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4 Insider Tips for Picking the Perfect Honeymoon Destination

12/6/2022

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​Dreamy tropical beaches? Picturesque mountain ranges? Dazzling city lights?
​A romantic honeymoon can take you places that you never imagined going to, but it can be hard to choose the right spot. With the help of this article and my 4 tips, you'll have no trouble choosing a honeymoon that is both comfortable and fun. Whether you want to enjoy the scenery or just relax and disconnect from distractions, These 4 steps will provide you with a blueprint to discover the best honeymoon location for you!
Are you ready? Let's do this!
Here are my 4 simple steps to uncover the best location for your honeymoon vacation
1. Create a Vision
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While this may seem obvious, you’d be surprised how many couples turn to the internet first, when they really need to create a vision first.
Allow me to help you better define what you are envisioning for your honeymoon and break it down in a more realistic way so that you can get clarity on your vision.
                                         Are you ready? Here we go!
Do you want...
  • · Modern rooms with 24-hour room service
  • · Authentic and unique accommodations
  • · Adult or couples only setting
  • · Top shelf liquor
  • · Restaurants worthy of a foodie
  • · Onsite water sports
  • · Nightly entertainment
  • · Large and active
  • · Boutique and low-key
  • · Mountains and waterfalls
  • · Oceans and beaches
  • · History and culture
Go ahead and use the above list to get started creating your vision for your honeymoon.
2. Decide on your non-negotiables
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I encourage you both to write down your must-haves and priorities, the things that are most important for you to have the honeymoon of your dreams.
For example, a swanky suite, high-end service, a world-class spa, the best beach, kick-a** dining, a downtown location with easy access to everything, beautiful sites, specific experiences like swimming with sea turtles or ziplining, etc.

Once you decide on your non-negotiables, the two of you can work together to create an experience that will give you both what you want.
3. Define the type of experience you want
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​Now that you know the most important things that each of you wants, it is time to work together to decide on the overall experience you both feel you will need.
Some couples really want to be pampered and relax, other couples want to explore and have an adventure, and some couples want a good blend of both.
The location you choose for your honeymoon will directly impact the type of experience you will have and without defining what type of experience you want; your honeymoon could be mediocre.

Here’s something I like to ask couples during a consultation: “Finish this sentence with the first word that comes to your mind: in order for my honeymoon to be perfect, it must be _________"
4. Agree on a budget
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And the final step is to agree on a budget. Once you have an idea of what you both
want, then the budget conversation will be easier to have, as well as help you both decide on something realistic.

It is best to consider your vision and your non-negotiables and fit those into your
budget. You’d be surprised at how far your funds will go when celebrating a honeymoon at an all-inclusive resort.

I recently wrote an article about how much a honeymoon costs. I encourage you to check it out as I believe it will give you a good baseline. 

When you honeymoon at an all-inclusive resort, you can earn honeymoon amenities & perks

I love helping my honeymoon couples get the best honeymoon packages so that they can create the most memorable experiences possible!
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 Once you have all these details, you’ll be able to have more clarity on what you are looking for in a honeymoon destination & resort so that you aren’t wasting your time on places that aren’t a good fit for you. If you feel like you still need a little more inspiration, check out my post on the Top 6 Locations for an Incredible Honeymoon 

Ultimately, the best honeymoon location for you and your partner will be one that excites and energizes you both. After all, this is a time to celebrate the culmination of a lifetime together and to enjoy being in love—not just another excuse to spend money.  When it comes down to it, go somewhere that gives you instant sensory pleasure: watch the sunset from a tropical beach, book a room with a view that makes you immediately unplug and relax, or enjoy dinner by candlelight on the beach or at an upscale restaurant.  The choices are all up to you!
I think this is one of the reasons why I love specializing in honeymoons. No two couples are alike, and I take great pride in finding the best location for them. If that sounds good to you,

let’s connect! Here is a LINK  schedule a consultation with me.
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4 Secrets to Finding the Perfect Destination Wedding Location for You

12/4/2022

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Let's dive into 4 simple steps to uncover the best location for you to host your destination wedding.
1. Create a Vision
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While this may seem obvious, you’d be surprised that many couples turn to the internet first, and they really need to create a vision first. Allow me to help you better define what you are envisioning for your wedding day.
 First, think about an overall theme or style that you want. This can be a color scheme or look. For example, romantic, whimsical, boho-chic, edgy, glamorous, etc.
 Second, what is your vision for the setting when you say, “I do?” Is it at sunset on the beach, or is it in a garden, are you on solid ground with the water as a backdrop, maybe in a gazebo or on a rooftop?
 Third, what is your vision for your reception also regarding the setting? Maybe a terrace overlooking the ocean, on the beach, poolside, in a garden, in a ballroom, etc.
 Fourth, what is the overall vibe that you envision? For example, intimate, energetic, casual, extravagant, fun, etc. Ensuring that it reflects you as a couple.

2. Decide on your non-negotiables
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I encourage you both to write down your must-haves and priorities, the things that are most important to you. For example, photography, a high-end look, privacy or exclusivity for the wedding and reception, a kick-butt party or even an after-party, an amazing resort that will wow your friends and family, an upgraded suite, an unforgettable honeymoon, etc.
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Maybe you want to host a welcome cocktail reception for guests to get to know one another, maybe a morning after brunch, or maybe a night out on the town with your wedding party.
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Go ahead and think about what you want the most in your destination wedding so that the two of you can work together to create an experience that will give you both what you want.


3. Define the type of experience you want and you and your guests to have.
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Speaking of experience, let’s talk about what you are looking for and what you need for your guests.

It is easy to think about just the wedding side of this celebration, but the vacation side of it is a pretty big deal. After all, your guests will spend more time having a mini vacay than they will be celebrating your big day.
 Spend some time considering the needs of your guests as well as the overall experience you want them to have. They are taking time and spending their money to be there, so it needs to be memorable, not miserable.

Let’s get them excited to attend your destination wedding! Whether it is an awesome resort with great restaurants, nightlife, pools, and activities, or you plan a group catamaran cruise, a golf day for the guys, and a spa day for the girls, write out what is important in the vacation experience for your guests.
 For example:
  • ·      Modern rooms with 24-hour room service
  • ·      Kids club so parents can get a break
  • ·      Top shelf liquor
  • ·      Restaurants worthy of a foodie
  • ·      Fun activities 
You get the point.

4. Agree on a budget
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The final step is to agree on a budget. Once you have an idea of what you both want, I think the budget conversation will be easier to have and help you both decide on something realistic.
It is best to consider your vision and your non-negotiables and fit those into your budget. You’d be surprised at how far your funds will go when hosting a destination wedding at a resort.

I wrote an article about how much a destination wedding costs. I encourage you to check it out as I believe it will give you a good baseline.
Like any other wedding, the number of guests will be a factor in your wedding cost, but don’t allow that to keep your guest list small! When you host your destination wedding at a resort, you can earn so many freebies that will really expand your budget!
I love helping my destination wedding couples save thousands of dollars! It’s so fun!
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Once you have all these details, you’ll be able to have more clarity on what you are looking for in a destination wedding location so that you aren’t wasting your time on places that aren’t a good fit for you.

Ultimately, picking the ideal location is all about how you want to celebrate this beautiful new chapter in your life. There's no one-size-fits-all method to choosing a location, but by following the four steps outlined above, you should be able to come up with a location that will hopefully have many of the perks without compromising on your non-negotiables.   

You may want to read my blog post on the Top Locations For a Dreamy Destination Wedding, as a way to shorten the learning curve while doing your research.  
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That’s my specialty! I’d love to connect with you via a complimentary consultation. Here is the link, and I look forward to helping you!

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Why You Should Consider Karisma Resorts for Your All-Inclusive Luxury Honeymoon to Mexico or The Caribbean.

11/12/2022

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Karisma Resorts Are Perfect For A Romantic Honeymoon

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Your Honeymoon is one of the highlights of getting married. So if you’re planning to have a pampering and romantic honeymoon in an amazing location, I’m going to give you 5 reasons why you should take a look at Karisma resorts for an amazing honeymoon. Here’s a peek at some of the highlights that give Karisma resorts my seal of approval as one of the best options for your all-inclusive honeymoon. ​
1.  Culinary Heaven! ​
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I don’t know about you, but when I go to an all-inclusive resort, the food is one of the most important things. Karisma is a brand that I recommend to couples who are foodies or who have high expectations of the food quality and experience. Karisma is known for being Gourmet Inclusive. ®  which means you will experience…
Fresh ingredients, master chefs, culinary entertainment, expertly prepared meals every time, plus plenty of dining options to suit every palate.

Plus, an extensive wine cellar with a sommelier, mixology, tequila tastings, and even themed bars like Mojito bars, Sling bars, and Martini bars. Cheers!
If you are a foodie couple, you will not be disappointed with the restaurants & menu choices at a Karisma resort.    
2.  Something For Every Couple! ​
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Whether you want more relaxation and pampering or your spouse wants more activities and social interaction, you’ll have the best of both worlds when you celebrate your honeymoon at a Karisma resort. 
Karisma resorts offer a multitude of onsite activities and entertainment, including fun daily games at the main pool, to great nightly shows such as acrobats, fire dancers, and concerts. You will also find many beach palapas, pool beds, and quiet areas where you can just relax, read, get pampered, and enjoy downtime with each other.   
3.  Luxurious and Romantic Suites
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Karisma resorts offer a wide variety of luxurious & romantic suites, perfect for your honeymoon!  This is something that I truly believe sets Karisma apart. They have overwater bungalows, casitas, villas, swim-up suites, infinity pool suites, outdoor showers, and more. 
If you want to splurge on your honeymoon but also want those authentic touches that reflect Mexico, you won’t be disappointed! My personal favorites are the casita suites and the over-water bungalows for the best honeymoon suites. 
4. Amazing service! ​
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Photo by Rachel Claire from Pexels
Imagine sitting on your own beach bed (no extra fee required) and being served drinks and bite-sized treats all day long.
Head to the concierge to schedule your dinner reservations or spa treatments. 
Maybe you want to surprise your new spouse and set up a romantic picnic or candlelight dinner, or have your suite romantically decorated, simply reach out to the Romance Maitre D as your personal assistant during your stay. 
​5. A Great Honeymoon & Anniversary Packages!
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El Dorado Casitas
Karisma offers the Memorable Moments Honeymoon & Anniversary Package which includes…
  • The Personal Service of our Romance Maître D
  • Private gourmet four-course candlelit dinner on the beach
  • Romantically decorated suite with rose petals and aroma therapy
  • Breakfast in bed
  • Beachfront sky massage 2 X 1 offer
  • In-room amenities upon arrival
  • 15% discount on spa services
  • Floral arrangement in room
  • One-night anniversary return stay voucher
 
This amazing honeymoon package is complimentary if you meet the qualifications! Reach out to me for help if you think you may be interested to ensure you qualify to receive this for free:

If you are finding this post helpful, you may want to read my post on the
​top 6 honeymoon resorts for a dream honeymoon


As you can see, Karisma resorts have so much to offer you for an amazing honeymoon! The best way to go about choosing, though, is to really think about what you're looking for in a honeymoon and match it up with the right resort brand. 

If you’re struggling with planning your honeymoon or just need some guidance, I have a couple of spots open for a free 30-minute honeymoon strategy session. 
CLICK HERE   calendly.com/windermere-wedding/free-discovery-call
I would love to help you move forward in your honeymoon planning!

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The Special Touches Karisma Resorts Will Do For Your Destination Wedding

11/2/2022

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Photo by Fernanda Latronico

When it comes to having a destination “I Do”, you want to find a resort and location that will make your wedding day unforgettable. However, the details of planning a destination wedding can often feel overwhelming and demanding. Why not leave it to a tried and true resort brand? I would recommend you consider Karisma Resorts. You'll find that they offer everything you need for an unforgettable destination wedding. 
Take a look at some of the things you can expect when you have your wedding at Karisma resorts:

1.  Culinary Heaven! ​

I don’t know about you, but when I go to an all-inclusive resort, the food is one of the most important things. Karisma is a brand that I recommend to couples who are foodies or who have high expectations of the food quality and experience. Karisma is known for being Gourmet Inclusive ® and you can count on that to be delivered.   Fresh ingredients, master chefs, culinary entertainment, expertly prepared meals every time, plus plenty of dining options to suit every palate.   Plus, an extensive wine cellar with a sommelier, mixology, tequila tastings, and even themed bars like Mojito bars, Sling bars, and Martini bars. Cheers!  

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​2.  Something For Everyone:

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Photo by Kindel Media 

Let’s face it, that’s one of the hardest parts of planning a destination wedding – choosing a venue that will give you the wedding you envision as well as be a great vacation for all your guests who travel to celebrate with you.   Whether you want an adult-only, family-friendly, or multi-generational all-inclusive destination wedding resort, we got you covered!  

3.  Unique And Amazing Accommodations And Amenities. 

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This is something that I truly believe sets Karisma apart. They have overwater bungalows, casitas, villas, swim-up suites, infinity pool suites, 1-2-3-bedroom suites, baby amenities, and so much more.   They even have options for resort or villa buyouts or private enclave experiences which is ideal for an exclusive destination wedding experience in the Caribbean or Mexico.

  4.  First-class,  picturesque wedding venues, experiences, and packages to make your wedding day one-of-a-kind.  
  Here are a few venue choices:

Chapel

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Private rooftop sky wedding decks with unobstructed views of the ocean

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Beach Gazebos & Garden Gazebos  

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A catamaran cruise wedding ceremony 

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Along with these unique and stunning wedding venues you will also be amazed by the wedding packages. Whether you want a pre-designed theme or want a custom-designed wedding, the seasoned onsite wedding team will bring your vision to life!   Plus, select resorts offer these experiences:   ·  A Complimentary destination wedding package · “Exclusively You” wedding package to ensure you are the one and only wedding occurring on your wedding day. ·  Private Enclave Experience exclusively for you and your wedding guests ·  South Asian Wedding Experience               And so much more. If you need any advice, feel free to reach out to me and I’ll be happy to chat with you more about the best packages and experiences for your wedding vision.

5.  The Perks!  

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I wouldn’t be recommending this brand if it didn’t over-deliver when it comes to the perks of hosting your destination wedding with them!   Karisma is very generous with the amenities and perks that wedding couples can earn. Based on the size of their wedding group and the day of the week that you get married you can earn up to $15,000 in wedding credits!   
You can use these credits toward your wedding package, food & beverages for any private events, ceremony & reception decor, and even toward your room block.     To qualify for many of these perks, you must set up your wedding group properly… You don’t want to miss out on these as they can literally save you thousands of dollars!
If you are finding this information helpful, you may want to check out my post on the Top Resorts For a Destination Wedding. 

When you're looking for a resort to have your destination “I Do”, you’ll want a resort venue that's beautiful, full of character, offers great amenities for you and your group, and is invested in the wedding itself. You’ll also want somewhere that has thought through the logistics and will put your unique wedding needs first.  Karisma resorts definitely fit the bill when it comes to Great destination weddings! 
​

If you’re struggling with planning your destination wedding or just need some guidance, I currently have a couple of spots open for a free 30-minute destination wedding strategy session. 
 https://calendly.com/windermere-wedding/initial-conference-call
 
 I would love to help you move forward in your wedding planning.  

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The 6 Best Honeymoon Resorts in the Caribbean & Mexico

10/17/2022

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 Honeymoons are the most exciting vacations for newlyweds. This is a time to celebrate the first few days of your marriage and enjoy some quality time with your spouse.
However, it can be tricky to decide where to spend this exciting adventure together. There are so many places in the world that offer spectacular sights, so how do you choose just one?
To help you decide on the perfect place, here’s a list of six top honeymoon resorts. These locations offer everything from glitz and glamour to nature and seclusion.
Congratulations on your engagement!  You can now start planning the most important part of your wedding: Your HONEYMOON!  
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You’ve taken care of all the details for your big day.  After months of stress, you two will get to spend some valuable alone time together and make some great memories. Remember, this is not just another getaway, this is your honeymoon, a trip of a lifetime, so go big if you can.  
Maybe you want to just relax on a beach palapa with a butler serving you drinks & snacks all day, swim and read your favorite book at the infinity pool, experience gourmet dining all day long, or just order room service from your AMAZING honeymoon suite. The choices are endless when it comes to where to go for your honeymoon.  If you’re having trouble deciding where to go, we’ve got you covered with our list of six unforgettable honeymoon resorts that will start your marriage off on the right foot!
​Sandals Grande St. Lucian Resort in St. Lucia
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Of course, St. Lucia is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean, and Sandals Grande St. Lucian Resort is considered one of its best all-inclusive resorts for couples.  
With unique accommodations like over-water bungalows and rondoval suites with private pools, lush and tropical grounds, plus a stunning white sand beach, it truly is a paradise. 
Sandals Grande St. Lucian offers several dining options, premium drinks, spacious pools, daily and nightly entertainment. 
St. Lucia is ideal for honeymoon couples looking to explore and have some adventures, so be sure to get out and see the stunning sites like the Pitons or enjoy zip lining in the lush rainforest or hop on an ATV to see the majestic countryside. 

​Namale Resort & Spa
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Namale is located on the northern coast of Fiji’s second-largest island, Vanua Levu.  The all-inclusive resort features 25 bures, or bungalows, that are all located in a rainforest overlooking the ocean.  There are also eight villas featuring private pools and personal butlers.  Each bure and villa feature a private deck with ocean views, an indoor shower, an outdoor shower, a mini-bar, and an iPod docking station. 
Honeymoon couples can enjoy massages at the spa or relax by the infinity pool while sipping a cocktail from the swim-up bar. 
Besides water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, there’s horseback riding and mountain biking through the rainforest.  Guests can also enjoy activities like ping pong, Fijian cooking classes, and yoga on the beach.  
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The resort staff can arrange tours to nearby villages, where guests can meet the locals and learn about Fijian culture.  

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​Excellence Oyster Bay, Jamaica
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Excellence Oyster Bay is an ideal resort in Jamaica that's perfect for honeymoons and beach lovers.

Set on a private peninsula about 30-minutes from the Montego Bay airport, this adult-only resort has it all. 

Oversized luxurious suites with private pools, fabulous international restaurants, beautiful bars with premium drinks, a world-class spa, and wonderful friendly service are just a few of the highlights of this perfect place to celebrate your honeymoon. 
 
I recommend splurging for the Excellence Club upgraded level of service for amenities like a private pool and beach areas, private lounges with premium bars, concierge service, and much more. 

The resort offers plenty of activities for couples looking for fun, including sailing, kayaking, snorkel gear, daily activities, and nightly shows. 

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Único 20°87°, Riviera Maya, Mexico
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Unico 20°87° is in the Riviera Maya Mexico and sits on prime real estate overlooking the Caribbean Sea. 

The staff at Unico 20°87° are known for their friendliness and will go out of their way to make sure you enjoy your time there. They're also happy to help you plan any excursions or activities you might want to do while you're in the area, making it easy for you not to have to worry about anything but having fun during your honeymoon!

Moreover, Unico 20°87° has an excellent spa, which offers a variety of treatments including massages, facials, and body wraps. These treatments are created using local ingredients and organic oils derived from tropical plants—plus they smell amazing!

Unico 20°87° is where our couples go when they want a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will be talked about for years to come. 
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Le Blanc Spa Resort, Los Cabos, Mexico
 This glamorous resort offers an incredible beachfront setting that provides honeymoon couples with the opportunity to relax and enjoy each other's company. Le Blanc Spa Resort is a super luxurious adult-only resort tucked away in Mexico's Los Cabos. The views are indescribable, the level of service is top-notch, and the touches of luxury set this all-inclusive resort from the rest. 

Luxurious accommodations with stunning views (even the basic room category is drool-worthy), fine dining, top-shelf liquor, butler service on every floor, an indulgent spa, plus it is only 35 minutes from the Los Cabos International airport and 15 minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas.

​Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, Punta Cana
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Looking for an all-inclusive honeymoon in the Caribbean that sits on the most stunning beach? 

Introducing Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, a sophisticated adults-only resort in the exclusive gated community of Cap Cana, a true tropical paradise with an award-winning golf course and two miles of spectacular white-sand beaches. 

Luxurious modern accommodations with 24-hour in-room dining, swim-up suites, a tranquil spa with a hydrotherapy circuit, several a la carte restaurants, 7 bars and lounges, an open-air theater with nightly live performances, watersports, and cooking lessons are just a few highlights of this honeymoon resort. 

I must mention the state-of-the-art 14,000 sq. ft. fitness center with a separate cardio area, strength zone, TRX training, spinning room, offering yoga, step and Pilates classes. So, don’t stress over all those calories!

Conclusion:  
The Ultimate Honeymoon is exactly that – all-pampering, luxurious, and complete with fine dining, exclusive amenities, and extravagant surroundings. Whether it’s flying into Venice for a Gondola ride under the moonlight or whisking away to an exotic destination, this experience is truly one that you will never forget. Throw in the exclusive use of Adult Only hideaways, Broadway-level entertainment, and unlimited access to exotic beaches, pools, and top-shelf bars, you have a honeymoon paradise like no other.

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We hope this list will serve as a guide for your upcoming honeymoon planning! No matter what your plans are for a honeymoon, we hope that it’s one that you won’t forget: one filled with relaxation and romance, love and laughter, calm blue waters, and unforgettable memories.
     If you find yourself stuck and overwhelmed trying to figure your honeymoon out, why don’t you schedule a free 30-minute consultation with me and get this off of your shoulders and get you moving forward. 
CLICK HERE

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Cheers!
     Denise

 
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6 Reasons Why Mexico is the Best Destination for a Honeymoon

10/17/2022

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When you plan a honeymoon to Mexico, You will quickly realize this is a country like no other with endless beauty and adventure as well as hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Here are 6 reasons why you should plan a honeymoon in Mexico.
1. Easy to Get to From U.S. Getaways.
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With several nonstop flight options, same-day arrivals, and departures, plus multiple flights per day, a romantic beach honeymoon is at your fingertips. And with multiple flights, it gives you plenty of backup options in case of delays or cancellations.
2. Romantic Resorts for Every Couple's Style and Taste:
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​When it comes to the accommodations, you’ll have your pick of the best. From lavish mega resorts to hacienda-style boutique hotels and everything in between! [Link this sentence to a
blog post on The Top 6 Honeymoon Resorts from March Content Hero or a different blog
post that would relate to honeymoon resorts with some in Mexico}
Plus, if you’re looking for an adult-only escape, there are multiple resort properties that offer the ideal atmosphere for couples who want a romantic honeymoon void of screaming children!
3. The Best Bang for your Buck is in Mexico
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Honestly, the level of luxury provided for the price is quite remarkable. From world-class spas to beach butlers taking care of your every need while you relax on the beach, you can’t go wrong with a luxury resort in Mexico. 
4. Incredible service
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If you are looking for incredible service for the money, Mexico will get you the most bang for your buck when it comes to the level of luxury and service you receive for the price. Part of the reason is that Mexico is just miles ahead of other destinations when it comes to hospitality & tourism.   A quote I once heard from a travel insider pretty much sums it up like this.“ In (the location I was at) if your drink spills, a waiter will come right away to clean it up.  In Mexico, the wait staff will see the glass at the edge of the table and come to push it back.”  
5. Tons of Amazing Activities:
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One of the best parts of planning a honeymoon to Mexico is the incredible amount of activities and sites you and your new spouse can experience [link to your co-branded Island routes link. If you don’t have one, you can get your co-branded link through the TA portal of Unique Vacations. and make new memories together. 
 
  • If you are celebrating your honeymoon from December – April? Head to Cabo or Puerto Vallarta to do some whale watching!
  • Interested in UNESCO World Heritage sites? Visit one of the 7 Wonders of the World – Chichen Itza while on your honeymoon in the Riviera Maya, Mexico.
  • Want to have shopping and nightlife at your fingertips? Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue, the hotel zone of Cancun, the Malecon Blvd in Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas are sure to please!​
Looking for adventure, golf, or fishing? Take your pick! There’s so much to experience when you visit Mexico!

6. Two Unique Areas of Mexico to Choose From:
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Mexico has two completely different, but equally romantic & beautiful areas to enjoy an amazing honeymoon!  
  1. Caribbean Side
  2. Pacific Side
The Caribbean Side
The Caribbean side of Mexico is located on the Yucatan Peninsula along the Caribbean sea, and is the most popular area of Mexico for any type of travel.  This is where Cancun, Riviera Maya, and many of the other popular destination wedding spots are located.  Everything mentioned above will be available to you on the Caribbean side of Mexico, including white sand beaches and the ability to enjoy the Caribbean Sea if you love getting in the water.  
The Pacific Side:
The Pacific Side of Mexico is of course located along the Pacific Ocean and was originally best known for travel spots such as Puerto Vallarta, and Acapulco, but now the hottest new spots to travel or honeymoon in Mexico is in either Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta!  
Located at the end of the Baja Coast, Cabo is home to luxury resorts, amazing foodie experiences, championship golf, yoga retreats, movie star getaways, and authentic cultural experiences.   The beaches are wide and beautiful here as well, but darker sand than the Caribbean side, and are not usually swimmable due to the ocean currents and rip tides.  
Known for its charming towns and people, the stunning landscape of sea and mountain, plus colorful culture and marine life, it’s easy to see why Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular vacation destinations for honeymoons!

Which Part of Mexico is Best for Your Honeymoon
But remember, that one of the main purposes of a honeymoon is to relax from all the past wedding planning & stress, as well as the hustle & bustle of everyday life, to enjoy your time together! . If you want a pampering & romantic honeymoon, with a little adventure sprinkled in between, then Mexico should be your top choice. You can enjoy food, culture, history, beaches, sunrises, and sunsets all in one destination. 
If you would like some help planning your honeymoon, or just need a little advice, schedule a free 30-minute destination wedding strategy session [link to your consultation schedule page] with me today!  Let’s get you unstuck and moving forward in your planning.    

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Considering a Destination Wedding in Mexico?  Pro tips from a Destination Wedding Expert

10/3/2022

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The popularity of destination weddings is increasing every year, especially in Mexico. There are several reasons why Mexico has become one of the hottest spots for destination weddings. If you’re considering a destination wedding in Mexico, I’m here to help you make an informed decision. Let’s get started with some pros and cons of getting married in Mexico.
Pro: Easy Access From The U.S
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For the most part, Mexico is easily accessible to U.S. citizens and offers plenty of daily flight options. This allows for ease of travel for you and your wedding guests as well as ensures that if there are flight delays or cancellations there will be several flight options available for backup.  
​Pro: PLENTY of Incredible Resort Options And Venues to Choose From
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Whether you are heading to Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, or the Cancun/Riviera Maya area, you will have more more than enough choices of resorts & wedding venues to host your wedding celebration. [link that highlighted sentence to blog post on 5 Fantastic Resorts for a Destination Wedding from March Content Hero} With the myriad of options available, you’ll also have your pick of luxury, chic, modern, or authentic resorts with lively, quiet, active, or pampering atmospheres.   From boutique resorts with intimate settings to mega resorts with Vegas-style shows, Mexico truly offers something for EVERY wedding group!  
Lots of Incredible Wedding Venue Options:
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In addition to these great resort options, if you want or need to get married in a chapel, you can find Catholic & protestant chapels with picturesque views of the ocean!  You will also have an array of choices for private rooftops with unobstructed views where you not only can say “I Do!”, but also dance the night away under a canopy of stars.  And don’t forget you can also find stunning beaches set amidst beautiful skies at sunset, infinity pools with overwater platforms, secret tropical gardens, and more.
Pro: Amazing Value of Luxury & Service for the Price!
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If you are looking for incredible luxury & service for the money, Mexico will get you the most bang for your buck when it comes to the level of luxury and service you receive for the price. Part of the reason is that Mexico is just miles ahead of other destinations when it comes to hospitality & tourism.   A quote I once heard from a travel insider pretty much sums it up like this.“ In (the location I was at) if your drink spills, a waiter will come right away to clean it up.  In Mexico, the wait staff will see the glass on the edge of the table, and come to put it back in a safer spot.”  
Pro: Wedding Package Value for Price
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The same is true for wedding packages. Your destination wedding budget goes so much further in Mexico! You’ll be amazed at the celebration you can plan that will be a day you and your guests will never forget!
Pro: Endless Excursions, Activities, & Cultural Experiences
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 Regardless of what part of Mexico you head to, you’ll have your pick of awesome experiences at your fingertips! Historical ruins, underground caverns, artistic cities, waterfalls, mountains, whale watching, snorkeling, nightlife, shopping, golf, catamaran cruises, day trips to nearby islands, you name it! There is something for everyone to enjoy in Mexico!
Con: Legal wedding requirements
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Each State in Mexico has different requirements for your wedding in Mexico to be legal, but you can expect bloodwork, translation of documents, witnesses, and 3-4 days of residency.  
If you don’t need to have a legal destination wedding, then I suggest you and your fiancée get married legally in the states (basically at the courthouse) and then you will do a symbolic wedding in Mexico for your Destination Wedding ceremony.  No one will know but you, and it will save you from jumping through a lot of hoops.  
Pro: Two Unique Areas of Mexico to Choose From:
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Mexico has two completely different, but equally romantic & beautiful areas to have an amazing destination wedding!  
  1. Caribbean Side
  2. Pacific Side

The Caribbean Side
The Caribbean side of Mexico is located on the Yucatan Peninsula, along the Caribbean sea, and is the most popular area of Mexico for any type of travel.  This is where Cancun, Riviera Maya, and many of the other popular travel spots are located.  Everything mentioned above will be available to you on the Caribbean side of Mexico, including white sand beaches and the ability to enjoy the Caribbean Sea if you or your group love getting in the water.  

The Pacific Side: 

The Pacific Side of Mexico is of course located along the Pacific Ocean and was originally best known for travel spots such as Puerto Vallarta, and Acapulco, but now the hottest new spots to have a destination wedding in Mexico in either Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta!  
Located at the end of the Baja Coast, Cabo is home to luxury resorts, amazing foodie experiences, championship golf, yoga retreats, movie star getaways, and authentic cultural experiences.   The beaches are wide and beautiful here as well, but darker sand than the Caribbean side, and are not usually swimmable due to the ocean currents and rip tides.  
One of the most popular vacation destinations, Puerto Vallarta is known for its stunning landscape, friendly people, beautiful marine life, and so much more!

Which Part of Mexico is Best For Your Destination Wedding?
The hardest decision you’ll have to make when planning a destination wedding in Mexico is which part of Mexico is best for your wedding vision and which resort or wedding venue will give you the wedding vision you are looking for. That’s where having the assistance of a destination wedding designer can come in handy.
If you are still trying to decide on the best resort for your destination wedding, CLICK HERE to read my post on the 5 Fantastic Resorts For a Dream Destination Wedding. 

Con:  Cancun/Riviera Maya seaweed issues
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With Cancun and Riviera Maya being the most popular locations in Mexico to host a destination wedding, I felt obligated to mention this “con”  Over the last few years, environmental factors have caused an increase in the seaweed that floats into the waters and on the shore. It is impossible to predict when there could be a lot of seaweed or not as much because it can come and go at any time of the year.  
 
While resorts are continually cleaning up the seaweed, it does affect the beauty and clarity of the water. So If you are planning a beach wedding or want perfectly clear water, this area of Mexico may not be the best option for you.

If water color is extremely important to you, then I suggest the Pacific side of Mexico, along the Baja Peninsula, such as Cabo San Lucas or the artistic, colorful, and lush Puerto Vallarta. 

Cabo’s water is a beautiful bright blue, and there are numerous excellent resort options available for your wedding there as well.  The only negative is that a majority of the beaches in Cabo, though beautiful,  are not swimmable, due to strong currents and waves.

Puerto Vallarta’s water is a stunning blue green surrounded by a lush and tropical jungle and mountains. Puerto Vallarta offers really unique wedding venues like private off-shore islands that are ideal for an oceanfront celebration. 


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Mexico truly offers so many more pros than cons and is ideal in the sense that you'll have a variety of choices for your destination wedding, from white-sand beaches to luxury resorts, and amazing cultural experiences!  Overall, it's a perfect destination for anyone in search of a memorable destination wedding.

 To see if Mexico is the best destination for your wedding away, schedule a
30 minute complimentary consultation with me today by CLICK HERE


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Destination wedding cost:  Anticipating your wedding budget.

9/6/2022

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Most couples have a general idea of how much a traditional wedding will cost, but don't have a clue how much a destination wedding will cost. For example, you might know a traditional wedding could cost you around $35,000-60,000 but you have no idea what a wedding away would cost. If you’re curious to know what to expect for a destination wedding, then read on, because I have broken it ALL down for you.  
1. YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING LOCALE
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An Instagram-worthy destination wedding starts with a great location!  Maybe you choose locations that are closer to the continental U.S, such as Mexico & the Caribbean, or you may be looking for a more exotic destination wedding locale, such as Hawaii, Fiji, Bora Bora, or even Europe. Usually, the farther away & more exotic a destination is, the more expensive it can be. 
NOTE: if you are still trying to decide on your destination wedding locale, check out the Top 5 Destinations for a Dream Destination Wedding. 
Airfare Prices:
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Obviously, airfare can take up a chunk of your guest's budget but only a small portion of your overall destination wedding budget. And if you’re flying during “high season” (Dec-April), Flights are going to be more expensive than low Season, (May- Nov). 
With that being said, here are some current averages based on May 2022  travel, per person, round trip depending on flight itinerary and destination.
  • Depart From Midwest or East coast to Caribbean or Mexico:  $450-$1000 
  • Depart From Midwest or East coast to Hawaii:  $600-$1600 
  • Depart From Midwest or East coast to the South Pacific:  $2000-$2500 
  • Departing From West Coast to the Caribbean or Mexico:  $500-$1000 
  • Depart From West Coast to Hawaii:  $600-$1600 
  • Depart From  West Coast to the South Pacific:  $2000-$2500 
PRO TIP: There will always be fluctuations in price based on the time of year and even the day of the week.   If you find an unbelievable air deal, double check the type of seat it is and the air schedule.  Many really cheap tickets have incredibly harsh restrictions as well as horrible air itineraries that could get you to your resort so late that you miss all of your first day at your resort, therefore ultimately wasting money and delaying the start of your “wedcation” bliss! 

2. DESTINATION WEDDING RESORT VENUE:
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Every resort offers different wedding locations, amenities, room options, restaurants, activities, as well as food and beverage plans.  All-inclusive resorts include all of your food and beverages with your package price. European Plan resorts offer an ala carte menu where you pay for each meal or beverage just as you would going out to dinner or bar stateside.  In general, an All-Inclusive resort will usually offer you a better value for your wedding group, 
You definitely need to take your time looking through all the available options so that you can make sure to book the best resort wedding venue for you and your unique wedding vision. 

YOUR ROOM OR SUITE:
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Photo by Asad Photo Maldives 
The room or suite you choose will impact the overall cost for you & your guest's destination wedding stay.  For example, you could love resort (A) with a base price of $1500 for 4 nights that includes a “standard room.”  But if you choose a swim-up suite for your room option.  The price for your resort stay at resort (A) will now be $2,000 for 4 nights because of the upgraded room option.  
Below is an average cost you & your guests can expect to pay for different types of room stays for 4 nights based on current rates:  
NOTE:  Most destination wedding guests will stay 3 to 7 nights for a destination wedding, with the average being 4 days.  It will really depend on how much each guest wants to spend on their stay.  
Because I won’t send anyone to a resort that is average or below quality, you can assume that all of these prices are going to be 4 stars and higher in quality.  

Luxury Resort: Adult Only  AVERAGE RATES based on 4-night stay:  

Deluxe Room:  $1,500-$3,500
Suite:   $4.000-$8,000  
Butler:  $8,000-$11,000
Highest Room Category:  
Think over the water bungalows or 4 Seasons
type quality & experience:  $16,000-$25,000

GOOD NEWS FOR YOU:
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The good news is, that many resort wedding venues will offer you free nights and room upgrades depending on the size of your wedding group!  In many cases, you can get either part or ALL of your stay and even possibly parts of your wedding comped because you’ve earned so many free nights and extras from your wedding group.  
If you are looking for some destination wedding resort inspiration, check out the Top 5 Resorts For a Dreamy Destination Wedding  now!  

3. THE WEDDING PACKAGE AND DECOR YOU CHOOSE
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Most high-quality destination wedding resorts will have stunning wedding packages that will include your ceremony location, music, lighting, cocktail party, decor, wedding cake, reception location, entertainment, food & cocktail menu, and an open bar.   
NOTE: You have to make sure that your wedding group is going to be set up correctly in order to earn the wedding amenities and free nights.  Booking directly with the resorts will not always get you this information, as most resorts don’t seem concerned with letting you know what you can earn.  Booking with a destination wedding specialist will guarantee that your wedding group is set up properly to earn everything you qualify for.   
Check out this post on - The Best Destination Wedding Packages For An AMAZING Destination Wedding..  

4. ACTIVITIES AND EXCURSIONS FOR YOUR GROUP:
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A great way to connect with all of your wedding guests and to give them a memorable experience during your wedding week is to do a group activity. Depending on your location, you can do an ATV tour, visit a waterfall, bathe in hot mud baths, shopping in a local village, zip lining, golf, rum tasting, scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming with the dolphins, etc.  You get the idea!   Due to the size of a wedding group, I recommend you book your group activity in advance
NOTE:  There are MANY tour companies out there. Usually the lower the price the more sketch the company.  Only go with companies that are licensed and insured, and have great testimonies.   One of the best names in the industry is
Island Routes.   They have licensed and insured tours that you can trust.  They aren’t the cheapest, but they are one of the best!  

For a good quality tour, you can expect to pay around $120+ per person, depending on the type of tour, and activities that are included.   

ULTIMATELY IT IS UP TO YOU!
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Your destination wedding can be whatever you and your new spouse want it to be . If you plan ahead and are smart about where to splurge on your destination wedding   here and there,  You can have a WOW-type destination wedding without killing your budget. 
If you’ve been struggling or frustrated trying to get your destination wedding all figured out, and you’re ready for a little help,  schedule a free destination wedding consultation with me today HERE  so that you can get unstuck and moving forward on with your destination wedding planning! 
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4 Essentials You Should be Splurging on For Your Destination Wedding

8/31/2022

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​When having a destination wedding, you will want to make sure you Splurge on some areas of your destination wedding but spend less on other “not-as-important” parts. In this article, I'll break down the most important aspects that you SHOULD be spending more money on that will matter most. Maximize your budget now by reading this post!
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Spend More On Your Wedding Decor: ​
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Yes, most of your guests are going to be with you at your resort for at least two days before the ceremony, so even though they are already having a memorable time with you, you really want your ceremony, cocktail, & dinner decor to stand out!.  Your guests are only a few feet away from centerpieces, tableware, flowers, and your other decorations, so you want them to be memorable.  Anything that your family and friends can see up close, touch or feel, is worth going the extra mile for.

Spend More On Special Events

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Another area you definitely want to splurge on, is any type of special event you are going to host at the resort venue:  Maybe your own special welcome reception, complete with your own unique mixologist or specialty cocktail made exclusively for your wedding group.  You may want to have a fire show put on for your group or your own special beach party.  You may want to go on a special excursion to a historic sight, play a round of golf at a championship golf course, or do rum or tequila tasting!  Whatever is unique to your group.  You want it to be quality all the way to ensure that everyone in your group creates memories that will last a lifetime!  

Spend More On Entertainment:   
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You definitely want to splurge on your top entertainment package for your reception.   This was the main event, that everyone traveled to celebrate, and giving them rocking receptions will culminate your entire destination wedding on a high note!  Make sure you can have input on the music list, and either you or your destination wedding designer should vet the DJs by looking at their reviews, and talking to the resort wedding coordinator, to make sure you book the dj you think will do the best job for your reception:  Getting a lighted dance floor always adds a flash of fun and color to the mix, as well as having a firework show at the end of the night.  The point is you want to send your family and friends home with a high from your wedding they won’t soon forget.

Spend More On Your Wedding Photographer

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When you are getting married in a gorgeous tropical location, with powder white sand, turquoise blue water, and lush green palms, you want the beauty of your special day to come through in your photos.  You’ll also want a photographer who is a true professional and knows how to capture those special moments throughout the day that others would miss:  These photos represent one of the best days of your life and your photos should display that.

Since there are countless factors when determining what to splurge on and what not to splurge on for your destination wedding, I hope these suggestions have given you some clarity and direction when it comes to setting a budget for your destination wedding!  
If you are getting frustrated or overwhelmed trying to figure out your destination wedding, you don’t have to do this on your own!  I would love to talk with you and see where I can help you get everything in place for your wedding so that you can just enjoy the wedding process! 
Click Here to schedule your 30 minute no obligation consultation 


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Cheers!
    Denise
 

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The Best Honeymoon Packages in The Caribbean & Mexico

6/6/2022

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​When booking your exciting honeymoon getaway and planning the itinerary, you need to make sure you find the best honeymoon package that fits you and your new spouse like a glove. And remember, your honeymoon is not just another vacation, this is the start of your new life together, so this is NOT the time to be thinking about how to cut costs.
These top 4 honeymoon packages are just the tip of the iceberg of the variety of packages you can find for your honeymoon. Of course, deciding on a honeymoon destination is still the first step in planning your honeymoon, so if you’re still hashing out which destination you should go to for your honeymoon, check out my recent post on Top 6 Honeymoon Destinations. 
Best Honeymoon Package 1
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(Complimentary if you book a qualifying room! ($699 Value)
Honeymoon Inclusions:
  • Welcome letter
  •  A bottle of sparkling wine upon your arrival
  • Fruit basket and exotic fresh flowers in the suite when you arrive
  • Champagne breakfast in bed (one per stay)
  • Petit fours with your turndown service each evening
  • A private romantic beachfront dinner followed by a bubble bath in the candlelight with essential oils ready for you
  • Look Inside Ritual Massage 40 min: A journey into a peaceful dream, starting with a rosemary, eucalyptus, and melissa blend of essential oils in a releasing scalp, neck, and shoulders massage, followed by a lavender soothing balm to relax in gentle movements your facial muscles
  • • 1fghm,5% discount on your photo package, and get 5 complimentary digital pictures from your photo package (does not apply for wedding packages)
To qualify for this complimentary honeymoon package, you will need to stay a minimum of 6 nights in a required room category or higher. The package is only valid if you request it when reserving your stay and you need to travel within 3 months of your wedding date.
To purchase this package (if you don’t qualify) is $699 per couple.
Honeymoon Package 2:
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Complimentary if you book a qualifying room! ($750 value)
Honeymoon inclusions:
  • · The Personal Service of a Romance Concierge
  • · Private gourmet four-course candlelit dinner on the beach
  • · Romantically decorated suite with rose petals and aromatherapy
  • · Breakfast in bed on your day of choice
  • · Beachfront sky massage 2 X 1 offer
  • · In-room amenity upon arrival
  • · 15% discount on spa services
  • · Floral arrangement in room
  • · One-Night anniversary return stay voucher
To qualify for this complimentary honeymoon package, you must stay in a qualifying room category or higher for five nights. You will need to provide a copy of your marriage certificate (or wedding invitation with a wedding photo) at check-in. This package can be reserved for up to 90 days after the wedding date for honeymoons and within 30 days before or after your wedding date for anniversaries.
The cost to purchase this package if you don’t qualify is $750 per couple.
Best Honeymoon Package 3
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 (Complimentary if you book a qualifying room! ($800 Value)
Honeymoon Inclusions:
● Specialty petit fours
● Two keepsake bathrobes & slippers
● Special Honeymoon breakfast in bed with premium sparkling wine
● 25-minute back massage for two
● Late check-out (subject to request and availability)
To qualify for this complimentary pampering honeymoon package, the request the package must be requested either by you or your honeymoon consultant upon reserving your trip. A 4-night stay or longer is needed and proof of marriage via a marriage certificate will be requested at check-in. Travel must take place within one year of your wedding date and ​blackout dates of December 23 - January 3 apply.
Best Honeymoon Package 4
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Complimentary if you book a qualifying room! ($1,099 value)
Honeymoon inclusions:

● Sparkling wine, fresh fruit, and flowers in suite upon arrival
● Romantic breakfast in bed with Mimosas one morning (reservation with concierge required)
● Tension Release Massage for two (25 minutes)
● Choice of European Facial for two or Salt Glow Body Scrub for two
● Private beachfront dinner one evening, including a bottle of domestic wine and a meal from the Silver Menu
● Private petit fours each evening at turn-down
● Free Anniversary Nights (stay a minimum of 5 nights over the first anniversary date and receive 2 additional nights free or stay 4 nights over the first anniversary date and receive 1 additional night free)

To qualify for this romantic honeymoon package, you or your honeymoon consultant will need to request it at the time of booking the reservation and you will need to stay in a required room category or higher for a minimum of 7 nights.
This package isn’t available from Christmas to New Year and is subject to availability. You’ll need to provide a copy of either your wedding invitation or marriage certificate. You must stay within 90 days of your wedding date.
The cost to purchase this package if you don’t qualify for it is $1,099.
If your goal is to honeymoon in style, one of these packages could be just right for you! AND.. Knowing that all of your honeymoon wishes are in place will allow you to focus more on each other, and give you the pampering & romantic start on your new chapter of life together. The hardest part may be choosing which resort to honeymoon at.
If you are still trying to figure out the best honeymoon resort for you, then you may want to check out my Top 6 Resorts for a Dream Honeymoon post. Click here to read now! 
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    Denise

    Hello, welcome to my blog. 

    Planning destination weddings, honeymoons and vacations is a passion of mine and I hope you find these articles with advice, tips and tricks, useful in your wedding planning process. 

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