I've got the travel bug! I'm heading off to New York tonight to visit some amazing wedding businesses and friends (more reporting on that next week, I promise!) and all this packing and travel prep has got me thinking about you lucky soon-to-be-weds out there planning your honeymoons. If you're looking for honeymoon inspiration and incredible destination suggestions, Blair recently wrote a fabulous feature for 425 Magazine and our own Groombug section about the 25 Most Romantic Locations on Earth, and let me tell you, it will get you itching to pack that bag and get out the door! Check it out...
Gorgeous bedrooms, sensuous bathrooms, spectacular scenery,
exciting activities, exquisite cuisine, and a feeling of secluded
privacy, are just a few of the features that make great destinations
into outstanding honeymoon get-aways. After all, honeymoons are first
and foremost romantic adventures and no matter where they happen the
best ones have two things in common- beauty and a healthy dose of
hedonism. With that in mind, here are my picks of the 25 most
outstanding honeymoons destinations both near and far. Choose the spot
that’s perfect for the two of you and revel in romance!
Hot spots in the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia
1) Salish Lodge and Spa, Snoqualmie, WA
30
minutes from downtown Bellevue, but it feels so far away. Have a
7-course meal at their award winning restaurant, followed by a long
couples massage at their luxurious spa. Cuddle up in front of your
fireplace, listen to the peaceful thunder of the falls, and enjoy
breakfast in bed, of course.
Floor
to ceiling windows draw you to your view of pristine Chesterman Beach
as you settle in to your large and super-cozy room, complete
with fireplace, deck, and single or double soaking tubs (you’ll want to
reserve the double). Everything here including the hotel itself is in
harmony with nature. Don’t’ miss the superb organic meals served at The
Pointe restaurant where you can watch whales go by from your table
mid-March to mid-July.
3)
Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, Oregon
On
my first visit to the Stephanie Inn, I met a couple from England who
asked me to take their photo. They were celebrating their 22nd wedding
anniversary, and 22 consecutive years of staying at the Stephanie Inn.
No wonder, with beautifully appointed rooms overlooking famous Haystack
Rock, impeccable service, and world-class cuisine, this property is a
perennial favorite of travelers all over the world.
4)
The Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Whistler, BC
Hands
down the best winter honeymoon destination in our neck of the woods.
Ski out from this gorgeous property to miles of groomed runs and dozens
of to-die-for shops and restaurants. Ski-in to your luxurious room, get
cozy by the fire, and take advantage of the impeccable service and
amenities this hotel has to offer.
5)
The Cave B Inn and Winery at Sagecliffe, WA
900
feet above the Columbia River with views from every room, this unique
property enjoys 300 days of sunshine and four distinct seasons.
Visitors have their choice of Cavern Rooms which are literally carved
into the cliff side, or Cliffehouses which are beautifully appointed
accommodations with stunning views, vine covered decks, high curved
ceilings, luxurious king-beds, and deep soaking tubs, (obviously we
want you to reserve the latter).
The Hawaiian Islands - Perfect places in paradise
1)
Four Seasons at Wailea Beach, Maui, Hawaii
It’s
hard to improve on perfection, but expect the staff at the Four Seasons
Wailea to give it a try. This elegant, gorgeously appointed property is
situated on one of the most romantic beaches in the world and is
well-known for its extraordinary service and stunning design. Soak up
the Maui sun by day and stroll the tiki torch lit paths by night. Book
a spa treatment in the outdoor Hale or in their private couple’s spa
suite, and wrap yourself in luxury.
2)
Kilauea Lakeside Estate, Kauai, Hawaii
Here’s
a find that sure to please. This privately owned oasis just minutes
from the beach, sits on a 20-acre lake and features a beautiful master
bedroom and romantic bath with walk-in shower and sunken tub. It even
has its own white sand beach, putting green and multi-tiered tree
house. Steve Hunt, the gracious owner of this property and Kauai expert
will love to help you customize your stay in paradise.
3)
Secret Beach Hideaway, Kauai, Hawaii
Choose
your perfect get-away from one of these four stunning properties
located on Kauai’s North Shore. Each secluded accommodation perched
above gorgeous Secret Beach features panoramic views and designer
details throughout, including ultra comfortable beds that you’ll never
want to get out of. Watch the world go by from your own pool or
hot-tub, or venture out to the world famous beaches just minutes from
your doorstep.
4)
The Lodge at Keole, Lanai, Hawaii
The
renowned Lodge at Keole on the historically significant Island of
Lanai, is an opulent, charming resort with old-world plantation style.
No request is too challenging for the accommodating staff that caters
to your every whim. Enjoy world-class golf, beautiful beaches, at a
look at Hawaii that is off the beaten path.
5)
Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows, Big Island of Hawaii
Ideally
situated on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast, this eco-friendly property
is a tropical home-away-from home. Surround yourself with waterfalls,
flowers, and singing birds in the hotel’s soaring atrium then check
into your ocean view room, or luxurious villa or bungalow. Spend your
days sunbathing, snorkeling, playing tennis, or relaxing in one of the
world’s leading spas.
The Mainland U.S – Luxury in a land of diverse beauty
1)
Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California
Get
an eagle’s eye view of the spectacular Big Sur coastline at this highly
celebrated and unique property where you’ll find unparalleled service,
rustic, elegant décor, and truly unforgettable accommodations. Every
room has a breathtaking view, a private indoor or outdoor hot-tub, and
a wood-burning fireplace. Kick back on your sumptuous king-sized bed
nestled in the tree-tops and feel the stress of the world melt-away.
Lovers
and gourmands from around the globe flock to this culinary shrine in
Virginia’s fabled Shenandoah Valley where chef, Patrick O’Connell,
cooks up the best dishes that American has to offer. Each of the Inn’s
eighteen rooms and suites is a delicious hide-away for two where you
can escape to private luxury. In spite of the Inn’s appeal to
perfectionists, the atmosphere here is surprisingly easy and relaxed.
3)
The Venetian, Las Vegas, Nevada
In
a town of glitz and glam this is a place of surreal design and all out
fun. Large suites are tastefully decorated and the service is superb.
Take a gondola ride through the impressively reproduced “canals of
Venice” and marvel at the Italian frescoes on the ceiling in the lobby
as you make your way to one of the world-class shows that Vegas is
famous for.
4)
The Four Seasons Resort, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Just
a hop away from two of America’s natural wonders, the Grand Tetons and
Yellowstone National Park, this gem of a property has views that will
leave you breathless. With two ski lifts out right out your door and
hundreds of miles of superb cross-country skiing, this resort is a
super cozy get-a-way during the winter and an exquisite destination for
lovers of the great outdoors 365 days a year.
Thatched
roof bungalows, a lagoon shaped pool, meditative Zen gardens, and huge
hammocks stretch between Jamaican palms, beckon you to relax on this
private island paradise. Reserve your room with a jetted tub and
outdoor shower. No kids, no phones, no TVs, and one of the most
seductively beautiful settings in the world, make Little Palm Island an
unforgettable destination.
Mexico – Sun and romance south of the border
Comfortably
opulent and aesthetically divine, Hacienda San Angel is a hidden jewel
in Puerto Vallarta’s crown. 5 villas that are all linked together (one
of them previously owned by Richard Burton), comprise an unparalleled
choice of accommodations in a city full of history and romance. Viva
Amour!
Turn
off the phone, turn off the lights, and let your soul unwind at this
eco-friendly destination built with lovers in mind. 24 palafitos,
lodgings built on stilts, perch over a crystal clear lagoon at the edge
of the Pacific Ocean where peace, quiet, and tranquility reign. You
need only to raise the red-flag from your room to order whatever your
heart desires.
3)
Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, Los Cabos, Mexico
This
window to paradise is an all suite beachfront hotel that envelopes you
in beauty and comfort from the moment you arrive. The large, lush rooms
have sumptuous beds and bathrooms, and the infinity pool is one of the
most beautiful in Mexico.
4)
La Casa Que Canta, Zihuatenejo, Mexico
A
dramatic cliffside setting, sensuous decor, and the sounds of silence
are just some of the perks that await you at this remarkable luxury
hotel. Close to the busy tourist towns of Oaxaca and Zihuatenejo, La
Casa Que Canta is a secluded destination unto itself, and one you’ll
want to return to again and again.
5)
Las Alamandas, Costalegre Coast, Mexico
This
posh private estate features 6 gorgeous villas nestled in lush tropical
gardens on 1,500 acres of pristine tropical paradise. With stunning
ocean views from every room, a first-class restaurant, and a guest to
butler ratio that will make you feel like a movie star. Enjoy access to
the air conditioned beachfront gym, lighted tennis courts, horseback
riding, and an unparalleled array of other activities and amenities.
Around the World –Favorite destinations around the globe
1)
Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Located
off the main island on Motu To’opua, this sexy resort has the longest
white sand beach of any resort in Bora Bora. You’ll love waking up in
your sumptuous over-water-bungalow to a delicious breakfast served to
you from an outrigger canoe then, diving into the crystal blue lagoon
to discover a world of unparalleled beauty beneath you. Live out your
Tarzan and Jane fantasizes here!
2)
One by the Five, Paris, France
Hip,
impeccably designed, and ideally located in the most engaging city of
earth, this upscale hotel exudes the wow factor. The huge floating bed
and sensual bathroom make it difficult for couples to leave the room,
where an integrated lighting and sound system creates the ultimate in
romantic ambience.
3)
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand
If
you’re idea of camping is laying on a massage table in a opulently
decorated, elevated tent, then this edgy, exciting resort should be
perfect for the two of you. Travel by riverboat to this magical place
where 3 countries meet for an once-in-a-lifetime experience.
4)
Riffelalp Resort, Zermatt, Switzerland
With
the Matterhorn out your window, and the world’s best skiing at your
door, it seems like there would be no reason to stay indoors at this
world renowned resort. However, with a large heated pool, steam baths,
delicious cuisine, and comfortable, cozy bedroom, you just might be
tempted. A shuttle train from Zermatt ensures there are no cars to
clutter your view.
5)
The Sea Cloud Cruises, Caribbean and Mediterranean Sea
Ahoy!
Set sail on this 356 foot sailing ship that drops on-lookers jaws in
every port. Designed for an heiress in an era gone by, this teak decked
masterpiece is arguably the most beautiful boat ever built. Sit back
and watch the 29 sails unfurl as you experience a magnificent cruise
like no other. Be sure to ask for one of the original ten cabins with
distinctive old-world charm.