in this issue
Luxury Honeymoon
A honeymoon is not just for memories but is sometimes, a much-needed reprieve from months of hectic wedding planning and the whirlwind of the big day. It’s also a bridge from the most important day of your life to the back-to-earth everyday of your life. So, when planning your honeymoon put thought into what suits you and your spouse (that’s right…no more fiancé) and allow yourself the luxury of pampering and adventure.
We sat down with Laura Hartman at VinLux Travel in Exeter, NH to get advice on the best travel spots for your honeymoon.
One of Laura’s favorite destinations for your once-in-a-lifetime trip is Cape Town, South Africa. When you think of South Africa, you may only think of safaris and tracking the “Big Five.” But according to Laura, Africa delivers some of the most romantic vistas the world has to offer—and some of the most luxurious spa treatments you can imagine. Particularly in North Island, an exclusive island acclaimed as one of the most romantic ocean paradises in the world, “Honeymooners can expect a sumptuous retreat offering white sandy beaches, snorkeling, diving and a custom pampering sessions for two. The honeymoon couple can savor an intimate candlelit dinner on the private deck of their villa under a canopy of golden stars, or on the beach. The personalized North Island spa treatments are designed to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul while the warm sandy beaches and snorkeling in the clear blue Indian Ocean are incredible.”
For the more adventurous couple, “fun-filled days of kayaking, mountain biking, hiking or just soaking up the African sun can be expected. Or even, wildlife-rich bush with expert game rangers to track the elusive “Big Five”” says Laura.
NHW: If a couple doesn’t want to travel all the way to Africa, is there anywhere in the States that can deliver an equal level of luxury?
Laura: Yes. Winvian Estate in Litchfield, Connecticut. Just over two hours from Boston, the estate is set in 13 acres—perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding and snow-shoeing. The estate also borders a 4,000-acre wildlife sanctuary for plenty of seclusion and privacy. Each of the estate's 18 cottages were crafted by different architects so no two are alike. They are scattered around the property to ensure privacy, and all feature private, screened porches, wood burning fireplaces, large whirlpool baths, fully stocked wet bars and luxurious Italian linens. They'll even prepare a picnic lunch complete with backpack, blanket and trail map of the property. The chefs use seasonal and local products the spa even has a romantic treatment suite complete with wood burning fireplace.
NHW: What is the favored honeymoon travel spot among newlyweds?
Laura: I’ve recently designed several honeymoon packages for couples traveling to Belize. Belize is a beautiful country with a stable government, and friendly people. Travel there is extremely safe and couples can rent a car to drive themselves from area to area without worry. It’s relatively close to the US and is an English speaking country with prices quoted in US dollars. It offers couples the chance to get away from it all, without sacrificing luxury or amenities. They can hike through the jungle, canoe through caves, visit Mayan ruins, and then have a relaxing Spa treatment and romantic dinner before retiring to their suite or luxuriously appointed cabana complete with traditional thatch roof!
NHW: What should newlyweds avoid when choosing their honeymoon spot?
Laura: Couples should avoid trying to recreate the “perfect” honeymoon as seen in magazines, film or as described by their friends. They should plan according to their own style and budget. As their travel advisor, I look at the honeymoon with a more objective eye, and take their lifestyle and budget into consideration. For example if they are an active couple who love hiking, biking, kayaking, running, etc., a 2 week honeymoon on a secluded beach may not be the best fit for them. On the other hand a couple with stressful jobs and little free time who love the beach, may not want to spend their days participating in active adventure, but may prefer to laze in a hammock relaxing together. My job is to not only ensure that their honeymoon matches their lifestyle and personal preferences, but that it also creates romantic memories for them to cherish.
Laura Hartman is a home-based travel agent affiliated with POSH Travel, Ltd. She can be reached at VinLux Travel (Affiliate of POSH Travel, Ltd), 103 Water Street, Exeter, NH phone: 603-770-2152 email: vinluxtravel@aol.com