Romance Travel Magazine

ROMANCE TRAVEL JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2016

Honeymoon Day Trips in

Costa Rica

&

Marvin Ana’s Destination Wedding

Antigua & Barbuda

Hidden Gems

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From the Publisher

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7 Tips for Your Couples Getaway to New Orleans

Beautiful Day Trips For Your Honeymoon in Costa Rica

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Chocolates for Valentine’s Day: New Ways to Give a Traditional Gift

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Honeymoon in Hawaii: Romance at Every Corner!

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Writing A love letter 5 Different Approaches

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Top 10 Caribbean Beaches

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Destination Spotlight: Antigua & Barbuda

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Mardi Gras Do You Know Your Trivia?

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Dog Gone It Tips For Including Your Dog in Your Wedding Festivities

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Ana & Marvin Smith’s Destination Wedding

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Top 5 Most Romantic Honeymoon Cruises

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Publisher’s Message

s we embark on a brand new year, many of you too will also embark on your own new journey of being an engaged couple planning for your big day! For some of you the wedding will be a small intimate gathering at a local church or romantic spot. Others will have a large extravaganza at a hotel or unique wedding venue. Our cover story couple, Marvin and Ana Smith, chose a destination wedding in the Dominican Republic. Our interview with Ana will highlight the challenges and rewards of a destination wedding; and may give you some ideas for your own wedding.

A destination wedding is held in a different location than the hometown of the bride and groom. As families and friends become more mobile and live all over the world, destination weddings are growing more and more popular.

This is Romance Travel Magazine’s third destination wedding and honeymoon issue. In these pages we will provide you with romantic ideas from gorgeous locations from New Orleans

to Hawaii stateside to Antigua and Costa Rica internationally. If you want to put some wow in your vows don’t miss our destination spotlight on Antigua and Barbuda, a twin island nation nestled in the Caribbean Sea. We also profile some of the most romantic cruise lines for your honeymoon or romantic getaway.

February is also Valentine’s Day and our article, Chocolate For Valentines, will help you to up your gift-giving game and impress your sweetie.

Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” is also in February and is the last day of the Carnival season. See how much you know in our Mardi Gras trivia article.

Be vacationing love birds this year and enhance and strengthen your relationship in 2016 with a romantic getaway that makes time for the two of you. All of us at Romance Travel Magazine wish you the joy of travel for fun, inspiration and romance! Happy New Year!

Donna Beasley, The Romance Lady ROMANCE TRAVEL MAGAZINE

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By Dusty Fox

Tips for Your Couples Getaway to New Orleans

Why choose New Orleans for your next romantic getaway? Let’s consider all the city has to offer… Good food? Check. Great live music? Most definitely. And opportunities for fun every hour of the day and night? You betcha!

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. New Orleans allows its visitors to choose from all kinds of activities, no matter what time of year you go. Whether you and your sweetie are interested in history, world renowned cuisine, quirky shopping spots, or just want to have a good time, you’ll find it in the Big Easy! Check out these tips for making the most of your couples getaway to the wonderfully vibrant and lively New Orleans:

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Plan day activities.

New Orleans is known for its wild nightlife, but this bustling city doesn’t go to sleep during the day. Be sure to get out and stroll the streets during daylight in order to see a different side of things. You’ll find sweet little shops and cafes in just about every neighborhood.

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Go bar hopping.

No trip to New Orleans is complete without spending at least a few hours out enjoying the city’s famous nightlife scene. Even if the drink specials don’t sound appealing, you and your sweetie will get to see a variety of musical acts, sample different foods, and experience a little bit of that famous New Orleans excitement.

Venture off of Bourbon Street.

Bourbon Street is the go-to spot for many tourists who want to have a good time, but Frenchmen Street boasts a different, generally more upscale and artistic vibe. Visit both if you have the time, and you’ll quickly notice how different the two neighborhoods are.

Explore Jackson Square.

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This popular park, and its surrounding area, is a great home base for a carefree day of wandering, browsing, people watching, and otherwise exploring the city. Start your day here and kick things off with New Orleans’ most famous sweet treat–beignets (donut-like treats topped with loads of powdered sugar!) and coffee at the treasured Cafe du Monde. (And if you’re looking for a truly spectacular wedding venue in New Orleans, Jackson Square should be on your list of places to consider!)

Sign up for a tour.

Having a planned tour on your otherwise flexible agenda will give you and your sweetie something specific to look forward to during your getaway. New Orleans has lots of unique tour options with themes that include everything from ghosts, to craft cocktails, to architecture, and more.

Listen to some live jazz (even if you think you won’t like it!)

Live jazz music is not hard to come by in New Orleans. To the contrary, you may feel like you see and hear it everywhere around the city. Keep an open mind and remember that many a traveler has fallen in love with the genre after seeing it performed live in New Orleans–it’s simply not the same as listening to it at home.

Wait in line at a popular restaurant…

It might sound crazy, but part of the New Orleans experience is standing in line! That’s where you’ll hear people telling crazy stories over the sounds of jazz and blues music pouring out from local clubs, where you’ll smell seafood of every variety, and where you’ll see just about every type of tourist soaking in the sights and sounds of the city. So go ahead and grab a drink for you and your sweetheart, then get your spot in line! …And be sure to make reservations for a romantic dinner out, too.

The whole “waiting in line” thing may be charming for one night, but you and your sweetheart might agree it’s not nearly as fun the following evening. Plan a romantic evening out at one of the city’s highly regarded restaurants, like Bayona or Tableau–both of which are located in the French Quarter and offer romantic al fresco dining.

New Orleans has a flair and energy that’s unique to this southern city. If you’ve never been, there’s no better time than now to set out for what’s sure to be a fun getaway full of delicious flavors, incredible sounds, and a few unexpected twists!

Dusty Fox is a full-time freelance writer who focuses on travel-related writing. She and her boyfriend have spent the last 10+ years traveling the world together, discovering countless natural wonders and hidden treasures along the way. Dusty has lived in numerous countries, an endeavor aided by her fluency in Spanish and her never-ending thirst for adventure and exploration. Contact Dusty at letswrite@dfoxcreative.com.

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Mardi Gras

Do You Know Your Trivia?

The most popular time to visit New Orleans is the extended weekend before Mardi Gras (February 5- 9). That’s when you’ll be sure to catch the most popular parades, like Endymion, Bacchus, Zulu, Rex and all of the festive celebrations throughout the whole city.

Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” is the last day of the Carnival season as it always falls the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent.

Most visitors will plan to arrive no later than Saturday, February 6, 2016 in order to enjoy an extended weekend of festivities.

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1: Are Carnival and Mardi Gras the same thing?

Don’t confuse Carnival and Mardi Gras! Carnival refers to the period of feasting and fun that begins on Jan. 6, The Feast of the Epiphany. Mardi Gras refers to Fat Tuesday, the final day of revelry before Ash Wednesday, when Lent begins.

3: Why are masks worn?

By law, float riders must always have a mask on. On Fat Tuesday, masking is legal for everyone else, and the elaborate masks that some wear add to the fun.

2: What is the significance of the Mardi Gras colors, and where did they come from?

Rex, the King of Carnival, selected the Mardi Gras colors and assigned meaning to them in 1892. Purple stands for justice, green for faith, and gold for power.

4: How is a king chosen?

The method of selecting a king varies from krewe to krewe. Some krewes hold random drawings, while others invite a celebrity guest to be their king. Rex, the King of Carnival, is chosen by the School of Design, who sponsors the Rex parade. His identity is revealed the day before the parade.

5: How does Mardi Gras benefit the New Orleans economy?

Economic impact reports indicate that Mardi Gras generates over $1 billion in annual spending. The city of New Orleans is not involved in coordinating Mardi Gras parades; their only involvement is to issue parade permits to each individual Mardi Gras krewe.

6: Who organizes and pays for Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras parade krewes are private, non-profit organizations whose members get together year round to plan their parade’s theme, costumes and unique throws.

Photo and Facts Courtesy of New Orleans Tourism Board

Photo courtesy New Orleans Tourism Bureau ROMANCE TRAVEL MAGAZINE

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COSTA RICA COSTA RICA Beautiful Day Trips During Your Honeymoon in

For adventurous newlyweds in search of the pure life, look no further than Costa Rica. A green, peaceful and pristinely beautiful part of the world, this Central American jewel offers Caribbean retreats, jungle escapes, volcanic excursions and Pacific hideaways, with a generous dose of laid back Latino spirit.

Thanks to its relatively small size and excellent infrastructure, Costa Rica is the ideal place to enjoy day trips.

Whether you hire a car or opt for a guided tour with one of the many excellent companies here, this Spanishspeaking country makes it easy for honeymooners to pack in plenty of day-long adventures.

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By Nathalie Aucutt

Poás Volcano National Park, La Paz Waterfall Gardens and a coffee tour As the sun peeks over the surrounding mountains of the Central Valley, head northwest out of the capital, San Jose, to see one of the country’s most visited attractions before the clouds roll in. Poás is an active volcano looming large at 8,885’, characterized a sulfuric pool, which smokes and bubbles in its main crater. After unmatched photo opportunities, explore the precious cloud forest that surrounds this unforgettable landscape before heading back down the volcanic slopes to La Paz Waterfall Gardens. This private nature reserve is just an hour from San Jose but it offers scenic trails, close-up interaction with butterflies, hummingbirds, snakes, frogs and, of course, the five powerful waterfalls. If you have time, squeeze in a coffee plantation tour at the impressive, Doka Estate, where free tastings of Costa Rica’s famous export accompany an informative tour that explains the coffee production process from bean to cup.

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Carara National Park and Playa Mantas A wild excursion with a tropical beach thrown in for good measure, this day trip is best enjoyed with the excellent public bus service, to save you

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the hassle of parking (and so that you can enjoy a cocktail at lunch). Take the earliest bus bound for Jaco from the capital and relax as you’re transported around the mountains and along the Pacific coast. Watch crocodiles laze in the muddy waters as you cross the Tarcoles River and then jump off at Carara National Park where you can hire a guide to help you spot an abundance of wildlife, including iguanas, toucans, monkeys and agoutis! When you’ve worked up an appetite, a guide can provide a taxi service to Marisqueria La Ostra, at Punta Leona, where you can indulge in fresh ceviche or a delicious fish platter for two. Afterwards, take a short taxi ride to Playa Mantas to cool off in the turquoise ocean as you watch scarlet macaws play in the trees along the beach. The bus back to San Jose can pick you up from opposite Marisqueria La Ostra but you could always check into Hotel Punta Leona if you can’t bear to leave this exotic hideaway.

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Irazú Volcano National Park and Lankester Botanical Gardens Starting early, follow the signs out of San Jose to Irazú National Park. Be sure to take in the fantastic scenery that surrounds you as you pass coffee plantations and small agricultural communities that cling to the side of the volcano.

Aside from the vast views from the top of Irazú,

you and your loved one will be treated to a wild and windswept moonscape-like environment that surrounds the huge craters, 11,260’ above sea level. Watch out for the cheeky coatis that wait for scraps of food by the visitor center!

Heading south to your afternoon destination, enjoy a traditional casado for lunch at one of the “mirador” restaurants on the volcanic slopes before pulling into Cartago for photographs at the famous basilica. Once at Lankester Botanical Gardens, you can enjoy 3000 species of orchids in 26 verdant acres - well worth setting the alarm for.

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Arenal Volcano and Hot Springs Opt for an organized tour to enjoy this actionpacked day-trip to one of the most active volcanoes in the western hemisphere. After stopping in Sarchí to see the world-famous, colorfully painted oxcarts, your tour will continue northwest to Arenal Volcano, which dominates the landscape. Watch for lava and ash activity and enjoy the sound of birdsong as you take in the view. Your afternoon will be spent relaxing in the thermal mineral pools at the tranquil Baldi Hot Springs where you and your new spouse can unwind in true honeymoon style. Lunch and dinner are both provided so you can make the most of your time together under the powerful gaze of Arenal and her dramatic scenery.

To get the most from these day trips, make sure you bring hiking shoes, plenty of water, suncream, insect repellent and, of course, your camera! Anywhere Costa Rica is a great resource for general information and tours around this spectacular country.

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Celeste River If, like many visitors, you can’t get enough of Arenal, stay a while in nearby, La Fortuna. Wake up refreshed and take a tour to the brilliantly blue, Celeste River, which is around two hours northwest in Tenorio Volcano National Park.

After a couple of hours of driving, you will be able to stretch your legs on a steamy hike through the rainforest and along the Celeste River, where you can enjoy a unique natural phenomenon together. As two small rivers merge, their crystal clear water turns a sensational turquoise blue, due to the volcanic minerals in the water. This incredible experience is sure to be one of the crowning jewels in your honeymoon in Costa Rica.

Nathalie Aucutt is a published writer and travel lover who ditched office life in the UK and now writes wherever the wind takes her. After travelling extensively through Latin America in 2014, she is looking forward to another year of creating stories from her spontaneous adventures. Stay up to date by visiting onceuponaverse.com or find her on Twitter @onceupontweets ROMANCE TRAVEL MAGAZINE

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Chocolates for Valentine’s Day:

New Ways to Give a Traditional Gift

Giving the gift of chocolates is not only a tradition, but a great way to show your beloved how sweet life is this Valentine’s Day. Come mid-January-- or maybe sooner-- every market and convenience store will be stocked to the ceiling with a multitude of chocolates from which you can choose, but this year, try some new ways to give a traditional gift. Instead of reaching for the Russell Stovers box, opt for a more adventurous and personal chocolate choice for your Valentine.

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Option 1: Create a Personalized Chocolate Box Filled with all of Your Valentine’s Favorites No more chocolate Russian roulette. Avoid the Valentine’s Day dread of biting into a scrumptious looking treat only to find a generic fruit paste filling. If there is a local chocolatier, you can pop into the store and personalize a chocolate gift for your love by creating a unique box filled with all of their favorites, and only their favorites.

A couple years ago, I decided to do this for my husband, Zac. I went to KC Chocolatiers in Chicago, which was just down the street from my apartment at the time. I ended up choosing several varieties, including whiskey filled truffles and salted caramel chocolates--his favorites. I arrived home, chocolates craftily held behind my back, only to see an identical bag sitting on the counter waiting for me. Apparently my idea hadn’t been so unique. Zac had been at the same chocolatier an hour before me and had created the perfect box of chocolates for me--dark chocolates filled with coconut, almonds, and cashews.

Option 2: Order Chocolates from One of Your Valentine’s Favorite Travel Destinations-- Or One On the Bucket List!

This is a simple way to bring some adventure into your chocolate gift, and there is a world of choices out there. Below are some of my favorites that might become your Valentine’s favorites too.

Teuscher “Champagne Truffles” from Switzerland

which comes from Zurich, now has store locations all around the word, which is how I found out about them here in Chicago. The Dom Perignon Champagne cream center surrounded by the smoothness of Swiss chocolate ganache is luxury rolled into a perfect morsel. Of course, the brand sells other varieties of chocolates that are not to be missed, but the Champagne Truffles should be a priority.

Neuhaus Collection “Discovery” from Belgium Many of us are familiar with the Belgian brand Godiva Chocolates, which are famous worldwide and for good reason. However, a lesser known name from Belgium, Neuhaus, also offers fantastic selections of chocolate that might broaden the horizons of your love. The Neuhaus Collection Discovery is a great variety of high quality chocolates from Belgium, offering a sample of each of Nauhaus’ most decadent candies.

Pacari “Premier Chocolate Collection” from Ecuador When we traveled around Ecuador last winter, Zac and I were introduced to Pacari Chocolate, an organic brand that is grown and processed in Ecuador. We ended up buying several varieties to try throughout our trip, one of our favorites being the Dark Chocolate covered Banana.

The bits of chewy banana under real cocoa is unlike anything I’ve tasted before. Pacari has flavors like Merken Chili, Andean Blueberry, Lemongrass. While this collection is in bar form, rather than a traditional box of chocolates, it is certain to excite the palate of any travel lover.

Champagne truffles are the epitome of elegance and theses chocolates are a perfect combination of two Valentine’s Day favorites. This brand, ROMANCE TRAVEL MAGAZINE

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Michel Cluizel’s Cru de Plantation Chocolate Set from France Michel Cluizel is well-known in France for his complex methods of creating delicious chocolates. Although these are French chocolates, this set of chocolate squares gives you a variety of dark chocolates from all around the world, including Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Madagascar, and the Dominican Republic. One of the most exciting parts of this collection is tasting the subtle differences between chocolates from different regions of the world.

Venchi Chocolate “Cuba Rum Gift Box” from Italy For a chocolate gift with just a little extra kick, these “extra dark” chocolates filled with a sweet rum cream might be the perfect choice.

With a creamy rum center enhanced by a hint of hazelnut, these fine Italian chocolates are a gentle spin on some of the other, more potent,

alcohol filled chocolates. Of course, Venchi also offers other assortments of chocolates that are 100% sweet and 0% alcohol.

Fifth Dimension Chocolates “The Journey Box” from England Finally, I have saved the ultimate travel-chocolate experience for last. My friends, this is THE chocolate box to get for the explorer in your life.

This chocolate box features 12 chocolates that are uniquely crafted to highlight the chocolate experiences of different locations around the world. These award-winning chocolates combine flavors that are meant to invoke the spirit of some of the most interesting cities around the world.

For example, tasting the “Hanoi” chocolate will fill your mouth with ginger caramel, or the one from Genoa will have hints of Basil mixed with the chocolate. To take your Valentine’s day gift further, taste them all, and whichever is yours and your love’s favorite, start planning your next vacation to that city.

Lana Orndorff is a travel-loving writer currently living in Chicago. She’s experienced beautiful parts of the world, including Argentina, Spain, Chile, Colombia, South Korea, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Jamaica, Ecuador, and much of the United States. Give her bold red wine, intelligent friends, her loving husband, and a classic novel and she is a happy traveler.

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This wonderful infographic provides some top tips for the perfect honeymoon. It is compliments of Loyes Diamonds who carry some of the loveliest wedding and engagement rings.

Visit them at www.loyesdiamonds.ie/ type/wedding-rings ROMANCE TRAVEL MAGAZINE

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Dog Gone It Tips For Including Your Dog in Your Wedding Festivities

By Jessica Lapido

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You have been dreaming of your perfect wedding day your whole life. There are always a few people that simply must be there or the day won’t be complete. For us, one of those very special people just happened to have big blue eyes, shiny fur coat and a long waggling tail!

Our husky, Lennon, was with us when we fell in love and we wanted him to be part of our wedding day.

Here are some tips for keeping you furry baby safe and happy during your wedding festivities.

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Those Flowers Look Yummy!

5. Picture It:

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Member of Wedding Party?

Ask First: Don’t go plan the whole ceremony with a staring role for your pet, without confirming with your venue and reception site that he will be allowed to join the festivities.

Let your photographer know that you are having a pet at the ceremony.

The pet needs to get used to the photographer and vice a versa. The best way is to do this is to include Fido in your engagement photos.

Make sure that any flowers you use aren’t toxic to dogs, and make sure that accessories won’t come lose and be a choking hazard.

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Planning on using you dog as a ring bearer, then consider using decoy rings, so that you don’t have to worry about the rings falling out of the bag or Fido eating them.

Lassie?

Consider your pet’s personality and obedience before putting them in the wedding. Do large crowds upset him? Will little children annoy him? Will they destroy the buffet trying to get to the chicken dinner? If you answer yes, then maybe consider alternative ways to include your baby in the day.

2. Get that Diploma:

if you have to have your baby as your ring bearer, but are afraid of how they will act, enroll them in obedience school.

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Hire Babysitter:

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Furry

The babysitter doesn’t have to be furry, just someone who can take charge of Fido before, during and after the ceremony. You won’t have a ton of time to devote to your pet, so make sure there is someone who has nothing better to do that throw tennis balls all day.

6. Notify Your Guests:

announce on your invitations, that a dog will be part of the ceremony. This allows people with allergies to pre-medicate.

Also you don’t want people who are terrified of animals at the ceremony.

7. Style

vs. Safety:

Jessica Ladipo is President and Chief Romance Officer at Trips to Cherish, a travel agency specializing in destination weddings and honeymoons and other romance occasions. www.TripsToCherish.com

planning to dress your baby in a tux or dress? Make sure it fits properly and the dog isn’t uncomfortable.

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Honeymoon in

Hawaii: Romance at Every Corner!

By Dusty Fox

They say your wedding day is one of the happiest days of your life. And, if you think the wedding is fun, just wait until your honeymoon starts! After all the months of planning, preparing, and coordinating every last detail for your wedding, you and your sweetheart will feel any lingering stress simply melt away as soon as you arrive at your honeymoon destination. Hawaii is one of those places that summons the newly married who dream of sun, sand, and relaxation. Here are some favorite newlywed hot spots for you and your sweetheart to look in to for this once-in-a-lifetime getaway: 16

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Food & Drink Jo2 Natural Cuisine, Kauai Don’t be fooled by its unexpected location on a small shopping strip. Jo2 offers some of the best food on Kauai, with its “farm to table” philosophy ensuring they serve up consistently fresh and flavorful meals. Their menu features uniquely blended flavors that pair wonderfully with a carefully selected wine list. There are lots of great vegetarian and vegan options in addition to popular seafood pupus and entrees.

Merriman’s, Maui Signature cocktails like the Molokai Mule and Tequila Twilight are best enjoyed during sunset, which you and your sweetheart can admire from the large patio at Merriman’s. After soaking in scenery, come inside for a fantastic meal complemented by truly phenomenal service.

Here you can create a custom meal that features half portions of two different entrees–perfect for sharing with your sweetheart!

Forget the reservations and getting all dressed up for dinner, and instead head here for a lighter, healthier meal. They use fresh, local ingredients and also serve a nice variety of wine and their own beer. If you and your sweetheart enjoy “brinner” (that’s breakfast for dinner, in case you didn’t know), you’ll be happy to learn that Heavenly Island Lifestyle serves breakfast and yummy brunch-friendly drinks, like organic acai mimosas, all day.

Heavenly Island Lifestyle, Oahu Everyone knows that eating healthy can prove difficult when vacationing, but this trendy cafe makes it easy–and delicious!–while in Oahu.

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Activities Napali Coast State Park, Kauai With its dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and idyllic shorelines, this beautiful scenery is something you won’t want to miss while honeymooning in Hawaii. Reach the park via a sailing cruise, or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, join a kayaking expedition. There are trails and archaeological ruins to visit here as well, and you can even camp out if a night under the stars sounds dreamy to the two of you.

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Couples Spa Day, Oahu You and your sweetheart deserve a full day of pampering while on your honeymoon, and Spa Pure Waikiki is just the place to find it. Their deluxe pair special package includes a cleansing steam, Hawaiian lomi lomi massage, warm saltwater therapy, and a soak in a large couples tub. Aaahh.

Lodging Koa Kea Hotel & Resort, Kauai Its smaller size gives this hotel a much more intimate feeling than the mega resorts many couples consider when choosing to honeymoon in Hawaii. When booking your stay, inquire about the option to include breakfast in your visit–the onsite Red Salt Restaurant gets rave reviews from travelers time and time again. The jacuzzi area is adorned with tiki torches and sets a romantic scene for admiring the night sky.

Hanalei Bay Resort in Princeville, Kauai A gorgeous courtyard, complete with a large pool, trickling waterfalls, and plenty of lounge chairs, serves as the focal point of this beautiful property. The resort also has commendable environmental friendliness policies in place, with a full recycling program, solar panels, and other green features.

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Maui

Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail, Kauai

The look and feel of this resort is marked by its contemporary aesthetic, which applies to both the furnishings and overall design. Couples who are looking to do nothing but relax will be happy doing so at the property’s 3 cascading infinity pools, while those who want to learn something new will have fun at classes that specialize in locally inspired activities like lei making, coconut leaf weaving, and playing the ukulele.

This incredible seaside trail offers gorgeous scenery, with a dip in the shimmering turquoise waters sounding more and more appealing as you continue your hike. Stop to explore hidden little coves, and you can even try cliff diving if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush. No planning needed for this fun, carefree outing–just head on out for a lovely day enjoying your new husband or wife’s company in the fresh, salty sea air!

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Writing A

By Carrie Grosvenor

5 Different Approaches Writing a love letter can be a very romantic gesture, one that the recipient will treasure forever. But how do you go about putting your words of love onto paper? Will what you want to say end up sounding cheesy, or worse yet, insincere?

Start off by organizing your thoughts. Sit down and make a list of things you love about your partner, why you want to be with them, and what you want to express to them in your love letter. Then think about the approach you want to take. Here are five different ways you can go about putting your thoughts into a truly unique expression of your love.

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Plain and Pure Sometimes the best way to express yourself is to be straightforward. It might not be the most romantic or creative approach, but your partner is sure to appreciate that you took the time to write down your thoughts and share them.

Organize your list into categories – personality traits, quirks, physical attributes, etc. Turn each category into a paragraph, starting with “I love you because”. This will make your list into an actual letter, rather than a business-like bullet list.

If you want to go the extra mile, buy some pretty paper and a matching envelope to deliver your love letter in. If you’re a woman, leave a lipstick print on the envelope; if you’re a man, dab on a tiny bit of your cologne. Make it as personal as you can, even addressing it using your pet name for your partner.

Even the most conservative among us can manage this sort of love letter, and taking the time to lavish your partner with words of love will not go unappreciated!

Desperately Romantic By “desperate” I don’t mean in a “love you from afar and don’t think I can live another day without being near you” kind of way. If this is where you’re headed, your intended will be more likely to file a restraining order than deliver your anticipated response. If you aren’t actually involved with the person you want to give your love letter to, perhaps going out for coffee or catching a movie together might be the best place to start.

No, the “desperate” in this case refers to how you feel when you and your lover are apart. If the poetic soul in you cries out, longing to be near your partner, you’ll want to convey that without being scary.

Unleash your creativity. Think ‘Romeo and Juliet’, think of the great romantic poets of ages past. Take the list you made of things you love about your partner, and make them sing with prose. Be descriptive; try to capture exactly what your heart is feeling. Drag out the old thesaurus and find the perfect words to convey your emotions.

Elegant paper is the way to go here. Embossed, thick, expensive paper that looks like something a great poet would use is your aim. A matching envelope completes the presentation once you use a real calligraphy pen to write your lover’s name artistically on the front. Then think romance for the delivery. Send it along with a bouquet of red roses, or take your partner for a private and swoon-worthy dinner. Make it memorable.

Just when they think the date couldn’t get any better, present them with your letter, and offer to read it aloud. Your loved one will end up with a permanent reminder of how special they are, and you’ll both walk away with a wonderfully romantic and intimate memory of a special date.

Quirky and Fun Maybe you’re unconventional, and want to express yourself a little differently. Don’t be afraid to use your imagination! Maybe poems or riddles are more up your alley, or perhaps a fictional story that mirrors your situation would work. Try mailing a multitude of blank greeting cards, each with a different verse you’ve written proclaiming your love and affection. Send a single red rose each day for a week, each with a card containing fun and unique things you love about your partner.

You are only limited by your imagination.

Chances are that your individuality is one of the things that drew your partner to you in the first place, so use that to your advantage and express yourself as the unique person you are!

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Traditional and Classic So you’re the type of person who plays by the rules. Nothing wrong with that – let your love letters reflect the way you live your life.

Traditional love letters have a few things in common, so here’s all you need to know.

Get yourself some lovely stationary and set aside some time and a quiet place to write. Start your letter off with a familiar and affectionate greeting, such as “My Love”, or “Dearest Jane/ John”. Use your regular handwriting and let

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your thoughts spill out onto the paper. Make it heartfelt and truthful, earnest and touching. Tell your partner how you feel when you’re together, and how much you miss them when you’re apart.

Don’t worry about making it perfect, just make it descriptive and more about your partner than about you. Sign your letter with an expression of love, such as “Always yours”, or “Forever thinking of you”, and then your first name only.

This isn’t a contract – the intended recipient knows your surname.

A traditional love letter must be sent by post.

Remember, historically speaking, love letters were sent to close the distance between lovers as one of them was travelling or at war, or otherwise removed from their place beside their intended.

So take your pretty envelope and address the letter by hand. Don’t even consider writing the letter or addressing the envelope on your computer. Your handwriting is part of what makes this unique, thoughtful, and special.

Put a stamp on your letter and put it in the mailbox. In a few days, expect a visit or phone call from your surprised and flattered partner!

Hot and Sexy Sometimes the physical desires just can’t be suppressed, and you want to combine romance with something a bit more wild and sexy. You can definitely go this route, but don’t forget that romance is first and foremost here. You’re not writing a Penthouse letter or pornography, you’re expressing your love. Don’t make your partner feel like an object, make them feel like a desirable, unforgettable person that you want to spend as much time as humanly possible with.

Start your letter off suggestively, perhaps with a reference to a recent encounter. Tell your partner how much you desire them. Explain why, but don’t just list physical attributes. Explain the traits or quirks that they have that endear you to them. Describe the way their eyes look when you stare deeply into them. Profess how much your heart swells when you’re laying together holding each other tight. Again, think romance, not porn. Create an aura of suggestion, rather than a detailed play-by-play of the previous nights’ escapades.

Drawing hearts or leaving lipstick kisses on this type of letter is very appropriate. Then find an intimate place to leave it, so that only your lover will find it. Maybe in their lingerie/underwear drawer, or on their pillow. Take great pains to make sure that no one else will lay eyes on your letter – the embarrassment would be a lot to handle for your lover, and they may end up being angry with you. That’s certainly not the intent of the love letter!

No matter which approach you take to writing a love letter, make it real and from your heart. Make it an expression of who you are, who you feel your partner is, and how important they are to you – and why.

Everyone loves to be complimented, and if you can capture genuine and honest emotions and put them into words, you will create a treasured keepsake that your partner can look back on for years and years to come.

Carrie Grosenor is a freelance writer from Ontario, Canada, and writes the blog lovetoknow.com.

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Ana & Marvin Smith’s Destination Wedding

By Donna Beasley

Ana Serafin Smith and I share a love of travel and writing. So I was thrilled when she agreed to share her destination wedding experience in the following interview. To learn more about Ana Serafin Smith follow her blog at: www.TravelingLatina.com RTM: Where did you and Marvin meet?

AS: We met at a political leadership program conference in 2009. I was considering going into politics and he worked in government affairs.

We were the two youngest attending and we hit it off right away.

RTM: When and where did you get married?

AS: We got married on October 10, 2015 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic at the Melia Caribe Tropical Resort.

RTM: Why did you choose a destination wedding?

AS: It was going to be a destination wedding for us no matter where we had the wedding because most of our friends and family don’t live in Chicago. We picked Punta Cana because it was the halfway mark for my family to come; my father and grandmother live in Venezuela. Plus, it allowed me and my husband to connect to our Caribbean roots. The wedding was done in Spanish for my family.

RTM: How many guests attended?

AS: We had 97 guests, which is pretty big for a

is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so we wanted to make sure the hotel we picked was on that beach. Then we looked at pricing for our guests to stay there, because we wanted to stick to a price range to make it attractive for our guests to come and not break the bank. Additionally, we wanted it to be an all-inclusive resort. The Melia offered everything we were looking for.

RTM: How did you coordinate everything from Chicago?

AS: I was planning my wedding a year and half

out and I had questions every month. You need to be patient with your Caribbean wedding planner because they are working so many weddings and you won’t become a priority until about a month before your date. It did help that I am fluent in Spanish and could get help with all my questions since there was no language barrier.

RTM: Did you do a site visit?

AS: Yes, and I highly recommend engaged couples

do that. We did our site visit 10 months out and it helped us narrow down a lot of decisions. It helped with where we wanted to host the wedding, what food and drinks to serve, what photographs we wanted and even what hotel room we wanted to have the week of our stay.

destination wedding from what I’ve heard.

RTM: Did you use local vendors?

RTM: Why did you choose the Melia Caribe Tropical for your venue?

AS: Our florist and photographer were local vendors who came through the hotel but we were able to negotiate cost. I highly recommend negotiating your heart out because most vendors will reduce their prices.

AS: Our criteria for selection was narrowed down by a couple of things. Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana

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RTM: Did you do any decorating on your own?

AS: I thought the $1,000 price tag for floral centerpieces for the table was too high. So I created my own and brought them with me from Chicago. I sprayed painted bottles in gold and bought candles that we could put in their center.

They provided elegant and romantic lighting, and the cost was about $60 for the centerpieces.

We also traveled first class to Punta Cana, so we were able to bring these boxes as part of our regular luggage with no extra fees.

RTM: What was the scariest moment?

AS: We took a big risk because with our wedding date it was the end of the hurricane season. I prayed a whole year for sunny days and rainy nights and it turned out to be exactly that. The day of our wedding was very hot and humid, so it was crazy to have to wear my heavy wedding dress, for my husband and his groomsmen to wear tuxedos. We ending up hiring these big industrial fans to put on the side of the gazebo so people could get some cool air.

RTM: What was the highlight of the day?

AS: My biggest highlight was when my Dad saw me in my wedding dress for the first time.

Seeing his face was really classic. The other highlight was walking down the aisle; I was so nervous. So I told myself, you can cry and have ugly wedding photos or you can smile and enjoy the moment. I chose the cheesy smile.

When I got to the end and was holding my husband’s hand, it was a priceless moment I’ll never forget.

RTM: What advice would you give someone planning a destination wedding?

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AS: If you are doing all the negotiations for your wedding you’re going to need both time and patience. If you have less than 6 months it may be best to work with a travel agent. Also pick a place that you and your husband will want to visit again (and again) after 5 or 10 years have gone by from your wedding day. Then you can relive the beautiful memories of your wedding.

0 1 Top ean b b i r Ca s e h c a Be

4. Pink Sand Beach ( Bahamas) – One of the world’s most photographed beaches, often voted world’s best in travel publications. The salmon pink colored sand is due to red plankton that has mixed with the fine white sand.

5. Crane Beach (Barbados) – Often voted as Barbados’ most beautiful beach.

Imposing cliffs, a natural coral reef and soft white sands make for a perfect beach.

Photo courtesy of Adam Jones/Flickr

A holiday to the Caribbean offers you the chance to visit some of the most spectacular beaches in the world.

Virtually every island of the Caribbean will have beaches that amaze; with crystal clear blue seas, sugar white sand & palm trees.

To help you choose where to go and more importantly what beach to choose, we have compiled a list of the top 10 beaches in the Caribbean.

1. Palm Beach (Aruba) – Idyllic beach setting with superb white sand.

6. Negril Beach (Jamaica) – Laid back atmosphere and Jamaica’s prettiest beach.

A lot quieter than Seven Mile beach.

7. Englishman’s Bay (Tobago) – A sheltered beach with fine white sand, crystal waters & surrounded by a palm jungle.

8. Grace Bay (Turks & Caicos) – Part of a national marine park, this beach has fine white sand, calm turquoise waters and is protected by a barrier reef.

2. Grand Anse Beach (Grenada) – 3km beach with sugar-white sand, lots of space & shallow waters.

9. Trunk Bay (US Virgin Islands) – A beautiful beach with crystal clear waters, considered one of the best places for snorkeling in the Caribbean.

3. Johnson’s Point (Antigua) – Made up of secluded coves; these white soft sand beaches are a must for snorkeling & swimming

10. Shoal Bay (Anguilla) – Put Angullia on the tourism map; sugar-white sand, crystal clear blue waters & coral reefs.

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Destination Spotlight:

Antigua & Barbuda

Put Some Wow in Your Vows Wedding on Fryers Beach photo courtesy of Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority

By Donna Beasley

Are you thinking of jetting off to an exotic location in order to get married? If you want to put some wow in your vows consider, Antigua and Barbuda, a twin island nation nestled in the Caribbean Sea, one of the most romantic island destinations! There are numerous world-class resorts, four-star hotels, and private villas that offer complete wedding, and/or honeymoon packages to suit every taste and budget. Choose the back drop for your wedding that works best for your special day, poolside, lush tropical gardens, gazebo, or say “I do” with your toes in the sand.

An experienced staff will handle many of the details to make sure your experience is beautiful and memorable.

Antigua Antigua, a tiny island, 14 miles long and 11 miles wide, is one of those famously paradisiacal islands that actually lives up to the hype. Pristine beaches speckle the coastline, and everywhere you look there is yet another exhilarating view of sea, cliff or tropical landscape. While Antigua is the most popular with tourists and boasts 365 beautiful beaches, none of them can boast what Barbuda has: pink sand.

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Barbuda Practically all of the western coast of the Barbuda is one continuous stretch of beach where you can glimpse occasional bands of pink sand. Lighthouse Bay Resort sits on what is often called the prettiest beach in the Caribbean because of its beautiful combination of sea, sun and pink sand. The island is so peaceful you can easily find a stretch of beach where you won’t be disturbed. Barbuda’s landscape is virtually untouched, but your romantic getaway will still be luxurious. And there is plenty to do on the island including horseback riding, deep sea fishing, snorkeling, diving and hiking. Barbuda is a 90 minute boat ride or 20 minute plane ride from Antigua.

Barbuda Belle is a new boutique hotel that opened last year. Each of the six beachfront bungalows has its own private large balcony, with stunning views on the nearby mangroves of the Codrington Lagoon Park. The wooden furniture decorating the bungalows gives them a rustic yet plush look.

No Residency Requirement Getting married is easy because there is no residency requirement in Antigua and Barbuda and paperwork is quick and simple, even cruise passengers can enjoy same day weddings. For more details, requirements and fees visit: www.antiguabarbudabuzz.com

Whether you are planning a romantic escape, dream wedding on the beach, or a heavenly honeymoon, sun-drenched days and romantic sunset evenings await you on the islands of Antigua and Barbuda.

Photo courtesy Barbuda Belle Resort

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3 Top Rated Antigua Resorts For A Destination Wedding Coco Bay Resort - Amazing “We went to Cocobay to get married, the hotel and staff we amazing, friendly and just the perfect place to get married and have our honeymoon. It is a small boutique hotel that is for couples and honeymooners only, you will not find any hussle and bustle here. It is very relaxing and the place to do nothing but chill out. The rooms are simple, comfortable and true antigan style. The food was good and the evening meals a la carte excellent. The beach is public but it is never bus. The watersports on offer by the hotel are non-motorized kayaks and a mini cat but jet skis are always on offer by locals. A visit to Shirley heights and island trip on wadadli cat are a must. We will definitely return to Cocobay as we could not fault it and I have high standards.”

Liesaandmithch, United Kingdom as reviewed on www.TripAdvisors.com

Galley Bay Resort - Perfect In Every Way “This was our second trip to Galley Bay. We were married there in 2014 and returned on our 1st anniversary. We have never been disappointed. We arrived to chilled champagne in our room compliments of resort for our anniversary.

The staff is amazing and grounds and accommodations in excellent condition. We consider Galley Bay our home away from home and felt like they consider us family.”

Cincy, Ohio as reviewed on www.TripAdvisors.com

Blue Waters Antigua – Wonderful Stay, Perfect Wedding We stayed at Blue Waters for holiday, and had a beautiful wedding there as well. From the moment we arrived, the staff at Blue Waters made sure that we were having a wonderful time and that we had everything we needed. The wedding planner, is amazing. She made sure that the wedding was exactly what we wanted and that all the details were perfect. The wedding was beyond what we had dreamed-it was so beautiful, and the experience easy and stress free. The spa at the resort is gorgeous and it was 30

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Wedding Gazebo photo courtesy of Blue Waters Resort

a wonderful place to get pampered and dressed before the ceremony (complete with hair and makeup).

Our rooms at the hotel were lovely, and the views from our balcony were amazing. Everything at the resort from the service, to the rooms, restaurants, beach and pools is top notch. We can’t wait to return for an anniversary!

Emily, Michigan as reviewed on www.TripAdvisors.com ROMANCE TRAVEL MAGAZINE

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Most Romantic

by Kwarol K

Honeymoon Cruises

Are you getting married and but still haven’t booked for your honeymoon?

The effortless indulgence of a cruise may be the perfect choice for the new Mr. & Mrs. A mid-sea voyage in a luxurious cabin with every basic comfort you need, visits to beautiful islands with white sands, clear blue waters, history and culture – this is a practical option to being marooned on a deserted island with the one you love. You can sail off on the honeymoon of your dreams immediately after the wedding ceremony, and you only have to unpack once!

A honeymoon is for building romantic memories that last a lifetime and choosing the perfect cruise destination ensures the ideal start to a new life together. With some of the best honeymoon cruises now available on popular cruise lines, it’s the best time for you to have a memorable experience as newlyweds. Whether you are looking for romantic, adventurous, or luxurious experience, there is something for every couple. Here is a compilation of the top 5 honeymoon cruise lines that are out of the ordinary.

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1. Windstar Cruises- Wind Star Yacht Windstar Cruises goes beyond the ordinary with yacht-style cruising. It was recently named the “Best Cruise Line for Romance” by Cruise editors. There are 6 yachts in their fleet. Enjoy a relaxing massage.

Spend a leisurely breakfast in bed—or settle in with a glass of wine and a romantic movie at the end of the day. You can even renew your vows or have your wedding ceremony performed by the Captain.

Aboard the Wind Star yacht, you are assured of superb dining, attentive and friendly service, a casual atmosphere, and the romance of the coolest destinations in the Mediterranean. All staterooms have ocean views, queen beds and spacious baths with luxurious amenities. You can choose one of the two 7-night cruises sailing from Istanbul to the Greek Islands, or from Athens, including Santorini, Mykonos, Kusadasi, and Bodrum. Activities may include a stroll on the beach at sunset, or dinner under the stars in a secluded cove. http://www.windstarcruises.com/

2. Princess Cruises- “The Love Boat” Line

Photo courtesy of Windstar Cruise Lines

Princess cruises the world, but its Caribbean itineraries are best for enjoying ultimate balcony dining on your private verandah; a lazy day in the adults-only, spa-like Sanctuary sun deck; and be sure to snuggle under a blanket while watching movies under the stars at night.

Princess also offers friends and family a way to give newlyweds an unforgettable gift. Sail with them during your honeymoon and create a personalized registry for loved ones to make contributions to cruise fare, refreshing beverages, luxurious spa treatments, exciting shore excursions, photographs and more. http://www.princess.com/ ROMANCE TRAVEL MAGAZINE

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3. AMA Waterways Do something different, avoid the mega ships and spend your honeymoon on a river cruise. Aboard Ama Waterways, you’ll cruise through some of Europe’s oldest cities. They also cruise to Africa, Viet Nam and Asia. These cruises provide a smooth, gentle ride along some of the world’s most remarkable waterways. Plus you can dock right in the heart of historic cities. Enjoy sumptuous cuisine and regional wines as you dine in a sophisticated setting. And you can set your own pace with daily shore excursions from adventure to cultural options. Or take a bicycle tour with the on-board bikes. http://www.amawaterways.com/

Photo courtesy of AMA Waterways Cruises

4. Costa Cruises Costa Cruises has unveiled 10 exciting themed vacation packages for 2016. For your honeymoon, the Romantic Cruise Tour may be perfect. The agenda on the Romantic Cruise Tour includes a walking tour of Venice with visits to Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, a traditional gondola ride on the Grand Canal and motorboat rides to Murano, Torcello and Burano. Couples will also visit Verona, the UNESCO World Heritage Site made famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s play, “Romeo and Juliet.”

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Costa is known for it’s Italian style cruising experience. Starting in January 2016, guests cruising on Costa ships will be able to savor, during the gala dinner, a signature menu created by Bruno Barbieri, the Italian chef who has garnered the highest number (7) of Michelin stars. The menu will be an authentic voyage of traditional Italian tastes and flavors, from North to South.

For your honeymoon choose a luxurious cabin, with a private balcony. Take some time to relax after the bustle and hustle of your wedding at the luxurious Samsara Spa, with a revitalizing massage or other service. http://www.costacruise.com/

5. Paul Gauguin Cruises The Gauguin glides through the waters of the South Pacific. French Polynesia is one the most romantic cruise destination for honeymooners. For your honeymoon the Tahiti cruise and land package is an excellent choice. It includes a 2-night stay at the Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa. And you and your beloved can also share a picnic on their secluded white-sand beach in Bora Bora. You can also opt to choose a pre or post-honeymoon cruise stay in one of the local resorts. This luxury cruise sails to idyllic destinations in French Polynesia, Fiji, and Tahiti. http://www.pgcruises.com/

The above list of the, “Best Honeymoon Cruises” has been compiled based on the customer satisfaction ratings, scenery and quality of services offered among other factors. You are going to enjoy the amazing itineraries taken by these romantic cruises as you sail to wondrous destinations.

Photo courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises

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Donna Beasley Publisher/Editor

Freida Curry Co-Publisher

Marcella Dragan Graphic Designer Writers

Donna Beasley Dusty Fox Nathalie Aucutt Lana Orndorff Jessica Lapido Carrie Grosvenor Kwarol K

“I love you not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you. I love you not only for what you have made of yourself, but for what you are making of me.”

— Roy Croft

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