Romantic Travel News

Lovetripper on CNN.com

Our Monday morning got off to an exciting start; a friend in New York City emailed us that Lovetripper was on CNN.com! We were interviewed several months ago for an article by Budget Travel magazine covering tips for couples traveling together. The article appears in this month's issue of Budget Travel and it's also featured today on the front page of CNN.com...a good start to our week!

Labels: Lovetripper news

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 11:52 AM

1252008: Sonesta Maho Announces New Wedding Packages

Looking for a Caribbean resort that's easy for you and your wedding guests to reach? That offers a variety of activities that will keep everyone busy and happy? And that has on site wedding planning to make it all easy?

The answer just might be Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino in Sint Maarten. We stayed at the recently renovated resort in early November and can report that the property's better than ever. Located just minutes from the newly expanded airport on the Dutch side of the island, the resort is on a long stretch of beach and has a great on-site spa and a friendly staff.

The resort has just announced new destination wedding packages for a variety of budgets. Best of all: you'll earn two nights free when booking 10 rooms or more!

The Packages: Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino's ceremony packages include everything from official marriage licenses, professional photography, live musicians and flower arrangements, to decadent extras such as in-room champagne breakfasts and couples massages. Bride and groom can keep it simple with the Silver package, starting at $1,450, or go for more with the Gold package at $1,850. Anyone can make a splash with the elaborate Platinum package for $2,450. Additional events, like a sunset cruise for the wedding party, can also be customized.

Reception packages of Ruby, Pearl and Diamond range from tasteful cocktail celebrations, to gourmet five-course dinners.

Bonus: Wedding couples confirming 10 or more rooms per night at the resort and themselves receive a two-night complimentary stay in an Ocean View Suite, a deluxe welcome amenity, and choice of one 55-minute couples' massage at The Good Life Spa.

Wedding Sites: You'll have your choice of private outdoor locations include the Wedding Gazebo (perched on a cliff just above the Caribbean Sea), Sonesta Garden and Upper Pool.

Room Rates: Rates at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino begin at $260 per room, per night based on single or double occupancy now through April 18, 2008. Rates are room only and are subject to 21% tax and surcharge. All-inclusive rates are also available.

Why It's Dreamy: The Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino in Dutch St. Maarten is a "destination within a destination," offering exciting nightlife and a variety of accommodations and first-rate amenities. The 10-acre, 537-room beachfront property is located on the island's southwest shore and features a casino and adjacent showroom, Theatre Royale; the island's hottest nightclub, Q-Club; two outdoor pools and beach; three restaurants; a promenade of 40 boutiques and restaurants; four tennis courts; the world-class Good Life Spa, fitness center and more.

For more information:
• call 1-800-223-0757
• visit www.sonesta.com/mahobeach

Labels: Caribbean, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 2:04 PM

1232008: Fairmont Announces Holidates for New Valentine's Couples

Are you a new couple looking for a unique romantic idea this Valentine's? Something besides roses and a candlelight dinner for two? How about a Holidate?

You may be thinking it's far too early for all that multi-day, 24-hour, shared-bathroom intimacy. How will we fill our days? Will we tire of each other? Should I reserve two rooms? And once we’re there, how do I take romance beyond a bunch of long-stemmed roses to make this a date to remember?

Relax. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has packaged a series of romantic dating sojourns and called them Holidates. Just for lovers, these packages are tailored to overcoming the trials and tribulations of new love. Questions are answered with a tally of tips, lists of dos and don’ts, and sample itineraries guaranteed to fan the flames of love.

Each Holidate plays off each property's romantic attractions and beautiful surroundings.

Sample Packages: A sampling of Holidates with rates from $259 to $1,435 per couple include:

• The Icebreaker holidate at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac offers the cool choice of Ice Climbing or visiting the Ice Hotel, a romantic dinner and breakfast in bed.

• The Fairmont Copley Plaza’s Sizzle in the City holidate features Champagne and exclusive lounge access for getting to know each another. Advance consultation with the Fairmont Gold Concierge helps orchestrate a weekend guaranteed to impress.

• The Drunk with Love holidate at The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa offers limo transportation, a gorgeous suite with rose-petal turndown, high altitude hot air ballooning and more.

• The Fairmont Chicago’s Wooed In the Windy City holidate offers a swanky suite, exclusive couples spa treatments in a private setting and the ultra-sexy Kama Sutra turndown.

For More Information:
• visit www.fairmont.com/promotions/holidates

Labels: Canada, USA, Valentine's

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

1212008: Nisbet Offers Wedding Package

We've been lucky enough to have stayed at many beautiful beachside resorts through the years but one we've enjoyed is truly unique: Nisbet Plantation Beach Club. This historic greathouse, surrounded by beautiful cottages and 30 acres of palm trees, is the only historic plantation inn in the Caribbean that's right on the beach. (Most of the plantations in the islands were built up on the hills to take advantage of sea breezes during those years before air conditioning.)

One thing we really remember about Nisbet is the beautiful, majestic walk from the greathouse to the beach, a walk lined with towering palm trees...perfect for a bride's entrance on her wedding day. Nisbet is a top wedding destination (they've got an in-house wedding planner and a 12-page wedding guide you can download . They've also got a wedding package and romance package:

The Wedding Package: The wedding package includes:

• One-hour private massage (both the bride and groom) to help relax and reduce those pre-wedding jitters in the The Palms Spa, recently redesigned, expanded and relocated
• Your choice of Plantation wedding location, such as the beach, Nisbet "Avenue of the Palms" or another romantic backdrop; Leave the decorating to Nisbet
• A bottle of chilled French champagne
• Bridal Bouquet/Flowers
• Beautifully decorated wedding cake
• Services of a wedding co-coordinator
• Photography services and 24 color photos
• License, registration and Minister's fee
• Transportation to and from authorities as necessary
Price: $1,395

The Romance Package: The Romance Package includes:

• 7 fabulous days and 6 intimate nights in one of 36 charming cottages
• Breakfast in bed, served with champagne the first morning on Nevis
• Daily breakfast al fresco at the beachside restaurant, Coconuts
• Daily afternoon tea
• One romantic gourmet dinner for two right on the beach
• Plus 5 exquisite dinners at Nisbet Plantation's Great House
• Sailing cruise
• Lunch at Sunshine's, the famous Nevis beach bar and enjoy Killer Bees with grilled shrimp or another of Sunshine’s barbecued specialties (taxi service included)
• Two-day car rental
• Two deep massages at The Palms Spa at Nisbet Plantation Beach Club
Price: This package starts at $5,070.

To Arrange a Wedding: Call the resort's wedding coordinator, Leonora, at 869-469-9325.

Why It's Dreamy: Nisbet Plantation Beach Club is the Caribbean’s only deluxe plantation inn located directly on the beach. It is also one of the Caribbean’s historic sugar plantations and the ancestral home of Fanny Nisbet, the wife of Britain's most famous naval hero — Lord Admiral Horatio Nelson. The plantation’s restored Great House, which dates from 1778, and 36 charming cottages all with modern conveniences are set in 30 acres of lush tropical foliage. The resort recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation.

For more information:
* visit www.NisbetPlantation.com
• call (800) 742-6008 toll free in North America, or direct to Nisbet Plantation, Nevis (869) 469-9325

Labels: Caribbean, weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 1:21 PM

1172008: Valentine Package in Paris

Paris is synonymous with romance so what better place to enjoy Valentine's Day? We just received word of this new package from Concorde Hotels & Resorts. The Je t’aime Romance package at one of the group’s six historic and centrally located Parisian hotels.

The Package: The Je t’aime Romance package includes:

* An exquisite daily buffet breakfast
* Welcome glass of champagne for two
* one Box of Sweets
* Complimentary WHERE TO KISS IN PARIS book which guides visitors to the most romantic places to kiss in the “city of love”

The Hotels: Participating Concorde Hotels & Resorts in Paris include:

* Hotel Concorde Montparnasse (from approx. $250/night) -- Located in the heart of Montparnasse, the exceptional location offers a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower.

* Hotel Concorde La Fayette (from approx. $272/night) -- Ideally located between the Champs-Elysées and La Défense, this hotel boasts unique views of the city.

* Hotel Concorde St. Lazare (from approx. $309/night) -- This grand 19th century hotel is a short walk away from the Opéra Garnier and the famous Parisian department stores. The hotel’s entrance hall—listed as a historic monument—and its exclusively designed furnishings give it a unique charm.

* Hotel Ambassador (from approx. $339/night) -- Just a few steps away from the famous Opéra Garnier and the Grands Magasins (department stores), guests are surrounded by a unique aesthetic that blends traditional and modern influences.

* Hotel Lutetia (from approx. $398/night) -- The West Bank’s grand hotel lies in the heart of Saint-Germain des Prés and its fashion boutiques, just a few steps away from the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Musée d’Orsay, and facing Le Bon Marché, the famous Parisian department store.

* Hotel du Louvre (from approx. $413/night) -- The most Parisian of the hotels, it faces the Musée du Louvre and the Opéra Garnier. In the heart of Paris’ fashion district, Hotel du Louvre is set apart by its colorful interior design, inspired by the authentic style of the Napoleon III era.

Dates: Stay anytime from February 8 through February 17 (no minimum night stay is required).

Price: Rates start at approximately $250 per night, per room. Rates listed above reflect US dollar to Euro rates on the date of January 9, 2008. Rates may fluctuate and vary depending on hotels, and rooms are subject to availability. The Je t’aime Romance package is also available at other Concorde Hotels & Resorts located in Spain, Germany, Switzerland and France.

For more information:
• call 800-888-4747
• visit www.concorde-hotels.com

Labels: Europe, Valentine's

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 10:21 AM

192008: Contest for the World's Greatest Love Story

We just received word of two new romantic contests sponsored by Sandals Resorts, 1-800-FLOWERS.COM® and YouTube™--ones that highlight romantic stories with video.

With the contests, you can enter a video of your wedding proposal or love story on YouTube™ for the opportunity to win romantic prizes, including a Luxury Included™ vacation and Preston Bailey Signature WeddingMoons package at Sandals Resorts. Winning video entries will also be featured on the YouTube™ homepage in time for Valentine’s Day.

"Will You Marry Me?" Contest

The “Will You Marry Me?” contest allows contestants the opportunity to submit a video of a wedding proposal to www.youtube.com/greatestlovestories between now and January 30th, 2008. The winning submission will be played on YouTube™ homepage on Monday, February 11, 2008.

The Prize: The grand prize winner will receive one year of flowers from 1-800-FLOWERS.COM®, a diamond engagement ring from Blue Nile, first class travel for four (4) on American Airlines, and a Sandals Resorts Preston Bailey Signature WeddingMoons® package featuring Preston Bailey’s new Sea Mist collection. This Luxury Included™ getaway includes six days and five nights at any one of the twelve Sandals Resorts located in Jamaica, Antigua, St. Lucia or The Bahamas.

"Video Valentine" Contest

The “Video Valentine” contest will allow contestants to share the story of how they fell in love, by submitting a creative and entertaining video to www.youtube.com/greatestlovestories between now and January 30th, 2008.

Starting on February 4th, the YouTube™ community will vote for their favorite “Video Valentine” entries.

The Prize: The grand prize winner will receive a year of flowers from 1-800-FLOWERS.COM®, a pair of diamond earrings from Blue Nile, first class travel for two (2) on American Airlines, and a Sandals Resorts, four-day, three-night Luxury Included™ vacation, in addition to having their winning video play on the YouTube™ homepage on Valentine’s Day.

Labels: Valentine's

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:27 PM

01082008: How About Valentine's in Morocco?

Got a case of "been there, done that" when it comes to romantic getaways? Then how about Valentine's in Morocco? Octogone TERRE Resort & Spa in Marrakech is offering a Valentine's Day package. You'd be surprised how easy the flight from the US to Morocco is...we went for a few days and, from the East Coast, it's an easy flight.

The Package: The Valentine's Day Package includes:

• Round trip airport pickup and transfers from Menara Airport
• Two nights accommodation in choice of suite
• Daily breakfast for two served in room or anywhere throughout the hotel
• Guided tour of the famed "Red City" of Marrakech
• A complimentary bottle of Moroccan wine and appetizers served in room after the tour
• A private candlelit Moroccan dinner served in a traditional tent
• A traditional hamman in the Sanctuary Spa followed by massage treatment for two
Poolside lunch service
• A romantic evening carriage ride through Marrakech
• A complimentary champagne nightcap with assorted Moroccan pastries
• Souvenir gift

Price: Offered throughout the month of February, the 3-day, 2-night Valentine's Package is priced from $1,240 USD, per night for a Junior Suite, $1,630 USD per night for a Suite and $1,880 USD, per night for a Romance Suite. Rates are for double occupancy, subject to availability and exclusive of tax. Rates are subject to 10% government tax and a local tourist tax of 27 dirham (about $3.50 USD) per person, per day. (USD rates are based on exchange rate on 1/8/08 of 1 Moroccan Dirham = 0.13 USD.)

Why It's Dreamy: Located in the Palmeraie Desert, the all-suites TERRE Resort & Spa, which opened in 2006, offers a luxury getaway with easy access to Marrakech (just 7 km away) --an oasis from which to explore the city's colorful bazaars, lively souks, and bustling medinas. The 52-room luxury suite property is set on almost 12 acres of land in its own small village. Facilities include three restaurants, a full-service spa, an infinity pool, tennis courts, a fitness center, golf putting area, and access to a nearby world-class golf courses.

For more information:
• call: (480) 503-8022 or (800) 915-4012
• visit http://www.octogonehotels.com/

Labels: Africa, Valentine's

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 3:07 PM

01102008: Valentine's Package at Two Bunch Palms

Heat things up this Valentine's Day at Desert Hot Springs, California where Two Bunch Palms Resort & Spa is offering a romantic package with 14 indulgent essentials. The resort, located at natural hot springs, is offering the three-night stay which includes several spa treatments both for the couple and individually, a four-course dinner, Champagne, strawberries, roses, massage oil and more to help you set the mood for your romantic getaway.

The Package: Renowned for its innovative spa offerings and experienced therapists, Two Bunch Palms lets loved ones immerse themselves in some of the spa’s most enticing treatments with the “You’re the 1-4 Me” package, including:

• A Pagoda Swedish Massage for Two (60 minutes) A traditional oil massage utilizing long, flowing strokes
• A Watsu “A Deux” for Two (60 minutes) A gentle Shiatsu treatment, performed in a private, warm mineral water pool, where the body is cradled and stretched in the supporting arms of the therapist
• A Mud & Sun for Two (30 minutes) A private, individual mud bath, followed by time under the warm desert sun and an invigorating hot mineral shower
• An Deep Cleansing Facial for Two (75 minutes) A facial massage, steam hydration, deep cleansing, extractions and a neck, shoulder, hand and foot massage using skin-smoothing and rejuvenating enzyme serums and emulsions
• A Body Facial for One (90 minutes) An exfoliating scrub, a rinse, and a soothing, oiled massage, followed by a peppermint peel
• An Ayurvedic Massage for One (60 minutes) A highly-specialized, synchronized massage featuring two therapists using essential oils, specifically blended according to the client’s dosha, or body type, which are poured along energetic pathways and massaged into the body

And beyond the deeply soothing spa treatments, the “You’re the 1-4 Me” package further seduces with:

• A Casanova four-course dinner for two, including a bottle of wine, in the onsite dining room
• A 14 red velvet rose arrangement with a personalized card
• One bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne
• One dozen chocolate-covered strawberries
• An Energy Muse “Love” necklace and bracelet set
• An Archipelago scented candle
• One 8-ounce bottle of Elizabeth Van Buren massage oil

Price: The price for the “You’re the 1-4 Me” package is dependent on room choice, and starts at $2,699 (spa gratuities not included).

Why It's Dreamy: Two Bunch Palms Resort & Spa, a 56-acre natural hot mineral springs desert oasis, features suites and villas, a California-cuisine restaurant and a world-renowned spa with more than 45 treatments. A natural lithium mineral hot spring grotto flows through the heart of the property, surrounded by both landscaped gardens and preserved wilderness areas.

For more information:
• call (800) 472-4334
• visit www.twobunchpalms.com

Labels: USA, Valentine's

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 2:53 PM

01022008: Victoria's Villa Marco Polo Offers Romanza Package

How about all the romance of Italy...and the convenience of Victoria, British Columbia?

The romantic Villa Marco Polo is, for the first time, offering the “Romanza” package for couples looking beyond the traditional ‘flowers and chocolates’ ritual. With tickets to the Opera, a fabulous Italian feast and an overnight at the Villa, this is one Valentine’s Day you'll both remember.

The Package:

After taking some time to relax and prepare for the evening, dress in your finest and head into Victoria for an evening on the town. You’ll enjoy an early candlelit dinner at Zambri’s, one of Victoria’s most renowned Italian restaurants. Known for its extensive wine list, and sophisticated yet authentic bistro-style dishes, you’re sure to discover why Zagat rated it the “best Italian food in the city”.

After dinner, stroll the peaceful moonlit streets of Victoria on your way to Pacific Opera Victoria. The Villa Marco Polo has provided you with prime seats for the evening performance of Madama Butterfly, Puccini’s celebrated love story. One of the world’s most popular operas for over a century, this presentation is authentically performed in Italian with English subtitles, perfect for new and experienced audiences alike. When the show ends, feel free to linger over a glass of wine, or enjoy a late-night stroll through the Inner Harbour, before retiring to your suite at the Inn. It’s your special night to spend as you wish.

Back at the Villa, the library offers a selection of books, games, and a cozy fireplace to curl up next to. For those who prefer to relax in privacy, the pre-loaded iPod and docking station in each room is a sure favorite. Opening in February 2008, a full service spa upstairs will provide pampering massages and facials. In the morning, a gourmet four-course breakfast provides a decadent start to the new day.

Price: Rates for the package are $250per person (based on double occupancy), including one night’s accommodation, $100 credit per couple at Zambri’s, and two prime tickets to Madama Butterfly.

Dates: The Romanza package is available on Feb 14-15, 16-17, 19-20, 21-22 and 23-24.

To guarantee opera tickets, the package must be booked by January 10th, but tickets may be available closer to the date as well. Additional nights can be added on at $100 per person.

Why It's Dreamy: The Italian Renaissance-style Villa was designed with romance in mind, as it was built as a gift to a young bride in 1923. The four enchanting suites each offer their own special charm, with double soaker tubs and separate tiled showers, fine European linens, hardwood floors, and premium king-size beds.

For More Information:
• call (877) 601-1524
• visit http://www.villamarcopolo.com

Labels: Canada, Valentine's

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

132008: Anguilla's Cap Juluca Announces Romantic Rendezvous Program

If the two of you love beaches plus peace and quiet and fine dining, tiny Anguilla just might be the island for you. A favorite with the rich and famous set, this island near St. Martin is home to some of the Caribbean's finest beaches, best restaurants, and a sense of peace and quiet you just don't find on the larger islands. One of the nicest properties on the island is Cap Juluca which just announced its eight day/seven night 'Romantic Rendezvous' program.

The Package: The romance plan features:
• beachfront accommodation for two
• Champagne on arrival
• four dinners for two at any of Cap Juluca's three restaurants or from room service, excluding beverages
• a one-hour couples massage
• an all day snorkeling trip to Prickly Pear, including lunch and beverages
• one day car rental (insurance not included)
• arrival and departure taxi transfers from Anguilla's airport or the ferry.

Complimentary to all Cap Juluca guests is Continental breakfast served on the guests' private and spacious terrace or in the restaurant, accompanied by a fax version of The New York Times; all water sports, including water skiing; day and night tennis on three courts; croquet; practice golf at the aqua driving range and putting green; use of the fitness center; bottle of rum and mini-bar set up; afternoon tea; sorbet served to beach-goers; and horticultural tours. A wide variety of spa treatments is available.

Price: Depending on type of room, rates per couple from Jan. 4-March 31 range from $8,405-$12,295; April 1-30 and Nov. 16-Dec. 17, $5,745-$7,555; and $4,770-$6,495 from May 1- Nov. 15, 2008, for Superior, Luxury and Junior Suite accommodations. This includes the 10% tax and 10% service charge for items in the package. Extra nights are available.

Why It's Dreamy: Cap Juluca is a secluded, sophisticated and romantic 179-acre retreat with 72 rooms and suites and six pool villas located in 18 very private white Moorish style beachfront villas. All rooms have ocean views and are air-conditioned. The resort is located on the the powder white sand of Maundays Bay beach. In September 2007, Cap Juluca was ranked the #1 Caribbean resort by readers of Andrew Harper's prestigious "Hideaway Report", a position it has held since 2002. It also was voted #4 on Harper's "Top 20 International Resorts" list. Cap Juluca is a member of Leading Small Hotels of the World.

For more information:
• call 1-888-858-5822, 1-305-466-0916 or phone direct to the hotel, 1-264-497-6779
• visit www.capjuluca.com

Labels: Caribbean

posted by Lovetripper.com /Click for permalink 1:51 PM