Fairmont Offers Romantic Mini Moons
Sure you've got an eye on the budget, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice romance whether it's for your honeymoon or a romantic getaway. We've just received news of these numerous mini-'moon offers from Fairmont with locations in some of North America's most romantic places:
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Canadian RockiesFor an unforgettable honeymoon, mini-mooners can head to The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for an alpine adventure at this picturesque romantic retreat in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. At this secluded retreat couples can stargaze at a night sky filled with thousands of twinkling lights as they stroll alongside the pristine trails that line famous Lake Louise. The resort's Mountain Romance package includes nightly accommodation, sparkling wine, chocolates and a bath amenity upon arrival in addition to breakfast for two daily.
- Rates start at $244 per night.
Fairmont Southampton, BermudaJust a two-hour flight from the East Coast, Bermuda is an obvious choice for an island mini-moon. The Fairmont Southampton is the ideal spot to enjoy the island's engaging climate, pink sand beaches, cerulean waters and spectacular sunsets. As part of the resort's Sizzling Summer offer, couples can stay four nights and enjoy a $400 dollar resort credit. This lets mini-mooners customize their getaway by using the resort credit at any of the onsite restaurants, the Willow Stream Spa, Jet Ski excursions or golf.
- Rates start at $299 per night.
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, CaliforniaCouples from San Francisco have been known to take their mini-moons to wine country, which is filled with everything you'd need for your ultimate romantic retreat. The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is particularly perfect for newlyweds with easy access to a world-class spa, fantastic golf, award-winning restaurants and natural mineral hot springs. With the Rejuvenation Package guests enjoy breakfast in bed daily, one 60-minute Spa treatment (up to a value of $159 USD) per person per paid night and complimentary access to the European Bathing Ritual, which features an exfoliating shower, two mineral water soaking pools, an herbal steam, dry sauna, and cool down showers.
- Rates start at $416 per night.
Fairmont Battery Wharf, BostonFrom world-class museums and performing arts to historic landmarks and beautiful green space, Boston offers endless opportunities for an enchanting urban mini-moon. Stroll through the narrow streets of the historic North End and let the Boston Harbor be the backdrop for this memorable getaway. Fairmont Battery Wharf, Boston's newest waterfront hotel, offers the perfect romantic escape with its Champagne Dream Package. This getaway includes overnight accommodation and a bottle of Champagne upon arrival.
- Rates start at $289 per night.
Fairmont Orchid, HawaiiHawaii is the quintessential honeymoon destination, and at The Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island's Kohala Coast you can live your dream mini-moon. Stay in the luxurious resort now through December and receive your third night free. And when you reserve an oceanfront room, you can also enjoy a $200 resort credit to spend on whatever you desire.
- Rates start at $449 per night.
Fairmont Le Château Montebello, QuebecIn Quebec, romance comes naturally at Fairmont Le Château Montebello, where active couples can enjoy horseback riding, golf, outdoor tennis, swimming, cross-country skiing, curling, dogsledding, tubing, Canada's only Land Rover Experience Driving School, and a brand new Spa on their fast-paced mini-moon. On top of all of the exhilarating activities at the resort, the Romance Getaway Package offers Moët & Chandon Champagne, fresh flowers and chocolates, romantic table d'hôte dinners at Aux Chantignoles restaurant, in-room breakfast and turndown service including luxurious bath products.
- Rates start at $337 per night.
Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, MexicoFor a true taste of the exotic, go no further than Fairmont Mayakoba in Mexico's stunning Riviera Maya. The Sweet Deal Package offers a timeless experience for happy couples looking to celebrate. With a minimum 4-night stay, the package includes a $250 room credit per room, complimentary access to Willow Stream spa facilities, breakfast daily and a complimentary boat tour of the water canals with an ecology expert. For her, the purchase of any 60-minute à-la-carte spa service at regular price also comes with a 30-minute customized spa treatment. For him, the purchase of a round of golf at El Camaleón means he can play as many rounds as he wants on that same day.
- Rates start at $279 per night.
The Fairmont Algonquin, New BrunswickA soothing seaside retreat is an enchanting romantic escape for couples after their wedding, and with The Fairmont Algonquin, newlyweds need go no further than charming New Brunswick. Overlooking the historic Passamaquoddy Bay, the historical Tudor-style "Castle-by-the-Sea" is an idyllic retreat that offers couples romantic sunset cruises and sunny beaches in addition to fine dining and world-class golf. The resort's Let's Fall in Love Package includes a relaxing couple's massage at the award-winning Willow Stream Spa, sparkling wine and chocolate covered strawberries delivered to your room and breakfast in bed each morning.
- Rates start at $402 per night.
Fairmont Royal York, TorontoFor couples that love city life, a quick post-nuptial trip to Toronto has much to offer. At the Fairmont Royal York, stay in a hotel that has seen three generations of the British Royal Family pass through its doors with the Royal Romance Package. Starting with a romantic welcome gift consisting of a bottle of sparkling wine, a box of chocolates, and a copy of Twenty Love Poems by Pablo Neruda, you can also enjoy a cozy breakfast in bed for two each morning.
- Rates start at $257 per night.
The Fine Print: All packages unless noted otherwise are subject to availability, priced per room, per night, exclude taxes and are based on double occupancy. Prices quoted are in US dollars unless noted otherwise.
For More Information:Labels: Canada, Caribbean, Dreamy Deal of the Day, Mexico
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 4:36 PM
“Close to Home” Travel Deals Offered for 2009
Are you an American Express Platinum cardholder? If so, check out the "Close to Home" travel deals being offered for 2009 for destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean and U.S. You've got until March 31 to book to take advantage of these romantic getaways:
The Grand Del Mar, San Diego - Stay 2 nights, receive complimentary third night
- Book by March 31, with Platinum Travel Service, receive room upgrade if available upon check-in, daily breakfast for 2 and $100 resort credit
Colonial New England and Canada - Holland America- 7-day cruise of Boston, Bar Harbor, Halifax, Sydney, Charlottetown, Quebec City, Montreal
- Book by March 31, receive two-category upgrade on outside staterooms or up to $300 shipboard credit per suite, complimentary Mariner Club onboard host, cocktail party and shore excursion
- Prices from $899 per guest, including up to $570 savings
Oceanfront South Beach Flair – The Tides South Beach- Stay 3 nights, receive complimentary fourth night
- Book by December 22, with Platinum Travel Service, receive room upgrade if available, upon check-in, and complimentary lunch for 2, valid on select dates for travel through December 26
Kohala Coast, Big Island, Hawaii -Classic Vacations- 7 night Stay at the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii
- Every 3rd night free (2 free nights) + $200 Resort Credit + up to $500 Air Credit
- Book by December 15, travel now through December 20
- Special Rates from $1419 per person, receive amenities valued up to $2000 per couple
Labels: Canada, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:03 PM
Where Have Spring Break Prices Dropped the Most?
Are you still looking for a spring break destination? If you're watching your budget (what are we saying...who ISN'T?), check out this list just released by Orbitz. It covers the top 10 three-star and four-star properties in North America, Mexico and the Caribbean that offer the biggest savings in average daily hotel rates (ADR) for March 1 - April 15, 2009 as compared to the same period in 2008.
Here are your biggest price losers...which definitely make them winners:
Three Star Hotels
ADR ADR YOY ADR %
Ranking Destination 2009* 2008** Change
1 Barbados $89 $325 -72%
2 Banff, Canada $56 $124 -55%
3 Las Vegas, NV $48 $104 -54%
4 Puerto Rico $106 $220 -52%
5 Taos, NM $70 $142 -51%
6 Dominican Republic $151 $293 -48%
7 Winter Park, CO $84 $160 -48%
8 Whistler, BC $160 $248 -36%
9 St. Lucia $197 $301 -34%
10 Turks & Caicos $254 $386 -34%
*Based on Average Daily Hotel Rates (ADR) of 3-Star hotel bookings made on Orbitz.com by 2/23/09, for travel between 3/1/09 and 4/15/09.
** Based on Average Daily Hotel Rates (ADR) of 3-Star hotel bookings made on Orbitz.com by 2/23/08, for travel between 3/1/08 and 4/15/08.
Four Star Hotels
ADR ADR YOY ADR %
Ranking Destination 2009* 2008** Change
1 Puerto Rico $130 $336 -61%
2 Nassau, Bahamas $121 $269 -55%
3 Bermuda $137 $300 -54%
4 Barbados $328 $702 -53%
5 St. Kitts $148 $310 -52%
6 Biloxi, MS $91 $169 -46%
7 Jamaica $137 $250 -45%
8 Las Vegas, NV $87 $152 -43%
9 Jackson Hole, WY $169 $279 -39%
10 Crested Butte, CO $250 $412 -39%
*Based on Average Daily Hotel Rates (ADR) of 4-Star hotel bookings made on Orbitz.com by 2/23/09, for travel between 3/1/09 and 4/15/09.
** Based on Average Daily Hotel Rates (ADR) of 4-Star hotel bookings made on Orbitz.com by 2/23/08, for travel between 3/1/08 and 4/15/08.Labels: Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:53 PM
372008: Butchart Gardens Says I Do to Weddings
In Victoria, British Columbia, The Butchart Gardens has not offered weddings in the gardens since its opening in 1904 -- until now. During the winter indoor garden season of mid-January through the end of March every year, Butchart Gardens will offer weddings as well as wedding photography.
"We have been asked by many people over the years to hold weddings in our garden, and we feel that at this time of year one could not find a more beautiful indoor venue offering such an intimate location of great beauty," said Robin Clarke, owner of The Butchart Gardens. "Areas of our outdoor gardens will also be available for wedding photographs during this time."
You'll find wedding packages for ceremonies of up to sixty people. Options include wedding photographs alone, a ceremony and reception, or a reception or dinner in The Dining Room Restaurant. All packages include indoor and outdoor photo rights. For those choosing to have a ceremony, a two-hour rehearsal time is also included.
For More Information:• visit the
wedding section of The Butchart Gardens websiteLabels: Canada, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:57 AM
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/holidatesLabels: Canada, USA, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:58 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.comLabels: Canada, Valentine's
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:43 PM
Call of the Wild Package in Victoria, BC
Just three blocks from Victoria's Inner Harbour and the city's top restaurants, Abigail’s offers couples 23 rooms, each elegantly decorated with warm colours, antique furnishings, down duvets, marble bathrooms, and flat screen LCD televisions. Some rooms feature wood burning fireplaces, four poster beds, Jacuzzis, and claw foot tubs.
The Package: Abigail’s new “Call of the Wild” package offers couples everything they need to enjoy their time spent inside. This playful package includes the following sensual elements:
• Half hour couples’ massage tutorial, which teaches the finer points on how to create a sensual massage experience at home
• Leopard-print tray filled with a ‘how to’ guide and seductive massage oil, scented candles, and other enticing surprises
• Bottle of champagne and “aphrodisiac” appetizer platter delivered to your room in the evening
• Three-course gourmet breakfast in bed
Price: The “Call of the Wild” package rates start at $361 per night, based on double occupancy.
For more information:• visit
www.abigailshotel.com• call 1-800-561-6565
Abigail's Boutique HotelLabels: Canada
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 4:04 PM
Canada's Ice Hotel Plans for January Opening
Cold weather means snuggly weather--and no place is more snuggly than an ice hotel. Ice Hotel Quebec-Canada will open its doors for the seventh season starting January 5, 2007, remaining open through April 1. This year the hotel will include the N'Ice Bar, redesigned to recreate the mythical city of Atlantis.
More Lovetripper coverage of the Ice Hotel:
•
Weddings at the Ice Hotel•
Vow Renewals at the hotel•
Quebec's Ice Hotel• and
Sweden's Ice Hotel Labels: Canada
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:55 PM
Fairmont Sets Scene for Romance
If you're a movie buff, you'll know that several romantic flicks--from Dr. Zhivago to Notting Hill--included scenes filmed at Fairmont hotels and resorts. Check out the new
romantic packages and promotions offered by several Fairmont properties, all keyed to making sure yours is a big screen romance.
Labels: Canada
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 2:07 PM
Cool Getaways in Canada
Yesterday it was 104 degrees at our house so every August we always start dreaming of trips to cool destinations (at least
cooler). One good choice for couples: Canada. Check out our article on
Cool Summer Getaways in Canada for some ideas for your August getaway.
Labels: Canada
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 3:30 PM
Niagara Falls Honeymoons
Niagara Falls has long been a honeymoon favorite (it was THE place to go in the 50s) and today it's sporting a fresh face. The two of you can make your home away from home in a high-rise casino with a view of the falls or head to Niagara-on-the-Lake for a cozy B&B. Check out our extensive
Niagara Falls Honeymoon section for everything from accommodations to romantic activities to dining.
Labels: Canada
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 10:59 AM
Funjet Vacations Adding Niagara Falls
We've vacationed in the Caribbean with Funjet Vacations but now this Milwaukee-based company is adding six new Canadian destinations, including Niagara Falls.
Vacations to
Niagara Falls from Chicago O'Hare with three nights' accommodations at The Oakes Overlooking the Falls in a fallside room start at $534.99 per person. This price is valid for Monday and Tuesday departures via United Airlines July 10 through September 4, 2006.
The other new Canada destinations include Montreal, Victoria, Quebec City, Toronto, and Vancouver.
For More Information:• call your local travel agent
• visit funjet.com
Labels: Canada, USA
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 4:32 PM
Hastings House Offers Destination Weddings in British Columbia
We can say firsthand that Salt Spring Island is a real beauty. Just a short hop from Victoria or Vancouver, British Columbia, the island is home to the pampering Hastings House Country Estate, located on 22 acres of natural emerald forest and sheep pastures, manicured lawns, and vibrant gardens. The property offers destination weddings with the backdrop of this slice of paradise.
The Wedding Package: The Hastings House Wedding Package is offered for the bride and groom for CDN$4025,* exclusive of additional beverages, taxes and gratuities and includes:
• Transportation to and from seaplane dock or ferry terminal on Salt Spring Island
• accommodations in a deluxe suite for 3 nights
• rooms personalized with the name of the guests on the door
• basket of fruit and treats from Hastings House kitchen
• daily morning wake-up hamper, breakfast and afternoon tea
• 3-course dinner in the Dining Room of the Manor House
• 6-course dinner in the Dining Room or Verandah
• 3-course fireside dinner in the newlyweds’ suite or private balcony
• license and commissioner (similar to a justice of the peace)
• transportation to and from government office to obtain marriage license
• champagne and cake, served in location of couple’s choice
• floral bouquet, boutonniere, and table arrangement
• copy of Hastings House Country Estate, a coffee table book with recipes, beautiful resort photography and history about the property’s colorful past.
This package may be expanded to include members of the wedding party and guests. Up to 48 people can be accommodated in the hotel’s suites; additional accommodations can be arranged nearby for larger groups. Additionally, a customized version can be arranged by the resort’s wedding planner to incorporate special interests, guest preferences, and more.
Wedding Venues: Hastings House can host parties from 2 to 80 guests with several distinctive indoor and outdoor wedding locations including: the rustic and private Summerhouse on the Point, the vine-covered Wishing Well, the Flower Gardens, the Orchard, or the harbor view Lower Patio or front lawns.
Expert on-site wedding planning by Hastings House’s Manager Shirley McLaughlin helps each couple create their dream wedding, with skillful coordination of all aspects from obtaining the license to arranging wedding commissioners who perform the ceremony, florists, musicians, photographers and the culinary team. Additional services such as hair and makeup styling and spa treatments are available to complete the wedding experience. For religious ceremonies, a horse and carriage can also carry the bride and groom from nearby churches for receptions at Hastings House. Various packages are offered depending on the size of the wedding party, each providing VIP treatment.
Why It's Dreamy: A member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux hotel group since 1986, Hastings House Country Estate continues to rank as one of the premiere island destinations in British Columbia. The resort was named the Best Canadian Resort by Zagat, has been an Andrew Harper Award Winner eight times, and features among Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 3 in Canadian Hotels on the 2004 “Readers’ Choice Awards” as well as the magazine’s “Gold List.”
The Manor House, built in 1938-40 to resemble the 11th-century Sussex family home of Warren Hastings, a WWII naval architect, has two upper level guest suites with leaded glass windows and flat stone fireplaces, wide-plank fir floors and beams. Nine guests suites are in lovingly restored historic buildings scattered around the property, including the Post, a private two-room cottage that was the original Hudson Bay’s trading post on the island. Seven deluxe suites overlooking the harbor offer rustic elegance with large soaking tubs with separate shower, heated tile floors and towel bars, fireplaces, and water views from every bedroom, balcony and sitting room.
Getting There: Float plane service is available to Salt Spring Island from Vancouver, BC and Seattle, WA. British Columbia Ferry Corporation, with terminals at Tsawwassen (near Vancouver) and Swartz Bay (near Victoria), also provides car ferry service to the island. The closest airports are located at Victoria, Vancouver and Seattle and are served by several international carriers and connector airlines.
For More Information:• call (250) 537-2362
• fax (250) 537-5333
• visit
www.hastingshouse.comLabels: Canada, weddings
posted by Paris & John /Click for permalink 1:25 PM
