Romance JA NU AR Y JANUARY/FEBRUARY 22014 01 4
Travel
Magazine
Special Destination Wedding Issue
Valentine’s Day, Love American Style
5 Spectacular
Wedding Destinations
Destination Weddings On A Ranch Destination Weddings in Mexico
Contents 3
4-6
7
From The Publisher
5 Spectacular Destination Weddings Resorts
How to get an Ex back? Try Romance
8-10
11
12-13
Destination Weddings On ARanch
Destination Weddings in Mexico will ensure you have Memories...
Valentine’s Day Destinations Love, American Style
14-15
16-17
Weddings With A Twist
Abruzzo Italy’s Best-Kept Travel Secret Donna Beasley, Publisher
From The Publisher build a connection as you try new things together. You can start small by cooking one dish or create an entire romantic dinner for two. There are many places you can travel to and learn to cook. The Barcelona Cooking School in Barcelona, Spain, Baipai Thai Cooking School in Bangkok, The New Orleans School of Cooking, and the Culinary Institute of America schools are just a few of the classes that will help you improve your cooking chops. And your experience will be more memorable than any souvenir. 4.
A
t the end of every year I take out my journal and reflect on what went right with my life this year, what was absolutely awesome and what needs improvement. And then, like many others, I set goals and make resolutions for the coming year. People often make resolutions to improve their personal health and wealth. But this upcoming year, I want to encourage you to join me in making some New Year’s resolutions to improve our romantic relationships. One of the best places to start is with travel. Travel broadens your horizons by helping you embrace new cultures. It also breaks you out of your comfort zone to try new things, and it helps you enjoy one another in a more open and relaxed way. Below are six New Year’s travel resolutions for you to consider that will help improve your relationships and help you plan a romantic getaway to focus on fun, fantasy, and fitness! 1.
Go On A Real Romantic Getaway Select a place you can both enjoy. There›s a way to take a romantic getaway no matter what your budget level. It may be a camping trip close to home, a weekend getaway to a neighboring city, an island excursion, horseback riding at a dude ranch, a cruise for two, Paris in the Spring, biking the Appalachian trail, and I could go on and on with ideas. Discover what works best for the two of you. Commit to making it an honest-togoodness romantic getaway — no cell phones, no laptops. Mark the dates on the calendar and keep it like you›d keep any doctor or business appointment. For inspiration, pick up a copy of my book, The Romance Lady›s Guide to the 50 Sexiest Destinations To Woo Your Lover.
2.
Let›s travel to get physically fit together. You can certainly bond as a couple when you exercise together at your local YMCA or neighborhood health club. But to improve your relationship even more this year, travel with fitness and fun in mind. Ideas could be hiking together in one of our state or national parks. Go skiing together at one of the ski resorts all over the country. Then cuddle up in front of the fireplace and share your ski experience at the end of the day. Other ideas include snorkeling, learning to scuba dive, taking a bike tour or going white water rafting.
3.
Take A Cooking Class Together Cooking together will
Take A Wine Tour Georgia Mountain wineries, Michigan wineries, Willamette Valley in Oregon, and California›s Napa Valley are all great states to sample premium wines. Go for the day or spend the weekend for an unforgettable good time. And if you›re inspired to sample wines around the globe, consider Buenos Aires in Argentina, Santorini in Greece, Cape Town in South Africa, and Chilean Pantagonia in Chili.
5.
Fulfill a Sexual Fantasy Topaz is of my favorite romance novels by Beverly Jenkins. One of the heated love scenes in the book takes place on the front porch during a violent rain storm. I’ve always wanted to do that with the hunk of my dreams. Okay, that might be too much personal information. My point though, is that this year, make one of your resolutions to fulfill a romantic or sexual fantasy of your partner. Check into a hotel that caters to fantasy like Cove Haven resorts in Poconos, Pennsylvania. Where, among other sexy things to do, you can take a bubble bath for two in a champagne glass shaped hot tub. Other ideas include, the Prestige Club or Sybaris Suites near Chicago, and clothing optional vacations like Caliente resorts in both Tampa and the Dominican Republic.
6.
Attend a Special Event or Music Festival All year long, special events take place in just about every community around the world. Whatever your interests — from celebration of dance to the running of the bulls — you›ll find a festival celebrating with food, folks and fun. This is an excellent low-budget option as many local festivals are free of charge. In Chicago, the Blues Festival, Gospel Festival and Jazz Festivals are all free to enjoy great music. Contact the tourism offices in your state and get their calendar of events. If you can, extend your trip into a long weekend.
There are also some major music festivals for the two of you to get your groove on: Montery Jazz Festival in California, St. Kitts music festival, Reggae Sunfest in Jamaica, Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Rio de Janiro’s Carnivale. Don’t forget your costume! Any one of these romantic getaway travel ideas can help improve your relationship in the New Year. And the best part is they can be done locally, usually within a two hour’s drive of your hometown. Or if budget allows, take a romantic vacation to a destination of your choice. Why not do all six for an unforgettable year of romance? Donna Beasley, The Romance Lady Romance Travel Magazine 3
Photo by: Rajasrour
5
Spectacular Destination
Weddings Resorts
Brides want everything to be perfect on their big day. Planning a destination wedding has several major benefits. The most important of which is that the wedding itself is usually free. And you’re already there for your honeymoon. There is on-site wedding planner for flawless execution. And, the destination itself can usually be described as incredible. A beautiful wedding destination will not only woo your guests, but also make you cherish your wedding memories for a lifetime. By Renee Carter
S
o if you’re a bride to be looking for the perfect wedding destination for your special day, then you have to check out these top 5 spectacular wedding destinations. Each
There are several resorts on the island, but Sandals Regency La
of these places are special in their own manner and
recommend renting one of the private cabanas for half a day.
promise to give you something more than you could
Also, go on the “Joe Knows” tour, you won’t regret it. The resort
ever have imagined.
is all inclusive so unlimited scuba diving, golf and water sports
Sandals Regency La Toc in St. Lucia
in the midst of an environmentally beautiful wonderland, then
The
towering,
cone-shaped
Piton
mountains
instantly distinguish the beautiful island of St. Lucia. It’s lush beauty, charming beachside communities, hot Sulphur Springs and romantic setting has made it a favorite of honeymooners. Rodney Bay Village
Toc in St. Lucia is regarded as the “Emerald of the Caribbean.” The resorts crescent-shaped cove beach, swaying palms, waterfalls and fascinating plush rainforests are breathtaking. I
are included. If you’re looking for a place which is nestled right Sandals Regency La Toc is the perfect wedding destination for you this season. One of the best things about Sandals is their, “Your Wedding, Your Style,” destination wedding concept. It allows couples to personally style and execute their dream wedding at any of the 14 Sandals
is a hotspot for tourists with an impressive array of
resorts. And, the wedding is free. For more information talk to
restaurants, bars and late-night clubs.
your travel agent or visit: www.sandals.com/weddingmoons.
4 Romance Travel Magazine
Photo Courtesy
LaPa Rios Ecolodge in Costa Rica
of Lapa Rios Ec
olodge
Come to Lapa Rios Ecolodge for a destination wedding that is a journey of love, passion and serenity intertwined with oodles of wilderness right in nature’s lap. LaPa Rios has 16 private bungalows nestled along the ridge in a private 1000 acre lush tropical rainforest reserve. All bungalows have stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and spacious private decks. There is also easy access to 3 stunning beaches. The Ecolodge is located in the Osa Peninsula in the southern part of Costa Rica, near Panama. Lapa Rios is a nature lover’s paradise where you’re likely to see monkeys, toucans, sloths, scarlet macaws and other wildlife. No need for an alarm clock, if the sun doesn’t wake you up, the howler monkeys probably will. It’s one of the best places to grab your camera and go bird watching. Or if you prefer, swim in a natural pool under a waterfall, volunteer with the Wildcat Conservation Project or take an unforgettable nature hike where you’re sure to spot a variety of critters large and small. The resort offers several great hikes all included in your stay. LaPa Rios Ecolodge in Costa Rica is the perfect wedding or honeymoon destination for people who want to feel close to the nature and embellish their holy matrimonial vows with Mother Nature’s blessings. Really, this place is incredible. There will be moments that take your breath away. Plus, your photos will look as good as those in National Geographic. http://www. laparios.com/
Auberge Du Soleil Resort in Napa Valley, Ca Experience a touch of world class luxury in your wedding by hosting it in Auberge Du Soleil resort. The property stretches across a small hill overlooking the Napa Valley, so the views
Tucker’s design creates a romantic, country inn atmosphere. The rooms are spacious, with oak headboards, fireplaces and dramatic embroidered tapestry. Bathrooms have natural lighting from skylights, sculptural bathtubs, heated limestone floors and detail stonework that helps create a spa like environment. The Auberge Du Soliel Spa features a variety of body and facial treatments. But for your honeymoon, reserve the Melisse Suite perfect for the romantic couple. It features a fireplace, private outdoor garden and hot spring. After getting side-by-side massages, take a soak in the heated private pool overlooking California’s Napa Valley and be sure to pop the cork on a bottle of bubbly. http://www.aubergedusoleil.com/
Casa Marina Resort, Key West, Florida Does the idea of a beach side wedding, splashing waves and the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop appeal to you? If you answered yes, than check out the Casa Marina Resort, a Waldorf Astoria resort in Key West, Florida. Dated back to the early 1920s, the beautiful hotel has timeless elegance, old world charm and superb service.
are great from just about everywhere in the resort. Couples can make their grand entrance on the terrace, overlooking the vineyards. Dinner for you and your guests will be world-class cuisine served in the resort’s private dining facility. Don’t want a big wedding? Intimate ceremonies and elopement packages are also available. Several rooms in this legendary romantic inn, have been given a stunning new design by, Michael Taylor, famed San Francisco interior designer. Inspired by the colors of the South of France,
While you toy with the idea of a beautiful destination wedding, let’s talk about some of the things you can expect in this pictureperfect resort. Exchange your wedding vows on the resorts private beach with that awe-inspiring ocean view. Book the Ocean Vista King Room for the honeymoon. You can enjoy views of the ocean and pools from your private balcony. Other features include the lush gorgeous grounds, scrumptious breakfast buffet, an adults-only pool with outstanding pool side service and a lovely fire pit at night. Romance Travel Magazine 5
Photo Courtesy of Lapa Rios Ecolodge
There is also plenty to do with easy rentals of bikes, jet
an unforgettable candlelight dinner, on the beach and
skis, boats and scooter. All the water sports are also
under the stars. Add your favorite wine, the soothing sound
available. Also, a lot of the local restaurants deliver if you’d like to try something different than room service. Wedding planning staff also welcomes the GLBT community.
of the waves lapping at the sand, a kiss between courses a lovely reminder of what’s to come in the honeymoon suite.
http://casamarinaresort.com/
For more information visit: www.couples.com/tower-isle/
Couples Resort, Negril, Jamaica
If you are craving for an essence of nature in your wedding,
Couples Tower Isle is perched on the coastline of Ocho Rios,
then you should choose Couples in Negril, Jamaica as your
Jamaica. This glamorous, all-inclusive, couples only boutique
wedding venue. Jingle with the melodious Caribbean music
resort is a perfect escape for two. Its idyllic-setting in a natural environment creates the perfect ambience for romance. It offers deluxe rooms with king-sized beds and private balconies or patios. Most have a magnificent view of the Caribbean Sea.
while your guests get to lounge around the resort’s beautiful nature trails. The wedding will be commemorated with a 2 tier cake; you get to choose your own choice of orchids, flowers and settings for the seating arrangement. The best part about
Your unforgettable wedding ceremony will be on your own
the wedding planning in the Couples in Negril, Jamaica is that
private island. There you’ll be surrounded with tropical flowers,
you get to be in control, as you recreate magic for years and
crystal blue waters and plenty of sunshine. You and your guests will enjoy Caribbean music from a local band. And of course, a wedding photographer will capture each photogenic moment.
years to come. Come to paradise. Tie the knot in style at one of these beautiful
For a most romantic evening be sure to reserve a private
destination wedding resorts. Not only will your wedding be
dinner from the romance concierge. The chefs will create
unforgettable, but oh, so incredible.
6 Romance Travel Magazine
How to get an Ex back? Try Romance By Donna Beasley
Did you just experience a break up? Are you wondering how to go get an ex back? My Ex was the love of my life. Our break- up was one of the most emotionally painful, physically draining and (dare I say) soul-wrenching experiences I’ve ever been through. Three days of crying left track marks on my tear-stained cheeks and eyes so red they begged for a little Visine. That relationship taught me that love does not conquer all. Sometimes you just have to let go.
Most adults have experienced some kind of breakup. The Magic of Making Up states, “90 percent of the time there is no reason why you cannot get an ex back after a break up, providing you are willing to put some effort into the pursuit.” A few weeks after our breakup, my Ex asked to get back with me over coffee and hash browns at the Waffle House. I said no. Why? I felt he had not really put an ounce of thought into getting back with me. Even his location was a dull choice. In my opinion, he was just testing the waters. When your heart has been broken and your lover comes to get you back, you want it to be a memorable and yes, romantic moment. If you are serious about saving the relationship, let romance be at the core of your plan. Here are three romantic tips on how to get your Ex back . 1. The first step in learning how to get an ex back is to determine what exactly happened that caused the break up. You have to figure out what went wrong to address the issue and cause a change for the good of the relationship. Admit your part in it and say you’re sorry. Most importantly, let your Ex know how you’ve changed and why this time it will be different. If you cannot find the words, go get a special card that says what you feel in your heart and hand it to them with a single red rose. 2. Write a Love Letter – The mere gesture will be so unexpected it will melt your lover’s heart. Love letters are an excellent way to mend a struggling relationship, receive forgiveness and kick a stalled relationship into hyper-drive. So tell them you love them in a special and creative way—in a love letter. 3. Invite them on a date where the two of you can be in a romantic setting. Pick a restaurant with a lover’s booth and dessert you can share. Or, take a hike to the top of a mountain with a magnificent view. Or, go dancing, and spend some time holding each other close. Do something that both of you will enjoy. Let your ex see know how much they mean to you and express how confident you are the relationship can work. Romance is the language of love and a little planned romance is the best way on how to get your Ex back. Romance Travel Magazine 7
Destination Weddings On A Ranch By: Barry Finch
High Lonesome Ranch, De Beque, Colorado
with activities that fit with a particular season.
The
ranch
offers
on-ranch
If you want your wedding vacation to
fishing in their stocked streams and
be wild, then High Lonesome Ranch
ponds, where even the greenhorn can
is the perfect destination to choose.
enjoy fishing. The landscape is used
This ranch has amazing surroundings
in a way that makes one forum to
that will leave you with memories
complement the others in the creation
that will last for a lifetime. Some of
of a diverse and healthy ecosystem.
its features that can surely please
When it comes to wedding destinations, many people choose to go to the beach and walk barefooted on the sand to swap nuptials. But there are other options. If you have got any intentions of mixing some fun into your wedding, choosing a destination wedding on a ranch could be the perfect solution. If you want to tie the knot in a unique piece of paradise, consider one of the top 8 ranch destinations below for your dream wedding. Triple Creek Ranch, Darby, Montana This resort is ranked number one in
every member of your family include:
Their cuisine is modern-American with
North America. It is a member of Relais
modern western culinary adventures,
south-west influences. Due to its living
& Ch창teaux, and offers rural classiness
wild horse tours, big game hunting,
example of conservation & stewardship,
in a mountain retreat that features a
wing shooting, fly-fishing and others.
this ranch hosts many national and
comfortable lodge and private log
It is open throughout the entire year,
international conferences.
cabins. You will be able to take pleasure
Photo Courtesy: Liberty Mountain Resort Photo
8 Romance Travel Magazine
Photo Courtesy: Triple Creek Ranch
in the romantic setting with unmatched
ranch with intentions of preserving the
immaculate facilities with an outdoor and
scenery that contains wildlife, outdoor
natural beauty of the area. All its fencing
indoor arena. The ranch has also got a
activities throughout the year, and a
is friendly to wild life and its livestock
phenomenal hospitable staff that work to
compilation
is fed on certified weed-free hay.
accommodate their guests’ requests. You
Some
of
snowshoeing,
of the
western-inspired activities hiking,
art.
include horseback
The Lodge & Spa at Bush Creek, Wyoming
riding, playing tennis, or relaxing by presents
an off-ranch adventure of Scenic River
landscape in south-central Wyoming.
floating, guided fly fishing, white water
With its outstanding meals, luxury
Nestled in Carroll Valley, near the
rafting, snowmobiling and others. Being
accommodations and an endless list
Catoctin Mountains, Liberty Mountain
a member of the “Clean-the-World”,
of activities; be assured to have the
Resort is an ideal location for your
Triple Creek Ranch offers opportunities
best wedding on a ranch. It features
wedding ceremony. Whether you’re
to the guests to take part in a voluntary
luxury spa, lodge rooms, cabins suits &
planning a grand celebration in the
towel re-hang, re-use program that
residences, and many other wonderful
rustic lodge or something more private
aims at saving electricity and water.
features. Brush Creek Ranch is a place
and intimate at the gazebo. They have
It has got an orchard and garden that
that
your
three indoor reception venues and three
supplies home-grown vegetables, fruits
wonder for the American west. It is
outdoor ceremony sites to choose from
and herbs for the meals of the guests.
open from May to October each year.
depending on your style.
Over 90,000 Ponderosa-Pine-seedlings
They book various bands for the exclusive
During the winter you can hit the slopes
have been planted by Triple creek
enjoyment of their guests. It features
and enjoy skiing together, snowboarding
reawaken
of
Liberty Mountain Resort, Carroll Valley, Pennsylvania
This
to
acres
experience some strong winds.
the pool. You may also choose to take
guarantees
15,000
also need to know that Wyoming can
Romance Travel Magazine 9
or tubing. And in the summer enjoy the
memories that will last for a life-time.
golf package. Best room choice for
artificially. Being setup on a stream, it offers pure enjoyment and mixed
newlyweds is the mountainside luxury
The ranch is open from May through
riding
suite. Perks include a 2-person whirlpool
September every year. This unique ranch
central location. The ranch is open
tub and oversize shower. There are
offers
bike-
throughout the whole year. The area
a variety of dining options available
rides, organized workouts, and it also
is safe and isn’t close to the unsafe
from Sneaky’s Pizza to Tavern On The
hosts sports activities such as softball and
Mexican places you watch on the news.
Green which offers a variety of craft and
baseball. They provide nighttime snacks
specialty brews.
ranging from milk, fresh baked cookies
Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, British Columbia, Canada
intense-guided-mountain
and smores, to free fresh popcorns.
Rancho Las Cascadas, Mexico, Mexico
experiences
from
a
single
Echo Valley Ranch and Spa, British Columbia, Canada When you get to this Canadian ranch, you will find features such as horses that are browsing in the fields, dogs which
This wonderful ranch is open from May through September every year. It offers three, four and seven night all-inclusive-adventures.
Its
packages
include gourmet meals, beverages & snacks, accommodations in luxury tents, sea-plane transfers from/to Vancouver and the resort, as well as adventure activities that are highly personalized. The activities include hiking, whale watching, bear viewing, ocean and river kayaking, freshwater and deep sea fishing, spa, archery, clay & target shooting, and many others. Clayoquot Wilderness Resort mixes both adventure and luxury, thus providing an experience that is highly unique. It is famous for having the greatest number of on sea and land activities. The resort’s
The major objective of Rancho Las
welcome you at the entrance, and so
Cascadas is to offer a unique riding
much more. The instance you arrive at
experience
Mexican
Echo-Valley-Ranch & Spa, your stress
landscape and local community are
dissolves as the worries evaporate.
accessible
where to
their
their valued
guests.
Its location being in a valley that
The best time to go to this ranch varies
is on a mountain plateau which is
with
7500ft/2300m high, the options of
period between June and September
day riding can start in any direction
is the warmest and driest. If you are
from the ranch. The region’s extinct
interested in watching bears, April
volcanic geology created a landscape
to June is the best period. The winter
that is interlaced with very old lava
season is from December to February.
the
guest’s
preferences.
The
flows. A colorful uprising of wild flowers is produced by the green season
When it comes to food, Echo valley
which lasts from June to October.
believes in the “eat-fresh-and-eat-local” philosophy. As a result, it grows and
Riding is done within a space of a
produces most of its food. The cuisine
sequence of communities, and not on
at this ranch is culturally diverse like its
a linear journey that was constructed
buildings.
activities are guided privately by local on local history and culture. The menus suit vegetarians, vegans, fruitarians, high carb, low carb and high protein eaters.
Majestic Dude Colorado, USA
Ranch,
When go to the Majestic Dude Ranch, you can choose to follow the goldplanning streams to the mining towns of the olden days, do horseback riding among the flickering aspens, or settle and watch the sun as it sets over the sleeping Ute Mountain. All these experiences and more guarantee 10 Romance Travel Magazine
Photo by Jared Lucas. Courtesy of Triple Creek Ranch
guides who are highly trained and versed
Destination Weddings in Mexico will ensure you have Memories that Last a Lifetime By: Washington
charter a private yacht and sip champagne or learn how to scuba dive together. At the end of the day at the magnificent Villa Del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto, you and your guests can all sit back and enjoy cocktails and entertainment without ever needing to leave the resort.
The Secrets Resort
W
hen people think of Mexico they think of the beautiful beaches and perhaps a honeymoon. Very few people consider it a viable option for the entire wedding party to take place. Perhaps you should reconsider your options if you are planning to get married soon. You can combine a lover’s paradise style honeymoon with a picture perfect wedding. This will make your special day one that is somehow even more memorable. Combine it all together with the amazing things you and your wedding party can do before that special day and you have the recipe for memories that no one will ever forget. If you are still unsure, you can easily learn more about what is available when you consider destination weddings in Mexico. Simply check out some of these romantic ideas.
The One & Only Resort The day you say, “I do” you are taking your one and only to be your significant other for the rest of your life. You will share good times and bad times together. Why not start your life out right at the One & Only Palmilla in Cabo San Lucas? This is where you go if you want a simple yet elegant wedding ceremony held in a traditional Mexican style chapel. You can even arrive at the chapel via a horse drawn carriage to completely set the romantic atmosphere for your big day. The best part is, you never have to lift a finger to prepare it because a wedding consultant will handle all the details so that you and your partner can focus only on the coming celebration. The consultant will handle everything including flowers and bouquet, the cake, personalized
menus and even a bridal makeover before the ceremony to ensure that you are as beautiful as you feel. Before the wedding takes place you can increase the romance of this beautiful getaway by visiting the beaches which are nearby or the Bahia Fireplace. For the reception, you can make use of the indoor ballroom and all the elegance it provides. There are also excursions available so that you can tour the area in style, or challenge your group to a round of tennis, golf or basketball. Partake of various watersports and a variety of local attractions to ensure that your entire celebration, not just the day you say, “I do” are filled with adventure and romantic interludes.
The Villa Del Palmar Imagine a resort that welcomes you into its arms where you can enjoy shows, pools, the beach and various other activities including a spa treatment for you and your loved one to attend together. Now imagine this same resort offering you an apartment to stay in while you take care of the final details of your wedding and prepare to spend the rest of your lives together. Your guests will also have plenty of things to do to entertain themselves. There is a nearby golf course that offers 18 holes of golf as well as a kayaking tour that will allow you and your guests to explore the island via the sea of Cortez. If that still is not enough to entertain everyone you bring along before the wedding party takes place, you can
Cancun is not just for spring break parties. In fact, at Secrets, The Vine in Cancun, you can enjoy much more than wild parties on their private beach which is reserved only for its guests. In fact, while at Secrets resort, you can enjoy a variety of activities while someone else plans your wedding. You and your guests can dive into the entire experience either on the beach or in one of the heated infinity pools. Your Groom-to-be can spend time bonding with his father and yours on a deep sea fishing trip while you and the moms visit the day spa or the full equipped fitness center. The day of your wedding, you can have the coordinator plan your wedding around the gazebo or on the private beach. The reception can be held in an elegant ballroom, the beach or a romantic terrace. You can have it set to take place at sunset if you want it to be even more elegant and there are a variety of packages for wedding parties available to suit your needs and the idea of your dream come true.
Why Choose a Resort to Say, “I do”? When you choose a resort located in the exotic paradise known as Mexico, you will wake up every day before your wedding to the sound of waves lapping against the shore. You can plan your wedding inside one of the many resorts where there is no chance of your guests getting too hot in the warm sun or you can break free from tradition even more and get married on the white sandy beaches which are located nearby. In paradise anything you want to do is exactly what you need to do. After all, your wedding day should be based solely on your idea of perfection. Many of the resorts along the coast of Mexico want your day to be amazing and romantic almost as much as you do. The day of your wedding can dawn bright and you will be able to relax and be pampered by the resort’s spa and just imagine the rest of your life with the one you love. The memories you make by choosing to have one of the amazing destination weddings in Mexico will never fade away. Romance Travel Magazine 11
Valentine’s Day Destinations
Love, American Style
I guess I am showing my age with the title to this article. Perhaps some of you out there still remember the popular television show, “Love, American Style”. It aired from 1969 to 1974. If not, no worries, it is just my way of introducing my top 10 U.S. romantic getaways for Valentine’s Day. We will travel from East to west across the U.S., thereby arriving at our last destination just in time for a beautiful sunset. by: Mgrbilly U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
beaches. (Skinny dipping anyone?).
Which locale do you prefer? Is it St. Johns, St. Croix or St. Thomas? For that matter, why worry about choosing at all? There are a wide array of romantic cruise packages available that involves stays on all 3 islands.
St. Croix is more secluded and known for its rum distilleries.
St. Johns is more for nature lovers, as it offers a multitude of scenic parklands and private 12 Romance Travel Magazine
St. Thomas is more luxurious. If the lady sharing your boudoir appreciates Gucci bags and jewelry from Tiffany’s your on the correct island.
SAVANNAH, GEORGIA
KEY WEST, FLORIDA
While lying in the sun, a Tennessee Williams or Ernest Hemingway novel might be preferred reading since both authors spent their winters here. If you get bored soaking up the rays, scuba diving and snorkeling are two of the islands favorite activities.
I would recommend frequenting restaurants with less star power. The seafood s h a c k s nearest the water have the freshest in aquatic cuisine.
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA There is nothing that will get you in a romantic mood like good old fashioned southern charm. If you don’t believe me just ask Rhett Butler of “Gone with the Wind” fame who once resided here. There are beaches, replete with waterfront resorts, along with historic Inns and museums. Allow me to suggest a ride through town for you and your paramour in a horse drawn carriage.
Don’t miss visits to River Streets and City Market, but leave your car at the hotel for the latter, since motor vehicles are not allowed.
& lorna”
Romantic strolls are the endeavor of choice in Cape Cod. You can walk and hold hands for hours without seeing another individual given its 40 miles of seashore. However, after you saunter around you may very well run into someone with the last name of Kennedy or possibly a professional athlete or movie star here.
shots from lisa
CAPE COD, MASSACHUSETTS
If you take the southern charm of Charleston and add riverfront shopping, fine dining and nightlife you have Savannah. Add to that nearby islands with sandy beaches and you will fall in love all over again.
: “Hipstamatic Photo courtesy
If the major objective for you and that special someone is relaxation, Key West is the place for you. There are plenty of lazy beaches to occupy your afternoons and after hours nightlife galore.
ASPEN, COLORADO There is nothing that says “romance” better than cuddling together on a cold winters night. This experience is the norm in Aspen after enjoying an afternoon on the slopes. Even sharing a lift ride is rather cozy. When done for the day, there are more wonderful restaurants and hotels per capita in this city to retire to than anywhere else in the world. SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA This is the optimum urban getaway for couples in love. You can start with a trolley ride or just walk to the eclectic shops in town. Art galleries and museums are in abundance as well. If you have never been here, your itinerary must include visits to the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and Fisherman’s Wharf. Before departing this fantastic city by the bay, take a day trip to Napa Valley for some wine testing. NAPA VALLEY Since you made a day trip here from San Francisco, why not spend a few extra ones here too. There is certainly enough to do for the 2 of you to be happily content spending time with one and other. When was the last time you and that special someone were on a train together? (Subways not included). The
Napa Valley Wine Train leaves downtown and takes you on an 18 mile journey through scenic hills and countryside. MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA This peninsula off of the California shore is a unique feature of the Golden State. It is neither San Francisco nor Los Angeles. It is a world in and of itself, where a loving duo can take their time to embrace the relaxed lifestyle. It is a combination of plush golf courses, luxury resorts and seafood to die for. KAUAI, HAWAII If your main purpose as a “coo some twosome” is to be left alone, you may want to visit Kauai. Private villas and secluded beaches are a predominant feature of the scenic landscape. Hiking adventures through the majestic tropical settings are also suggested. Now hurry up and get to the beach! That sunset we wanted to watch is just moments away. Romance Travel Magazine 13
Weddings With A Twist By Donna Beasley
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Planning a Destination Wedding? Kick those nuptials up a notch by planning a Vegas wedding with a twist. Las Vegas offers way more than a drive thru at the famous Wedding Chapel with a minister dressed as Elvis conducting the ceremony. Most of the major resorts offer wedding, vow renewals and commitment ceremonies with a little special twist. Some of them downright quirky.
Couples can wed on a pirate ship with buccaneers at Treasure Island, have a biker wedding at the Chopper Chapel, or include among their guest list celebrity wax figures as Madame Tussauds. The Las Vegas strip is sprinkled with hotels with city themes. That means you can tie the knot on a special white gondola floating down the Grand Canal at the Venetian Hotel. Or wed on the observation deck of the Eiffel Tower. Or travel back to medieval times and hold a 16th century wedding at the Excalibur Hotel’s Canterbury Wedding Chapel. You can be the King and Queen while family and friends dress as the royal court. “Merlin the Magician” is the officiating minister. Hotels are not the only ones offering that “certain something” to make your wedding unforgettable. Little Chapel of the Flowers http://www. littlechapel.com/ offers a, “fun and fabulous adventure you’ll never forget.” You can exchange vows in the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Grand Canyon or have a touching ceremony aboard the Lady of the Lake Yacht. Wedding packages range from $199 at Madame Tussands to $8,000 at some of the stand alone chapels. The price, of course, depends on how elaborate you want to go. But most packages averaged about $1500. For more information contact the Las Vegas Wedding Connection at www. lvweddingconnection.com or any of the hotels directly.
Photo courtesy: Chapel of the Bells, Las Vegas Romance Travel Magazine 15
o z z u r Ab w illas for T urtesy: V
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t p e K t s e B s ’ y l Ita avel Secret Tr
f you’re looking for an Italy holiday just for the two of you that’s off the overcrowded tourist track - yet offers gorgeous weather and spectacular scenery at prices you didn’t think existed anymore, Abruzzo could be just the place for you.
Whereabouts in Italy is Abruzzo ? Head due east from Rome and when you reach the Adriatic coast - you’ve arrived ! How to get there ? By plane from just about anywhere to Rome and then an easy drive of around 3hrs on a (usually) not-too-busy autostrada. In Europe, Ryanair offer flights from Stansted in the UK, plus a choice of continental mainland departure points, to Abruzzo’s own international airport at Pescara.
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And what will you find when you arrive? If you’re sun-and-sea lovers, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From Martinsicuro in the north to San Salvo Marina in the south, Abruzzo has nearly 100 miles of Adriatic coastline, with over 20 Blue Flag beaches - the top European ranking for safety and cleanliness. But it’s inland that perhaps Abruzzo’s true glory can be found. The region boasts no fewer than three Italian National Parks within its boundaries, with the highest proportion of protected landscape in relation to its size of any region in Europe. The parks each have a wide variety of terrain, encompassing the Majella and Gran Sasso mountains and huge tracts of pristine
forest. These are the home of bears, wolves and wild boar, while golden eagles, red kites and buzzards soar overhead. For summer excursions, the parks have hundreds of miles of safe, well-signposted hiking and mountain biking trails amidst some spectacular scenery. In winter meanwhile, the mountains provide top-class skiing - especially on the huge Cinque Miglia plateau surrounding the resort town of Roccaraso - and on the Campo Imperatore in the Gran Sasso. To explore, you’ll find ancient Roman sites; medieval castles; quaint hilltop villages; and wonderful old churches and museums. If you prefer rather more leisurely pursuits, Abruzzo’s biggest town Pescara offers the widest choice of top-quality designerbrand shops; there’s a big discount retail village at Citta Sant’Angelo; and numerous shopping malls in the bigger towns where you can buy everything from high fashion to traditional handicrafts. The biggest - and nicest - surprise awaiting you on your Abruzzo hoiday will be the low cost of eating out. There’s a big choice, starting with fixed-price menus offering two courses of excellent home-cooked food; wine; water and coffee for €10 (yes, 10 !) each and going right up to the heady heights of Michelin-starred fine dining. The coast is lined with excellent seafood restaurants; inland, you’re likely to come across places offering specialities such as wild boar and venison. Char-grilled meat is always a big favourite and you’ll find many restaurants providing a good choice of pork, lamb, steak - and tasty Abruzzo sausages !
And needless to say, the pasta is always excellent wherever you go. So is pizza - but make a point of looking for pizzerie using a traditional wood-fired oven (“forno a legno”) for the very best pizzas ! Abruzzo is one of Italy’s premier wine regions and each year, produces more wine than the entire country of Chile. The best reds are Montepulciano d’Abruzzo; refreshing whites perfect for delicious summer drinking are Trebbiano and Pecorino; or try pink Cerasuolo - which is what Americans would call a “blush” wine. Getting around, you’ll find that the roads are delightfully open, with traffic jams an absolute rarity. English isn’t widely-spoken, but the Abruzzese are friendly, welcoming people who’ll go out of their way to make you feel right at home. Those who know Italy well say that Abruzzo now is like the rest of the country used to be maybe thirty-odd years ago. The pace of life is relaxed; there’s no mass tourism; and you’re free to explore and relax exactly as suits you. Though Abruzzo of course is great for family holidays (especially on the coast), for couples in particular the region can be extraspecial and perfect for the ultimate romantic getaway. Abruzzo is an increasingly popular spot too for weddings and honeymoons. The excellent value-for-money you’ll find throughout means your dream occasion will cost far less than it might elsewhere in Italy.
David Brenner In October 2007, David swapped his career as a television presenter with the BBC in England and headed for the Italian region of Abruzzo, where – with his wife Pauline – he now runs Villasfor2, providing three holiday rental villas exclusively for couples. And why Abruzzo? “It’s a beautiful unspoiled region,” says David, “and it’s become a genuine year-round destination. Prices are great; the people are friendly; and the food and wine are a treat. http://www.villasfor2.com
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New Travel Guide The Romance Lady’s Travel Guide to the 50 Sexiest Destinations to Woo Your Lover
If you’re looking for an unforgettable, dare I say incredible location for a romantic getaway, honeymoon, destination wedding, place to propose or vow renewal -then the The Romance Lady’s Travel Guide to the 50 Sexiest Destinations to Woo Your Lover is the best place to start your search.
“No matter how you define a sexy, romatic getaway, I’ve turned up the heat and the fun so you can “woo” and “wow” your lover in one of these heart-racing destinations. Choose one to indulge your fantasy.” Donna Beasley The Romance Lady
The The Romance Lady’s Travel Guide to the 50 Sexiest Destinations to Woo Your Lover highlights some incredible Hotels, Bed and Breakfast Inns and luxury resorts from all over the world. They are ripe for a romantic escape a deux. Each was selected for their unique ambience, quality of service, ideal location, outstanding facilities and beautiful surroundings. Many of them you won’t find in a traditional travel guidebook for they are off the beaten path; but thats part of what makes them so special. Indulge your romantic getaway fantasies with your private pool in St. Lucia, snuggle in your threehouse love nest in Bali or stargaze through your dome in Chili. Just remember to hang out the “Do not Disturb” sign.
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Donna Beasley Publisher/Editor Freida Curry Co-Publisher Marcela Dragan Graphic Design Writers Mgr Billy David Brenner Renee Carter Barry Finch A. Washington Cover photo courtesy: Big Stock Photos
“Oh, if it be to choose and call thee mine, love, thou art every day my Valentine!� Thomas Hood