The Perfect Day. The Perfect Place. What’s your wedding fantasy? Barefoot by the turquoise Caribbean? Bathed in the glow of a Pacific sunset? Beneath a gazebo? In a classically romantic chapel? Start your life together in some of the most romantic places on earth with many spectacular oceanfront locations to choose from including: Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Panama.
Perfectly Planned. Your personal on-site wedding coordinator supervises every detail to perfection. From the decor and walk down the aisle, to the popping of the bubbly and the dancing ‘til dawn... no hair — or petal — will be out of place.
Regal Reception. You and your guests will celebrate, dine and dance under the stars or in an elegant ballroom. Enjoy exquisite group dinner set-ups and receptions offering stunning views of the Caribbean and sandy-white beaches. Or you can choose from dozens of other magical settings throughout any of our Dreams Resorts & Spas. Dream away!
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Costa Rica: Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica | Dominican Republic: Dreams Dominicus La Romana • Dreams La Romana Resort & Spa Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana • Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa | Mexico: Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa • Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort • Dreams Puerto Adventuras Resort & Spa • Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa Dreams Sands Cancun Resort & Spa • Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa • Dreams Villamagna Nuevo Vallarta | Panama: Dreams Delight Playa Bonita Panama* * Services may vary based on the resort. Some additional fees may apply.
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EXPERIENCE UNLIMITED-LUXURY® FOR COUPLES AND COUPLES WITH CHILDREN IN COSTA RICA | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: LA ROMANA • PUNTA CANA MEXICO: CANCUN • HUATULCO • LOS CABOS • NUEVO VALLARTA • PLAYA MUJERES • PUERTO AVENTURAS • RIVIERA CANCUN • TULUM | PANAMA
©2018
& Destination Wedding Guide EDITOR IN CHIEF, VP Diane Forden ART DIRECTOR EXECUTIVE EDITOR TRAVEL EDITOR DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR
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OWN the aisle
A love like yours is nothing to be quiet about. So when all eyes are on you, go ahead and show off a little. Make it the moment you’ve always imagined. Make today the day you Wed Out Loud. For more information, visit hrhweddings.com or call 855.762.525.
HONEYMOON Bridal Guide March/April 2019
&&DESTINATION DESTINATION WEDDING WEDDING GUIDE
YOUR HONEYMOON 8 RESORT ROUNDUP
Go deep to discover some of the coolest underground offerings around the world.
10 EDITOR’S TIPS
24
How to stay healthy—and happy—on your trip of a lifetime.
Mexico
12 WEDDINGS AWAY
12
Swap vows at these Insta-perfect properties showcasing vintage Airstream trailers. by Becca Hensley
Texas
16 TRAVEL INSIDER
Our travel editor explores one of the world’s oldest capitals—Lisbon, Portugal.
22 TRAVEL SNAPSHOTS
28
Bali
Italy’s ultra-romantic Amalfi coast boasts dramatic cliffs overlooking storybook beaches, lemon trees dotting the bucolic countryside and unbeatable food and drink. by Carrie Bell
24 ALL YOU NEED
Check in, chill out and forget every care in the world at Mexico’s best all-inclusive resorts. by Donna Heiderstadt
28 IN THE STARS
Our horoscope guide to experiencing the perfect honeymoon destination just for you. by Sherri Eisenberg
8
The Maldives
000
Eleuthra
000
Caribbean
16
Portugal COVER:
Strapless lace fit-and-flare gown with sweetheart neckline, about $1,600, by BHLDN; bhldn.com. Earrings by Carolee; carolee.com. Ring by The9thMuse; the9thmuse.com. Engagement ring and wedding band by Neil Lane Studio; kay.com. On him: Blazer and shirt by Vince Camuto; macys.com. Pants by Joseph Abboud; josephabboud.com.
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY:
Terry Doyle. Hair & Makeup: Cheyenne Timperio at City Artists Management using Amika Hair Products and M·A·C Cosmetics.
COVER LOCATION: Photographed at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City in New Jersey; hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.
IN MY KINGDOM, EVEN SCIENTISTS AGREE, THE EARTH REVOLVES AROUND ME. At the center of every kingdom, stands a palace. One where every bride’s wish is granted. And where the world revolves only around you. You and your entire wedding party will be eligible to receive up to US $1,500 in Resort Credit to use toward the spa, tours, romantic dinners and so much more. Let us help you plan your perfect day. Live the Palace Life. 1-877-725-4933 Weddings.PalaceResorts.com
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23 TYRE AA VR ES LI NA AW AR OR WD S
RESORT ROUNDUP
Sea at Anantara Kihavah Villas.
An outdoor lounge at Anantara Kihavah Villas.
Anantara Kihavah Villas
Go underground to experience some of the world’s coolest offerings from food to adventures at these chic spots. by Jenna Mahoney LES HAUTES ROCHES
Les Hautes Roches. A room in a cave.
On the longest river in France in the famed and eponymous Loire Valley there are a series of magnificent stone caves. Centuries old, the temperate expanses house everything from museums and a zoo to restaurants and haute hotels. One such intimate hideaway is Les Hautes Roches, which is set into the craggy rock setting and out into a magnificent chateau. Twelve of the 14 ultra-sumptuous guest rooms are positioned within the historic caves. Once a residence for refuge-seeking monks, the retreat also boasts a Michelin-star restaurant, plus a sun-drenched terrace and a pretty pool area (room rates start at about $217 a night; leshautesroches.com).
One of Rosewood Mayakoba’s spiritual offerings.
ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.
While there are many places in the world where people celebrate major events with impressive meals that are cooked in the ground, few are as well known as the Hawaiian luau. And of all the pig roasts in the archipelago, the weekly ritual at the posh Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is the most notable. Guests are first treated to the unearthing. As the sun sets, men dismantle the imu (underground oven) moving hot stones, woven fabric and leaves. Musicians strum metal guitars while a narrator explains the process. The meat is then served along with endless sides, sweet rum punch, awesome ocean views and a traditional hula performance (room rates start at $725 a night; maunakeabeachhotel.com).
Occupying an expanse of mangrove-dense jungle on the shores of a powder-sand beach, this 129-room luxe retreat is as eco-friendly as it is pampering. Along with impeccable service and elevated cuisine, Sense, a Rosewood Spa is a marquee offering. Dig into a healing ritual with the half-day Mayan healing hands journey. The spiritual ceremony features time in a tezmecal (traditional sweat lodge) and at the property’s cenote (limestone cave). There, a shaman leads guests through a sacred ceremony featuring flowers, incense, music, chants and more (room rates start at about $995 a night; rosewoodhotels.com).
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) ANANTARA KIHAVAH VILLAS (2); ROSEWHOOD HOTELS & RESORTS; MAUNA KEA BEACH HOTEL; LES HAUTES ROCHES (2)
Down Under
Deep diving is de rigueur in the farflung island nation of the Maldives. Yet dining underwater is next-level even for this paradise-on-earth destination. Book a table at the aptly named Sea at Anantara Kihavah Villas and marvel at the kaleidoscope of tropical fish, turtles and sharks spinning and swirling above your head and around the walls in the most brilliant of blue waters. The menu at this intimate eatery (it sits just 12 diners) is just as impressive, with local seafood being the highlight (room rates start at $1,500 a night; anantara.com).
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EDITOR’S TIPS treme cases, drinking bad water can cause dysentery, an immobilizing illness that is the exact opposite of pretty. But water safety goes beyond hydrating— avoid swimming in still bodies of water, which can be filled with bacteria and parasites. Limit your intake of raw veggies in places where the water supply is iffy, and always brush your teeth with bottled H2O. Although many resorts have filtration systems, you can never be too careful, says the girl who suffered through a feverish day in India after not paying attention.
There’s nothing that can derail your happily-ever-after escape like falling ill. Here’s how to stay healthy. by Jenna Mahoney
N
o one likes being sick—especially on vacation—but feeling under the weather on your honeymoon may as well be a premise for a horror movie. Add a scene in a foreign hospital and, well, you’re pretty much guaranteed night terrors. Here are some ways to stay in good health. A prep step on the front end of your trip can ensure smooth sailing. Before you even book your honeymoon, research any inoculations or medical information on the CDC website. If you are traveling to a country with confirmed Zika cases, be sure to pack strong mosquito repellent and lightweight longsleeved shirts and pants. If your resort or hotel doesn’t have air conditioning or has open-air rooms, make sure they provide screens and mosquito netting over the bed. If you think there is any possibility that you might be pregnant, definitely check with your doctor, and if you plan on trying to conceive, wait at least eight
BE PREPARED
SAFETY FIRST I’ve been on a snorto 10 weeks after your return. For every- keling trip in Hawaii with someone who day illnesses, I always carry an arsenal of didn’t know how to swim and on a trek vitamins including the vitamin C tablets in the Andes with a fellow with a heart Airborne (Walgreens has a great generic condition. These two ruined it for all. Yes, version) and nasal oil. If I feel a sniffle or your honeymoon is an awesome time to throat tingle, I use both for an immedi- have totally new experiences, but alate nip in the bud. Other medical neces- ways recognize your limits. If you’ve got sities include blister balm and the cardio capacity of a bulldog, Band-Aids, Rosebud Salve skip the intense jungle mounSunburns are (for lip hydrating and papertain biking excursion and opt uncomfortable at the cut soothing), Pepto Bismol least and a cancer risk for a more leisurely canopy tablets and Advil. Personally, at the most. No matter walk instead. Also, don’t be I don’t pack or use anti- your destination, pack afraid to sit things out. Once a broad spectrum bacterial stuff, as I’m afraid in Thailand my intense fear of SPF of 30. of super strains. Instead, I use heights prevented me from trekpre-moistened towelettes that double king up a precarious flight of stairs to a as makeup and coffee-stain removers. mountaintop lake. Was I a bit bummed? Tip: Always carry Kleenex. It’s uncom- Sure. But while I was waiting for my mon to find free toilet paper at public friends, I enjoyed some fresh coconut restrooms across the globe. water and got a tip from a local about a super-secret beach on a neighboring SAFE HARBOR Chances are you island. After my suggestion we checked know that it’s not the smartest move out the pristine cove—we were the only to drink tap water abroad, since it isn’t people there and the scenery was right purified as it is in the U.S. And in ex- out of a screensaver.
TIP:
>> BRIDALGUIDE.COM Find ways to be your best self by your big day at bridalguide.com/weddingwellness
PHOTOGRAPHY: CHRISTOPHER ROBBINS
To Your Health
FIND BALANCE After your dedicated efforts in operation bridal bootcamp, it’s totally understandable that you’ll want to indulge in French fries and piña coladas all day, every day on your honeymoon. But staying active and eating well on your vacation actually enhances the experience. I love taking yoga classes at resorts—the studios usually have the best-kept natural views on property. Plus, it feels good to get all the plane stress stretched out. Resort gyms have endless class menus, where you can try Pilates, kickboxing or a personal training session with your new husband.
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For your wedding, honeymoon, anniversary — or just for the romance of it — Secrets Resorts & Spas are created for lovers. Our idyllic all-adult havens treat you to sensuous experiences, a huge bouquet of amenities and heart-melting memories, all yours in the remarkable inclusions of Unlimited-Luxury ®. Providing infinite pleasure is our secret. How you enjoy it is yours.
Visit SecretsResorts.com for more details. EXPERIENCE UNLIMITED-LUXURY ® FOR ALL-ADULT ROMANCE IN COSTA RICA | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: CAP CANA • PUNTA CANA JAMAICA: MONTEGO BAY | MEXICO: AKUMAL • CANCUN • COZUMEL • HUATULCO • LOS CABOS • PLAYA MUJERES • PUERTO VALLARTA • RIVIERA CANCUN
©2018
WEDDINGS AWAY
One of seven mobile homes at El Cosmico.
El Cosmico in Marfa, Texas.
Hit the Road
PHOTOGRAPHY: (FROM TOP LEFT) NICK SIMONITE (2) SHOOTING STAR RV RESORT; NICK SIMONITE; CARAVAN OJAI OUTPOST
In every issue, we scout a spot that’s perfect for tying the knot away from home. by Becca Hensley
F
or wanderlusting couples with a penchant for vintage style, these funky, not-your-grandma’s trailer parks promise a charming way to honor your inner road warrior and celebrate your love. Steer your motor home to new horizons with parties that celebrate the great outdoors, your sense of adventure and your quirkiness as a couple. As Jack Kerouac wrote: “The road is life.” Cheers to starting yours together at these three cool spots.
EL COSIMICO, MARFA, TEXAS Texan Robert Earl Keen’s song “The Road Goes On Forever,” becomes a truism in far west Texas’ Marfa, a cowpoke brimming artists’ colony, where Giant (the western epic starring Elizabeth Taylor) was filmed. Amid the otherworldly high desert, dusty landscape, complete with starry nights, tumbleweeds, and a revitalized two-bit town (now home to an atelier, boutiques and fine dining), El Cosimico occupies 18 acres of nostalgic, coolkid repose. Rent out the whole shooting match, a composite that holds seven refurbished, circa-1950 mobile homes (painted in hues from turquoise to pink), yurts, teepees, tents, a performance stage, shared kitchens and more. Proclaim your love in the retreat’s ceremony space (for wedding groups of 50 or less), which has a rustic-fashioned altar. Flowers, decor, extra furniture and catered dinners beneath the big sky can be arranged by staff (ceremony site fees start at $500. Wedding dinner packages start at $35 per person. Tent rates start at $80 a night and full property buy-outs start at $13,000 a night; elcosmico.com).
SHOOTING STAR RV RESORT, ESCALANTE, UTAH Wedding parties can gaze at the immense western sky—or watch a movie at this old-timey retreat’s drive-in-style, outdoor theater, replete with restored, classic cars for seating. Located ➺
Shooting Star RV Resort, Escalante, Utah.
A gathering space at El Cosmico. Caravan Outpost Ojai, California.
WEDDINGS AWAY
A peek inside El Cosmico.
LEGALLY WEDDED
Big Sky country indeed at Shooting Star.
CARAVAN OUTPOST OJAI, CALIFORNIA Hang out at quirky Caravan Outpost Ojai, where the vintage cut-steel sign that marks the property foretells the hip factor that awaits. Found in a valley in the heart of Southern California’s Ojai (90 minutes north of Los Angeles and 15 minutes from Ventura Beach), Caravan Outpost stretches over a picturesque garden surrounded by orange and tangerine groves. Its 11 retrofitted Airstreams and one tiny house, aesthetically arranged, provide a perfect takeover spot for a wedding fête. From an inviting main street packed with smart boutiques, New Age stores, art galleries, restaurants and yoga studios to activities that range from hiking and surfing to winetasting and music venues, the area promises guests a plethora of options. Don’t
miss the famous pink sunset from Meditation Rock. Weddings on site are customized for each couple’s needs (wedding dinner packages start at $50 per person. Trailer rates start at $180 a night and full property buy-outs start at $10,000 a night; caravanoutpostojai.com).
PHOTOGRAPHY: (FROM TOP) NICK SIMONITE; CARAVAN OJAI OUTPOST; SHOOTING STAR RV RESORT
just a stone’s throw from Scenic Byway 12 in southern Utah, the aptly named Shooting Star RV Resort pays homage to silver screen’s heyday with its nine Airstreams; each designed to evoke the romance of old movies, their stars and bygone, film-set dressing rooms. Created by sustainable-design maven Mark Gudenas, the park strives to keep a light footprint, following a rigorous An interior shot— Caravan Outpost. reuse program. Its location, amid two million acres of wilderness, makes it the ideal base for visiting some of the state’s national parks, such as Arches, Bryce and Zion. In addition to the Airstreams, guests can rent the party pavilion and park their own RVs on dedicated sites (site fees start at $75. Trailer rates start at $129 a night, full property buy-outs start at $1,261 a night with a two-night minimum; shootingstar-rvresort.com).
Marriage licenses are compulsory in California, Texas and Utah. All three states require couples appear in person to apply or sign the online forms. Proof of age, marital status, and fees must be furnished. Actual documentation and fees vary not only from state to state but also county to county. Check with the local county clerk for exact needs.
I AM
DIVING RIGHT IN
Have it all with Unlimited-Luxury ®: Personal wedding coordinator Complimentary wedding and honeymoon packages Romantic ceremony settings Bridal suites Wedding showrooms Spacious suites with private terraces Reservation-free gourmet dining options Unlimited top-shelf spirits 24-hour room service Free Wi-Fi and calling to the US, Canada Endless daytime activities and live nightly entertainment Complimentary anniversary nights Sumptuous spas* *Additional costs may apply
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©2018
TRAVEL INSIDER
LISBON
TO THE SEA Maritime exploration is pure Portugal.
Our travel editor explores the seven hills of one of Europe’s oldest capitals. by Jenna Mahoney MEDITERRANEAN COUNTRIES have long been lauded as vacation paradises. The romantic allure of the sun-kissed coastal destinations endures thanks to bucolic scenery, historic cultural attractions, and days that seem to linger, steeped in storybook cafe culture. Of course, food and wine are hallmarks. For generations, SUNNY CITY A typical scene the Iberian country of Portugal has remained in Lisbon. a quiet option. Not anymore—Lisbon, the country’s capital and the world’s second oldest, has exploded onto the travel scene with all the excellent offerings for which the Mediterranean region is celebrated at a fraction of the price. Here’s what I discovered on a recent jaunt to the romantic city.
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL RITZ LISBON The art-filled lobby.
The “City of Seven Hills” moniker is no joke—Lisbon crests and falls like the sea. It’s fitting, since the Portuguese have long looked to the ocean for food, wealth and adventure. In some ways the city is very walkable: There’s a wide main boulevard with a leafy central TRAVEL TIP: Just two hours from the capital sits the postcafe-filled area, and many roads lead to plazas card-perfect beach town Cascais. There’s a quaint plaza with dotted with tables and benches. Yet sidewalks are narrow and made of ancient stones. Often, family-run eateries and local shops, medieval cultural sites they end abruptly or are interrupted by stairs. and a series of streets that wind up a hill for great water views. However, Lisbon is picturesque in the sense that it feels like an Insta-feed at every turn. And RUA AUGUSTA ARCH seeing it all on foot is the best vantage point. The triumphal structure represents glory, valor Both public and hop-on, hop-off tour buses and genius. are very easy to navigate to get over each hill or closer to your targeted neighborhood (called district here). One public transport must is riding the historic Tram 28, a rattling circa 1930s trolley that passes by many important sites.
CASTLE ON A CLOUD
SIDEWALK SALE
Second only to Athens in age, Lisbon was Truth in advertising. home to Phoenicians (who gave the city its name), Moors and Holy Roman crusaders. The Old City, which winds up the hill La Colina de Sao Jorge is a warren of ancient buildings, churches and fountains. At the top sits the eponymous Castle. It is here—on the city’s highest point—that the current capital was born. Towering stone walls encompass ruins that were left by the Romans. ➺
VARANDA RESTAURANT An outdoor dining area at the Four Seasons.
➺
PHOTOGRAPHY (FROM TOP) JENNA MAHONEY (3); FOUR SEASONS HOTELS & RESORTS; JENNA MAHONEY (2); FOUR SEASONS HOTELS & RESORTS
WALK THIS WAY
T h e b i g d ay i s c o m i n g
An elegant chapel, a terrace by the sea, lush green gardens. Wherever your journey brings you, Palladium Hotel Group has the destination you’ve always dreamed of. Happily ever afters begin here. For more information, please contact your travel professional, visit
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PHOTOGRAPHY (FROM TOP) JENNA MAHONEY (2); FOUR SEASONS HOTELS & RESORTS (2); JENNA MAHONEY
TRAVEL INSIDER Expansive terraces dotted with ancient olive trees and fountains look over the city and out onto the Tagus River. Just outside the complex, you’ll find shops selling handmade ceramics and leather goods and items made of cork. The restaurants and cafes in the area cater to visitors, but prices are still favorable and food is straight-from-the-sea fresh.
DOWN BY THE RIVER I’ll admit it: Santa Maria de Belém on the banks of the Tagus wasn’t my favorite part of our visit to the city. There are throngs of tourists jockeying for glimpses of the waterfront Padrão do Descobrimentos (a sail-shaped monument to seafaring discoveries of Portugal), Belem Tower (the circa 16th-century ceremonial gateway to Lisbon) and the sprawling Jerónimos Monastery. But the Maritime Museum, which is housed in part of the latter and dates to 1863, is not only informative and interesting, it’s delightfully crowd free. There are model ships, medals, maps, uniforms and videos about the pioneering and formidable fleet, as well as cabin furnishings from royal ships. The most impressive collection, however, is the selection of real naval boats throughout the ages.
ALL ABOARD The city’s classic trolley.
PUTTING ON THE RITZ While the visitor scene is exploding in Lisbon (tourism numbers have LA COLINA DE doubled each year for nearly the past decade), the city boasts only SAO JORGE The castle-topped hill. one true luxury property, the Four Seaons Hotel Ritz Lisbon. Set on a hill overlooking the expansive Eduardo VII Park, the modern hideaway encompasses an impressive TRAVEL TIP: It is said that the Portuguese helmed art collection that is as renowned as its own archioceanic exploration. And Lisbon has a long history for tectural story. Hotel amenities include an enormous launching ships. Today, the metropolis is a departure port fitness center with an open-air rooftop track, an indoor pool and stellar service. All of the 282 accomfor nearly 20 cruise lines plying the Mediterranean. modations have decadent marble bathrooms; most have balconies. Book one on the park side for specMERCADO DA RIBERIA tacular—and never-ending—city views, especially at Traditional fishmonger. night. Another standout is O Japonês restaurant, a delightful sushi celebration of Portugal’s undeniable bounty of the sea. Sit outside for the best evening atmosphere (room rates start at about $650 a night; fourseasons.com).
FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD Somewhere, someone has scientifically proven that it is impossible to find a bad meal in Lisbon, especially if, like me, you prefer to eat tapas style. Olives, grilled sardines served with fresh bread, bacalhau à bras (shredded cod with potatoes and egg) are on every menu. You’ll also find unbeatable local wines at every turn. One of my favorite places to explore when I travel is the local market. Lisbon’s Mercado da Ribeira in the Baxia district is the epitome of the city today. Stalls of fish, shellfish and produce are framed by a Time Out marketplace that features inventive approaches to traditional Portuguese cooking. Tip: Hit the croquette outpost for bite-sized goodies paired with ice-cold local beer. ¢
MAKE A SPLASH The Four Seasons boasts a cool indoor pool.
RUN THIS TOWN The hotel’s expansive rooftop running track.
LO
T S R I F T VE A
E P I SW
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Say “I do” to a Free* Wedding. WEDDING & HONEYMOON BEACHES® FREE* WEDDING WITH A THREENIGHT STAY OR MORE!
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INVITE FAMILY & FRIENDS AND BOOK MORE ROOMS TO GET MORE PERKS FROM A FREE HONEYMOON WITH A BUTLER HONEYMOON SUITE* TO A LOBSTER DINNER RECEPTION*
CUSTOMIZABLE Weddings Beaches Resorts also offers a fully customizable destination wedding, where you can have all the romantic touches of a traditional wedding in the most spectacular settings in the Caribbean. Plan every moment from the location and color palette to the cake and music.
We do.
Share your love with the ones you love. At Beaches Resorts, you can have it all—your dream wedding surrounded by the people who mean the most to you. And while you’re off having the honeymoon of a lifetime, they’ll have their own incredible vacation, with land and water sports, 5-Star Global Gourmet™ dining at up to 21 restaurants per resort, and entertaining options for adults and kids. With more quality inclusions than any other resorts in the world, it really is a celebration everyone can enjoy. VOTED WORLD’S BEST AT
T H E
W O R L D
21
YEARS IN A ROW T R AV E L AWA R D S
JAMAICA • TURKS & CAICOS
BEACHES.COM/WEDDINGS 1-877-BEACHES • or call your Travel Professional *Visit www.beaches.com/disclaimers/bridalguidemarapr19bchsupplement or call 1-877-BEACHES for important terms and conditions.
More to do.
Absolutely everything’s included for your honeymoon.
PLUS YOUR BEACHES HONEYMOON INCLUDES*: A Bubbly Welcome A bottle of chilled sparkling wine elegantly arranged in your room upon arrival to toast your future. A Romantic Gesture A special turndown service on the first evening of your honeymoon. Wake Up To Wedded Bliss Delight in a delivery of fresh flowers and a decadent breakfast in bed one morning of your choice. MORE QUALITY INCLUSIONS THAN ANY OTHER RESORTS IN THE WORLD
@ beachesresortsweddings
TRAVEL SNAPSHOTS Casa Angelina in quiet Praiano.
WHITE HOT
Amalfi Coast
Bellinis and boat trips, gelato and gardens, plunging cliffs dotted with pastel-colored villages and piazzas, citrus-scented sunshine—these are just a few of the magical things that keep lovers and dreamers flocking to the Italian coastline, even when it means having to brave the blind corners and dramatic drop-offs of the infamous SS163 highway that connects the romantic, water-view 13 hamlets.—Carrie Bell Hike the mighty cliffs.
In the quaint town of Praiano, book into Casa Angelina, a serene 39-room adultsonly boutique hideaway with a chic allwhite palette, rooftop dining, indoor and outdoor pools and floor-to-ceiling views of the aquamarine water below. La Gavitella, a photogenic beach from which sunsets can be enjoyed, is accessible by elevator and 200 steps. Decrease the distance between your shower and the sand by staying in one of the converted Eaudesea Experience fishermen’s cottages built directly into the rock. Your butler can deliver a signature orange blossom gin fizz or book a spa treatment that utilizes the same local flower (room rates start at about $610 a night; casangelina.com).
Sweet Dreams The Pansa family has been crafting decadent pastries in Amalfi since 1830. At their elegant salon on Amalfi square, you can marvel and indulge in a classic lemon cake, flaky sfogliatelle (a thin-layered, cream-filled treat) and homemade chocolate bars, all accompanied by an espresso. Don’t miss a visit to the immaculate 11th-century cathedral located in the same piazza.
WALK ON BY While eating is certainly on everyone’s agenda, getting your steps in are also easy here. Take a casual stroll through the gardens and Infinity Terrace of Ravello’s Villa Cimbrone, a favorite of Richard Wagner, Gore Vidal and Virginia Woolf. For a more rigorous outing, there’s sentiero degli dei (path of the gods), a sky-high five-mile trail filled with wildflowers, ruins, vertical orchards and million-dollar views. REI Adventures offers an active itinerary that includes hiking and winetasting on the slopes of Vesuvius, kayaking through sea caves and exploring a castle on Ischia.
This is Italy, which means a food tour is a must-do. On the five-hour forage, fix and then feast experience with Gastronomic Trekking, local Giacomo Miola leads intimate groups around the Montepertuso countryside in search of herbs, fruits, capers and edible weeds. Whatever you find is then utilized at a cooking class and multi-course lunch at the B&B he runs with his brother. Mangia!
Grotto hopping.
TRAVEL TIP: Whether you want to Vespa from grotto to grotto, learn to make limoncello, sail to Capri or find the best spots to score ceramics, use GetYourGuide.com to connect with local experts, drivers and tours in advance.
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) CASA ANGELNA (3); REI ADVENTURES (2)
Pick-up Artists
the blockbuster wedding of your dreams It’s Showtime! Celebrate your big day under the spotlight you deserve. At Planet Hollywood, there’s nothing more imperative than planning the blockbuster wedding of your dreams. Whether it’s your début or a remake, we promise to roll out the red carpet for a motion picture you won’t forget. • Personal wedding planner & onsite day-of coordinator • Celebrity VIP welcome for the bride & groom • Late checkout for bride & groom (based on availability) • Bride & groom room upgrade (based on availability) • “Prep” refreshments & fruit platter for the bride & groom • Offer your guests a 10% discount on spa services to be fully pampered • Breakfast in bed for the morning after the wedding
planethollywoodhotels.com
MEXICO
ALL YOU NEED CHECK IN, KICK BACK AND ENJOY THE SIMPLE PLEASURES OF MEXICO’S BEST ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS. BY DONNA HEIDERSTADT “OOH, MEXICO/IT SOUNDS SO SIMPLE/I JUST GOT TO GO.” JIMMY BUFFET SINGS ABOUT THE APPEAL OF
vacationing south of the border so well. Not only are the shores of Mexico sunny and welcoming, they are easily accessible from most major U.S. airports. Toss in an awesome all-inclusive resort experience and— really—it’s so simple. Here, we make it even more so by selecting the right property just for you. Now all
Dive in at Excellence Playa Mujeres.
PHOTOGRAPHY: EXCELLENCE GROUP
you need to do is decide “on the rocks” or “frozen” when ordering your margarita.
Vacation like a star at Marquis Los Cabos.
PHOTOGRAPHY: (FROM TOP): MARQUIS LOS CABOS; ZOËTRY WELLNESS & SPA RESORTS
Zoëtry Paraíso de la Bonita Riviera Maya offers super spa experiences.
SEXY SECLUSION EXCELLENCE PLAYA MUJERES No kids? Check. Private Jacuzzis and rooftop plunge pools? Double check. If it’s grown-up indulgences you’re after, 450room Excellence Playa Mujeres, located on Cancun’s quieter coast facing Isla Mujeres, has a sexy, adults-only vibe. Gardenlevel suites offer direct pool access and second-level suites boast pretty rooftop plunge pools. Beachfront pools feature
swinging Balinese day beds for two and the champagne-hued beach is lined with chaises shaded by thatched-roof palapas. Even the dining options are intimate and seductive: 10 restaurants specializing in international cuisine, including Mexican, Indian, French, Italian and Pan-Asian, as well as steak and seafood. Eleven bars provide the perfect setting for winding down as the sun sets (room rates start at $498 per person, per night and are all inclusive; excellenceresorts.com). ➺
MEXICO
A-LISTER ASPIRATIONS
Moon Palace Cancun makes a splash. Savor your time and wine at Secrets The Vine Cancun
MARQUIS LOS CABOS
Fact: The Pacific twin resort towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo are so popular with celebs (Jennifer Aniston, George Clooney, the Olsen twins) they could be called Hollywood South of the Border. Feel like an A-lister yourself and book into one of this 235-room property’s luxurious ocean-view junior suites—at all-inclusive prices we non-famous faces can savor the experience. You’ll have everything you need to feel like a star— five restaurants (and 24-hour room service), the sunset-facing Suspiros Bar, Jacuzzi bathtubs and a 13,000-square-foot spa, But if your Instagram feed shows your celeb BFF out and about in Los Cabos, it’s a snap to hop into a taxi and check out the scene, which is about 20 minutes away (room rates start at $485 per person, per night and are all inclusive, marquisloscabos.com).
WELLNESS ZONE ZÖETRY PARAÍSO DE LA BONITA At this tranquil Riviera Maya resort, pampering and gourmet cuisine (much of it local and organic) are as much a part of the DNA as sunshine, luxury amenities and romance. Zöetry Paraíso de la Bonita is home to both a certified thalasso (water treatment) therapy center and a Mayan temazcal (traditional sweat lodge) steam room. And both experiences are included in the rates of this ultra-pampering property. The 100 beachfront suites are havens
Sun’s out—Marquis Los Cabos.
of relaxation that mix culture-rich global decor from Bali, India, Africa and the Mediterranean with Mexican architectural details. And in the marble bathroom you’ll find the perfect sunken tub for two (room rates start at $554 per person, per night and are all inclusive; zoetryresorts.com).
PLAY TIME MOON PALACE CANCUN
An overwater spa area at Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita.
If your ideal day in the sun is all about making a splash in, around or on top of water, this lively 2,446-room resort in Cancun will give you endless options. There are seven pools, six swim-up bars, FlowRider surf simulators, paddleboard yoga, kayaking, a Dolphinarium and yes, a beautiful white-sand beach. Max out your adrenaline with a day pass to The Grand at Moon Palace, home to an over-the-top and brand-new water park. Opt for some alone time with a couple’s massage followed by a candlelit soak in a rose-petal-topped Jacuzzi at the Awe Spa, or simply order champagne and strawberries and relax in your own in-room whirlpool tub (room rates start at $454 per person, per night and are all inclusive; moonpalacancun.com).
WINE ALL THE TIME
SECRETS THE VINE CANCUN
Tequila may be king, but Mexico has a vibrant wine scene. And this sophisticated 497-room adults-only resort is all about showcasing excellent vintages. It’s located in Cancun’s main hotel zone, but with its haute design (every room features a spacious balcony with a view) and urban-modern decor, it feels airlifted from South Beach or Santa Monica. Choose from a variety of
PHOTOGRAPHY: (FROM TOP) PALACE RESORTS; SECRETS VINE CANCUN; MARQUIS LOS CABOS; ZOËTRY WELLNESS & SPA RESORTS
FUN FACT: RIVIERA NAYARIT STRETCHES OVER MORE THAN 200 MILES OF THE PACIFIC COASTLINE FROM HISTORIC SAN BLAS TO BEAUTIFUL BANDERAS BAY.
premium wines at eight restaurants and seven bars. Better still, enjoy tastings with the hotel’s sommelier next to the glassenclosed 3,000-bottle wine cellar to find your favorite pour and then enjoy it on your terrace overlooking Cancun’s dazzling turquoise surf (room rates start at $420 per person, per night and are all inclusive; secretsresorts.com).
TEQUILA TEMPTATIONS AZUL BEACH RESORT RIVIERA MAYA Do you dance with abandon every time the song “Tequila” starts to play and think that salt-rimmed glasses and sipping mescal are the stuff of which honeymoon dreams are made? Sample up to 30
Cheers! Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya.
FUN FACT: THE BEACHES OF MEXICO’S CARIBBEAN COAST ARE COLLECTIVELY KNOWN AS RIVIERA MAYA AND ECO-TOURISM IS WILDLY POPULAR.
PHOTOGRAPHY: (FROM TOP) KARISMA HOTELS & RESORTS;. EXCELLENCE GROUP; BAHIA PRINCIPE HOTELS & RESORTS; C/O VELAS RESORTS
different tequilas in the atmospheric Agavero Tequila Lounge at the 14-room boutique-style Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya. The property also pours its all-inclusive hospitality into contemporary accommodations (including swim-up suites), five internationally inspired restaurants, nightly entertainment and even a specialized romance maître d’ to create the right amount of red-hot together time (room rates start at $468 per person, per night and are all inclusive; azulbeachresorts.com).
BANG FOR YOUR BUCK LUXURY BAHIA PRINCIPE SIAN KA’AN
Soak it all in— Excellence Playa Mujeres.
Having champagne taste on a beer budget can be frustrating, but this chic 420-room, adults-only enclave on Riviera Maya makes it possible to live large and yet spend little. Enjoy upscale, contemporary ambiance while relaxing in spacious suites with garden or rooftop Jacuzzis and enjoying four free-form pools, a golf course, a soothing spa and excellent food, all tucked into a serene, lush jungle setting. The beach is a short tram ride away (Sian Ka’an is part of a four-resort Bahia Principe Riviera Maya complex) and as a Luxury guest, you can dine at any of the 25 restaurants while sipping champagne or beer—or both (room rates start at $194 per person, per night and are all inclusive; bahia-principe.com).
Luxe for less at Luxury Bahia Principe Sian Ka’an.
FOODIE EUPHORIA GRAND VELAS RIVIERA NAYARIT French-born executive chef Guillaume Morancé helms five restaurants at this photogenic property on the Pacific coast. The acclaimed eateries include Frida (local artisanal Mexican with unexpected ingredients), Lucca (authentic Italian-Mediterranean) and Piaf (elegant French). Savor the global flavors while enjoying magnificent Bay of Banderas views, including the spectacular sunsets. If you prefer a private in-room dining experience (all suites have terraces and the smallest is 1,000 square feet, so there’s plenty of room), order in from any of the eateries. Add in lushly manicured grounds, balconies dripping with vibrant bougainvillea and a sparkling three-tier infinity pool and your appetite for luxury will be more than sated (room rates start at $627 per person, per night and are all inclusive; grandvelas.com). ¢
Lucca, one of five eateries at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit.
WORLDWIDE
IN THE STARS
F
or centuries, adventurers, wanderers and travelers have looked to the stars to chart their course. Why should your honeymoon plan be any different? Astrological signs not only help define our likes and personality traits, they can also inform our best love matches. Here, we studied the skies to discover the perfect honeymoon destination for you and your zodiac sign.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) LOVES: You’re conservative and restrained, but your loved ones know you’re a secret troublemaker. HONEYMOON VIBE: An exclusive retreat that’s as much a storybook location as it is pampering YOUR MATCH: Escape to the all-inclusive Hermitage Bay on Antigua in the Caribbean and repose in your private villa, spending nights in a mosquito net-swathed bed and showering in your private outdoor shower. Built into the hillside overlooking a white-sand beach, many suites even have exclusive plunge pools so you can take a late-night skinny dip if you feel inspired by the moonlit water and the serenade of frogs (room rates start at $1,200 a night and are all inclusive; hermitagebay.com).
Discover your ideal hideaway with this horoscope hotel guide. by Sherri Eisenberg
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) LOVES: You free spirits embrace varied hobbies and eccentricities; and help be the change you want to see in the world. HONEYMOON VIBE: Deep dive at a destination that’s rich in cultural offerings for an educative experience YOUR MATCH: Check into Cambodia’s Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort for quick access to all Siem Reap’s mind-blowing temples and ruins. Take a tuk tuk to Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, where giant trees grow through the mosscovered stone ruins. Then visit a school for girls to donate muchneeded supplies before heading to the night market. Back at the sprawling mahogany-lined resort, stretch out by the pool with a Khmer iced coffee (room rates start at $205 a night; sofitel.com).
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) LOVES: You’re dreamers who love illusion and escapism. HONEYMOON VIBE: Sail away and leave all your cares behind DESTINATION MATCH: Want to leave it all for a fantasy-onearth? Laucala Island in Fiji is an exclusive private-island resort with just 25 villas spread across a coconut plantation. Find a deserted beach to call your own for the day or explore the ➺
PHOTOGRAPHY: (THIS PAGE) VICEROY HOTELS; (OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) HERMITAGE BAY; LAUCALA ISLAND; THE COSMOPOLITAN LAS VEGAS; ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS; IMAGES COURTESY OF ANDBEYOND; LAKE PLACID LODGE
Star gaze at the Viceroy Bali.
CAPRICORN Hermitage Bay
PISCES Laucala Island
ARIES
Lake Placid Lodge
GEMINI
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
LEO
AndBeyond Phinda Rock Lodge
LIBRA
The Hôtel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel
STARS FUN FACT: THERE ARE 57 NAVIGATIONAL STARS, ACCORDING TO THE ASTRONOMICAL APPLICATIONS DEPARTMENT OF THE U.S. NAVAL OBSERVATORY. EACH OF THE CELESTIAL BODIES HAS A PROPER NAME. POLARIS, AKA THE “NORTH STAR” IS, PERHAPS, THE MOST WELL KNOWN.
WORLDWIDE
AQUARIUS
Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
SAGITTARIUS Viceroy Bali
CANCER
Four Seasons Bora Bora
TAURUS
jungle on horseback. Just be back in time for the evening barbecue on the sand (room rates start at $6,000 a night and are all inclusive with a massage and air transfers; laucala.com).
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) LOVES: The adrenaline rush of spontaneity—you adore things quick and action-oriented. HONEYMOON VIBE: A spin-the-globe, eyes closed, fingerpointing approach YOUR MATCH: Let fate guide your way toward a property teeming with activities. The honeymoon-perfect Lake Placid Lodge in upstate New York has endless options to tempt your sense of adventure. There’s canoeing, fishing and hiking in the warmer months plus snowshoeing, ice skating and cross-country skiing in winter, just to name a few. All lakeside rooms are individually appointed; most have fireplaces and sunken tubs (room rates start at $370 a night; lakeplacidlodge.com).
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) LOVES: You crave the comfort and luxury of serene settings with soothing smells and sounds and plenty of pampering. HONEYMOON VIBE: A decadent spa property
YOUR MATCH: Desert oasis the Phoenician Scottsdale is just emerging from a multi-year renovation that wows. Amenities include a sleek three-story spa with a mix-your-own aromatherapy bar. There’s also a peaceful pool on the spa roof, plus a massive resort full of newly renovated casitas and multiple pools (room rates start at $579 a night; thephoenician.com).
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) LOVES: Playful and socially curious, Geminis love a good party. HONEYMOON VIBE: Vegas, baby DESTINATION MATCH: Check into the blingy The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and you’ll have a wide variety of restaurants, bars and entertainment to keep your many interests piqued for your entire stay. Dine at L.A.’s beloved Eggslut, order Spanish tapas at Jose Andres’ Jaleo, or visit David Chang’s Korean-influenced Momofuku, but don’t miss the cabaret-style Rose.Rabbit. Lie and the resort’s secret late-night pizza slice shop (room rates start at $165 a night; cosmopolitanlasvegas.com).
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) LOVES: This water sign only has eyes for the ocean—and home, sweet home.
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) VICEROY HOTELS; SOFITEL ANGKOR PHOKEETHRA GOLF & SPA RESORT; FOUR SEASONS RESORTS & HOTELS; THE PHOENICIAN
The Phoenician Spa
SCORPIO
Esperanza, an Auberge Resort
VIRGO
The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua
HONEYMOON VIBE: A far-flung tropical island paradise packed with all the comforts YOUR MATCH: The South Pacific’s Four Seasons Bora Bora is a collection of thatch roofed over-water bungalows that put the least distance possible between you and the clear turquoise lagoon. There’s no need to don a snorkel here—just walk down your staircase into the warm water, and the friendly fish will swim around your legs. You’ll also never need to stray from your paradise-on-earth accommodations, with romantic dining service and other amenities able to be delivered (room rates start at $1,014 a night; fourseasons.com).
PHOTOGRAPHY: (FROM LEFT) THE RITZ-CARLTON, KAPALUA; ESPERANZA, AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION
LEO (July 23 to August 22) LOVES: This sign is the King or Queen of the jungle—or wherever you are. Only the best will do for these theatrical royals. HONEYMOON VIBE: A chic safari getaway YOUR MATCH: The newly revamped AndBeyond Phinda Rock Lodge in South Africa has everything you want in a safari: Twice-daily game drives to see cheetahs and lions, nighttime dives to swim with turtles, and treks that trace rhinos on foot. When not out spotting majestic wildlife, repose in sophisticated suites that feel at once perfectly blended into the natural setting and over-the-top glamourous (room rates start at about $688 per person, per night and are all inclusive; andbeyond.com).
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) LOVES: You perfectionists are—logically—detail-oriented. HONEYMOON VIBE: A luxury resort with impeccable service YOUR MATCH: The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua is paradise made easy. Set on Maui’s northwest coast, it offers all the comforts and ease of a polished resort in a U.S. location—no foreign language or currency to tackle—with all the magic of a tropical wonderland. Plan ahead (as all Virgos like to do) for days full of memorable moments, from ziplining to hiking through a rainforest or just spending hours on the beach with nowhere else to be (room rates start at $500 a night; ritzcarlton.com).
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) LOVES: Libras love great beauty and high art and are known for their excellent taste.
HONEYMOON VIBE: A classic and cosmopolitan metropolis with cultural attractions a go-go YOUR MATCH: Lovers of the finer things in life always find Paris irresistible, and discovering (or rediscovering) the City of Light in all its glory—from some of the best restaurants in the world, to spectacular architecture and exquisite shopping—makes for a glorious honeymoon. The newly redone and reflagged Hôtel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel on the Place de Concorde puts you in walking distance of the Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe and caters to your desire to be surrounded by beauty— in this case of the historic, elegant variety that will make you feel right at home with your suitcase full of red-soled shoes (room rates start at about $962 a night; rosewoodhotels.com).
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) LOVES: Seductive and beguiling, Scorpios are the most passionate and sexy of all the signs. HONEYMOON VIBE: Sizzling days that melt into hotter nights YOUR MATCH: Cabo’s luxe Esperanza, An Auberge Resort entices with an adults-only seaside pool where pool butlers bring around everything from loaded iPads to sunglass cleaners, hourly snacks such as margarita sorbet and spiced toasted pumpkin seeds, and silver ice buckets filled with cold water and refreshing lime-scented spritzes. This is relaxation at its coolest and most indulgent. At night, the seaside property is lit with candles and torches and the Mexican fare is unforgettably well done (room rates start at $699 a night; aubergeresorts.com).
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) LOVES: Ruled by wanderlust, you’re on a constant quest for knowledge as well as spiritual adventures. HONEYMOON VIBE: Authentic mind-body adventures that also showcase the scenery YOUR MATCH: Check into the Viceroy Bali, a marriage of spiritual quest and honeymoon decadence. Spend your days in temples and biking through rice paddies, hiking through Ubud’s Monkey Forest and taking private yoga classes on cliffs overlooking the jungle. There are also plenty of opportunities to indulge in Balinese-style massages and the island’s healthy cuisine (room rates start at $450 a night; viceroyhotels.com). ¢
For the sunshine of your life
Visit
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lorida!
Picture-perfect Fort Myers & Sanibel
F
lorida offers so many opportunities for fun in the sun, you may just have a difficult time deciding which destination is right for you. It truly is a place to explore over and over again, always discovering something new and exciting every time you visit.
Starting in the southernmost tip of mainland USA, The Florida Keys & Key West are the epitome of everything the Sunshine State has to offer. Dubbed the Conch Republic, the mindset of this locale will have you believing you’ve left the country and stumbled upon a distant paradise, without the hassle of needing a passport or changing your currency. Marathon is often referred to as the Heart of The Florida Keys, known for its superb beaches, coral barrier reefs teeming with abundant fish life, and offering a wide variety of things to do from boating, eco-tours and spotting loggerhead turtles, to a visit to The Dolphin Research Center and Crane Point Hammock, a tropical oasis that is a nature lover’s delight. Traveling north to Palm Beach County, Delray Beach is an absolute gem of a city, sitting right on the southeast shores of the Atlantic Ocean with a plethora of art galleries, parks, beaches, museums and restaurants. Opt to stay at the luxurious Seagate Hotel offering several options for dining, and a world-class spa to de-stress from any busy schedule. Want an out-of-the-way spot for just the two of you? Grab your honey and explore the numerous islands that dot the southwest coastline—some so rustic and uninhabited that they are accessible only by boat, others filled with popular restaurants, galleries and activities that effortlessly intermingle the best of old Florida with modern comfort and luxury, including the aptly-named Lovers Key, one of Florida’s top beaches. Island hop and then stroll shell-lined beaches, kayak, enjoy the wildlife or take a romantic cruise. The ways to find romance here are as endless as the horizon. From a simple sunset ceremony on the beach to a honeymoon at a luxury resort, follow your heart to The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel.
Captiva Island offers everything you could want for your gathering of family and friends. Relish in relaxing dreamy accommodations at the South Seas Island Resort, sure to please honeymooners and wedding guests alike. They’re known for their exceptional catering as well as an onsite entertainment company that can take care of everything from lighting to decor. Wedding specialists lend their knowledge, support, and guidance so you can enjoy every moment of your once-in-a-lifetime event.
Hopping back over to the east coast in Central Florida you’ll find dynamic fun in the sun cities of Martin County, an excellent venue for weddings. Enjoy miles and miles of beautiful beaches, almost 80 parks, and tons of activities from high-end shopping and art galleries to museums, golf and more. Any visit here must include Jensen Beach, well known for its wide sandy beach, numerous seaside restaurants and tropical-vibe lounges that dot the coastline. And it’s so easy to get to from several of Florida’s major airports. Whether just the two of you or your entire wedding party, there’s always something to do here.
Last, but certainly not least, St. Augustine | Ponte Vedra Beach is a destination not to be missed. Boasting some of the most breathtaking backdrops for wedding photos among its centuryold oaks, Florida’s Historic Coast® radiates with elegance. Shop along oldfashioned, brick-lined streets or find a spot to bask in the sun beside 42 miles of white-sand shores. Settle into a quaint B&B teeming with old-world charm or indulge in one of the glamorous resorts and spas stretching along the ocean in St. Augustine or Ponte Vedra Beach. Whatever your choice in Florida take plenty of time to explore this extraordinary state and all it has to offer… and make it the one you return to for all your big, and small, occasions in life.
Sail into love in Marathon
Dreamy sunsets in Marathon
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Marathon, The Florida Keys
Few places can hold a wedding candle to Marathon. Here in the heart of The Keys, beautiful brides, unforgettable venues and countless activities go hand in hand.
The Seagate Hotel & Spa
Glistening sunsets, warm breezes, historical churches and amazing restaurants are just a few of the traits that make Marathon an ideal destination for all your romantic endeavors—from a destination wedding, to a passionate honeymoon or romantic getaway.
Whatever your heart desires, The Florida Keys have professional planners, photographers, hoteliers and venue operators to help you plan your unique wedding, reception and honeymoon that you’ll cherish happily ever after. Visit fla-keys.com/marathon or call 1-800-262-7284.
The Seagate Hotel & Spa
Whether you prefer a breathtaking oceanfront setting at a private beach club, stunning golf course views at a country club, dockside serenity at a yacht club, or the city-sophisticated ambience of a boutique hotel, the team of experts at The Seagate Hotel & Spa in Delray Beach will make sure your special day comes together just as you always dreamed. Visit WeddingsatTheSeagate.com or call 1-855-927-5567.
And they paddled happily ever after.
When it comes to fairy-tale endings, there’s no place quite like Marathon. Then again, this sanctuary for lovers is in the heart of The Florida Keys. With the Atlantic on one side and the Gulf on the other, Marathon boasts gentle breezes, warm, crystalline waters and some of the most romantic sunset wedding venues on earth. Add endless watersports, and you’ll be taking the plunge in more ways than one. fla-keys.com/marathon 1.800.262.7284
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Intimate Marathon moments Island hopping on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel
Fort Myers & Sanibel offers gorgeous wedding backdrops
The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel
Along Florida’s Southwest Coast, natural surroundings and white-sand beaches set the stage for unforgettable weddings, honeymoons and oh-soromantic getaways. Here, lifelong memories are as consistent as the islands, whether it’s enjoying a quiet moment at the end of a blue-sky day watching the sun
set, or sipping a tropical drink under a starry night sky.
Maybe it’s the way they look at life… the spectacular sunsets, shell-speckled sand and warm Gulf waters. Or maybe there’s just something in the air. But one thing is for certain, beaches and beginnings are better together.
Visit FortMyers-Sanibel.com to start planning your romantic getaway today.
Call now to schedule a tour of the venue and find out how you can receive a complimentary bridal suite on your wedding night.
WeddingsatTheSeagate.com 855-927-5567
3600 HAMLET DRIVE | DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA 33445
©Mayfly Photography
BEACHES
BEGINNINGS
On The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel, some things are just better together. And where weddings mean sandy toes and warm receptions, your special day adds up to so much more. Plan the day of your dreams at FortMyers-Sanibel.com/Weddings
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Martin County
The Central East Coast of Florida is alive with romantic, picturesque places to host the wedding of your dreams. Perfect photo op at South Seas Island Resort
Kai-Kai Farm in Martin County
From Kai-Kai Farm, where you will be surrounded by acres of flowering fields and a cathedral of eucalyptus trees, to The Mansion at Tuckahoe, which combines elegance, history, breathtaking views and the perfect beach setting. Start planning the day of your dreams. Visit discovermartin.com/plan /weddings.
South Seas Island Resort
Dream of saying “I do� on a tropical island paradise? You will find your dreamy Florida venue south of Tampa and just north of Naples along the Gulf Coast.
The Mansion at Tuckahoe, Martin County
At South Seas Island Resort in Captiva Island, secluded shores, sparkling waters and sensational sunsets are just the
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South Seas Island Resort is the perfect island wedding venue
Create lasting memories with a South Seas Island Resort wedding
Amazing sunset at Beacher’s Lodge Oceanfront Suites
Guy Harvey Resort St. Augustine Beach
beginning. From the magical Kings Crown Lawn to Sunset Cove and South Beach, your fairytale venue awaits your arrival. Find out all this resort offers when you visit SouthSeas.com, or call them directly at 1-800-524-7601 to start planning your Florida dream.
St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches
Florida’s Historic Coast
When you find that special someone to share the rest of your life with, starting that wondrous adventure deserves a place filled with charm, elegance, and magic. Florida’s Historic Coast is that place. St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra offer everything from historic venues radiating old-world charm, to elegant grandiose ballrooms for iconic memories. Just picture this, at the Guy Harvey Resort you can experience your perfect day with sand between your
toes while exchanging vows on picturesque St. Augustine Beach with the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop. Then celebrate your happily-ever-after with a personalized wedding ceremony brought to life by their wedding experts. From rehearsal dinner to farewell breakfast, the team at this oceanfront wedding venue will be delighted to help make your wedding the most special day of your life. Located on charming Crescent Beach, only ten miles from historic downtown St. Augustine, Beacher’s Lodge Oceanfront Suites is the perfect, affordable location for an intimate seaside wedding complete with an on-site reception room. Visit FHCCelebrations.com or call 1-844-843-8563.
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T H E R E ’ S N O T H I N G QU I T E L I K E
THE CRYSTAL COAST :: NORTH CAROLINA
E
ighty-five miles of water access only begin to tell the story of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.
The natural beauty of this central shoreline lends itself to awe-inspiring coastal weddings, whether you’re out on the sand or in one of the area’s unique wedding properties or event spaces. The Crystal Coast will impress even the most discerning bride with attentive and gracious Southern service, awardwinning chefs and an array of distinctive venues to accommodate weddings of all sizes. From waters of crystalline purity bordering sandy sparkling beaches with herds of wild mustang horses, to the charming setting of Nicholas Sparks’ romance novels, A Walk to Remember and The Choice, the Crystal Coast is an exceptional destination to celebrate an ideal romance. Let them help you create the wedding you’ve been dreaming of at the Coast. VISIT CRYSTALCOASTNC.ORG OR CALL 1-252-726-8148 AND START PLANNING TODAY.
SOUTHEAST CHARM
The Wedding Capital of the South! Information
Information
Sevierville Convention & Visitors Bureau
Smoky Mountain Wedding Association
Celebrate a love as great as the Smoky Mountains in Sevierville, Tennessee.
Find everything for your Smoky Mountain Wedding: Venues, Receptions, Amenities, Lodging, More.
888-738-4378 • www.VisitSevierville.com
865-280-0784 www.smokymountainweddingassociation.com
Lodging
Fireside Chalet & Cabin Rentals Honeymoon in a Pigeon Forge Cabin! Enjoy 1-7 bedroom cabins and chalets. Some feature whirlpool, hot tub, pool table, mountain and river views. Create memories that will last forever. Gift Certificates available. Join us on Facebook!
877-774-4121 • www.firesidechalets.com
Venues, Venues,Receptions, Receptions,All AllAmenities, Amenities,Accommodations Accommodationsand andMore. More.
Get Married in the Smokies! Venue & Lodging
Lodging
Angel’s View Wedding Chapel
Aunt Bug’s Cabin Rentals
Have your Dream Wedding at our beautiful Mountaintop Wedding Venue.
Affordable Smoky Mountain honeymoon and wedding party cabin rentals with mountain views.
800-758-6604 • www.AngelsViewWeddingChapel.com
800-953-5655 • www.PigeonForgeHoneymoon.com
Venue & Lodging
Hearthside’s Chapel at the Preserve Have A Smoky Mountain Wedding with a Million Dollar View! Get married in our traditional chapel (100 guests), outdoor pavilion, or by the pool. Enjoy an onsite reception and stay in luxury log cabins (2-50 guests).
CABIN RENTALS
866-429-0955 www.yoursmokymountainwedding.com
Visit Visit SmokyMountainWeddingAssociation.comfor forall allyour yourwedding weddingneeds: needs:
PROMOTION
South Walton, Florida
Say “I do” in a beautiful beach ceremony, a quaint colorful garden or an elegant affair at a luxury resort. South Walton, Florida’s 26 miles of sugar-white sand beaches and turquoise water have beckoned to generations of visitors. Come create lasting memories in one of the 16 beach neighborhoods. When your guests aren’t celebrating you, they’ll have championship golf courses, boutique shopping, art, water activities, diverse dining options, ecosploring and more just outside their front door. For your once-in-a-lifetime event, let South Walton deliver a once-in-a-lifetime experience. True love comes naturally, and so should the setting.
VisitSouthWalton.com/Weddings
VISIT SOUTH WALTON. COM/WEDDINGS
TRUE LOVE COMES NATURALLY SO SHOULD THE SETTING OF YOUR BIG DAY
One resort experience; many unique wedding venues.
Simply beautiful. The Chapel at Seaside.
Celebrate on the Rooftop Sanctuary.
watercolorresort.com/weddings | 888-739-1836
homeownerscollection.com | 855-411-1557
thepointebrides.com | 844-602-5147
MIRAMAR BEACH • SEASCAPE • SANDESTIN • DUNE ALLEN • GULF PLACE • SANTA ROSA BEACH • BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH GRAYTON BEACH • WATERCOLOR • SEASIDE • SEAGROVE • WATERSOUND • SEACREST • ALYS BEACH • ROSEMARY BEACH • INLET BEACH
See our two-page spread on pages 138, 139 in main book
Wedding Bliss in the Baja
2-NIGHT ALL-INCLUSIVE STAY FOR TWO FOR ONLY $ 500
500 CREDIT* WHEN YOU BOOK YOUR WEDDING $
IT’S LIKE GETTING YOUR PREVIEW FOR FREE!
FOR JUST THE TWO OF YOU FREE WEDDING FOR TWO, WHEN YOU STAY 7 NIGHTS* INTIMATE ELEGANCE FREE WEDDING FOR THE COUPLE PLUS UP TO 10 GUESTS*
CALL OUR WEDDING CENTER 800.935.2403 | RESORTSBYHYATT.COM ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS IN CANCUN | CAP CANA (COMING FALL 2019) | LOS CABOS | MONTEGO BAY | PUERTO VALLARTA * Big Day Preview applies to US and Canada adult residents only. Credit is valid for minimum $5,000 wedding program. Limit one Big Day Preview credit per wedding. Best room availability suite category restrictions may apply. Applies to new bookings only. Offer valid through December 15, 2019. Ocean View room categories for both free wedding packages required. For Just the Two of You package is complimentary with purchase of a minimum 7-night stay and requires purchase of upper category. Intimate Elegance package is complimentary with a minimum of 25 room nights in upper category, or purchased for $1,125. Holidays or other blackout dates may apply. Offer may be changed or withdrawn at any time. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Additional terms and conditions may apply, see our website for full details. Hyatt Zilara™ and Hyatt Ziva™ trademarks and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation or its affiliates. ©2019 Hyatt Corporation. ©2019 Playa Hotels & Resorts is the owner and exclusive operator of Hyatt Zilara™ and Hyatt Ziva™ resorts in Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Mexico. All rights reserved. PLA07960118