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Travel By Darcy

Creating Memorable Vacations Since 1996

Romance

The Buzz: Zika-Free Tropical Honeymoon Spots

After all the pomp and circumstance (and stress!) of a wedding, your honeymoon should be a relaxing time together. But if you want a tropical honeymoon—and if you hope to get right to work expanding your family—this very special escape could be ruined by the threat of Zika-infected mosquitoes.

According to the CDC, the Zika virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which thrive in tropical destinations like the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central/South America. While Zika’s most common symptoms (fever, rash, joint pain) aren’t life-threatening, the virus can pass from a pregnant woman to her fetus and can lead to severe fetal brain defects—so if you’re planning on baby-makes-three sooner rather than later, you’ll want to pick a tropical honeymoon destination that’s known to be free of the Zika virus.

Let me introduce you to a few favorites:

Bermuda

Famous for its pink-sand beaches and British aplomb, the island of Bermuda is a semi-tropical paradise just 600 miles off the coast of North Carolina, making it an easy flight for east coast travelers. Bermuda has a version of winter, so it’s best to visit between April and November. You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities and a plethora of boutique beachfront hotels and luxe, full-service resorts, though it should be noted that this is not a destination to consider if you’re looking for all-inclusive accommodations. While there is affordable fun to be had (think pub crawls), Bermuda tends to be on the pricey side.

Hawaii

A tropical destination in the Pacific, Hawaii is comprised of eight major islands, and each one offers its own personality and experiences along with a unique selection of accommodations, from boutique hotels and full-service resorts to self-catering condos. Getting to Hawaii is a relatively short flight from the Midwest and west coast; if you’re flying from the east coast—and it’s definitely worth it!—plan to stay at least 10 days to make the most of your time. Whichever island or islands you choose, expect to relax and recharge with all sorts of natural pursuits, from snorkeling above a school of rainbow-colored fish to hiking lush tropical rain forests to stargazing with your feet nestled in the still-warm sand.

Tahiti

Romance comes easily to Tahiti, with its French culture and backdrop of clear blue water, cream-colored sand beaches, lush green foliage, and inviting rows of thatched-roof, over-water bungalows. Here, you’ll need bathing suits, sunscreen, and not much else! It takes time to get to Tahiti, due to the travel logistics created by limited air options; once you arrive, you’ll want to spend at least 10 days to maximize your R&R. A year-round, higher-priced tropical destination, Tahiti can get a bit rainy—and slightly less expensive—between January and April. Consider booking early for improved air availability (remember, options are limited) and to allow adequate time to budget for your trip.

Maldives

A sizzling-hot tropical honeymoon destination for 2018, it’s now easier than ever to get to the Maldives via Dubai, though getting here is still a hike from all U.S. destinations, so you’ll want to stay at least 10 days to recover and fully immerse yourself in the spirit of relaxation (side note: consider extending your stay in Dubai to add a dose of over-the-top dazzle to your honeymoon). All about the stunning scenery—think white sand beaches and turquoise water—the Maldives is a water-lovers paradise with plenty of activities in and around the surf; there are also plenty of accommodation options, from over-water bungalows to island resorts like the Four Seasons.

Fiji

From bright-pink sunsets to brilliantly colored coral, Fiji’s beauty will take your breath away. A collection of tropical islands in the South Pacific, Fiji is often grouped together with Tahiti but it has its own distinct culture and attitude . . . and hotel styles (instead of over-water bungalows, for instance, you’ll find beachfront bures). There are affordable, full-service resorts on the main island, and self-contained resorts on islands easily accessible by a short flight. Most of the islands have limited dining options, making them perfect candidates for all-inclusive accommodations; on the main island, meal plans aren’t necessary due to several restaurant choices. Traveling from the U.S., you’ll cross the international dateline getting to Fiji, so this is another destination with a suggested 10-day duration.

Greek Isles

With a coastal landscape unlike anywhere else on earth—boasting bright-white villages hugging cliffs that extend down towards the twinkling azure sea—Greece is distinctly and delightfully itself. Honeymoon-friendly semi-tropical Greek isles like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete offer up beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and only-here caldera views, along with charming shops, friendly locals, and cafes serving the freshest seafood and incredible wine. The best time to visit is between May and October and that short window means you want to book early to score a coveted cliff-side room. Consider extending your stay with a trip to Athens where you can explore the country’s ancient past by day then return to the present with an evening of electric nightlife.

 Thailand

Tucked away in Southeast Asia, the tropical Kingdom of Thailand makes you feel like royalty as it spoils you with, well, everything: modern cities, beautiful beaches, quiet countrysides, towering mountains, elaborate temples, ancient ruins, royal palaces, and really (really!) exquisite food. To experience it all, plan on a best-off trip lasting 10 to 14 days, with stops in a city (perhaps Bangkok), mountains (possibly Chiang Mai), and beach (maybe Phuket or the island of Koh Samui).

UPDATE (2019): In addition to Martinique, travelers can head to The Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, Guadeloupe, and Saint Barth’s for a relaxing trip—all are on the CDC’s list of Zika–free countries

As a Romance Travel Specialist for 20+ years, I’ve helped many couples plan and enjoy their dream honeymoon. I believe your honeymoon is just as important as your wedding—maybe even more so!—and I have unique insight into what to do, and avoid, in planning this most important trip. Whether you’re looking to honeymoon with a side of adrenalin or R&R (or a bit of both!), let me match you with your just-right destination. I can help you get anywhere in the world—whether it’s on the list above or not—and I can work with any travel budget. I look forward to hearing from you!

P.S. You’re not a travel agent, so stop acting like one. Trying to plan a perfect honeymoon with the information you find on-line is risky at best. Get in touch with me, and enjoy the absolute pleasure of having a travel professional ask the right questions and match you with your ideal experiences—as an added bonus, I’ll help you save time and money. Together, we’ll plan one once-in-a-lifetime trip after another.

The best places to relax and unwind in the Caribbean

Something magical happens when Mother Nature puts on a bit of bling. Think of a grown-up, decked-out tree house. Step inside and you connect with nature while, at the same time, you get pampered by all manner of modern comforts and conveniences.

That’s the appeal of rustic chic retreats. No matter the destination, these are hotels and resorts that enhance the feeling of escape with authentic, all-natural charms. But don’t be fooled—“rustic” doesn’t necessarily mean no-frills or cheap. Rustic chic is a style. Often upscale, it’s anything but stuffy.

Join me as I take you on a tempting tour of eight of my favorite rustic chic retreats in the Caribbean. When headed to any one, pack your sunscreen and leave your cocktail attire at home.

  1. Ladera Resort, St. Lucia

Composed of a collection of colorful structures spread out single-file along a ridgeline 1,000 feet above the Caribbean, Ladera Resort gives you a thrilling bird’s-eye-view of St. Lucia—you’ll look down onto treetops and look out onto the twin Piton peaks. At this adults-only resort, it’s all about your peaceful coexistence with nature. Spend your days strolling in the sand, relaxing in a mineral bath, and enjoying traditional island fare at Dasheene, then return each night to your suite with a private plunge pool—each is built without a west wall for inside-outside living as you’ll experience it nowhere else.

 

  1. Galley Bay Resort & Spa, Antigua

Set on 40 acres along a curvaceous stretch of white sand beach that unfurls over nearly a mile, this refined yet unpretentious resort specializes in barefoot R&R. Just about everything here is at your fingertips, with a trio of open-air restaurants and lounges, water sports equipment and instruction, jogging trails, tennis courts, even nightly cocktail parties and live entertainment—and because it’s all-inclusive, you can leave your wallet in your suitcase. Best yet: many of the accommodations are tucked here and there along the beach, so you’re never more than a few sandy steps from the surf.

 

  1. GoldenEye, Jamaica

This resort has a fantastic back-story with all the makings of a real page-turner: originally a private getaway where author Ian Fleming dreamed up James Bond, it was purchased in 1976 by Island Records founder Chris Blackwell; since then, it has become a 52-acre haven for those looking to get away from it all. Take your pick from a slew of luxe villas (including Fleming’s vacation home), chic cottages, and easy-breezy beach huts. During the day, succumb to a spa treatment, test your balance with stand-up paddle-boarding, and ride a mountain bike to nearby Firefly—then grab a cocktail at Bizot Bar before enjoying a sultry dinner at the open-air, treehouse-style restaurant, The Gazebo.

 

  1. Turtle Inn, Belize

How do the rich and famous vacation? Like this. Famed director Francis Coppola acquired a beachside getaway a little more than 15 years ago and turned it into this seafront escape for those seeking to relax (feet in the sand) or rev things up (with scuba diving, fishing, biking, zip lining, and more). Individually thatched cottages, dotted around the property, offer the feeling of being tucked away in your own little slice of paradise. When you’re feeling social (and hungry!), head to one of the handful of restaurants—there’s even a Kid’s Gelato Bar to keep happy the young and the young-at-heart.

 

  1. Mahekal Beach Resort, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Bustling Playa del Carmen has a secret: you can get away from the masses, while staying close to the busy hotel zone, if you know where to go (hint: go to Mahekal Beach Resort). This chic yet carefree resort is perfectly situated with the Riviera Maya jungle on one side and the pristine Playa del Carmen beach on the other. After a recent three-year, $18 million renewal—resulting in a style that exemplifies boho gypsy with colorful Mexican flair—there’s much to see and do here, with new pools, restaurants, and bars as well as a dive center and spa; one favorite thing to do, however, might be to spend time in your palapa-style bungalow, with a striking ocean view, outdoor terrace, and private hammock, and not a TV in sight—splurge for a Beach House, and you’re just 10 steps from the water.

 

  1. Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa, Aruba

Recently celebrating the big 5-0, I’ve got to give it to this beachfront resort: it masterfully combines classic Caribbean charm with modern style and service. Plus, the location on Eagle Beach, celebrated for its quiet calm, is especially intoxicating. Here, it’s all about great food (with four restaurants), and personal wellness (with a spa, fitness studio, yoga and pilates classes, and a dedicated wellness team). Their newly renovated guest rooms—tucked into ocean-facing buildings rising no higher than the nearby coconut trees—blend astounding amenities with soothing island style, each with a private furnished balcony or patio, the perfect place to kick back with a morning coffee or evening cocktail.

 

  1. Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, Nevis

Ready to try “liming it”? Trust us, you are! This sweet expression captures the essence of relaxing, Caribbean style. And nowhere is it easier to do than at Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, the Caribbean’s only historic plantation beachside inn, located on unspoiled Nevis (“the island time forgot”). Here, upscale and rustic join forces with privacy and personal service. And there’s more. The resort’s truly exceptional cuisine is balanced by numerous calorie-torching activities, from rainforest hiking to scuba diving, biking, even horseback riding along the beach—though I don’t blame you if you chose to do nothing more demanding than swing in a hammock. I may have saved the best for last: intimate yet spacious (and air-conditioned!) cottage-style rooms and suites are nestled around the property, each surrounded by a quarter-acre of land for the ultimate in privacy.

 

  1. The Spa Retreat Hotel, Jamaica

The most taxing part of your stay? Climbing up to your private roof terrace to take in the famous Negril sunset. If it doesn’t sound very taxing, that’s the whole point. After all, this is a spa retreat—an adults-only hotel and wellness center that gracefully walks the line between modern amenities and relaxed island living. Cast on nearly two oceanfront acres, this hotel settles in beautifully between a white sandy beach and lofty grey cliffs. Here, your handcrafted stone cottage beckons you to stay and lounge, while a number of amenities (seawater pool, sandy beach deck, cliff-side organic dining, as well as adventures into nearby Negril) tempt you outside. Just make sure you book a spa treatment or two—or ten. After a long day in the sun, little is as satisfying as their Aloe & Cucumber Rejuvenating Body Wrap, a natural, custom-made experience that hydrates your skin while feeding your soul.

 

Finding it hard to choose your favorite? Let me match you with your just-right escape—it might even be a place not on this list! As a Travel Specialist, I’ve spent the last 20 years helping people plan and enjoy their dream vacation—and I know the best places to visit, every month of the year.

 

Contact me today (call 603-418-8698 or send an email to me at info@travelbydarcy.wpcomstaging.com) and let me know how I can help!

 

Fabulous Honeymoon Ideas for Every Budget

You have been spending endless hours researching online and reading tons of reviews to find that perfect location for your honeymoon. Cousin Suzie suggested that very nice resort where she spent her last Spring Break that allowed them to sleep 6 in a double room.

You’ve also been looking at that über-expensive resort your boss suggested you take a look at. It is very upscale, and it has a health/wellness theme so you’re not sure if your other half will be happy with all the “healthy meals” and the lack of TV in the room, not to mention the hefty price tag.

You’re confused, lost, and wondering if there is someone out there who can give you the “real deal.” The answer is: yes, there is — and that is exactly what I do.

Here are a few locations that all offer once-in-a-lifetime, luxurious experiences that can fit almost any budget.

Standard Budget ($3,000-$6,000)

Riviera Maya, MX: Flights to Mexico are very affordable, and this is a very important element, as flights can eat up most of your budget these days. The quality of service and food is wonderful, and there is a wide selection of resorts that fit everyone’s personality — from the over-the-top private rooftop pools to luxury small boutique resorts that can offer you personalized service.

Jamaica: This diverse island has everything from beautiful beaches to coffee plantations, mountains (with waterfalls!), spas, horseback riding and golfing. While perhaps best-known for its all-inclusive, adult-only resorts like Sandals, Couples Resorts and Secrets, Jamaica has a resort for every budget and interest.

St. Lucia. Considered the most romantic island in the Caribbean, St. Lucia stands in a class of its own. Between the Pitons, volcanoes, black sand beaches, excursions and breathtaking views, you can be assured that your experience will be lovely and super romantic. There is something for everyone in the islands and no one will be bored, even without a TV!

Premium Budget (Between $6,000-$10,000)

Hawaii:  A tropical island paradise in the United States – no passport needed! A quick 5 hour flight from the West Coast or a 10-12 hour travel day from the East Coast. No matter how long of a flight, a vacation in Hawaii is worth every minute and every penny – if you do it right.  From vibrant Oahu with famous Waikiki Beach and historic Pearl Harbor to the volcanoes and black sand of the Big Island. From lush rainforests & waterfalls in Kauai to the stunning beaches in Maui – there is something for everyone.  Honeymooners especially will love the wide range of accommodation options from boutique hotels, self-catering condos to full service luxury hotels.

Italy: Few places in this world are as romantic as Italy. Imagine holding hands and walking the cobblestone streets of Florence, wine tasting in Tuscany, a romantic gondola ride in Venice. Anywhere you turn, you’ll come face to face with history, and you’re never far from a life-changing glass of wine and plate of pasta (with extra truffles, please!).

Bali, Indonesia: This is the land of meditation and yoga. If you saw the movie or read the book Eat, Pray, Love, you can imagine the beauty in Bali. What you may not realize is how affordable it is. Of course airfare takes the largest bite out of the budget, but once there, you can have a once in a lifetime experience on a very reasonable budget.

Luxury Budget ($10,000+)

French Polynesia (Tahiti): Tahiti consistently ranks in the top 10 worlds most popular honeymoon destinations! And we know why! White sandy beaches, crystal clear azure waters, romantic over-water bungalows and the warmth of the Tahitian people. Only a 7 hour flight from Los Angeles and you could be relaxing under the swaying palms of the pacific.

 South Africa: Southern Africa is one of the most popular destinations for travelers, and for good reason. It is one of the most romantic places on earth, and a luxurious combination of African style and European flair can be found here. Southern African Romance does not disappoint those seeking solitude, beauty, wildlife, and luxury.

Australia & New Zealand:  To do this part of the world right you need at least 2 weeks (ideally three!).  From cosmopolitan cities, rainforest & reefs, glaciers and tropical islands – Australia and New Zealand are the perfect combination for an adventurous and romantic honeymoon. Visit one or both countries depending on how much time you have (and budget). You won’t be disappointed.

If any of these places appeal to you or you have been thinking about them but don’t know which resort is best for you, I can help! Start by completing my Honeymoon Questionnaire today.

Honeymoon Planning Timeline

Relaxing at El Dorado Royale

The majority of traditional wedding planning sites only include honeymoon planning as an after-thought. Most say you should start looking or booking your honeymoon six months before departure. In my opinion, you can start much earlier — and it’s to your advantage to do so. Airfares are published 10 months before departure, and it’s a great time to start planning with your Romance Travel Specialist.

In addition to relieving stress of a pressed timeline, planning early is also easier on your wallet, because you’ll have at least 8 months to pay for everything. Doesn’t that sound better than making one huge payment?

Based on my experience, I strongly suggest you follow this honeymoon planning timeline in order to have access to the best flights, rooms, and activities:

10 Months Before:
• Determine Budget and create a wish-list
• Airfare is published
• Contact a travel professional
9 Months Before:
• Place your honeymoon deposit
• Set up your honeymoon registry
4 Months Before:
• Apply for or renew your passport
• Find out if you need vaccinations
3 Months Before:
• Shop for cameras and luggage (or put them in your registry)
• Start SCUBA and/or language lessons
2 Months Before:
• Withdraw Gifts from honeymoon registry (usually in cash)
• Apply your honeymoon registry towards your final payment
1 Month Before:
• Your travel itinerary and documents will arrive
• Verify names on passports and make sure they match your travel documents
2 Weeks Before:
• Start planning honeymoon attire
• Start a packing list
1 Day Before:
• Gather and secure travel documents in your carry on
• Check-In online!
• Try to contain your excitement for 24 more hours

Where are you on this timeline? Do you need some extra help, or someone who can help you catch up, take the stress off, and deliver an amazing honeymoon?

If you’re ready to start planning, complete my Honeymoon Questionnaire today.  I can’t wait to hear from you! 

10 Tips to Help You Plan an Amazing Honeymoon While Keeping Your Sanity

Getting organized can help you make sense of all the info out there. It can help you move past analysis paralysis and start making concrete plans. Best of all, when you’re clear on what you need, you can start to get excited for the amazing trip that’s coming up instead of feeling overwhelmed and stressed!

There are so many options for having a fabulous honeymoon, and my hope is that this list will help you narrow them down.

1. Be flexible! If you are flexible with your dates, you will get the best value for your money.
2. Plan Early. The earlier the better! There are no deals to have at the last minute — for real, I promise! The earliest you can book is 10 months from your departure date.
3. Research airline schedules and daily flight plans. Not all destinations receive daily flights. Even when a destination is closer, it does not mean it is necessarily easier to get there.
4. Consider other nearby airports to fly out. Sometimes driving a bit can afford you non-stop flights or better itineraries.
5. Be open to low and shoulder seasons. Four words: Great deals. Not crowded!
6. Schedule time once a week to go over your options and discuss each other’s priorities. Then reach a happy medium.
7. Start a research journal (hardcopy or online). Having your wish list and facts in one place will make the process easier.
8. Be a team and delegate duties. Planning your honeymoon is a great exercise to get better at working together.
9. Ensure passports and travel documents are up to date. It can take up to 6 weeks to receive your passport, and the passport number is needed to finalize any booking.
10. Work with a professional. A travel expert can help you look past the pretty but misleading websites and biased reviews to find the perfect destination for you.

If you have any questions about any of these tips for planning your honeymoon or
getaway — or want to get started making those plans —  call me at 603.418.8698 or shoot me a quick email to get started: info@travelbydarcy.wpcomstaging.com 

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Email: info@travelbydarcy.com

About Me

I’ve come nose-to-nose with a giraffe during an African safari. I’ve strolled along the ancient pathways of Machu Picchu. I’ve honeymooned in the Australian Outback. I’ve stayed in villas, enjoyed all-inclusive vacations, and gone on cruises and escorted bus tours. Collectively, these experiences—and many, many more—add up to a pretty impressive travel resume but, more importantly, they make me a great choice for your go-to travel agent. Read More…

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