U.S. Honeymoon: East Coast

Now we’re taking you toward the Atlantic, to feature some favorite East Coast destinations that would be perfect for a honeymoon! Here’s Katie:

Sole East Resort in Montauk New York

The Sole East Resort in Montauk is a great, stylish, boutique hotel.  The bungalow like rooms are all unique and decorated in casual beach style.

They have beach cruisers you can rent, weekend pool parties, and a fire pit.

While here you can go fishing, surfing, biking, golfing or sailing.

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, South Carolina

This hotel located at Kiawah Island, near Charleston in South Carolina.  Here you can experience southern hospitality at its finest.

The rooms open up to a balcony with amazing ocean views.  Plus there are a number of fabulous restaurants at the resort.

There is a spa, tennis, golf, and a great pool, all while being right on the beach.

Mondrian Hotel, Miami

Are you a couple that likes the nightlife and are looking to spice up your evenings after a day on the beach? For you modern couples that like a little funk in your lives, visit Miami and stay at the incredible Mondrian Hotel. This gorgeous locale is situated on the Biscanyne Bay side of Miami Beach.  So while you are still close to the action, you still feel slightly removed.

The look of the hotel is gorgeous, filled with unexpected accessories that come together for an amazing look.

While in Miami you can relax on the great beaches, enjoy the shopping, the nightlife, and of course the incredible restaurants.

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U.S. Honeymoon: The West

U.S. destinations are often ignored by honeymooners. But we have so many fabulous places worth visiting, so today we wanted to bring you a few notable U.S. resorts that are worth mentioning if your planning on staying stateside. Katie has rounded up some goodies that I know you’ll immediately want to visit…especially if they are within driving distance.

The Carneros Inn, Napa

What can compare to the romance of a Napa honeymoon? Fabulous food, gorgeous scenery, romantic inns…and of course, the wine. Mother Nature’s blessed gift from the vine!

If you’re thinking about a honeymoon spent in the Napa Valley, then you must consider The Carneros Inn.  It is a special hotel perched atop Napa Valley wine country.  It is made up of 86 individual cottages, each with its own little garden courtyard–a perfect place to relax after a fun day of wine tasting!

The hotel also has a gorgeous pool, a great spa, and incredible restaurants, which of course serve amazing wine.

Hotel Hana, Maui

You thought we’d leave out Hawaii, did you? Well, we’re sneaking it in under U.S. destinations. And if you’re headed to the islands, we love Hotel Hana!

Hotel Hana is on the quiet and secluded eastern coast of Maui.  Rather than the high rise hotels in the west coast, here you will find quaint cottages with patios to enjoy the great views.

Besides the gorgeous beaches, you can experience real Hawaiian culture, take a helicopter tour of the island, go horseback riding on the beach, and visit the famous Black Sand Beach and cave pools.

The Inn at Langley, Whidbey Island, WA

Whidbey Island is in the heart of Puget Sound, and only about an hour by car and ferry from Seattle.  It is far from the speed of the city though.  The island is the perfect place to do as much or as little as you would like.

Just want to relax?  Get a suite and enjoy the peaceful view from your balcony.  You can go wine tasting at nearby wineries, or just walk around the island.

Want some adventure?  You can go scuba diving, kayaking, bike riding, or even go whale watching.

Honeymoon Budget Tips

Inspiration board by Green Wedding Shoes: Click here for credits!

This week I know we’ve overwhelmed you with tons of idyllic honeymoon locations, but I’m sure many of you may be thinking: “Thanks for nothing…I can’t afford any of this!” So I called on Katie to give us a few more tips about how to get the most out of your honeymoon dollars. In addition to her awesome list, we also wanted to make sure we featured some U.S. honeymoon destination that are just as amazing as their counterparts abroad. That’s coming up later today, but I wanted to start your morning off with some of Katie’s travel tips that I hope you’ll find extremely helpful.

The images I’m featuring are from the unbelievably fabulous Jen at Green Wedding Shoes. You’ve likely seen these inspiration boards because if you’re like me, you’re an avid reader of her blog. I thought they went beautifully with this post, but be sure to check out her original post here, which includes more info and all image credits!

EVER AFTER HONEYMOON BUDGET TIPS

traveling smart

-Register for your honeymoon.  Couples always tell me how shocked they were by the amount of money they received from their honeymoon registries.  Contributing to a honeymoon is much more fun than buying a couple some kitchen appliances!

-Don’t go too far from home.  If you have a limited budget don’t spend a huge portion of it on expensive flights.  Spend it on a great hotel, a spa, dinners, experiences, or whatever else is really important to you.

-Figure out what is a priority for your wedding.  See if you can spend less on other aspects of your wedding in order to have more of your budget go towards your honeymoon.

-Go in “shoulder” season- just traveling a month or two before or after the peak season can save a lot of money.  It can also be a better time to travel.  For example the summer is peak season for Europe, but Spring and Fall has better weather, cheaper rates and less crowds.

Inspiration board by Green Wedding Shoes: Click here for credits!

-Plan ahead of time.  Flights are usually less expensive in advance, and many hotels will offer discounted Advance Purchase specials.  Most honeymoons I plan just require a deposit when you book, and the balance is due closer to your departure date, so you don’t have to come up with the total amount at once.

-Get an airline credit card that provides a lot of bonus miles for signing up.  If you are close to the number of miles you need you can buy the extra miles, which is still cheaper than the flight would cost.

-If you can’t afford your dream honeymoon right after your wedding, just go on a short local trip, and then save up to take your dream honeymoon on  your 1 year anniversary

-If you are trying to stick with a set budget, go for an all inclusive hotel.  This way you will know ahead of time exactly what you will spend on food and drinks.

Inspiration board by Green Wedding Shoes: Click here for credits!

-Go for less time.  Do a shorter honeymoon, and then relax at home for a few days before heading back to work.

-Don’t leave on the Sunday after your wedding.  Sundays and Fridays are the most expensive days to fly.  Just waiting until Monday can save you money.

-Work with a professional like myself.  I can find you the best options within your budget.  It doesn’t cost you anything, and I shop around for the best rates so you don’t have to.  I also have access to special rates, and get my clients special deals only available to an agent like myself.

What are you doing to save for your honeymoon?

Couples Profiled: Beaches

We’d be remiss to leave out those of you whose idea of a perfect honeymoon involves only the necessities: newly minted spouse, chaise lounge, pristine beach, cocktail, and swimsuit (which may or may not be optional). Katie’s rounded up what many would consider the most unbelievably gorgeous beaches in the world. And of course, we’ve thrown together a few outfits for you gals who can’t imagine anything better than trolling around in the waves with your hunky beau. Here’s what Katie’s found:

When most people think of their dream honeymoons, the first thing they picture is an amazing beach. So today I am going to feature great hotels that are lucky enough to reside on unbelievably gorgeous beaches.

Pink Sands Hotel in the Bahamas

Pink Sands Hotel was named after the beach it sits on- Pink Sands Beach located in Harbour Island in the Bahamas.

The hotel is made up of 25 cottages scattered through the gardens. Yes, the hotel is gorgeous, but the pink sand beach takes center stage.

There are no words for the beauty in the contrast of the pink sand with the turquoise water.

Rosewood Mayakoba in Riviera Maya

I absolutely love the Riviera Maya area of Mexico. It has it all- perfect beaches, fun water sports, and amazing hotels. Plus you can visit downtown Playa del Carmen for great shopping or nightlife, or visit the Mayan ruins for some history and culture.

Recently a lot of great hotels have been opening in this area. My favorite happens to be Rosewood Mayakoba. The hotel is very modern and stylish, and the spa is on its own island!

And look at the amazing beach it faces!

My favorite room is the Deluxe Over Water Lagoon Suite, which features a terrace with a private plunge pool and an outdoor garden shower. The rooms sit over water, and actually appear to be floating!

Bedarra Island Resort in Australia

The next hotel is the Bedarra Island Resort located in the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. The floor to ceiling glass walls all face out to the incredible beach. There are just 16 villas, all built into the rainforest.

This hotel is incredibly secluded, private, and luxurious. Have a picnic on a private beach, visit the incredible spa, and have their specialty Miami Mojito cocktail.

And look at this beach!

For you beach faring beauties, here’s what we’d love to see you don…if you decide you need to cover up a little:

FOR HER: Bikini. Sun Dress. Sunglasses. Tote. Sandals. Earrings.

FOR HIM: V-Neck. Shorts. Sandals. Tote. Hemp. Sunglasses.

Couples Profiled: Bali

Our second couple we’re profiling today is more of the rustic adventurer type. Though…I’m not sure these accommodations are anywhere NEAR rustic. Take a look at all this gorgeousness from Katie and what we’re loving for Bali!

When a couple calls me that wants something unique, exotic and cultural, but also wants to be able to relax on the beach; if they both love trying new things together and enjoy outdoors activities, then Bali is the ideal destination for these adventurous lovers.

Bali would be an incredible honeymoon destination with everything there is to explore. And the beaches are some of the best in the world:

Start your stay at a secluded luxury beach hotel like Alila Villas Uluwatu and if you can, spring for one of their villas. Here you can lounge in your private pool (thanks to the villa amenities!), take advantage of the resort’s world-class spa, and enjoy your first days as newlyweds.

The best feature?  A private cabana hanging over the cliff.  Unbelievable right???

Once you are relaxed and recharged, head inland to Ubud Hanging Gardens.  Every villa has a private pool with incredible views of the mountains, forest, and even a nearby temple.

From here you can explore Ubud Town, ride elephants, take a rafting tour, or even take cooking classes together.

When in Bali, here’s what styles we love:

FOR HER: Blazer. Blouse. Shorts. Tote. Necklace. Sandals. Cuff.

FOR HIM: Button Up. Tee. Khakis. Boat Shoes. Watch. Sunglasses.

Couples Profiled: Paris

We’re getting ready to wrap up honeymoon week tomorrow and I must say, I’ve really got travel fever! Today, we’re profiling couples, and matching destinations with their personalities. To spice it up a bit, we’ve matched up a few wardrobe ideas to go with each destination. Hopefully you’ll have as much fun imagining yourself there as we did coming up with all these ideas. Our first destination is Paris. Here’s Katie to tell you more:

A lot of couples that contact me don’t know where they want to go for their honeymoon.  They have an idea of the types of things they will want to do, but don’t know which destination would be best.  This is really fun for me!  I love learning about couples and then suggesting honeymoon options for them.  Today we’ll feature descriptions of a few couples, and the honeymoon I would suggest for them.

IF…

…You share a love of great food, wine and meeting new people. She loves photography and he loves architecture. You want to spend the first few days relaxing and unwinding from your wedding, and then you want to explore beautiful new places together…

THEN…

Start in Eze France, which is a gorgeous small medieval town located between in the South of France.  You can spend a few days relaxing and indulging in great food and wine, and then take day trips to explore nearby towns such as Nice and Monte Carlo.

Stay at the incredibly charming Cap Estel Hotel in Eze.  Relax in total luxury while being surrounded by the Mediterranean.  This hotel is very private and secluded, offers both an infinity pool and a private beach, and even has its own park with gardens.

While exploring the coast in the south of France, we love these looks:

FOR HER: Hat. Shirt dress. Earrings. Ring. Sunglasses. Sandals. Leather tote.

FOR HIM: Shirt. Shorts. Sunglasses. Topsiders. Sportcoat.

After some relaxation along the French coastline, take the train up to Paris and stay at Le Pavillion de la Reine Hotel.  This area of Paris is filled with boutiques, small cafes, French bakeries, and small winding streets.

The hotel is located right on Place des Vosges which is a quaint, quiet square that feels really private, despite being in the heart of the Marais District.

It is impossible to deny the romance that is Paris.  Indulge in crepes, have a picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens, and catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower sparking at night.

Love the idea of heading to Paris? Here’s what we’d love to see Parisian honeymooners in:

FOR HER: Pea Coat. Tank. Skirt. Panama Hat. Necklace. Ring. Shoes. Tote.

FOR HIM: Crew Neck Tee. Cardigan. Watch. Denim. Boots. Messenger Bag. Sunglasses.

Check back later today! We’ve got two more couples and two more breathtaking destinations!

New Orleans Honeymoon

The always flawless Jose Villa and Joy Thigpen recently put together a honeymoon photo shoot in New Orleans. It is so insanely gorgeous, that I just HAD to republish and share it with you here. The shoot is just SO perfect for honeymoon week. Special thanks to Jose for sharing his work with us. It is always an honor.

Great Hotels: Boutique and Funky

We’re concluding today’s spotlight on great hotels by bringing you a few options with a bit more pep. These boutique hotels are much smaller, more personal, and have a little bit more jive, if you know what I mean. Here’s what Katie’s found for us in the way of unique resorts:

Jake’s Hotel in Treasure Beach, Jamaica

Adorable. Charming. Inviting. No words can quite capture Jake’s Hotel in Treasure Beach. It is located on the quieter Southern side of Jamaica. Their mantra is “Eat what you grow, grow what you eat” and they do just that. Enjoy Jamaican food with plenty of fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables. And don’t miss the Rum Punch at Dougie’s Bar!

Stay in the Honeymoon Suite which has a upstairs patio with a daybed, lounging area and dining area, all right above the ocean.

For dining, Carrie recommends:

When it comes to local lusciousness, Jake’s has it “growing” on! Located in the parish of St. Elizabeth the surrounding area is known for its fruit, vegetable and cattle farms as well as its sustainable fishing community. Committed to the mantra, “Eat what you grow, grow what you eat.” The hotel’s menu changes daily and reflects the seasonal selections of Jamaica’s southern coast.

With so many options to choose from, I asked the Executive Chef to pick his personal favorite:

Ackee & Saltfish for Breakfast – Considered to be Jamaica’s “national dish” it is unlike anything many people have ever tried before. When cooked, the ackee (fruit) develops a consistency comparable to that of a scrambled egg. It is then mixed with saltfish to provide a salty, yet sweet flavor combination. The taste, texture and flavor are each an experience in themselves. A delicious way to start the day!

Tabacon Grand Spa and Thermal Resort, Costa Rica

Tabacon Grand Spa and Thermal Resort is located at the base of Arenal Volcano. It has an award winning spa in the heart of the thermal springs. They have amazing treatments such as Hot Stone Massage with Lemon and Rosemary Oils, Shiatsu, Reflexology, Thai Massage, Mud Body Wrap, Body Scrubs, Hydrotherapy, and skin care treatments and therapy.

The Honeymoon Suite features a handcrafted canopy king bed and a private deck with Jacuzzi surrounded by tropical plants and view of the garden.

Carrie offers up some information about what the Tabacon kitchen offers:

Although a honeymoon often signifies reckless abandon when it comes to R & R, some couples choose to use it as a time to truly “detox” from the stress ensued during the final weeks of matrimonial madness. Tabacon’s natural surroundings & spa cater to an overall sense of rejuvenation but so does their healthy cuisine. From the option of having Ayurvedic meals — a philosophy that infuses the five elements: ether, air, fire, water and earth — to indigenous Tandoori dishes that will cleanse your palate of impurities (and possibly the memories of your drunk uncle dancing at the reception) as you healthfully begin your new life as husband & wife. P.S. Don’t worry if stuffing your face (and raiding the mini-bar) is what you truly desire–they also offer a 4-course Gala Dinner that is world-renowned.

Room Mate Lola in Malaga, Spain

Malaga is a great Spanish town located right on the Mediterranean. It is a very exciting, vibrant city offering great culture, culinary exploits, with plenty of both fun and sun!

When visiting Malaga, make Room Mate Lola your home. From the second you see it from the street, you can see that Room Mate Lola is different than your average hotel.

For you foodies, of course you’d know that Spain is an epicenter for culinary innovation and gastronomy. No matter where your hunt for good eats leads you, your destined to be pleased with all that Spain has to offer. Carrie’s suggestion, which I love, is a Spanish mainstay that you really can’t miss:

Two words I could love more than my husband (when I have one!) = CHOCOLATE CHURROS. When in Málaga run, do not walk, to Casa Aranda. Situated in a narrow street in the heart of the city the town’s sweetest institution has been open since 1932 serving the country’s popular pastry. The hot chocolate served on the side is not for drinking, it’s for dipping! You’ve vowed to share your life together but I’d make an exception when it comes to your churros.

Churro image by Cannelle et Vanille

Great Hotels: Designer Destination

Our second feature today focuses on hotels that are destinations in and of themselves, simply for their impeccable design. My jaw hit the floor when I saw some of these gorgeous places, so get ready. Here’s what Katie’s found for us…

There are a lot of amazing hotels out there these days, but every so often, a resort comes along with such impeccable design, they can’t help but stand. The next hotels are three of my favorites that are invariably head and shoulders above the rest.

Amanyara, Turks & Caicos

This resort has a lot of glass and wood, giving it a very open and bright feeling. There are a lot of great activities including amazing reefs right offshore for snorkeling or scuba diving. There is an infinity pool and private beach, all of which adds up to complete privacy, luxury and relaxation.

My favorite room is the Pavillion Room, which has 3 outdoor terraces, including a sundeck with daybeds.

Carrie (from Citineraries) suggests these dinning options:

Epicurean elegance is indigenous to the islands of Turks & Caicos where most of the dining delights are found at the surrounding hotels. Options range from barefoot grilling to haute cuisine. Visiting lovebirds should indulge in: the nightly changing Asian & Mediterranean influenced menus of Amanyara, the island outpost of New York’s famed Bagatelle Bistro in the Gansevoort (enjoy the meal on your own private floating island in their signature pool!) or European-Caribbean gastronomy at adults-only Grace Bay Club.

Bagatelle Bistro

Grace Bay Club

Our next great hotel, designer edition, is La Minervetta, Sorrento, Italy

When planning honeymoons, I often run into a very common man versus woman predicament: he considers a vacation to be filled with sightseeing, history and culture, and she just wants to relax on a gorgeous beach. I’m always on the hunt for locations that offer both options for these types of couples. At the top of my list is Sorrento, Italy–a location that offers it all. Located in the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is a great town, with a gorgeous beach and perfect base to explore the rest of the region.

While visiting Sorrento, stay at the gorgeous La Minervetta Hotel. There is a pool and terrace built into the Cliffside which is the perfect place to enjoy breakfast or a glass of wine after taking a ferry out to Capri for the day. The hotel has just 12 rooms, all gorgeously designed and all with great views of the town.

For culinary diversions, Carrie suggests:

The scrumptiousness of Sorrento speaks for itself – the peninsula is as famous for pizza as Naples – and be sure to take time to savor the birthplace of Limoncello. The luscious liqueur is absolutely best here when it is made from the famously huge Amalfi Coast lemons. When exploring the coast’s palazzos and piazzas you will see lemon syrups, lemon iced delights, lemon curd, lemon pie, lemon pudding, lemon biscotti, lemon cake…

Of course what would a trip to Italy be without vino. Two highly recommended wineries nearby in Campania:

Feudi di San Gregori: Wonderful whites and a famous red named Serpico

Mastroberardino: Traditional whites and a fantastic red named Taurasi

Aleenta Resort and Spa, Pranburi, Thailand

For something a little different and off the beaten path, check out the Aleenta Resort located three hours south of Bangkok in Thailand. Between the hammocks, outdoor showers, thatched roofs, private plunge pools, and balconies overlooking the water, it is perfectly romantic.

My favorite room? The Palm Pool Suite which sits directly on the beach, has a private plunge pool, and of course incredible ocean views:

For dining, Carrie suggests the following:

At this small award-winning boutique property be prepared for larger than life dining experiences on the shimmering gold sands and under the twinkling stars.

Onsite modern Thai and International cuisine is created from the freshest ingredients of land & sea. Savory options include:

Simply Thai – A four-course set menu where you sample all the basic ingredients and stand-out dishes of a traditional Thai kitchen: chicken served in a banana leaf, Tom Yam Goong spicy seafood soup and Thai sticky rice served with mango and topped with coconut milk.

Sand Haven – A seafood BBQ feast of fish, squid, mussels and tiger prawns, a selection of grilled vegetables, Thai coconut fragrant rice and a sweet ending of exotic fruit skewers.

Thai Confusion – An elegant Thai affair featuring chicken satay with peanut sauce, Thai style beef salad, Thai green mango salad, tiger prawns with Thai herbs, Thai green chicken curry, and topped off with pumpkin in warm coconut milk.

If you love all of the above you can take it to go — cooking classes are a featured resort offering! Chef Rose will teach you the skills you need to cook some of Asia’s most fascinating dishes so you can show off your newfound Thai talents upon returning home.

Great Hotels: All Inclusive

Today for honeymoon week we’re doing a spotlight on great hotels. Our first post features all inclusive resorts that are quite a bit beyond what you might find at a typical Sandals resort. Here’s Katie’s guide for redefining all inclusive. The phrase “all inclusive resort” typically refers to mega resorts with big buffets, cheesy nightly entertainment, and the necessity to wake up at the crack of dawn to claim a pool chair. But lately, a new type of all inclusive hotel has been cropping up–a resort that is luxury, stylish, boutique and all-inclusive with excellent food and incredible service. I’ve chosen three of my favorites to highlight today.

Coco’s Hotel in Antigua

This hotel has just 26 individual cottages, and all of them have a balcony with an outdoor shower and a hammock. The cottages are up on a hill overlooking the water, and there are amazing private beaches on either side.

Carrie’s dining suggestion:

Dining options at an all-Inclusive often offer a Honeymoon-Exclusive! Coco’s caters to couples with a Champagne Dinner in their signature sea-view restaurant – or if you prefer to pop your bubbly privately they’ll let you swap for a Breakfast-In-Bed. You can also up the ante of the Antigua ambiance by asking the property to arrange a private dinner on their beautiful beach ($120/couple).

The Caves in Jamaica

The Caves in Negril, Jamaica has just 10 private villas on a cliff. The villas are made mostly of wood and stone and each has an ocean view. The hillsides feature caves and grottos where you can even have a private dinner!

Carrie’s dining suggestion:

The resort’s namesake is a necessity when it comes to the ultimate romantic dining rendezvous. Reserve one of the private caves for dinner and it will be strewn with bougainvillea petals, lit by candlelight, and transformed into a scrumptious love shack. Don’t forget to toast with a signature cocktail, The Cliffhanger (freshly squeezed watermelon juice, a hint of ginger, and of course…Appleton Gold Jamaica Rum) is liquid irie.

Zoetry Casa del Mar in Los Cabos, Mexico

Zoetry Casa del Mar has just 42 suites and all of them feature ocean views. It has authentic Mexican hacienda architecture and gourmet dining options including a restaurant right on the beach.

Carrie’s dining suggestion:

It will take a lot to allure you away from the Sea of Cortez, but willingly surrender for a short-drive to the world-famous Edith’s restaurant at Medano Beach. With a stunning view of the world famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas, an intimate lantern-lit terrace, world-class Mexican wine cellar, and the very best of local Baja cuisine, experiencing Edith’s is hands-down a honeymoon must!