Congratulations! You made it! You're getting married and now need to start planning your honeymoon. While this is a fun and exciting time, it can also be extremely overwhelming. There are so many things to consider when choosing a location for your honeymoon. If you are here reading this article, that means you're in research mode. Whether you want an outdoor adventure, want to relax at an all-inclusive resort, or want a multi-country journey — the first thing you will need to do is decide where you want to go. Below is a list of four steps you can take to help narrow down where you will spend your precious time as newlyweds. Are you ready? Let’s do this! Here are my 4 simple steps to uncover the best location for your honeymoon vacation. 1.Create a Vision While this may seem obvious, you’d be surprised how many couples turn to the internet first, when they really need to create a vision first. Allow me to help you better define what you are envisioning for your honeymoon and break it down in a more realistic way so that you can get clarity on your vision. Are you ready? Here we go! Do you want... · Modern rooms with 24-hour room service · Authentic and unique accommodations · Adult or couples only setting · Top shelf liquor · Restaurants worthy of a foodie · Onsite water sports · Nightly entertainment · Large and active · Boutique and low-key · Mountains and waterfalls · Oceans and beaches · History and culture Go ahead and use the above list to get started creating your vision for your honeymoon. 2. Decide on your non-negotiables I encourage you both to write down your must-haves and priorities, the things that are most important for you to have the honeymoon of your dreams. For example a swanky suite, high-end service, a world-class spa, the best beach, kick-a**dining, a downtown location with easy access to everything, beautiful sites, specific experiences like swimming with sea turtles or zip-lining, etc. Once you decide on your non-negotiables, the two of you can work together to create an experience that will give you both what you want. 3. Define the type of experience you want Now that you know the most important things that each of you wants, it is time to work together to decide on the overall experience you both feel you will need. Some couples really want to be pampered and relax, other couples want to explore and have an adventure, and some couples want a good blend of both. The location you choose for your honeymoon will directly impact the type of experience you will have and without defining what type of experience you want; your honeymoon could be mediocre. Here’s something I like to ask couples during a consultation: “Finish this sentence with the first word that comes to your mind: in order for my honeymoon to be perfect, it must be _________" 4. Agree on a budget And the final step is to agree on a budget. Once you have an idea of what you both want, then the budget conversation will be easier to have, as well as, help you both decide on something realistic.
It is best to consider your vision and your non-negotiables and fit those into your budget. You’d be surprised at how far your funds will go when celebrating a honeymoon at an all-inclusive resort. I recently wrote an article about how much a honeymoon costs I encourage you to check it out as I believe it will give you a good baseline. When you honeymoon at an all-inclusive resort, you can earn honeymoon amenities & perks that will enhance your romantic vacation. I love helping my honeymoon couples get the best honeymoon packages so that they can create the most memorable experiences possible! Once you have all these details, you’ll be able to have more clarity on what you are looking for in a honeymoon destination & resort so that you aren’t wasting your time on places that aren’t a good fit for you. If you feel like you still need a little more inspiration, check out my post on Romance in Italy Ultimately, the best honeymoon location for you and your partner will be one that excites and energizes you both. After all, this is a time to celebrate the culmination of a lifetime together and to enjoy being in love—not just another excuse to spend money. When it comes down to it, go somewhere that gives you instant sensory pleasure: watch the sunset from a tropical beach, book a room with a view that makes you immediately unplug and relax, or enjoy dinner by candlelight on the beach or at an upscale restaurant. The choices are all up to you! I think this is one of the reasons why I love specializing in honeymoons. No two couples are alike, and I take great pride in finding the best location for them. If that sounds good to you, let’s connect! Below is a link to schedule a consultation with me.
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Whether you're looking to have a destination wedding, or just thinking about the possibility of a wedding away, you've come to the right place. My latest article will help you get started with 4 practical steps on how to select the best destination wedding location for YOU! There’s an immense amount of information to sift through when researching wedding locations, and it may seem overwhelming at first, but don't let it make you want to give up! It's easy to find out where the best places are for your destination wedding using these 4 steps. 1. Create a vision While this may seem obvious, you’d be surpr ised that many couples turn to the internet first, and they really need to create a vision first. Allow me to help you better define what you are envisioning for your wedding day. First, think about an overall theme or style that you want. This can be a color scheme or look. For example, romantic, whimsical, boho-chic, edgy, glamorous, etc. Second, what is your vision for the setting when you say, “I do?” Is it at sunset on the beach, or is it in a garden, are you on solid ground with the water as a backdrop, maybe in a gazebo or on a rooftop? Third, what is your vision for your reception also regarding the setting? Maybe a terrace overlooking the ocean, on the beach, poolside, in a garden, in a ballroom, etc. Fourth, what is the overall vibe that you envision? For example, intimate, energetic, casual, extravagant, fun, etc. Ensuring that it reflects you as a couple. 2.Decide on your non-negotiables I encourage you both to write down your must-haves and priorities, the things that are most important to you. For example photography, a high-end look, privacy or exclusivity for the wedding and reception, a kick-butt party or even an after-party, an amazing resort that will wow your friends and family, an upgraded suite, an unforgettable honeymoon, etc. Maybe you want to host a welcome cocktail reception for guests to get to know one another, maybe a morning after brunch, or maybe a night out on the town with your wedding party. Go ahead and think about what you want the most in your destination wedding so that the two of you can work together to create an experience that will give you both what you want. 3.Define the type of experience you want you and your guests to have Speaking of experience, let’s talk about what you are looking for and what you need for your guests. It is easy to think about just the wedding side of this celebration, but the vacation side of it is a pretty big deal. After all, your guests will spend more time having a mini-vacay than they will be celebrating your big day. Spend some time considering the needs of your guests as well as the overall experience you want them to have. They are taking time and spending their money to be there, so it needs to be memorable, not miserable. Let’s get them excited to attend your destination wedding! Whether it is an awesome resort with great restaurants, nightlife, pools, and activities, or you plan a group catamaran cruise, a golf day for the guys, and a spa day for the girls, write out what is important in the vacation experience for your guests. For example: · Modern rooms with 24-hour room service · Kids club so parents can get a break · Top shelf liquor · Restaurants worthy of a foodie · Fun activities You get the point. 4. Agree on a budget The final step is to agree on a budget. Once you have an idea of what you both want, I think the budget conversation will be easier to have and help you both decide on something realistic.
It is best to consider your vision and your non-negotiables and fit those into your budget. You’d be surprised at how far your funds will go when hosting a destination wedding at a resort. I wrote an article about how much a destination wedding costs. I encourage you to check it out as I believe it will give you a good baseline. Like any other wedding, the number of guests will be a factor in your wedding cost, but don’t allow that to keep your guest list small! When you host your destination wedding at a resort, you can earn so many freebies that will really expand your budget! I love helping my destination wedding couples save thousands of dollars! It’s so fun! Once you have all these details, you’ll be able to have more clarity on what you are looking for in a destination wedding location so that you aren’t wasting your time on places that aren’t a good fit for you. Ultimately, picking the ideal location is all about how you want to celebrate this beautiful new chapter in your life. You and your fiancé may have a place or a country in mind, but once you have narrowed down your options to a particular region of the world, it's time to look at all of your choices so that you can make an informed decision. Your choice of location will affect every part of the wedding, so doing some research now could help you make sure that everything—from the venue and clothing to photography and transportation—measures up to what you really want for this wedding! Short on time to do research and still feeling a bit overwhelmed clarifying your vision? You may want to read my blog post on Considering a Destination Wedding in Mexico That’s my specialty! I’d love to connect with you via a complimentary consultation. I look forward to helping you! With so many resort options across Mexico & the Caribbean, it's hard to tell which one will be best for your honeymoon. Karisma is an all-inclusive resort brand that has properties all over Mexico & The Caribbean. While each resort has its own characteristics and differences, all their resorts offer great amenities, romantic suites, beautiful views, and delicious food. Here are the top 5 reasons why Karisma resorts will make for a great romantic honeymoon location: 1. Culinary Heaven! I don’t know about you, but when I go to an all-inclusive resort, the food is one of the most important things. Karisma is a brand that I recommend to couples who are foodies or who have high expectations of the food quality and experience. Karisma is known for being Gourmet Inclusive. ® which means you will experience... Fresh ingredients, master chefs, culinary entertainment, expertly prepared meals every-time, plus plenty of dining options to suit every palate. Plus, an extensive wine cellar with a sommelier, mixology, tequila tastings, and even themed bars like Mojito bars, Sling bars, and Martini bars. Cheers! If you are a foodie couple, you will not be disappointed with the restaurants & menu choices at a Karisma resort. 2. Something For Every Couple! Whether you want more relaxation and pampering or your spouse wants more activities and social interaction, you’ll have the best of both worlds when you celebrate your honeymoon at a Karisma resort. Karisma resorts offer a multitude of onsite activities and entertainment, including fun daily games at the main pool, to great nightly shows such as acrobats, fire dancers, and concerts. You will also find many beach palapas, pool beds, and quiet areas where you can just relax, read, get pampered, and enjoy downtime with each other. 3. Luxurious and Romantic Suites Karisma resorts offer a wide variety of luxurious & romantic suites, perfect for your honeymoon! This is something that I truly believe sets Karisma apart. They have overwater bungalows, casitas, villas, swim-up suites, infinity pool suites, outdoor showers, and more. If you want to splurge on your honeymoon but also want those authentic touches that reflect Mexico,you won’t be disappointed! My personal favorites are the casita suites and the over-water bungalows for the best honeymoon suites. 4. Amazing service! Imagine sitting on your own beach bed (no extra fee required) and being served drinks and bite-sized treats all day long. Head to the concierge to schedule your dinner reservations or spa treatments. Maybe you want to surprise your new spouse and set up a romantic picnic or candlelight dinner, or have your suite romantically decorated, simply reach out to the Romance Maitre D as your personal assistant during your stay. 5. A Great Honeymoon & Anniversary Packages! Karisma offers the Memorable Moments Honeymoon & Anniversary Package which
includes... ● The Personal Service of our Romance Maître D ● Private gourmet four-course candlelit dinner on the beach ● Romantically decorated suite with rose petals and aroma therapy ● Breakfast in bed ● Beachfront sky massage 2 X 1 offer ● In-room amenities upon arrival ● 15% discount on spa services ● Floral arrangement in room ● One-night anniversary return stay voucher This amazing honeymoon package is complimentary if you meet the qualifications! Reach out to me for help if you think you may be interested to ensure you qualify to receive this for free: If you are finding this post helpful, you may want to read my post on the 6 reasons to have your Honeymoon in Mexico https://www.specialcelebrationstravel.com/blog/6-reasons-to-have-your-honeymoon-in-mexico Karisma resorts offer a romantic honeymoon setting that many couples are seeking. Karisma's emphasis on gourmet food, romantic suites, & service provides the type of intimacy that most couples seek out on their honeymoon, and I certainly hope this overview was helpful to you in your honeymoon planning! If you’re struggling with planning your honeymoon or just need some guidance, I currently have a couple of spots open for a free 60-minute honeymoon strategy session. I would love to help you move forward in your honeymoon planning! Many couples' ideal honeymoon involves visiting Peru, namely the magical Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Because of its rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural scenery, and delicious food, Peru is a top choice for honeymooners. The old city streets, Incan ruins, and winding mountain roads of this stunning South American nation provide a wealth of adventure opportunities. Amidst the picturesque setting, there are many chances to refuel and enjoy relaxation. Listed below are some recommendations for your honeymoon in Peru. These will take you to Peru's most popular locations for the best experience. LimaLima is the largest city in South America and a prime example of a thriving metropolis, with a population of about 10 million. Despite the city's size, Miraflores, Barranco, and the Historic Center are the three most exciting areas of Lima. This capital and cultural hub of Peru is home to a wide variety of exciting attractions. Newlyweds can begin their exploration by visiting the city's charming Historic Center. Follow that up by visiting the Larco Museum, widely considered to be the finest art institution in all of South America. Excellent cuisine complements the museum's extensive collection of pre-Columbian items from all around Peru. And if you're feeling peckish, you can have a delicious meal in the museum's vibrantly hued garden. There are even beautiful Lima beaches to visit! The couple may spend quality time together here, free from the distractions of Lima's urban environment. The AndesThe pleasure of discovering the world's longest mountain range with your loved one may be very spectacular. Not to mention there is an abundance of world-famous attractions in the Andes for your honeymoon in Peru. These include the Inca fortress of Machu Picchu, the culturally rich Sacred Valley, and the ancient city of Cusco. Various exquisite retreats and romantic adventures await newlyweds among these snowy peaks and lush valleys. Here's one example: you may take a break from your travels and relax at a luxurious resort on the banks of the Urubamba River, treating yourself to spa treatments and enjoying the warm sunshine. You can stay in luxurious 5-star hotels, indulge in regional specialties and artisanal drinks, and enjoy all the historical charm Cusco is famous for. Alternatively, you may climb and camp along ancient Inca pathways on the Inca Trail, one of the world's most well-known treks. The Andes is a romantic but also adventurous paradise. Ziplining, white water rafting, llama trekking, mountain biking, standup paddleboarding, and horseback riding are just a few examples of activities for the adventuresome. There are Pachamama rites, visits to local artisan workshops, and folkloric performances for anyone interested in learning about the region's rich cultural heritage. Luxury Amazon CruiseYour exotic Peru honeymoon can be luxurious as well. A luxury cruise down the Amazon is a great way to relax and take in the sights. Newlyweds can enjoy refurbished luxury liners with spacious staterooms and state-of-the-art amenities. Additionally, they have Michelin-starred chefs and experienced captains who are familiar with every bend in the river. On a honeymoon in Peru, we recommend sipping some traditional Peruvian beverages while drifting down the Amazon on a magnificent river cruise and watching pink dolphins play in the water. Further, a luxury boat along the Amazon River is the ideal way to experience Peru's warm summer months. Lake TiticacaReach out and touch the clouds from the highest body of water that can be crossed by ship. Lake Titicaca is considered the "Birthplace of the Incas" and the spiritual core of Andean culture. Your stay at the lake in the sky will provide you with several possibilities to engage with the local community. Puno, the gateway city to Lake Titicaca, has several cultural celebrations throughout the year, including the month-long Fiesta de la Virgen de Candelaria. Furthermore, you may take a boat out on the lake from the city and enjoy the beautiful vistas and explore the many islands. Highlights include the floating, artificial Uros Islands, where you can learn about local traditions while exploring impressive homes, boats, and the islands themselves. And there's also Taquile Island, where you can hike to a viewpoint and enjoy the local plaza and market. You may check into a luxurious lakeside resort or a quaint country inn not far away. Take your special someone on a romantic getaway to the lakeside resort for a weekend of spa treatments, kayaking, and soaking in the scenery. Or meet a local family, have a hearty home-cooked supper, and see a nearby temple all in one place at the country inn. It's up to you to decide which option you prefer for your honeymoon in Peru. CuscoCusco is the cultural heart of Peru due to its ancient history and colonial architecture. Start your walking tour of Santo Domingo in the city's historic plaza, Plaza de Armas, where you may visit the famous churches of Santo Domingo and the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús. The nearby remains of Qurikancha, also known as The House of the Sun, are fascinating because their interior walls were previously gilded. Local street sellers offer everything along the route to the large San Pedro market. And we do mean everything – from popcorn and plantains to figurines of the indigenous goddess Pachamama. It's the perfect place to get some souvenirs to remind you of your wedding! Make sure you protect all your memories and learn how to store wedding memorabilia. After the shopping, you may stuff your face with local specialties like empanadas, salchipapas (fried sausage with potatoes), rocoto rellenos (stuffed and baked peppers), fresh fruits and vegetables. SacsayhuamanHopefully, you've planned your honeymoon stress-free Sadly, we are approaching the trip's end. Before climbing the short ascent to Sacsayhuaman, you may treat yourself to a dessert at the neighboring Choco Museo. The Inca built Sacsayhuaman in the 15th century. It is high above Cusco, making it a lovely place to see the sunset. In the evening, head out to one of Cusco's many bars to start your farewell to Peru in style. Final wordsYour honeymoon in Peru can be perfect. Peru is ideal for individuals who want to see the natural world, experience culture, great Cuisine and have passion for adventure. Peru has everything you need for an unforgettable honeymoon, from adventure travel to relaxation. We hope our guide has helped you plan your perfect romantic getaway. This blog is courtesy of,
Sophia Perry Outreach coordinator ,Phoenix, AZ, Arizona Moving Professionals sophia@azmovingpros.com www.azmovingpros.com When it comes to having a destination “I Do”, you want to find a resort and location that will make your wedding day unforgettable. However, the details of planning a destination wedding can often feel overwhelming and demanding. Why not leave it to a tried and true resort brand? I would recommend you consider Karisma Resorts. You'll find that they offer everything you need for an unforgettable destination wedding. 1. Culinary Heaven! I don’t know about you, but when I go to an all-inclusive resort, the food is one of the most important things. Karisma is a brand that I recommend to couples who are foodies or who have high expectations of the food quality and experience. Karisma is known for being Gourmet Inclusive ® and you can count on that to be delivered. Fresh ingredients, master chefs, culinary entertainment, expertly prepared meals every time, plus plenty of dining options to suit every palate. Plus, an extensive wine cellar with a sommelier, mixology, tequila tastings, and even themed bars like Mojito bars, Sling bars, and Martini bars. Cheers! 2. Something For Everyone: Let’s face it, that’s one of the hardest parts of planning a destination wedding – choosing a venue that will give you the wedding you envision as well as be a great vacation for all your guests who travel to celebrate with you. Whether you want an adult-only, family-friendly, or multi-generational all-inclusive destination wedding resort, we got you covered! 3. Unique And Amazing Accommodations And Amenities. This is something that I truly believe sets Karisma apart. They have overwater bungalows, casitas, villas, swim-up suites, infinity pool suites, 1-2-3-bedroom suites, baby amenities, and so much more. They even have options for resort or villa buyouts or private enclave experiences which is ideal for an exclusive destination wedding experience in the Caribbean or Mexico. 4. First-class, picturesque wedding venues, experiences, and packages to make your wedding day one- of -a -kind Here are a few venue choices: Chapels Private rooftop sky wedding decks with unobstructed views of the ocean Beach Gazebos & Garden Gazebos A catamaran cruise wedding ceremony Along with these unique and stunning wedding venues you will also be amazed by the wedding packages. Whether you want a pre-designed theme or want a custom-designed wedding, the seasoned onsite wedding team will bring your vision to life! Plus, select resorts offer these experiences: · A Complimentary destination wedding package · “Exclusively You” wedding package to ensure you are the one and only wedding occurring on your wedding day. · Private Enclave Experience exclusively for you and your wedding guests · South Asian Wedding Experience And so much more. If you need any advice, feel free to reach out to me and I’ll be happy to chat with you more about the best packages and experiences for your wedding vision. 5. The Perks! I wouldn’t be recommending this brand if it didn’t over-deliver when it comes to the perks of hosting your destination wedding with them!
Karisma is very generous with the amenities and perks that wedding couples can earn. Based on the size of their wedding group and the day of the week that you get married you can earn up to $15,000 in wedding credits! You can use these credits toward your wedding package, food & beverages for any private events, ceremony & reception decor, and even toward your room block. To qualify for many of these perks, you must set up your wedding group properly... You don’t want to miss out on these as they can literally save you thousands of dollars! If you are finding this information helpful, you may want to check out my post about Destination Wedding in Mexico. Karisma resorts can offer you a wide variety of options for your destination wedding. Everything from private dinners to villa weddings, to even specialty music can be arranged. Depending on the needs of your wedding, Karisma resorts could be able to provide you with just what you're looking for. If you’re struggling with planning your destination wedding or just need some guidance, I currently have a couple of spots open for a free 1-hour destination wedding strategy session. I would love to help you move forward in your wedding planning. With beautiful resorts, oceanside views, colorful culture, and attentive service, it is no wonder that Mexico has the reputation of being one of the most romantic getaways in the world for planning an amazing honeymoon. Here are 6 reasons why I believe Mexico could be the perfect location for your honeymoon! 1: Easy to Get to from U. S. gateways With several nonstop flight options, same-day arrivals, and departures, plus multiple flights per day, a romantic beach honeymoon is at your fingertips. And with multiple flights, it gives you plenty of backup options in case of delays or cancellations. 2. Romantic Resorts For Every Couple’s Style and Taste: When it comes to the accommodations, you’ll have your pick of the best. From lavish mega resorts to hacienda-style boutique hotels and everything in between! Plus, if you’re looking for an adult-only escape, there are multiple resort properties that offer the ideal atmosphere for couples who want a romantic honeymoon void of screaming children! 3. The Best Bang For your buck is in Mexico! Honestly, the level of luxury provided for the price is quite remarkable. From world-class spas to beach butlers taking care of your every need while you relax on the beach, you can’t go wrong with a luxury resort in Mexico. 4. Incredible Service If you are looking for incredible service for the money, Mexico will get you the most bang for your buck when it comes to the level of luxury and service you receive for the price. Part of the reason is that Mexico is just miles ahead of other destinations when it comes to hospitality & tourism. A quote I once heard from a travel insider pretty much sums it up like this.“ In (the location I was at) if your drink spills, a waiter will come right away to clean it up. In Mexico, the wait staff will see the glass at the edge of the table and come to push it back.” 5. Tons of Amazing Activities: One of the best parts of planning a honeymoon to Mexico is the incredible amount of activities and sites you and your new spouse can experience and make new memories together. ● If you are celebrating your honeymoon from December – April? Head to Cabo or Puerto Vallarta to do some whale watching! ● Interested in UNESCO World Heritage sites? Visit one of the 7 Wonders of the World – Chichen Itza while on your honeymoon in the Riviera Maya, Mexico. ●Want to have shopping and nightlife at your fingertips? Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue, the hotel zone of Cancun, the Malecon Blvd in Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas are sure to please! Looking for adventure, golf, or fishing? Take your pick! There’s so much to experience when you visit Mexico! 6. Two Unique Areas of Mexico too choose from: Mexico has two completely different, but equally romantic & beautiful areas to enjoy an amazing honeymoon! (A) Caribbean Side (B) Pacific Side The Caribbean Side The Caribbean side of Mexico is located on the Yucatan Peninsula along the Caribbean sea, and is the most popular area of Mexico for any type of travel. This is where Cancun, Riviera Maya, and many of the other popular destination wedding spots are located. Everything mentioned above will be available to you on the Caribbean side of Mexico, including white sand beaches and the ability to enjoy the Caribbean Sea if you love getting in the water. The Pacific Side:
The Pacific Side of Mexico is of course located along the Pacific Ocean and was originally best known for travel spots such as Puerto Vallarta, and Acapulco, but now the hottest new spots to travel or honeymoon in Mexico is in either Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta! Located at the end of the Baja Coast, Cabo is home to luxury resorts, amazing foodie experiences, championship golf, yoga retreats, movie star getaways, and authentic cultural experiences. The beaches are wide and beautiful here as well, but darker sand than the Caribbean side, and are not usually swimmable due to the ocean currents and rip tides. Known for its charming towns and people, the stunning landscape of sea and mountain, plus colorful culture and marine life, it’s easy to see why Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular vacation destinations for honeymoons! Which Part of Mexico is Best For Your Honeymoon? The hardest decision you’ll have to make when planning a honeymoon to Mexico is which part of Mexico is best for your needs and which resort or hotel will give you the atmosphere you are looking for. That’s where having the assistance of a honeymoon designer can come in handy. As you can see, Mexico is full of great options for your honeymoon. from beautiful beaches to historical cities and gorgeous eco-tourism adventures, there's something for every couple. If you’re looking for an idyllic beach escape, head for the Pacific Coast or the Riviera Maya. If you want a more active honeymoon, you can choose from hiking, cycling, swimming in a cenote, or scuba diving. And if you’re looking for more luxury, Mexico has world-class resorts that put your five-star dreams to shame. Whatever you choose, your honeymoon will be one you’ll remember forever. If you would like some help planning your honeymoon, or just need a little advice, schedule a free 1-hour destination wedding strategy session with me today! Let’s get you unstuck and moving forward in your planning. Planning a destination wedding can be an exciting and stressful experience. You want your guests to have an amazing time and for you to feel at ease knowing that everything for the big day is taken care of. Mexico is one of the best destinations for hosting an unforgettable wedding abroad. Here are the pros and cons of planning a destination wedding in Mexico. Pro: Easy access from the United States of America For the most part, Mexico is easily accessible to U.S. citizens and offers plenty of daily flight options. This allows for ease of travel for you and your wedding guests as well as ensures that if there are flight delays or cancellations there will be several flight options available for backup. Pro: PLENTY of Incredible resort options and venues to choose from Whether you are heading to Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, or the Cancun/Riviera Maya area, you will have more than enough choices of resorts & wedding venues to host your wedding celebration. With the myriad of options available, you’ll also have your pick of luxury, chic, modern, or authentic resorts with lively, quiet, active, or pampering atmospheres. From boutique resorts with intimate settings to mega resorts with Vegas-style shows, Mexico truly offers something for EVERY wedding group! Lots of Incredible Wedding Venue Options: In addition to these great resort options, if you want or need to get married in a chapel, you can find Catholic & protestant chapels with picturesque views of the ocean! You will also have an array of choices for private rooftops with unobstructed views where you not only can say “I Do!”, but also dance the night away under a canopy of stars. And don’t forget you can also find stunning beaches set amidst beautiful skies at sunset, infinity pools with overwater platforms, secret tropical gardens, and more. Pro: Amazing value of luxury & service for the price! If you are looking for incredible luxury & service for the money, Mexico will get you the most bang for your buck when it comes to the level of luxury and service you receive for the price. Part of the reason is that Mexico is just miles ahead of other destinations when it comes to hospitality & tourism. A quote I once heard from a travel insider pretty much sums it up like this.“ In (the location I was at) if your drink spills, a waiter will come right away to clean it up. In Mexico, the wait staff will see the glass on the edge of the table, and come to put it back in a safer spot.” Pro: Wedding package value for the price The same is true for wedding packages. Your destination wedding budget goes so much further in Mexico! You’ll be amazed at the celebration you can plan that will be a day you and your guests will never forget! Pro: Endless excursions, activities & cultural experiences Regardless of what part of Mexico you head to, you’ll have your pick of awesome experiences at your fingertips! Historical ruins, underground caverns, artistic cities, waterfalls, mountains, whale watching, snorkeling, nightlife, shopping, golf, catamaran cruises, day trips to nearby islands, you name it! There is something for everyone to enjoy in Mexico! Con: Legal wedding requirements if you don't choose to have a symbolic wedding Each State in Mexico has different requirements for your wedding in Mexico to be legal, but you can expect bloodwork, translation of documents, witnesses, and 3-4 days of residency. If you don’t need to have a legal destination wedding, then I suggest you and your fiancee get married legally in the states (basically at the courthouse) and then you will do a symbolic wedding in Mexico for your Destination Wedding ceremony. No one will know but you, and it will save you from jumping through a lot of hoops. Pro: Two unique areas of Mexico to choose from: Mexico has two completely different, but equally romantic & beautiful areas to have an amazing destination wedding! (A) Caribbean Side (B) Pacific Side The Caribbean Side: The Caribbean side of Mexico is located on the Yucatan Peninsula, along the Caribbean sea, and is the most popular area of Mexico for any type of travel. This is where Cancun, Riviera Maya, and many of the other popular travel spots are located. Everything mentioned above will be available to you on the Caribbean side of Mexico, including white sand beaches and the ability to enjoy the Caribbean Sea if you or your group love getting in the water. The Pacific Side: The Pacific Side of Mexico is of course located along the Pacific Ocean and was originally best known for travel spots such as Puerto Vallarta, and Acapulco, but now the hottest new spots to have a destination wedding in Mexico in either Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta! Located at the end of the Baja Coast, Cabo is home to luxury resorts, amazing foodie experiences, championship golf, yoga retreats, movie star getaways, and authentic cultural experiences. The beaches are wide and beautiful here as well, but darker sand than the Caribbean side, and are not usually swimmable due to the ocean currents and rip tides. One of the most popular vacation destinations, Puerto Vallarta is known for its stunning landscape, friendly people, beautiful marine life, and so much more! Which Part of Mexico is Best For Your Destination Wedding? The hardest decision you’ll have to make when planning a destination wedding in Mexico is which part of Mexico is best for your wedding vision and which resort or wedding venue will give you the wedding vision you are looking for. That’s where having the assistance of a destination wedding designer can come in handy. Con: Cancun/ Riviera Maya seaweed issues With Cancun and Riviera Maya being the most popular locations in Mexico to host a destination wedding, I felt obligated to mention this “con” Over the last few years, environmental factors have caused an increase in the seaweed that floats into the waters and on the shore. It is impossible to predict when there could be a lot of seaweed or not as much because it can come and go at any time of the year. While resorts are continually cleaning up the seaweed, it does affect the beauty and clarity of the water. So If you are planning a beach wedding or want perfectly clear water, this area of Mexico may not be the best option for you. If water color is extremely important to you, then I suggest the Pacific side of Mexico, along the Baja Peninsula, such as Cabo San Lucas or the artistic, colorful, and lush Puerto Vallarta. Cabo’s water is a beautiful bright blue, and there are numerous excellent resort options available for your wedding there as well. The only negative is that a majority of the beaches in Cabo, though beautiful, are not swimmable, due to strong currents and waves.
Puerto Vallarta’s water is a stunning blue green surrounded by a lush and tropical jungle and mountains. Puerto Vallarta offers really unique wedding venues like private off-shore islands that are ideal for an oceanfront celebration. As you can see Mexico really offers more Pros than Cons for having a destination wedding. The growth in popularity of Mexico as a wedding location is clear proof that this is true. Mexico makes for an amazing location for a destination wedding as it's bursting at the seams with amazing resorts, beautiful venues, tons of activities, rich culture, and natural beauty. If you’ve been trying to figure out your destination wedding, but feel as if you’re getting nowhere fast, then I encourage you to schedule a free 1 hour- strategy call with me today, and let’s get you moving forward in your destination wedding planning! Congratulations! You're engaged! This is one of the happiest moments in your life and you want nothing more than to have a much-needed time of relaxing, pampering, & romance after all of the stress & time of planning your wedding! Now it’s time to celebrate your new life together in a luxurious, & pampering location that will take your breath away! If you’re curious about what you should set for your honeymoon budget, then I have the answer. Read on to see how much you can expect to spend on your honeymoon. 1. YOUR HONEYMOON DESTINATION A romantic & luxurious honeymoon starts with a great location! Maybe you choose locations that are closer to the continental U.S, such as Mexico & the Caribbean, or you may be looking for a more exotic honeymoon local, such as Hawaii, Fiji, Bora Bora, or even Europe. Usually, the more exotic and less populated a honeymoon destination is, the more expensive it can be. Average Airfare Prices: Obviously, airfare can take up a chunk of your honeymoon budget. Also generally speaking if you are flying to a tropical island during “high season” (Dec-April), Flights are going to be more expensive than low Season, (May- Nov). With that being said, here are some current averages based on May 2023 honeymoon travel: ● Depart From Midwest or East coast to the Caribbean or Mexico: $450-$1000 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. ● Depart From Midwest or East coast to Hawaii: $600-$1600 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. ● Depart From Midwest or East coast to the South Pacific: $2000-$2500 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. ● Departing From West Coast to the Caribbean or Mexico: $500-$1000 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. ● Depart From West Coast to Hawaii: $600-$1600 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. ● Depart From West Coast to the South Pacific: $2000-$2500 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. PRO TIP: There will always be fluctuations in price based on the time of year and even the day of the week. If you find an unbelievable air deal, double-check the type of seat it is and the air schedule. Many really cheap tickets have incredibly harsh restrictions as well as horrible air itineraries that could get you to your resort so late at night that you miss all of your first day at your resort, therefore ultimately wasting money and delaying the start of your honeymoon bliss! 2. HONEYMOON RESORT CHOICE The resort you choose for your honeymoon will take up the majority of your honeymoon costs. Every resort offers different honeymoon amenities, room options, restaurants, activities as well as food and beverage plans. AI (All-inclusive) resorts include all of your food and beverages with your package price. EP (European Plan) resorts offer an a-la carte menu where you pay for each meal or beverage just as you would going out to dinner or bar stateside. You definitely need to take your time looking through all the available options so that you can make sure you get the best resort for your unique honeymoon wishes and wants. 3. THE HONEYMOON ROOM YOU CHOOSE: Remember that the room or suite you choose will impact the overall cost for your honeymoon stay. For example, you could love resort (A) with a base price of $3700 that includes a “standard room.” But you choose a swim-up suite for your room option. The price for your honeymoon package at the resort (A) will now be $5,550, because of the room you choose. PRO TIP: Never go with a standard room for your honeymoon! Start Deluxe and go up as you can afford it because it will make a difference in your honeymoon experience. I know I say it a lot in my articles, but it is TRUE! This is your honeymoon, not just another trip or vacation! If you can bring some WOW to your honeymoon, do it! Below is an average cost you can expect to pay for different luxury honeymoon resort stays for 7 nights based on current rates: Because I won’t send anyone to a resort that is average or below quality, you can assume that all of these prices are going to be 4 stars and higher in quality. Luxury Resort: Adult Only AVERAGE RATES based on 7-night stay: Deluxe Room: $4,500-$5,500 Suite: $6.000-$8,000 Butler: $8,000-$11,000 Highest Room Category: Think over the water bungalows or Four Seasons type quality & experience: $16,000-$25,000 4. THE HONEYMOON PACKAGE & AMENITIES YOU CHOOSE: Most high-quality resorts will have some type of honeymoon package that will be included in your stay, such as a special honeymoon welcome package, candlelight dinner, breakfast in bed, couple’s massage, etc. NOTE: Most of these honeymoon packages have requirements received such as a minimum night stay, or that you indicate it is for your honeymoon when you book your resort, so make sure you read the fine print. 5. ACTIVITIES & EXCURSIONS: Most of your honeymoon is going to be all about relaxing, romancing, and getting pampered at the resort you are staying at. But depending on you and your new spouse’s personality, you may want to get off the resort and explore a little. Maybe doing an ATV tour, visiting a waterfall, bathing in hot mud baths, shopping in a local village, zip lining, rum tasting, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming with the dolphins, etc. You get the idea! NOTE: There are MANY tour companies out there, but only so many reputable companies. Usually the lower the price the more sketch the company. Only go with companies that are licensed and insured, and have great testimonies. One of the best names in the industry is Island Routes. They have licensed and insured tours that you can trust. They aren’t the cheapest, but they are one of the best! For a good quality tour, you can expect to pay around $120 per person and up, depending on the type of tour, and all the different activities that are included. ULTIMATELY IT IS UP TO YOU!
There really isn’t a better way to celebrate your new life together than with a romantic and memory-filled honeymoon, where you can just unplug and unwind from all the stress of planning your wedding! Whether this is your first trip together or your fifth, your honeymoon needs to be as special as you can afford to make it, because this isn’t just any other trip... This is the START of your new life Together! If you’ve been struggling or frustrated trying to get this honeymoon thing all figured out, and you’re ready for a little help, schedule a free honeymoon consultation with me today, so that you can get unstuck and get the “dreamy honeymoon” checked off your list! Congratulations! You're engaged! You’re excited about the idea of having a destination wedding, and you have been putting in hours trying to figure out what everything is going to cost. Your eyes are hurting from the amount of scrolling you’ve had to do searching out prices for resort wedding locations & venues. And you’ve read enough mixed reviews for every resort venue you are interested in to make your head spin. You need to have a well-rounded breakdown of how much your destination wedding will actually cost you! Knowing this can save you a ton of wasted time looking at the wrong locations & venues that may or may not fit your budget. Here’s a breakdown to help you know what you can expect to pay for a typical destination wedding. 1.YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING LOCALE: An Instagram-worthy destination wedding starts with a great location! Maybe you choose locations that are closer to the continental U.S, such as Mexico & the Caribbean, or you may be looking for a more exotic destination wedding locale, such as Hawaii, Fiji, Bora Bora, or even Europe. Usually, the farther away & more exotic a destination is, the more expensive it can be. Airfare Prices: Obviously, airfare can take up a chunk of your guest's budget but only a small portion of your overall destination wedding budget. And if you’re flying during “high season” (Dec-April), flights are going to be more expensive than low Season, (May- Nov). With that being said, here are some current averages based on May 2023 travel: ● Depart From Midwest or East coast to Caribbean or Mexico: $450-$1000 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. ● Depart From Midwest or East coast to Hawaii: $600-$1600 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. ● Depart From Midwest or East coast to the South Pacific: $2000-$2500 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. ● Departing From West Coast to the Caribbean or Mexico: $500-$1000 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. ● Depart From West Coast to Hawaii: $600-$1600 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. ● Depart From West Coast to the South Pacific: $2000-$2500 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination. PRO TIP: There will always be fluctuations in price based on the time of year and even the day of the week. If you find an unbelievable air deal, double check the type of seat it is and the air schedule. Many really cheap tickets have incredibly harsh restrictions as well as horrible air itineraries that could get you to your resort so late that you miss all of your first day at your resort, therefore ultimately wasting money and delaying the start of your “wedcation” bliss! 2.DESTINATION WEDDING RESORT VENUE: Every resort offers different wedding locations, amenities, room options, restaurants, activities, as well as food and beverage plans. AI (All-inclusive) resorts include all of your food and beverages with your package price. EP (European Plan) resorts offer an a-la carte menu where you pay for each meal or beverage just as you would going out to dinner or bar stateside. In general, an All-Inclusive resort will usually offer you a better value for your wedding group, you definitely need to take your time looking through all the available options so that you can make sure to book the best resort wedding venue for you and your unique wedding vision. YOUR ROOM OR SUITE: The room or suite you choose will impact the overall cost for you & your guest's destination wedding stay. For example, you could love resort (A) with a base price of $1500 for 4 nights that includes a “standard room.” But if you choose a swim-up suite for your room option. The price for your resort stay at resort (A) will now be $2,000 for 4 nights because of the upgraded room option. Below is an average cost you & your guests can expect to pay for different types of room stays for 4 nights based on current rates: NOTE: Most destination wedding guests will stay 3 to 7 nights for a destination wedding, with the average being 4 days. It will really depend on how much each guest wants to spend on their stay. Because I won’t send anyone to a resort that is average or below quality, you can assume that all of these prices are going to be 4 stars and higher in quality. Luxury Resort: Adult Only AVERAGE RATES based on 4-night stay: Deluxe Room: $1,500-$3,500 Suite: $4.000-$8,000 Butler: $8,000-$11,000 Highest Room Category: Think over the water bungalows or 4 Seasons type quality & experience: $16,000-$25,000 GOOD NEWS FOR YOU: The good news is, that many resort wedding venues will offer you free nights and room upgrades depending on the size of your wedding group! In many cases, you can get either part or ALL of your stay and even possibly parts of your wedding comped because you’ve earned so many free nights and extras from your wedding group. 3.THE WEDDING PACKAGE & DECOR YOU CHOOSE: Most high-quality destination wedding resorts will have stunning wedding packages that will include your ceremony location, music, lighting, cocktail party, decor, wedding cake, reception location, entertainment, food & cocktail menu, and an open bar. NOTE: You have to make sure that your wedding group is going to be set up correctly in order to earn the wedding amenities and free nights. Booking directly with the resorts will not always get you this information, as most resorts don’t seem concerned with letting you know what you can earn. Booking with a destination wedding specialist will guarantee that your wedding group is set up properly to earn everything you qualify for. 4.ACTIVITIES & EXCURSIONS FOR YOUR GROUP: A great way to connect with all of your wedding guests and to give them a memorable experience during your wedding week is to do a group activity. Depending on your location, you can do an ATV tour, visit a waterfall, bathe in hot mud baths, shopping in a local village, zip lining, golf, rum tasting, scuba diving, snorkeling, catamaran sunset cruise and swimming with the dolphins, etc. You get the idea! Due to the size of a wedding group, I recommend you book your group activity in advance. NOTE: There are MANY tour companies out there. Usually the lower the price the more sketch the company. Only go with companies that are licensed and insured, and have great testimonies. For a good quality tour, you can expect to pay around $120+ per person, depending on the type of tour, and activities that are included. ULTIMATELY IT IS UP TO YOU!
CONCLUSION CHOICES: There are so many ways to make your dream destination “I DO!” a reality! It’s all about deciding what kind of experience is right for you and your guests—and knowing exactly where you should be splurging, on the things that will really make a difference in your destination wedding experience, while spending less on the things that won’t make a difference. If you’ve been struggling or frustrated trying to get your destination wedding all figured out, and you’re ready for a little help, schedule a free destination wedding consultation with me today, so that you can get unstuck and moving forward on with your destination wedding planning! I just came back from vacationing with my family at this property and we were awed by the quality of their service and food. Our room was one bedroom residence located in Villa 17, very spacious and comfortable for a family of three to 4 like us They make you feel welcomed to their family, everyone from the bellboy to the Managers are there making sure that all your needs are met. Advantages of doing your Destination Wedding at The Fives Beach and Residences • The customer service number from your room is found by dialing 0 and they are prompt to respond. I have dialed that number to call to make restaurant reservations, request new towels and to schedule our pick up from our room to take us to the Lobby on the day of check out. • The food at the Kho Thai restaurant is impressive. In general all their restaurants offer a great selection of dishes, there is something for everyone. My young son that is a picky eater loved the hamburgers at the beach, the grilled beef at Flavors buffet restaurant and the chicken nuggets at Oka Sushi restaurant for example. • At each restaurant they make sure that they ask about food allergies or any dietary needs. This is super important if someone in your family needs a gluten free diet for example. • Wonderful service at the beach and pool area. There is always someone there ready to take your meal and drink order from the several restaurants in the area. I have seen pizza, burgers and hotdogs, and tacos. In that area you will Sea Olive and Arezzo Italian Restaurant. • Rooms are very spacious and comfortable, we had a suite with a couple’s room with sliding door for privacy, the other room had a sofa bed in the living area, a dining table and a full kitchen. •They have a desk where you can book your excursions located in the plaza area and allowed outside vendors like Lomas Travel to offer their service as well, they are there in the mornings at Oka Sushi restaurant. • You can never be bored at this property, they have a themed night every night, we got to experience on our arrival a night at the beach with a live band playing there, a Kermese night were local artisans were offering their products, a Mexican night, a Rock and Roll night with a live band playing. There are plenty activities and experiences for you to explore, from Spanish lessons to learning to cook a Mexican dish. • Activities for kids of all ages including kids and teenagers club. • Small but swimmable beach for those that love that experience, we were lucky to have a day with turquoise waters in the middle of sargassum season. Their team cleans the beach everyday. If you love to walk along the shores of the beach you can do it here. • Phenomenal Wifi all around the hotel, no matter where you are, you will be always connected including the beach. •They have residences that offers one, two or three bedrooms, accommodates large families with no problem. • Wonderful roof top terrace for weddings that gives you 100% privacy • Very responsive wedding department Travel advisor tips: • You need to make reservations for your specialty restaurants, we recommend to do it the day before early in the morning. • Villas 1 to 5 are located close to the beach. • This is a large property and requires a lot of walking, you can always wait for the golf cars to move you around the hotel or you can call customer service and request them to pick you up from your room to take you to the beach, a restaurant, etc. • Highly recommend to try Kho Thai restaurant, to us that was the best one! • Choose your spot on the beach early in the morning, it will be crowded and you won't find a place if you come in the middle of the day. • Bring water shoes, the beach is nice but has some rocky areas Are you ready to start planning your upcoming destination wedding? Let's chat!
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Rossana TaylorBilingual English -Spanish Travel Agent Archives
April 2024
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