Travel Guest Post: Top 4 Honeymoon Destinations in India

 India is one of the best places to travel for a honeymoon. There are some really awesome destination spots for newlyweds that to experience something extraordinary. The following provides information on several delightful sites that will peak the interests of many couples.

Agra

One of the destinations that will be found atop the list of the best India honeymoon locations is Agra. Everyone that has been there raves about the Taj Mahal because of the history that is behind it. It was a monument built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife that died during childbirth. It’s a beautiful tourist attraction that is known as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Lovers that visit India for their honeymoon are in awe of this beautiful piece of work. The great thing about this scene is that there are hotels like the Amarvilas that give all guests a view of the Taj Mahal. This elegant hotel is one of most luxurious spots in Agra.

Kerala

Honeymooners that want something that breaks tradition will flock to Kerala. This is an exciting excursion into the backwaters of India’s beautiful wetlands. This region is popular because it gives the couple a chance to ride on the water. There are hotels on the banks of Vembanad Lake. There are also hotels that offer a boathouse and cottages. The houseboats are very nice. They have bedrooms, bathrooms and a personal chef. All of this has given honeymooners a romantic getaway that is perfect for newlyweds. Kumarakom Lake Resort is situated on the Vembanad lake, and is one of the most popular choices among resorts in Kerala for honeymoon holidays.

Jaisalmer

This is definitely a breathtaking area with a fort that resembles something from a romantic fairytale. Jaisalmer is referred to as the sandstone city. It’s a romantic getaway with multiple hotels that give guests a view of the beautiful sandstone fort. Some people actually stay in the fort during their honeymoon. Others may consider hotels like the Serai Desert Camp and Spa or Suryagarh. These are both great luxury hotels that have some of the best amenities for newlyweds.

Ranthambore

This Ranthambore National Park is another area for people who want to conjure up the magic of the great outdoors. Lovers of wildlife will enjoy grassy meadows, beautiful scenery from nature and luxury tents. There is a luxury camp called the Khem Villas that brings the romantic experience to life in the midst of the jungle. The Aman-i-Khás resort also has some intimate tents for honeymooners.

Author: Nat D visited India first in 2003. She has been living in India for the last 6 years teaching yoga to school children. She also helps The Paul, one of the business hotels in Bangalore near EGL with their editorial content.

Travel Guest Post: Puerto Penasco for Lovers

Just a short drive south of Arizona, the coastal town of Puerto Penasco is one of the easiest to reach and most relaxing weekend breaks for couples looking for nothing more than romantic bliss.

Puerto Penasco has long been thought of as the top romantic getaway for Arizonian and Californian couples, thanks to its combination of stunning beaches, surreal desert landscapes and that unique Mexican flavor – yet it’s not just the surroundings that make “Rocky Point” such a blissful place to be, oh no. Sure it’s a beautiful place, but it’s so much more than that for couples looking to spend some quality time together.

So do yourself a favor, get out-of-town for a weekend, head to Puerto Penasco, and follow these tips for a weekend of romantic bliss. Trust us, she’ll reward you in kind!

Buy a Mariachi Serenade for your Sweetheart

Being Mexico, music and romance go hand in hand – this is something that can work out really well if it’s planned in advance. In most of the restaurants around town, groups of mariachis (singers) will stop by, offering to play love songs for willing couples. Take your girl (or guy) to a nice restaurant, insist on candles, open a bottle of wine and you’re set.

Now, wait for the right moment (you’ll know when), make your excuses and go have a quick word with one of the mariachis (without her seeing). Have them come to your table and play a love song just for the two of you. Guaranteed to make her heart melt every single time!

Horse Riding at Playa Bonita

Playa Bonita is more than just Puerto Penasco’s main beach, it’s also one of the most incredibly romantic locations around, with a majestic landscape of golden sands and stunning azure waters of the Golfo de California. What’s more, they have something that’s just great for couples – they have horses.

For this, surprise and timing plays a big, big part. Pick your loved one up around early evening time, and don’t tell her where you’re going. By the time you get there she’ll be absolutely thrilled, and rest assured that few moments can match the romance of riding horseback along each other, watching the incredible sunset.

Couple’s Massage

Just in front of Las Palomas, there are some places offering massage services. Not all of them will do couples, but a few are accommodating. To be sure of getting what you need, try going their early morning or late afternoon.

Romantic Picnic for Two

This is a simple one – pick up picnic basket, a Mexican blanket, a few snacks and some liquid refreshments, then head down to any beach. Sandy Beach, Las Conchas, Playa Encanto and Laguna Shores are all great choices, they don’t get too busy and there are lots of shaded areas around if your lover doesn’t like the heat. To make a real impression, don’t forget to include one or two of her favorite snacks in the picnic basket, and even a little music wouldn’t go amiss.

Guest post by Puerto-Penasco.com – specialists in hotel, vacation home and resort bookings in Rocky Point, Mexico. Visit us today to learn more about Rocky Point at http://www.puerto-penasco.com/.

 

 

Travel Guest Post: A Romantic Getaway in Bangkok

Your honeymoon deserves to be an experience that stands out from all of your friends and family member’s cookie-cutter trips to the usual locales, including Paris, Venice or the Caribbean. If you’re searching for an unexpected place to share a truly exotic and unforgettable journey, consider taking your first vacation as man and wife in Bangkok. This capital city of Thailand boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, romantic restaurants and divine distractions that will make your honeymoon a sincerely unique and unforgettable experience. Get caught up in the beauty and wonder of the mystique that surrounds this glamorous, fascinating city.

 Beaches

The beaches and waters surrounding Bangkok feature some of the most breathtaking sights and wildlife in Thailand. Cha Am beach lies about 100 miles south of Bangkok and offers a unique blend of modern amenities and old world charm. Spend the night in one of the many glamorous resorts or quaint hotels before stepping out of the room right onto a white, sandy beach.

If you’re looking for more excitement and interaction with the locals, head to Pattaya instead. The beach is a short 30 minute drive from the Bangkok airport and is always alive with the energy that makes Thailand one of the most astonishing countries in the world.

 Thai Massage

Visit one of the many spas in the resorts and lavish hotels throughout Bangkok. While booking the hotel, ask about a couple’s Thai massage. During a traditional Thai massage, the client is dressed in loose-fitting comfortable clothing to allow for adequate movement before being placed on the floor. The massage practitioner then uses a series of rhythmic movements while manipulating the client into a variety of yoga-like positions. The typical Thai massage lasts around two hours and leaves the recipient feeling energized, relaxed and refreshed. Inquire about any additional spa services, including facials and pedicures, they offer to happy honeymooning couples.

 Dining

Bangkok is world-renowned for its cuisine and the romantic atmosphere of many of the city’s restaurants.  The rooftop Vertigo restaurant allows you to enjoy a traditional Thai dining experience while getting a unique, bird’s eye view of the city. Make reservations at Vertigo the minute you set foot in the city, and try to dine after dark to witness the beauty of a fully-lit Bangkok after dark.

Bangkok is often referred to as the “Venice of the East” mainly for one reason:  the Chao Phraya River. Many liners offer romantic evening dinner cruises along the Chao Phraya, which allows you to take in Bangkok’s sights (including several of the city’s famous wats, or temples) while gazing lovingly at your spouse under the stars.

 Benjasiri Park

When you’re ready to step out of the excitement and energy of Bangkok and commune with nature inside this urban metropolis, head to Benjasiri Park. The park is constructed around an internal lake and features a well-kept array of Thailand’s local flora in a botanical garden-like setting. While you stroll hand-in-hand through the park with your new spouse take note of the sculpture garden, which features 12 pieces constructed by local artists, before stopping to enjoy a romantic picnic for two. Once you’ve had your fill of Thailand’s flora, fauna and artwork, take a few steps out of the park and reenter the hustle and bustle of this lively city.

 Catch a Movie; Do a Little Shopping

Many tourists don’t realize the world-class shopping and movie theaters scattered throughout several of Bangkok’s shopping centers. In Thailand watching a film is a truly unique experience, complete with love seats, pillows, blankets and well-dressed stewards that offer you a drink, dinner or simply a tub of buttered popcorn.

No honeymoon, or vacation for that matter, would be complete without shopping for a few souvenirs. Bangkok is simply filled with bustling shopping centers and traditional open air markets that feature wares from across Thailand and its neighboring countries. Don’t forget to pick up a few handbags, dresses or scarves manufactured from luxurious Thai silk before purchasing souvenirs for your friends and family members.

While experiencing Thailand on your honeymoon, don’t forget to mind the local customs and traditions. This includes removing your shoes before entering many of the city’s temples and learning a few key words and phrases in Thai, including “thank you!” and “where’s the bathroom?”

Author: Erica Gustafson is a freelance media consultant for the Retreat by Zur spa and resort.  She is an avid traveler and loves to write about the places she has been to. Erica writes on behalf of Expedia.

Contest: Win a Romantic Trip to New Mexico!

Win a romantic getaway to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Albuquerque, NM – Albuquerque, New Mexico was recently recognized as one of the Top Five Places to Pop the Question, being in a hot air balloon, of course. Wanderlust listed Albuquerque’s signature experience of flying high above the city in a balloon as a top romantic experience. This year, a lucky winner will get to experience that romance first hand with a Valentine’s Day getaway for two.

Albuquerque is known as the Hot Air Balloon Capital of the World. This designation encompasses much more than nine days each October during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Hot air balloons fly nearly 300 days each year in Albuquerque, and ballooning enthusiasts have participated in the Friends and Lovers Hot Air Balloon Rally since 1976 over Valentine’s Day weekend. During this year’s balloon rally, a lucky winner and their guest will be passengers in one of 100 participating balloons.

The Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau is running a contest to give away a romantic Valentine’s package including:

· Two nights of accommodations at the Crowne Plaza Albuquerque

· A balloon ride for two people at the Friends and Lovers Hot Air Balloon Rally on February 11-12

· A $200 Visa card that can be used for a romantic dinner, shopping, airfare or gas.

Enter online at http://www.ItsATrip.org/valentines.

Contest entries much be received by 11:59pm MST on January 31st. The contest winner will be drawn on February 1, 2012 and must be available to fly at 7am on either February 11th or 12th.

Sample tweet: #Win a balloon ride to @see_albuquerque for #ValentinesDay. Enter by 1/31/12 at http://bit.ly/xjgdcD.

A variety of Valentine’s Day hotel and restaurant specials and events are also taking place throughout the city. In addition to the balloon rally, sweethearts can get together for a salsa dance competition, festive 5K runs, or even a mating tour at the ABQ BioPark Zoo.

On Saturday, February 11th, the Old Town Sweetheart Stroll celebrates love with “sweetheart deals” from merchants, Valentine’s Day dinner packages from 5-9pm and a lovely ambience to stroll with that special someone throughout the evening. Galleries and shops will have extended hours and live entertainment will take place throughout Old Town.

February 11th will also provide a non-traditional look at the complex dance that is love in the animal kingdom with several events at the ABQ BioPark. Indulge your animal instincts with special tours about the exotic, erotic and often curious romantic rituals of animals. Adults may choose from three tours: “Birds and the Beasts” at the Zoo, “Love Bugs” at the Botanic Garden and “That’s a Moray!” at the Aquarium.

Details of Valentine’s weekend events, hotel packages and romantic meals are all available at http://www.itsatrip.org/deals-packages/getaway/valentine/default.aspx.

Travel Guest Post: Romantic New York City

New York City, NYC or the Big Apple, whatever you want to call it, one thing will remain the same: this is one of the most romantic and impressive cities in the world. Whether you have decided to enjoy an anniversary weekend away, a special Valentine’s Day, or a city break for two, you cannot go wrong with picking New York as your destination. I admit, planning the perfect date can be a little nerve-racking, but before you bite off all your finger nails, let me offer you what I consider to be my top 6 romantic spots, which should really impress your sweetheart.

1. Central Park
Be it winter or summer, Central Park is one of the most beautiful parks I have ever been to and considering that this is in the heart of a busy city, that says something. I am a firm believer in the date must not end after a romantic candle lit meal, so make your way to Central Park where you can enjoy a horse and carriage ride around the park while enjoying each others company. If it is a warm summers day, why not enjoy the ripples of the water on a boat ride or visit the Belvedere Castle and the Conservatory Garden, the soothing surroundings will create a lovely romantic atmosphere.

2. Empire State Building
If you are looking to impress, then the amazing views from the observation deck of the Empire State Building will do the trick. This spot has amazing views over the New York skyline and is the perfect setting to end a romantic date with the glow of the city below.

3. Tiffany’s
This world-famous store sells some of the most stunning jewelry, crystal and china. Even though the prices my cause a slight heart palpitation, you could always buy a pastry and window shop outside like Holly Golightly from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. If you are feeling bold, and have a little something special in mind for the girl of your dreams, then make your way inside, you will not be disappointed.

4. Ice Skating Rink at Rockefeller Center
Now I am not much of an ice skater myself, but in the name of romance, an hour or two will go along way in keeping the spark between the two of you, especially as you can hold hands, to keep each others balance of course. At night this skating rink is a really beautiful setting between the trees and sparkling lights.

5. Staten Island Ferry
If you want to give your date an unfamiliar, but memorable view of New York, then I suggest you take her on the ferry ride to Staten Island. Why I hear you say? Well for one thing the view of Manhattan is simply amazing and its offers the perfect opportunity to snuggle and gaze out over the water.

6. Lincoln Center Fountain
Even if you cannot serenade your beloved darling with your soulful voice, my suggestion would be to take her down towards the Lincoln Center Fountain, where the illumination at night is a sight to behold and surely is the right spot to get down on one knee and propose to that special someone?

Also, if you just want to sit down somewhere to have a chat and listen to some jazz, then this site is the perfect way to end your date.

For any of us who have visited New York, I am sure we all have our own special places that we consider to be the best, but if you know of any others, I would love to hear about them.

This article was written by Steven, a travel writer and blogger for nycvacationrentalsonline.com, a provider of New York vacation rental apartments.

Travel:3 SoCal Romantic Escapes

Are you looking for a romantic way to spend Valentine’s Day in Southern California this year? f so, check out these upscale romantic getaways at Pelican Hill Resort, La Quinta Resort & Club and The Grand Del Mar.

At Pelican Hill Resort in Newport Beach, the luxurious destination resort overlooking the Pacific Ocean, couples are treated to gracious personalized service with this customizable Valentine’s Weekend Getaway, and the resort also has a to-do list of the “Top 10 Most Romantic Places to Kiss at Pelican Hill.” Try out the special “Build Your Own” Valentine’s Weekend Getaway for selection weekends in February. Complete with a one-night stay in a luxurious Bungalow guest room, a bottle of sparkling Prosecco wine and strawberries, a rose petal turndown, continental breakfast in bed delivered and late check-out. Choose any weekend in February for a romantic one-night garden-view Bungalow stay at a special rate of $775, and then select one of the following inclusive options to customize your experience. To book this package, please call (800) 820-6800. Different packages include:

·         Relax & Re-Kindle: Indulge in a couples red Pomegranate seasonal body gelato 50-minute treatment, romantic bath for two, spa cuisine lunch and Crystal Cove Fitness Walk.

·         Play Date: Enjoy a round of golf for two on Pelican Hill’s Tom Fazio-designed Ocean North or Ocean South course, complete with forecaddie, golf cart and spectacular ocean views!

·         Table for Two: Savor “Il Menu dell’ Amore” dinner with wine pairings at signature restaurant Andrea, rated one of the “Top 50 Most Romantic Restaurants in the U.S.” Then, share a mini red velvet cake for two, handmade truffles by our pastry chef and bottle of red wine in your bungalow by candlelight or al fresco on your private terrace.

 

For further personalization, select add-on options from the list below or simply let us know how we may help fill your stay with cherished memories that suit your preferences:

·         Deck out your Bungalow in fresh red roses or a favorite flower of choice.

·         Relax in “his and hers” monogrammed silk bathrobes with your initials as a treasured keepsake to take home.

·         Set the tone with a romantic soundtrack – Sinatra, Bublé, or whatever tune makes your heart flutter!

·         Upon check in, request “The Top 10 Most Romantic Places to Kiss at Pelican Hill” list and explore them all to determine your favorite.

·         Upgrade to an ocean-view Bungalow for just $150 more.

 

Legendary La Quinta Resort & Club in La Quinta has always been a desert haven for escaping from-it-all for the romantically inclined. And, of course, what better time than Valentine’s Day? The famous romantic comedy, “It Happened One Night,” was written by the incomparable Frank Capra while he was staying at a casita at La Quinta Resort. This romantic interlude Valentine’s package (Dinner for two at Morgan’s, wine and strawberries upon arrival, breakfast)  is a contemporary version filled with amenities that would have greatly pleased Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable.Package price is $489, excluding tax and gratuity. For additional nights, rates start at $295. Subject to availability. To book “The Original Romance” experience, please call, toll-free, 1-800-598-3828.

In Northern Coastal San Diego, The Grand Del Mar offers splendid ways for lovers to celebrate the month of love. – Valentine’s Day sentiments abound throughout February at this stunning AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star amid the natural beauty of the Los Peñasquitos Preserve. The ‘Ain’t Love Grand” February package includes: One-night accommodations, upgrade at time of booking within room or suite category, a dozen long-stemmed roses upon arrival, fireside champagne, caviar and oysters for two served at outdoor fireplace, romantic do-it-yourself spa treatment turndown amenity, including The Spa’s housemade salt scrub infused with fresh rosemary from the resort’s gardens and signature Renaissance massage oil, breakfast for two in bed or at a resort restaurant, guaranteed late check-out at 2:00 pm and complimentary overnight valet parking. Rates from $945 per night with additional nights at $365 on weekdays (Sun-Thurs) and $395 on weekends (Fri-Sat) (exclusive of hotel tax of 12.5%); 72-hour advanced reservations required. For reservations: 888-314-2030.

 

Cupid’s Classic at The Spa at The Grand Del Mar

Available daily during the month of February.

Indulge á deux at San Diego’s only Five-Star/Five Diamond spa with this romance-enhanced experience in the tranquil couple’s suite.

·         30-minute mineral-rich bath for two accompanied by a bottle of Tarlant Champagne, bottled exclusively for The Grand Del Mar, plus chocolate-covered strawberries

·         60-minute Swedish massage

·         30-minute moisturizing aromatherapy scalp massage

$725 per couple (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations: 858-314-2020.

 

WHERE:         Pelican Hill Resort

22701 Pelican Hill Road South, Newport Coast, CA 92657

949-467-6800 | www.pelicanhill.com

 

La Quinta Resort & Club

49-499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta, CA 92253

760-564-4111 | www.laquintaresort.com

 

The Grand Del Mar

5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego, CA 92130

858-314-2000 | www.TheGrandDelMar.com