Wedding Honeymoon
Wedding Honeymoon –Tanzania
Your guide to a Tanzania, Africa wedding and honeymoon, including wedding requirements, where to stay and what to do.
This East African country is lesser-known that its northern neighbor, Kenya, but it boasts loads of appeal, from game-filled plains to one of Africa’s most iconic peaks, Mount Kilimanjaro. With welcoming locals and a stable political climate, it’s one of the best places in the world to go on safari, and the offshore island of Zanzibar makes the perfect place to recoup from a week in the bush.
Wedding Requirements Couples must present their birth certificates, passports and a Certificate of No Impediment (a notarized statement from your home country stating that you were never married before or you are divorced) to the nearest Tanzanian Registrar of Marriages. Be sure to get a “Special Marriage License,” otherwise you’ll have to wait 21 days before marrying. (Note: The 21-day waiting period is mandatory on the island of Zanzibar, so prepare accordingly.) A registrar must perform the ceremony and you’ll have to pay for his transportation costs to your wedding location. For more information, visit tanzania.usembassy.gov/cons_getting_married.html.
What To Do
Tanzania Safaris There are few places as beautiful as Serengeti National Park, an 8,000-mile nature preserve on the country’s northwest border. Game viewing is best during the annual wildebeest migration when giant herds make their annual move between feeding grounds (heading north from June to October, then returning south with the rainy season), accompanied by zebra, gazelles and predators like leopards and hyena. Elephant, giraffe and lion sightings are common any time of year, whether you overnight in cushy tented camps or well-appointed safari lodges.
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro This dormant volcano is Africa’s highest peak, topping 19,000 feet. It’s also surprisingly accessible to climbers with limited mountaineering experience. Hire an outfitter in the base town of Arusha, and plan for a five- to seven-day climb. Porters will help carry supplies, and you’ll overnight in a series of huts or campsites, depending on the route you take (Marangu is the easiest).
Zanzibar Africa meets Arabia on this fascinating archipelago 30 miles off the coast, accessible via a 15-minute flight from Dar Es Salaam. The island, once a major trading post between Africa and the East and ruled by the Sultan of Zanzibar, still features traces of its Arabic heritage in the capital, Stone Town, home to narrow winding streets, carved wooden doors and robe-clad inhabitants. The island of Pemba was once the world’s leading producer of cloves; today it offers great beaches and a handful of luxury resorts.
Off the Beaten Path
Great Rift Valley The Great Rift Valley is called the Cradle of Mankind, home to some of the world’s oldest fossils. At the Olduvai Gorge Museum, founded by pioneering archaeologist Mary Leakey, you can learn about excavations done there and the history that was uncovered, including artifacts that date back to almost two million years.
Turkey Photo Gallery: Wedding and Honeymoon Attractions
A visual guide to Turkey travel, with Turkey pictures of wedding and honeymoon attractions in Istanbul, Cappadocia and more.
The seaside resort town of Alanya on Turkey’s southern coast is sandwiched between the Taurus Mountains and Mediterranean Sea. The peninsula town was once a Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman stronghold so it’s full of several historic relics, including an old watchtower and Byzantine chapel on the top of this cliff.
The Bosphorus Bridge connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Several companies offer ferryboat tours down the Bosphorus River that offer a different perspective of the city’s monuments.
The surreal scenery in Central Turkey is thanks to Cappadocia’s cliffs, ravines and “fairy chimneys” that were carved out of volcanic rocks millions of years ago. The majestic peaks and valleys are best viewed from above on a hot air balloon tour.
The immense dome and spires of Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia look out over the city. The building was once the cathedral of Constantinople before it became a Latin cathedral, then a mosque. It’s now a museum that showcases the finest examples of Byzantine architecture — the inside is full of immaculate mosaics, marble pillars and grand archways.
Find seclusion at Kaputas Beach on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. The cove’s white sand is often vacant, the Aegean Sea is calm, and there are no beaches or restaurants -– just the occasional vendor selling snacks from a makeshift stand.
Early Cappadocians carved homes, churches and monasteries into the sides of the region’s stone hills. You can explore narrow hallways and traverse stone staircases if you stay in one of the many modernized “cave hotels.”
The public Library of Celsus is a prime example of architecture from the Roman Empire and was built in 135 AD to honor Tiberius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus. The library is within the archaeological site of Ephesus, just southwest of the town of Selcuk in western Turkey.
San Diego Beaches – Wedding, Honeymoon or Sunny Vacation
When planning a wedding or honeymoon in San Diego, California, you have a wide variety of beautiful beaches to from which to choose. Each has its own special style and feeling. Some San Diego beaches are best known for great water sport activities, others for the romantic ambiance which they portray. We’ve have put together a selection of the top San Diego beaches, highlighting their best attributes with regard to surfing, water sports, romance, beachy feel, honeymoon destination, and especially your wedding ceremony & reception locations.
CORONADO
Best attributes: Surfing; Shopping; Biking/skating; Romance; Honeymoon destination; Ceremony & reception location.
Coronado Highlights
Coronado has some of the most perfect beaches San Diego has to offer, whether you want to spend an entire day or weekend sprawled out under an umbrella until the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, swim, surf, sail, bodyboard, fish, or just fall asleep in the sun. Other activities include beach volleyball, tide pool exploration, and kite flying. There is also a bike path south of the Hotel Del Coronado. Additionally, in early winter, watch for migrating whales.
For some, the elegant Hotel Del Coronado— a cultural centerpiece of San Diego — is the primary reason for visiting the City of Coronado. One of the most picturesque locations in all of San Diego, this facility is a perfect location for your wedding ceremony, reception and even honeymoon. But this tiny upscale island city, separated from downtown San Diego by bridge, also boasts flat sandy beaches, stately homes, boutiques, restaurants, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego.
Logistics Beach areas have fire rings, restrooms, showers, and lifeguards. Also, there is an off-leash dog area to the north. Park free on Ocean Boulevard, but plan to arrive before 11 a.m. on summer weekends to beat the crowds. Also, try the free parking lots on Avenida Lunar and Avenida de las Arenas.
Getting to Coronado Coronado is a short ferry ride or car trip across the San Diego Bay Bridge from downtown San Diego. From the Bay Bridge, travel several blocks on Third Street. Turn left onto Orange Avenue. Turn right onto R.H. Dana Place, which will take you to Ocean Boulevard. Coronado Municipal Beach runs along Ocean Boulevard from Avenida Lunar in the south to Naval Air Station North Island Gate 5 to the north. For those making their way leisurely across the bay, the ferry departs from downtown San Diego at the Broadway Pier. Bicycles are allowed onboard. You can get to Silver Strand State Beach by traveling south on I-5 from San Diego and exiting at Palm Avenue / Highway 75. Then go west on Palm and follow signs to Highway 75 and Silver Strand State Beach.
Hotel del Coronado – Weddings on the Beach
Insider Tips For walking and biking, visitors will discover that Centennial Park (near the ferry landing at the end of Orange Avenue) is an excellent starting point. A wide concrete pathway runs east-west, affording dramatic views of downtown San Diego. You can rent bicycles near the Coronado Ferry Landing. Bike riders looking for a more challenging route can follow the same path south and east. At Tidelands Park, follow the pathway under the bridge, continue to Glorietta Boulevard, turn left, and continue until you see Pomona Avenue. Turn left on Pomona and continue to Silver Strand Highway, where you’ll soon see an asphalt pathway on the bayside. This pathway runs all the way to Imperial Beach! Riders of all abilities will enjoy this path. Stop along the way at Silver Strand State Beach. Round trip is over 20 miles, so be prepared with water and snacks.
While visiting Coronado, be sure to take a gander at the upscale restaurants and shops at the corners of Orange and Pomona Avenues… and if you’re not already staying at the Hotel Del Coronado, drop by at sunset for drinks on the water.
DEL MAR
Best attributes: Surfing; Shopping; Romance; Honeymoon destination; Ceremony & reception location.
Del Mar Highlights The City of Del Mar, world famous for its horseracing (July – September at the fairgrounds), has one of the most popular beaches in North County San Diego. Located just north of Torrey Pines State Beach, Del Mar’s beach is perfect for families, tourists, and surfers who enjoy its wide expanse of sand. Swimming, walking, surfing, body boarding, and even grunion hunting are just some of the activities you can enjoy at this beach.
The Sheraton Hacienda – Breathtaking San Diego Beach Weddings
Del Mar also has two seaside parks — Seagrove and Powerhouse — both great for picnicking, stunning ocean views and seaside wedding ceremonies and receptions. Often referred to as “Malibu South,” the community of Del Mar features expensive real estate, luxury hotels, perfect for honeymooning, and high-end boutiques, trendy cafes, and restaurants (along Camino Del Mar / Highway 101). The Del Mar Fair, one of the largest county fairs in the U.S., runs from mid-June through July 4 and has carnival rides, games, entertainment, and exhibits.
Logistics Del Mar has restrooms, showers, and wheelchair accessibility. Lifeguards are stationed year-round. Paid parking is available across from Powerhouse Park or try street parking near 15th Street and Coast Boulevard (metered). You can find free street parking on 17th Street; however, like most beaches during the summer, spaces fill early. At peak times, parking is scarce and traffic backs up along Coast Route 101, but it’s not a problem if you arrive a little early in the day.
Getting to Del Mar From the north, take I-5 south and exit at Villa de la Valle. From the south, take I-5 north to Del Mar Heights Road.
Insider Tips For good reason, Del Mar is one of the most popular beach communities in San Diego County. Great beaches, fairgrounds, horseracing, and a quaint, upscale village provide plenty of activities for everyone. Powerhouse Park, with a full children’s playground, is especially nice for families with young kids. Beachgoers can also find good, cheap eats at Roberto’s taco stand on Carmel Valley Road, overlooking Los Penasquitos Lagoon.
Coast Highway which runs through Del Mar is one of San Diego County’s best cycling routes. Start your bike ride in Del Mar and head south to Torrey Pines or north to Solana Beach, Encinitas, Leucadia and Carlsbad. Parking can be sparse in Del Mar, especially on weekends and during the fair and horse racing season. Best to arrive early and/or park along Coast Highway either north or south of the village.
LA JOLLA
Best attributes: Surfing; Shopping; Romance; Honeymoon destination; Ceremony & reception location.
La Jolla Highlights La Jolla (Spanish for “the jewel”) has European elegance, a sunny Mediterranean climate, and some of the most picturesque beaches in the world. La Jolla offers world-class hotels, restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. It is a hot spot for spa goers, surfers, tourists, nature lovers and has many perfect ceremony and reception locations. Fill your honeymoon with a massage and facial at a day spa or stroll the coast and take in the stunning emerald blue beaches and coves.
La Jolla beaches offer endless hours of fun and relaxation… from the pretty sandstone cliffs towering high above the Pacific at Torrey Pines State Beach to the crystal clear water at La Jolla Cove, an ideal snorkeling spot.
Marine Street and Windansea beaches are intimate coastal retreats perfect for romantic getaways or a quiet day at the beach with a good book. Whatever activity you enjoy, La Jolla beaches offer something for everyone:
Picturesque Windansea Beach – An Amazing San Diego Wedding Location
Windansea Beach
Down the hill, past La Jolla’s ritzy homes, hotels, boutiques and restaurants, lies Windansea Beach, flanked by surfers and sunbathers on hot summer days. With its sandstone cliffs, sandy beach, and incredible surf breaks, Windansea has been a popular surfing haunt as far back as the 1940s and a gathering spot of the Windansea Surf Club since the 1960s. The shack on the beach, built by surfers during World War II, is now a San Diego Historic site.
Marine St. Beach
Marine Street Beach is near the upscale community of La Jolla, a small cluster of high-end clothiers, hotels, shops, and galleries. It’s legendary to body surfers and body boarders because of its thunderous waves, which crash right at shoreline. However, this beach may not be ideal for families, as there are no pubic restrooms or picnic areas and the rough surf is not well suited to children.
La Jolla Cove
Not far from downtown La Jolla — an upscale hamlet of hotels, boutiques, and galleries — lies La Jolla Cove, a swimming and diving paradise. This tiny beach nook, part of the San Diego La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, is sheltered by picturesque cliffs and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean in an intimate setting. La Jolla Cove has some of the clearest water of all San Diego beaches, making it ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.
La Jolla Shores
Think palm trees next to the Pacific, green lawns dotting hillsides, and bougainvillea blossoms — pink, white, and orange — complementing the Spanish-style architecture of some of the most expensive real estate in all of California. La Jolla Shores, home to world-class resorts, is a 1 mile stretch of shoreline with parks and picnic areas. It also features a boardwalk that spans a length of the beach and is great for walking, jogging, bicycling, or rollerblading.
MISSION BAY
Best attributes: Water sports; Biking/skating; Honeymoon destination; Ceremony & reception location.
Mission Bay Highlights Mission Bay has more than 4,000 acres of bay, bike paths, and parks to play in and on. First named “False Bay” by explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542, Mission Bay supports all types of boating activities and has boat docks and launches. Other water sports include sailing, waterskiing, windsurfing, jet skiing, rowing, and swimming.
The Dana on Mission Bay – One of San Diego’s Most Romantic Wedding Locations
For an adventurous honeymoon, rent a sailboat and cruise the bay or bicycle around the bay on the bike paths that wind for miles. Picnickers and sunbathers will revel in the endless supply of green grassy knolls at Mission Bay. The sports-minded can enjoy basketball, volleyball, and over-the-line games. If you’re bringing kids to the bay, take them to the playground at Tecolote Shores (1500 East Mission Bay Drive), which was designed to accommodate physically challenged children. Also see Mission Bay’s plant and animal life at the nature reserve near Crown Point to the north.
Logistics Mission Bay has picnic shelters, barbecues, public restrooms, and showers. Lifeguards are seasonal and usually watch Mission Bay between spring and November. There’s lots of free parking at Mission Bay. Most lots are near the swimming beaches. But, beware, lots fill quickly during the summer. It’s best to come early.
Getting to Mission Bay From the north or south, take I-5 to the East Mission Bay Drive, Grand Avenue, Clairemont Drive, or Sea World Drive exits.
Insider Tips If you like to bike, Mission Bay offers some of the best riding in San Diego. There are miles of paved bike paths, which are easily accessible from the many parking lots circling the bay.
Hilton San Diego Resort and Spa on Mission Bay – Bayside Wedding Ceremony Location in San Diego
Mission Bay is also great for kayaking, kite-flying (east side near Hilton), fishing, bird-watching and any other activity that works best in large, grass-covered areas.
Mission Bay hotel, package and attraction ticket reservations are provided by Advanced Reservation services of San Diego (ARES). ARES has developed a reputation for offering some of the cheapest San Diego travel and vacation rates found anywhere on the internet. We encourage you to compare our prices with other national travel resellers–we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised!
SOLANA BEACH
Best attributes: Surfing; Shopping; Romance; Honeymoon destination
Solana Beach Highlights Solana Beach, situated north of Del Mar and south of Cardiff by the Sea, is a modest, mostly residential beach community offering uncrowded, family-friendly beaches and some of the best antique and art shopping in San Diego County. Like other beach communities in north San Diego County, the cultural heart and soul of Solana Beach is Coast Route 101. Along 101, you’ll find an interesting mix of surf shops, restaurants, hotels, arts-and-crafts galleries and everyday grocery and drug stores.
The beach lies below the wind- and water-sculpted sandstone bluffs that run the length of this community west of 101. Fletcher Cove Beach Park, a small beach with public parking, restrooms, and seasonal lifeguards, dissects the bluffs. This cove was constructed years ago by cutting out a portion of the bluffs with hydraulic water hoses and steam shovels. A 2-mile, paved walking and bike path has recently been constructed on the east side of 101. This path offers a comfortable course, safe from traffic, with benches to sit on and enjoy the unique flavor of this pleasant San Diego, California beach community.
Logistics Fletcher Cove has public parking. From there, you can access the entire Solana Beach coastline if you don’t mind walking and the tide isn’t too high. More beach access is available along Pacific Avenue between Ocean Avenue and Solana Vista Drive, as well as along Sierra Avenue.
Getting There From San Diego, take I-5 north to the Lomas Santa Fe exit and head west. Lomas Santa Fe intersects Coast Route 101, which you can take north or south for beach access. Easier yet, cross 101; Lomas Santa Fe turns in Plaza Street, which dead ends at Fletcher Cove Beach Park. The Solana Beach Regional Transportation Center is Solana Beach’s very own train station. Offering parking and a daily schedule of train and bus service, the Center is located on North Cedros Avenue just north of Lomas Santa Fe.
A destination wedding is closer, easier than you think
What if you could get married on the beach of a private island — the orange glow of the sun setting as your backdrop and no one else around but a few close friends and family.
Sounds romantic, exotic and expensive doesn’t it? I mean who has access to a private island other than the rich and famous? But in fact, it’s actually very doable and very affordable.
Couples wanting to escape to their own slice of paradise may want to consider the island of Aruba and the Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino.
Not only does discount airline Spirit offer affordable fares to Aruba, but wedding packages at the Renaissance start at under $2,000, which includes the exclusive use of their private 40-acre island for your event.
The resort boasts a marina, spa, multiple restaurants and bars and two hotels, one of which is reserved only for adults.
The resort aims to give couples a stress-free experience on their wedding day so they offer and in-house wedding coordinator to help plan and execute every detail from beginning to end.
What about the honeymoon? Tie the knot at the Renaissance Aruba Resort or the Renaissance Curaçao Resort and you can get a 5-night honeymoon vacation at either location.
Private Sunset Cruise Wedding and Honeymoon
Imagine exchanging your vows on a luxury sailing catamaran as the sky explodes with colours over crystal clear waters, with stunning views of Gunner’s Quoin and the central mountain range of Mauritius in the backdrop! There is simply no venue more spectacular for a one-of-a-kind celebration. For just the two of you or for a large wedding party, we can organize the wedding of your dreams.
For honeymooners, nothing provides a more perfect atmosphere than a private romantic evening at sea with family and friends, watching the sun set disappear over the horizon from your own private sailing catamaran. Sip a refreshing cocktail and enjoy complimentary canapés, as you both savor the moment that you will treasure forever.
Our spacious catamarans, with their large open seating areas on deck and at the front and rear, are perfectly designed for a wedding ceremony and/or reception and can comfortably accommodate up to 40 guests. They also have a bar facility, a top-of-the-line stereo system and a tasteful music collection.
Schedule:
Any day – 16h30 to 19h00
Itinerary:
| 16h15 | Arrive at the Grand Bay Public Beach for boarding. We can also pick up a wedding party anywhere on the coast which is accessible by our catamarans |
| 16h30 | Welcome cocktail for the bride and groom and pre-departure briefing by your Captain |
| 16h45 | Leisurely cruise across Grand Bay’s mesmerizing turquoise blue waters, along Pointe aux Canonniers and past Fort Malarctic, and towards the spectacular sea cliffs of Gunner’s Quoin. At that time of day the ocean is calm, large pods of dolphins, looking for rest and shelter for their young ones, are often spotted, and the sky is changing from shades of pinks and blues to magnificent golden colours – a perfect time to celebrate a special event! |
| 18h00 | Wedding ceremony and/or reception |
| 19h00 | Return to Grand Bay |
Rate:
625 €
Includes:
- Exclusive catamaran hire (for up to 38 guests per catamaran) with crew
- Dedicated wedding coordinator and steward service
- Wedding decorations (balloons, flowers, table bouquet)
- On-board stereo system and tasteful music selection
- Wedding celebrant (civil or religious)
- Wedding certificate
- Witnesses for the ceremony (two or our staff will be pleased to serve as your witnesses)
- Welcome cocktail for the bride and groom
Optional extras:
- Transfer for the couple from/to anywhere in Mauritius (rate depends on distance)
- Bridal bouquet and buttonhole – Rs 2,500 (€ 65)
- Professional Photographer - 50 prints (13x18cms), album and CD – Rs 6,500 (€ 175)
- Professional Film-maker - 1 hr film in HD - Rs 8,000 (€ 210)
- Wedding cake (customized to your wishes – rate depends on size and type of cake)
- Wedding translator (German, Italian, Spanish, Hungarian, etc…) - Rs 1,500 (€ 40)
- Live music duo - Rs 2,500 (€ 65)
- A selection of appetizers and drinks – Rs 400 (€ 10) / person
- Dinner buffet + drinks - Rs 650 (€ 18) / person - half price for children aged 3-10 - FREE for babies
- French Champagne - Rs 2,750 (€ 75)
- Sparkling wine - Rs 1,250 (€ 35)
- Romantic overnight stay aboard the catamaran for the bride and groom – Rs 16,500 (€ 435)
Top 10 Wedding Honeymoon Destinations
Planning a wedding is demanding enough, but when it’s time to arrange your honeymoon, it can be a very overwhelming experience. There are so many amazing places to choose from that you may be asking yourself, how will I ever come to a decision.
To help slim down your choices I’ve selected the top 10 wedding honeymoon destinations for you to consider along with a brief explanation of what makes them great:
HAWAII – with it’s stunning coastlines, volcanoes, nice natives, white sand beaches, and award-winning resorts, this destination is by far the the number one location for a honeymoon.
TAHITI – a regularly referred honeymoon destination as “paradise on earth” You’ll never go wrong with its natural beauty and the Polynesian kind-heartedness.
FIJI – well known for its striking coastline. It’s hard to find more beautiful beaches, palm trees and mountains all in one place.
ANTIGUA – an island with warm, steady winds, a complex coastline of safe harbors, and a protective, nearly unbroken wall of coral reefs, this island boast some of the most incredible snorkeling and diving.
EUROPE – fast becoming favored for honeymoon locations, one of the most in demand location is Italy.
ST. LUCIA – a vibrant duo of France and Britain together, it’s also one of the top places to visit if you like nature. It has everything from a volcano to clear blue water filled with marine life.
MEXICO – an extensive range of destinations to visit, whether it’s lavish resorts along the exquisite coastline or visiting the grounds of the ancient Mayans in the canyons.
JAMAICA – the place to go if you are looking to have a good time. Jamaica is known for its non-stop nightlife, however, the island also has lush forests and waterfalls to discover.
BAHAMAS – a favorite among Canadians because of the short distance to the U.S. (and flight time), it’s also favored due to the fact that it’s made up of over 700 islands. It provides great diversity that can meet any budget.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – fast moving up the honeymoon list over the last couple of years, a gorgeous island that is reasonably priced.
The most romantic wedding & honeymoon destinations: Italy, Maldives, Bali…
People want their honeymoon to be the perfect holiday and there are many options available to make sure your honeymoon location is perfect for you.
Whether you want to combine your wedding and honeymoon destination or you are looking for the ultimate paradisiacal honeymoon holiday, the world is your oyster.
A number of countries and resorts offer wedding and honeymoon packages so you can say “I do” barefoot on a beach or even half way up a mountain.
Some people prefer to sit on a white-sand beach for their honeymoons while others are looking for more adventurous activity holidays for a honeymoon with a difference.
Whatever your wedding and honeymoon dream, travelling abroad to tie the knot can offer much better value for money than a more traditional wedding at home.
Italy, the Maldives and Bali are perennial favourite honeymoon destinations. If celebrities can do it why can’t you?
The most romantic weddings in Italy
Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes’ wedding in Italy hit the headlines a few years ago thanks to its all-star guest list, intriguing secrecy and, most importantly of all, the charming romance of Bracciano, the Italian town hosting all the drama.
Italy is one of the most romantic holiday destinations in the world and although most people are unlikely to have Hollywood stars flocking to their wedding, getting married in Italy may be much easier than you think, with coordinators Weddings in Italy available to sort out all the details.
Of course there are plenty of potential honeymoon holiday options in Italy. Whether you want to be pampered in a spa overlooking the Tuscan countryside or stay in a castle, you won’t have to go far to find your perfect honeymoon holiday.
Our pick of the top five Italian wedding destinations are Venice, Positano, Rome, Florence and Lake Garda.
Palazzo Cavalli is a 16th-century Venetian palace furnished with 18th-century paintings, furniture and ceramics and is ideal for a magical, grand wedding. The palace has views over the Grand Canal and Venice’s landmark Rialto Bridge as well as the added bonus of being in one of the world’s most romantic cities.
Positano on Italy’s Amalfi coast has been charming visitors with its spectacular scenery since the 1950s. An inspirational place for writers and artists, the town makes a wonderful venue for a wedding to remember in Italy.
The Positano town hall offers an authentic Mediterranean setting for your ceremony, and also has a lovely terrace to enjoy a drink and take in the sea views. Stay in the five-star Poseidon hotel, which has its own fitness and beauty centre, ideal for preparing for the big day.
The ‘Sala Rossa’ on the Capitoline Hill, the smallest of Rome’s seven famous hills, is a great place to soak up the magic and drama of Rome. The Sala Rossa (meaning red hall), is located on Piazza del Campidoglio, which was designed by Michelangelo in the 16th century, and makes a perfect setting for wedding photos.
The 14th-century Palazzo Vecchio in Florence is one of the most lavishly decorated places to be married in Italy. Located close to the Ponte Vecchio, couples can stay at the four-star Degli Orafi, which offers panoramic views of the city from its fifth-floor bar.
If you find the romance and charm of a medieval castle hard to beat, Castello Malcesine, surrounded by Italian gardens and perched on a hilltop overlooking Lake Garda, is the perfect Italian wedding destination. Stay in the four-star hotel Sirmione overlooking the lake, with a waterside terrace restaurant and thermal treatments available.
Budget sunshine weddings in Rhodes
Britons keen on avoiding the unreliable British weather by getting married abroad can take advantage of comprehensive wedding packages on the Greek island of Rhodes.
The Unique Weddings in Rhodes website has been launched to give couples a wide range of wedding possibilities on the island, from traditional locations to more unusual options such as exchanging vows on a boat or holding your wedding at one of Rhodes’ visitor attractions.
Through the website holidaymakers can have many of the arrangements for the big day taken care of, from catering and flowers to all the legal requirements and necessary documents, with extras such as hen or stag parties, honeymoons and pre-ceremony beauty treatments also available.
At the moment Unique Weddings in Rhodes is offering credit crunch beating weddings for only £700!
Rhodes has 300 days of sunshine a year, a number of five-star places to stay as well as many locations ideal for weddings.
Luxury honeymoon in Thailand
In Thailand Sarojin has created a six night luxurious honeymoon experience, designed to provide a level of personalised service and hospitality that makes the honeymoon just as special as the wedding day.
The experience begins with a luxury private car transfer from Phuket airport, with refreshments and cold towels on hand during the 55 minutes journey to the 56 room resort.
Upon arrival, guests are escorted to one of beautifully decorated guest residences, where a chilled complimentary bottle of sparkling wine awaits, together with flowers and a basket laden with Thailand’s exotic fruits.
Also included in the package, and to be arranged at your convenience, is a private Candlelit Jungle Waterfall Dinner Experience just for two, as well as two 90 minute Royal Oriental Spa treatments at the Sarojin’s award winning Pathways Spa, and daily a la carte breakfast with sparkling wine.
The Sarojin’s unique style of hospitality is further enhanced by its very own Imagineer, an ultimate personal concierge whose expertise and imagination helps turn guests’ wishes into reality. Jowell Philemond-Montout is The Sarojin’s Imagineer and his in-depth knowledge of the hidden treasures of the surrounding five national parks, combined with the amenities of The Sarojin, allow him full reign to create unique guest experiences.
A deluxe holiday experience, it is a wonderfully indulgent romantic retreat and priced from approximately £1,560 per couple, and the Luxurious Honeymoon Experience includes the extras that make such an occasion truly memorable.
Wedding bliss in Mauritius
The volcanic island of Mauritius is a popular destination for those seeking out luxury wedding and honeymoon holidays thanks to its warm climate, beautiful beaches and gorgeous scenery, together with a rich culture infused with Portuguese, Chinese and Indian elements.
Getting married in Mauritius is straightforward and couples are able to get married the day after the posting of their marriage banns, although they must obtain a certificate from the prime minister’s office stating that they are not residents or citizens of Mauritius in advance and this must reach the registrar of births, deaths and marriages ten days before the wedding.
There are so many potential wedding venues in Mauritius, ranging from hotels and plantations to private island bookings and even onboard a boat.
Highlights of a honeymoon in Mauritius include superb local cuisine, relaxing spas such as those at the Hilton and the Oberoi, and some excellent facilities and courses for golf enthusiasts.
Popular beaches on Mauritius include Grand Baie, Pereybere, Belle Mare, Blue Bay and Le Morne & Tamarin, although less populated beaches are also scattered around the island for couples wanting as much time alone as possible on their Mauritius honeymoon holiday.
If you’re looking to sightsee as well as relax on the beach on a Mauritius honeymoon, the island is home to some spectacular natural beauty spots, most notably the Black River Gorges in the south-west.
Watersports fans can also go diving in the seas around the island to take a look at the coral beds and wide array of sealife residing there, as well as the several shipwrecks located off the north coast.
Popular beaches on Mauritius include Grand Baie, Pereybere, Belle Mare, Blue Bay and Le Morne & Tamarin, although less populated beaches are also scattered around the island for couples wanting as much time alone as possible on their Mauritius honeymoon holiday.If you’re looking to sightsee as well as relax on the beach on a Mauritius honeymoon, the island is home to some spectacular natural beauty spots, most notably the Black River Gorges in the south-west.Watersports fans can also go diving in the seas around the island to take a look at the coral beds and wide array of sealife residing there, as well as the several shipwrecks located off the north coast.
Wedding Honeymoon – Mighty Moon
Two weekends ago we were in Vegas for Bridesmaid H’s little white chapel wedding, the last of three weddings in four weeks. When we arrived home we tried to keep the momentum going but my body had another idea. I’m not sure what happened but I re-injured my neck and landed myself in a lot of pain and discomfort—just in time for the weekend. Despite muscle relaxers and pain medication I am unable to work on the projects I had planned.
I’m nursing my neck back to health and should be back to normal in a few days. In the meantime I am dreaming of our minimoon. To recap, I’m vacation poor, so we put our plans for Hawaii on hold, and toyed with the idea of a road trip with a tear-drop trailer. The trailer thing didn’t work out so I started my research again.
If you live on the West Coast, or if you are hoping to visit I highly recommend using the resources at Sunset Magazine.
We subscribe and Sunset was where I first saw the tear-drop trailers. I decided to return to their website to see what sort of hidden gems they could offer in the Oregon, Washington, andBritish Columbia area (in other words, within driving distance). They did not disappoint. I marked all the possibilities for Mr Pretzel to review. I’d love to tease you along with all of the great destinations that we found but who am I kidding? I just want to show the beautiful pictures of the resort that was hands down the winner.
The Rockwater Resort at Secret Cove
We’re going north of the border! Located 2 hours north of Vancouver on British Columbia’s sunshine coast, this resort was awarded 2nd best Seaside Hideaway by Sunset Magazine. Eagles soar nearby and the water is smooth as glass in the cove. The resort offers hiking, kayaking, sailing and other activities. But perhaps my favorite feature are the Tenthouse Suites. * all photos courtesy of the Rockwater Secret Cove unless otherwise noted.
“For the romantic escape that truly inspires, the Rockwater Tenthouse Suites offer the ultimate experience. The enchanting silence of the arbutus forest combined with the awe-inspiring view of Malaspina Strait provide a perfect setting of peace and serenity. Each private luxury Tenthouse is appointed with deluxe furnishings, from fine linens on the king-size bed to the hydro-therapy tub with a view, rain forest shower, propane fireplace, shoji screens and radiant floor heating. The private verandas include outdoor furniture for your relaxation while you enjoy the expansive ocean views. For your convenience, each Tenthouse has two luxurious Warm Buddy bathrobes, coffee and tea maker, clock radio with iPod hook-ups, complimentary high speed wireless internet service, mini refrigerator, board games and a small library.” – The Rockwater Secret Cove
Yes please, order me up one of those! Let’s take a closer look at the tenthouse.
Your own oasis…
…with a view from bed!
Even some of the tubs have a view!
Romantic dinner for two?
Private deck
There was no question, WE WANT A TENTHOUSE! A wedding almost threw a wrench into that plan. The whole resort was on hold for the week after our wedding because the following weekend they were hosting a wedding. The bride and groom had reserved the whole resort for their guests from Tuesday until Sunday. The meant that we could book ourselves a tenthouse for Sunday and Monday night but we were on a wait-list for Tuesday night (we are only taking a three day minimoon). I booked the tenthouse for Sunday and Monday and said a quick prayer for Tuesday. Not even a month later the lovely people at Rockwater called me to tell me that we had a tenthouse for Tuesday night! YAY!
We’ll be newlyweds, but I am sure we’ll venture out of our tenthouse a time or two. To take advantage of the beautiful location I booked us the summer adventure package which according to the website includes:
- Breakfast for two each morning of your stay
- Two 60 minute Bliss Massages at Rockwater Spa Without Walls
- One hour horseback ride for two people at Malaspina Ranch
- A four hour kayak rental for two. Explore Smugglers Cove Marine Park and Secret Cove. Travel along the beautiful shoreline in a tandem or solo kayak. Pack a picnic and pull into a bay to sunbath and enjoy your time together.
Hmm… a spa without walls. That sounds amazing right now.
Mr P and I are excited to take out some kayaks to go exploring.
The thought of three relaxing days in this beautiful place keeps me going. Mr P and I are pretty happy with how our minimoon is shaping up. The only thing that we are less than excited about is the 5+ hour drive from Seattle to the Rockwater. Mr P in particular isn’t looking forward to this part of the trip. He asked to look into flying to Vancouver and renting a car but that would still mean 2+ hours in the car… BOOOO. Just a couple minutes ago I called Mr P and told him I had the most rock-star solution to our driving problem. I just said one word: SEAPLANE.
Needless to say, he’s excited. We’ll see if it will work out. This minimoon is shaping up to be a mighty-moon! It might only be three days long but it isn’t short on excitement or luxury.
Are you planning a minimoon? How are you making it special and relaxing?
Wedding Honeymoon – Apsara Angkor Hotel : Meeting Event
Were you ever dreaming of getting married in the Kingdom of wonder…, amid sounds of Cambodian traditional wedding music and crowded with guest of honors wearing colorful Cambodian Traditional Costumes celebrating and witnessing your love at the Angkor Wat World Heritage?
It is an extraordinary day, why would you not make yourselves feel truly extraordinary, arriving at the reception place in a classic limousine, seeing the smiling faces of your friends & relatives who are waiting for you inside? Heaven on Earth is possible…, and wedding dream come true at Apsara Angkor Resort, a promise we honor.
Wedding Honeymoon& Wedding Locations




































