SAY SI TO A BEACH HONEYMOON IN MEXICO

Say Si to aBeach Honeymoon in Mexico

BY JACKIE TUCKER

Gorgeous sunset views, warm ocean water, miles of pristine white beaches: There’s a reason why Mexico is a popular honeymoon destination. It’s the perfect post-wedding getaway. Relax and destress with sun, sand, surf, delicious food and a vibrant culture. Expect long, leisurely days of enjoying each other’s company, where the only decision you’ll have to make is whether to lounge on the shore or go for a swim.

When honeymooning south of the border, Mike Schellhase from Travel Haus St. Louis recommends Karisma Resorts. “Karisma is known for its intimate all-inclusive, adults-only hideaways. They have something for everyone, and the flight to Mexico is only a couple of hours from St. Louis.” Whether you're looking for a full-service resort or a boutique casita, Mexico has everything that couples want when they think of a dreamy beach honeymoon.

PALAFITOS – PLAYA DEL CARMEN

Picture this: A soft breeze brushes your hair lightly from your face as you and your new hubby watch the sun set over crystal turquoise waters from your jacuzzi for two in your overwater bungalow. You clink champagne glasses and realize you need a refill but don’t feel like getting out of the jacuzzi. No worries. Your personal butler comes along and refills your glasses before making sure you have plenty of towels and the bed is turned down.

Palafitos by Karisma with its glass bottom floors and direct ladder access to the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea is the ultimate in extravagance. Schellhase raves about the resort. “Palafitos has the first overwater bungalows anywhere in North America. It’s my new favorite place. They are spectacular!”

The next morning you find that your butler has readied your kayak for the day with a fully customized beach picnic. You paddle a short way to the sugary beaches of Maroma Beach, voted by Travel Channel as one of the top 10 beaches in the world. Completely surrounded by the beauty of the sea, you settle in for the day, ready to enjoy the food, the view and the romance of the Caribbean.

EL DORADO CACITAS – RIVIERA MAYA

El Dorado Cacitas isn’t just a spa resort, it’s an experience. Owned by a local couple who is committed to authenticity, the resort delivers an idyllic and traditional Mexican appeal. This dedication to genuine hospitality is a large part of why it was voted one of Conde Nast Traveler´s Top 100 Hotels in the world. El Dorado Casitas is also a recent winner of the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award and is ranked by TripAdvisor in the top 10 best hotels in Riviera Maya.

Marilyn Cairo, Karisma’s AVP of Sales in North America, elaborates on one of the features that makes this resort so unique. “Honeymooners get a Gourmet Inclusive experience. The on-property greenhouse grows fresh, local, sustainable food that’s used in the restaurants.” There’s nothing quite like taking a firsthand tour of organic, flavorful fresh herbs and vegetables, then tasting those very same ingredients in your elegant dinner.

Along with extravagant accommodations, gourmet cuisine and pristine stretches of secluded beaches, the El Dorado Casitas has even more romance to offer. Cairo explains further, “Enjoy a lavish spa treatment, go horseback riding, or take a swim in a natural underground cenote.” Put it all together, and you have a surefire recipe for an epic honeymoon in Mexico.

MARGARITAVILLE – RIVIERA CANCUN

Margaritaville is a state of mind, inspired by Jimmy Buffet’s lyrics to find a “change in latitude.” It’s a tropical paradise with turquoise waters, colorful sunsets, swaying palm trees and raising a glass to friends. This latest addition to the Karisma family is an all-inclusive beachside indulgence that embodies the laid-back fun of a romantic seaside paradise. It’s also the latest hotspot for destination weddings.

Perfect for the free-spirited and young at heart, Margaritaville is not a formal nuptial affair. Couples can find all of the expected tropical vibes mixed with current wedding trends with a twist. Ceremonies are typically casual here with flip-flops and breezy beach-view “I dos.” At receptions, the standard sit-down wedding dinners are replaced with fun options like taco carts and tequila stations.

But just because there’s a laid-back vibe doesn’t mean the accommodations and amenities aren’t top notch. Guestrooms and suites seamlessly blend a casual island design with luxurious comforts and special indulgences. Worldclass amenities like inclusive restaurants, specialty bars, live entertainment and exciting beach activities await wedding parties and honeymooners alike. Relax in a beach hammock, indulge in a spa treatment or celebrate “5:00 somewhere” with a unique Mexico beach honeymoon.

TRAVEL DURING COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has been an ever-evolving situation when it comes to travel, and its effects continue to linger. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when planning your honeymoon travels.

1. Bookmark the CDC website (www.cdc.gov/ travel) to stay up to date with travel advisories. 2. Face coverings or masks are required at a number of locations, including airports. Be sure to carry a few with you. 3. While hotels are taking extra precautions, it’s not a bad idea to wipe down high touch areas with disinfectant wipes once you check in. 4. Purchase trip cancellation insurance in case your travels are affected by COVID-19. 5. Check with your insurance company to see if they cover illnesses abroad. If not, consider purchasing travel insurance.