticket. The start date for Washington (IAD)-Los Angeles non-stop service is October 24, 2007.

For More Information:
• visit www.virginamerica.com

Labels: Las Vegas

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

10062007: New Nightlife Option for Vegas

There's one constant about Las Vegas: it's always changing. If you're making your nightlife plans for an upcoming visit, we've received word that the Light Nightclub at Bellagio will be transformed into The Bank. The innovative nightclub which opened at the Bellagio six years ago has now closed its doors for renovations, and this space will be remodeled into a revolutionary nightlife concept named The Bank.

Scheduled to open New Year’s Eve 2007, The Bank will offer a one-of-a-kind atmosphere; the 6,600-square-foot club will be managed by New York club owner and international promoter Danny A and The Light Group’s Jodi Myers.

Labels: Las Vegas

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 4:24 PM

10022007: Fall Foliage Package at New England's Hotel Marlowe

In Cambridge, Massachusetts, Hotel Marlowe, Kimpton’s AAA Four-Diamond rated property, is offering a new Fall Foliage Package. While the autumn colors are in full bloom enjoy apple or pumpkin picking on a farm, a bike tour of the city and kayaking on the Charles River.

The Package: The Fall Foliage package includes:

•Two night stay at the Hotel Marlowe
•An all day adventure at Boston Hill or Brooksby Farm. Enjoy signature fall treats, wagon rides and honey fresh from the hives. Pick apples and/or pumpkins on a beautiful New England farm. Transportation is provided.
•Watch the leaves change while sitting in your own kayak on the Charles River. Enjoy amazing views of the city at the most beautiful time of the year. Bambara (a 170-seat restaurant and bar with water views featuring American Brasserie cuisine and a global selection of wines) provides a picnic lunch to enjoy while taking a break.
• An Urban Adventours City View Tour. Pedal from Fenway Park, through Back Bay and into Beacon Hill, experiencing one of the oldest cities in America. See historical and contemporary Boston while having time to stop for a cup of coffee or enjoy pastry in the Italian North End.
• Relax with the perfect ending to an autumn weekend in New England with in-room warm apple cider compliments of Bambara.

Price: Rates start at $960. Rates are subject to space, availability and change. Taxes and gratuities not included. Black out dates may apply.

Dates: The package is valid through November 1, 2007.

For more information:
• visit www.Kimptonhotels.com
• for reservations for this package, call 800-825-7040 and ask for rate code PFOL
• call 1-800-KIMPTON

Labels: USA

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:34 AM

1022007: Top 3 Fall Getaways from Travelers Advantage

Fall means fall foliage for many lovers--but leaf peeping isn't the only option for autumn travelers. (If you would like to do some leaf peeping, check out today's Lovetripper piece on actress Mariel Hemingway's top fall getaways.) All types of outdoor activities take the top slot during this changing season.

"Fall is a very popular time of year to travel," said Leslie Downey, director, communications for Travelers Advantage and TravelersAdvantage.com. "The Travel Industry Association of America says that camping is the No. 1 outdoor vacation activity for Americans, and fall is an awesome time to soak up the outdoors."

This year's top fall getaways from Travelers Advantage include:

1. Caribbean: Soak up the sun on a St. Thomas adventure. Escape to the Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa, carved into a mountainside and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Virgin Islands. This 294-room, newly renovated resort offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, nearby island of St. John, and other neighboring islands. Enjoy a secluded private beach with extensive water sports including snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking; three interconnecting freshwater pools with a waterfall and grotto; tennis complex; onsite spa; state-of-the-art fitness center offering aerobic and yoga classes; kid's club; and a comprehensive schedule of daily activities. You can do as much or as little as you want. A 3-night air-inclusive stay via American Airlines from Miami is available from $639.

2. Hawaii: Say Aloha to fall with an escape to Waikiki Beach. Luxuriate in the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort in Honolulu, which features a three-story atrium with cascading waterfalls, four restaurants, five lounges, numerous child activities and a full-service spa. Explore the legendary North Shore of Oahu one day, and snorkel the next on the east side at Hanauma Bay. Thrill seekers can skydive at Mokuleia, while daydreamers can relax on the pristine beaches of this exquisite resort. Overlooking Waikiki Beach and within walking distance of shopping, entertainment and attractions, every room has a balcony and spectacular views of the ocean or mountain. From cascading waterfalls and luxurious treatments at Na Ho'ola Spa, to a comprehensive children's program, you've got it all. A 4-night air-inclusive stay for departures from Los Angeles via Northwest Airlines is available from $859.

3. Sail: Consider a New England cruise up the East Coast and into Canada. Most cruises travel between Boston or New York and Halifax, Nova Scotia or Quebec, Canada, and sailings can be one-way or round-trip through October. Catch a $449, six-night Norwegian Spirit tour. (All rates are cruise only, per person, double occupancy and do not include non-commissionable fares and $19.95 processing fee. Cancellation penalty of $79applies. Fees are subject to change and withdrawal at any time without notice. The Norwegian Spirit cruise sails Oct. 21-28, and can be booked through Oct. 20. )

Or soak up a fall foliage cruise featuring the captivating scenery of the Mississippi River, the rolling hills and manicured farmland of the Ohio Valley and the serene beauty of the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers aboard the American Queen or Delta Queen Steamboats (rates on seven night excursions range from $795 to $1,564 per person double occupancy.)

For More Information and Details on Above Options:
• call 1-877-841-1335
• visit www.travelersadvantage.com

Labels: USA

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 9:31 AM