Antigua

Antigua- Looking for the perfect beach?  Then I’m sure you can find it on one of Antigua’s 365 white sand beaches.  A beach for every day of the year! This is a water-lovers paradise where you can go kayaking, yachting, swimming with the stingrays, and snorkel the amazing reefs in crystal clear blue waters.  If you are looking for calmer waters, then the west side or Caribbean side is where you want to stay. The ocean side is perfect for the surfers.

With amazing picturesque beach views, Antigua offers breathtaking accommodations. Romance is almost inevitable in this tropical paradise . With romantic backdrops, each resort offers an abundance of amenities.

Jumby Island Resort offers the ultimate in privacy where you will ferry over to their private island.  Bikes are personalized and available to get around on the island. They even have their own small farm with chickens for fresh eggs in the morning.  Can you imagine a place where there’s no need for a key and everyone knows your name? That’s how private it is.

Antigua island

Photo credit: Life Enhancing Travel

If you time your stay right, you can also catch the Hawksbill Sea Turtles hatching.  Their nesting season runs from approximately June through October. In some areas you will notice red street lights along the road by the beach at night.  This is so the bright lights won’t attract the turtles to the road, believing it’s the bright light of the sea.

island of Antigua

Photo Credit: Life Enhancing Travel

One of the resorts that offer an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the sea turtles is Hermitage Bay, a stunning, tropical hideaway.  Imagine your destination wedding with this beautiful intimate setting.

Then, enjoy your honeymoon from one of the 25 intimate cottages nestled into the hillside at Hermitage Bay.

Antigua

Photo Credit: Life Enhancing Travel

If you are looking for a little history you will find Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site here.  It is the only remaining example of a Georgian fort commissioned by the British in 1755. Overlooking the dockyard is Shirley Heights, where you will find the best views and sunsets.  On sunday nights, be prepared to party. There is food and drinks with local entertainers and bands as you watch the beautiful awe-inspiring sunset.

Antigua island

Photo Credit: Life Enhancing Travel

Marriage Requirements

There is no waiting period or residency requirements to get a marriage license.  You can’t get any easier than that!

Climate- Antigua and Barbuda are sunny and warm year round with cool trade winds. The average temperature ranges from the mid-seventies Fahrenheit in the winter to mid-eighties Fahrenheit in the summer.

Language- English

Population- Almost 90,000 residents on Antigua

Entry Requirements- Visitors from the U.S. need a valid passport (valid for six months after travel dates) and a roundtrip or onward ticket. Some non-U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents traveling from the U.S. require a visa, which can be applied for on arrival at the airport.

Currency- The unit of currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD$). The exchange rate is approximately US$1 equals EC$2.70. However, U.S. dollars are widely accepted on the island, as are traveler’s checks and major credit cards. ATMs are available.

Tipping- 10-15 percent depending on the service. Some restaurants and hotels will automatically add a 10 percent gratuity, so be sure to check the bill.

Time- Antigua is on Atlantic Standard Time year-round. During the fall and winter, noon in New York is 1 p.m. on the island. During daylight saving time in the U.S., the hour is the same on the Eastern Seaboard as it is on the island.

Antigua offers incredible views, understated luxury and pampering.  You can’t beat a better place to plan your next romantic vacation and I know you are going to love it!

See you on the next adventure!

-Tammey

 

P.S.  If Antigua looks like your dream destination and you want to make this trip a reality, contact Tammey Perkins, tammey@LifeEnhancingTravel.com , with Life Enhancing Travel

 

P.P.S.  You can follow my journeys on Instagram @enhancingtravel




 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Romantic Cruise Weddingmoon

Have you ever thought of “tying the knot” or renewing your vows at sea?  Sailing away into the sunset on your romantic honeymoon?  Well the cruise lines offer that and so much more.  Cruise lines now are the floating resorts of the seas stopping at different port around the world for you to venture out and explore shop, eat or just stay on the ship and relax and enjoy.
Many of the cruise lines offer a variety of wedding packages to assist you with a wedding ceremony on the ship in one of the many beautiful venues or shore side at one of the destination ports along the ships itinerary.
Family and friends can join you for just the ceremony or the full cruise.
See how beautiful and wonderful your wedding day can be.

cruise weddings

There are several cruise lines that offer different wedding packages to fit your dreams.
These are a few of the cruise lines that offer wedding packages:

Princess
Carnival
Norwegian
Royal Caribbean
Disney Cruise Line
Celebrity
Cunard
Holland America
MSC Cruise Line

cruise ships
After the wedding you can go start your honeymoon in one of the beautiful staterooms on the ship.

Stateroom bed

Or enjoy a dip in the pool, feast in the dining rooms, enjoy a show, go to the spa and get couples massage, shopping, hang out in the bar/lounge, participate in the many activities on the ship, or just honeymoon in your stateroom.

cruise dining

One of the many dining venues on the ship

 

 

cruise pool

There is always time to take a dip into the pool.

spa cruise

It is time to enjoy a couple’s massage.

sunsets at sea

 Just think you could have your Wedding/Honeymoon anywhere around the world with family and friends or just you two sailing into the sunset.

Written by Sandra Scott of JFM Travel
For more information on creating your Destination Wedding/Honeymoon or any Specialmoon,
contact Sandra Scott at Sandra@jfmtravel.com
Don’t know where to go on your next getaway?

Find your Destination match here

fiji

 

Lanai

Lanai – The smallest inhabited island in Hawaii, Lanai offers big enticements to its visitors. Only nine miles from Maui yet a world away, this island can feel like two places. The first is found in luxurious resorts where visitors can indulge in world-class amenities and championship-level golf. The other is found bouncing along the island of Lanai rugged back roads in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle to explore off-the-beaten-path treasures. You’re sure to find serenity, adventure and privacy on Lanai.
Lanai

Perfect Weather: Tropical averaging 75-85* degrees

Main City: Lanai

Time Zone: Lanai Standard Time 5 hours behind US East Coast & 3 hours behind Pacific time – they do not observe daylight savings time.

Language: English/Hawaiian

Top Highlights:

*Hiking Lanai – Miles of breathtaking, uncrowded trails make this island paradise a hiker’s dream, from easy cliffside walks to intense hikes through other worldly rock gardens.

*Hulopoe Beach Park is a sweeping crescent-shaped beach located on the southern coast in Hulopoe Bay, fronting the Four Seasons Resort in Lanai. Most accessible on the island for great surfing.

*Polihua Beach –Take a 4-wheel drive adventure about an hour northwest of Lanai City to find two miles of pristine and  blissfully empty coast perfect for sunbathing or beachcombing.

*Snorkeling- Strap on your mask and explore Hulopoe Bay’s crystal-clear tidepools, or book a trip to the Cathedrals to scuba dive in amazing underwater lava tubes.

*Whale watching- Each year, scores of majestic kohola (humpback whales) travel to Hawaii to breed, calve and nurse their young in the winter and spring, before returning to Alaska for the summer.

Experience Lanai, contact Virtual Honeymoon to find a Lanai Specialist today!

Molokai Island

Molokai Island – Hawaii’s fifth largest island, Molokai is only 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point and is home to the highest sea cliffs in the world and the longest continuous fringing reef. Molokai remains true to its island roots, with a high percentage of its population being of Native Hawaiian ancestry who continue to preserve their rural lifestyle thanks to their love of the land. forest to the black sand beaches, this island is a natural wonder of unrivaled expression in the powers of nature at work!
Molokai island

Perfect Weather: Tropical averaging 75-85* degrees

Main City: Lanai

Time Zone: Molokai Standard Time 5 hours behind US East Coast & 3 hours behind Pacific time – they do not observe daylight savings time.

Language: English/Hawaiian

Highlights

*Kalaupapa National Historical Park–  Take a quite ride on a Historic site accessible by scenic mule ride on the northern tip of Molokai
*Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove- Historic coconut grove in Kaunakakai across from Church Row across from Church Row, visit Coconut Grove, an ancient Hawaiian coconut grove planted in the 1860s
*Halawa Valley- Historic Hawaiian valley with towering waterfalls on Molokai’s East End, Hike into the East End’s classic cathedral valley to see the Hawaii of long ago.
*Papohaku Beach Park- At three miles long and 100 yards wide, this is one of the largest white-sand beaches in all of Hawaii.
*Kaunakakai– Take a sport-fishing charter, for some once in a life time fishing experience.
*Kalohi – During winter months, whale watch in the Kalohi Channel.

 

Experience Molokai island, contact Virtual Honeymoon to find a Molokai Specialist today!

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island – ‘Big Island’ the youngest and the largest of all the islands and it’s still growing! The home of one of the world’s most active volcanoes and tallest sea mountain. From the green rainforest to the black sand beaches, this island is a natural wonder of unrivaled expression in the powers of nature at work!
Hawaii island

Perfect Weather: Tropical averaging 75-85* degrees

Main City: Hilo

Time Zone: Hawaii Island Standard Time 5 hours behind US East Coast & 3 hours behind Pacific time – they do not observe daylight savings time.

Language: English/Hawaiian

Highlights:

  • Hawaii Volcano National Park- Home to Kilauea Volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
  • Kailua Village- Lively, historic gathering place in the heart of quaint town of Kona, with shops, eateries, pubs.
  • Hilo- Home to dramatic waterfalls, fertile rainforests and blooming gardens; the geographic flipside of the volcanic kohala coast.
  • Holualoa- This is a great place to taste the rich flavors of 100% pure Kona coffee, a rare commodity exclusively grown in north and south Kona
  • Kahua Ranch- Located in town of Waimea, in Cowboy country where stop signs read ‘Whoa’ instead of ‘Stop’ a working ranch to explore the scenic landscapes by horseback or ATV.
  • Volcano Winery- Since 1986, this beautiful winery utilizes local fruits, macadamia nuts & tea to blend with traditional wine grapes that transforms their wines to perfection, stop and taste before visiting the Volcano!
  • Beautiful Beaches- Kohala Coast known as South Kohala is nestled amongst the jet-black and rust-red lava rock fields amongst the breathtaking black sand beaches. Hapuna Beach is Hawaii’s white sand beach and been rated on numerous international top ten lists and offers good conditions for swimming, bodyboarding, sunbathing and snorkeling.

Exclusive Inclusions: Sample of VIP Perks* at one of our Preferred Resorts:

      • Free wedding website & honeymoon registry
      • Daily buffet breakfast for 2
      • Luau for 2
      • Sunset cruise

Experience Hawaii island, contact Virtual Honeymoon to find a Hawaii Specialist today!

Maui Island

Maui Island-  The magic isle and second largest hawaiian island, but with low population, making it very desirable with its diversity and attractions, there something for everyone here! From its heavenly beaches to its scenic wonders its no wonder why Maui has been voted best island several years now!

Maui

Perfect Weather: Average yearly temperature is a tropical 75-85*degrees

Main City: Wailuku

Time Zone: Maui Island Standard Time 5 hours behind US East Coast & 3 hours behind Pacific time -they do not observe daylight savings time

Language: English~Hawaiian

Highlights:

  • Road to Hana- leads you through tropical rainforest, with dramatic scenery of flowing waterfalls and plunging pools, experience old hawaii first hand.
  • Haleakala National Park- Maui’s highest peaks 10,023 feet above sea level, morning sunrises are unforgettable
  • Lahaina- Hot spot on the west, historic whalers village with shops, restaurants & marina, catch some great tours leaving from here.
  • Molokini- A small island a few miles off of Maui’s southwestern coast, great for snorkelers and divers.
  • Wailea- South shore of Maui, known for its world class golf courses and crescent-shaped beaches.
  • Beautiful beaches- Kaanapali Beach on the west is Maui’s famous beach known for its powder white soft sand, and Makena Beach on the south is known as Maui’s ‘big’ beach, the largest beach on Maui.

Exclusive Inclusions: Sample of VIP Perks* at one of our Preferred Resorts:

  • Free wedding website & honeymoon registry
  • Luau for 2
  • One sunset dinner cruise for 2
  • Daily breakfast for 2
  • VIP cocktail reception
  • Room upgrade & late check out (based on availability)

Experience Maui island, contact Virtual Honeymoon to find a Maui Specialist today!

 

Oahu Island

Oahu Island-  The ‘Heart’ of Hawaii with its timeless beauty blended with todays modern luxuries. The third largest Hawaiian island is home to a diverse population and the contrast between the ancient and the modern that makes discovering historic Oahu so enjoyable

.Oahu island

Perfect Weather: Average yearly temperature is a tropical 75-85*degrees

Main City: Honolulu

Time Zone: Oahu Island Standard Time 5 hours behind US East Coast & 3 hours behind Pacific time – they do not observe daylight savings time

Language: English~Hawaiian

Highlights:

  • Pearl Harbour- National Historical Landmark features five historic sites memorializing the December 7, 1941 attack.
  • Diamond Head- Formed more than 100,000 years ago, a popular hiking spot with panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu’s south shore.
  • North Shore- During the winter months, this legendary surf mecca attracts the best surfers in the world.
  • Polynesian Cultural Center- A ‘must see’ hawaiian attraction, interact with the people from the South Pacific Islands, experience a canoe pageant and authentic Luau.
  • International Market Place- Famous shopping features over 130 carts, shops and artisan stands in an open-air setting under the banyan trees in the heart of Waikiki.
  • Beautiful Beaches- World famous Waikiki was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty. Known in Hawaiian as ‘spouting waters’, it is the best area for learning to surf.
  • Turtle Bay- Protected from large waves and surf, this beach, located on Oahu’s northeastern tip, great place to snorkle.

Exclusive Inclusions: Sample of VIP Perks* at one of our Preferred Resorts:

    • Free wedding website & honeymoon registry
    • $50 Aloha Credit toward food & activities
    • Chilled bottle of Champagne & Chocolate Strawberries
    • Room upgrade & late check out (based on availability)

Experience Oahu island, contact Virtual Honeymoon to find a Oahu Specialist today!

Kauai island

Kauai Island – Kauai, known as the ‘Garden Island’ is the island of discovery, with 50 miles of breath taking beaches against the clear Pacific Ocean with its sparkling blue water to its lush tropical rainforest and cascading waterfalls with rushing rivers, colorful valleys and quaint historic small towns, where no building is taller than a coconut tree. ‘Kauai is the island begging to be explored!’

Kauai Island

Perfect Weather: Average yearly temperature is a tropical 75-85*degrees

Main City: Lihue

Time Zone: Kauai Island Standard Time 5 hours behind US East Coast & 3 hours behind Pacific time – they do not observe daylight savings time.

Language: English~Hawaiian

Kauai Island top Highlights:

  • Napili Coast- Take a boat tour along the scenic northshore to experience colorful sea cliffs.
  • Waimea Canyon- Known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.
  • Wailua River- Enjoy this scenic river, take in famous Fern Grotto.
  • Beautiful Beaches- Poipu on the sunny south shore  and Hanalei bay on the north shore, experience Kauai’s white sand beaches.
  • Wailua Falls- Known as the Secret Falls – 80 foot high, as seen on fantasy island.
  • Spouting Horn- One of the most photographed spots, known as ‘blowhole.’

Exclusive Inclusions: Sample of VIP Perks* at one of our Preferred Resorts:

    • Free wedding website & honeymoon registry
    • Upgrade on arrival- based on availability at check-in
    • Buffet breakfast daily for up to two
    • Evening appetizer, once during stay
    • Complimentary daily spa access for 2 ($60 value per day)
    • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

Experience Kauai island, contact Virtual Honeymoon to find a Kauai Specialist today!

 

Fiji – A destination that touches your soul

Fiji is consistently listed as one of the Happiest Destinations in the world. After spending time in the Islands of Fiji, it became very apparent to me how true this is Full transparency here.

As a travel professional, I have a tendency to “compare”destinations with similarities. Having traveled all over Mexico, the Caribbean and the Islands of Tahiti, I thought for sure Fiji would be another tropical, beach destination on the list. I was very wrong! What I found within Fiji  was nothing short of incredible.

It took me a bit to realize why, but I finally put my finger on it. Fiji, the people, the beauty and the pureness, it connects you at the heart and truly touches your soul. Needless to say, it cannot, and should not, be compared it to any other experience.

Let’s start with some of the reasons why you will fall in love Fiji from the moment you arrive and what makes it the perfect destination for any occasion–wedding, honeymoon, anniversary or bucket list trip.

fiji beach#1–Fiji is authentic. We hear so many say they want an “authentic” experience, yet what they describe as ideal is far from it. The Islands of Fiji are considered to be one of the exotic destinations. Remote,with a simple way of life, yet modern is many ways. With couples seeking more exotic, off- the-beaten-path, authentic destination, Fiji takes you beyond the typical vacation destination, and hits the mark without having to sacrifice on the comforts of home.

fiji pool#2–Diversity of Options. Fiji offers a wide array of resorts in various locations. From large, chain types to very small and intimate. Those for the more minimalist, budget minded to incredible luxury villas. Many resorts offer a great mix of traditional Fijian design while providing modern amenities. The bures (this is what they call their rooms, aka huts on the beach) are very spacious, offering modern updated bathrooms (most with outdoor showers) and a stunning view. Many with a sitting area (inside and out), air conditioning, mini refrigerator, and some with a private plunge pool. None the same, though. All uniquely designed with local touches.

fiji food#3–Activities to satisfy everyone. The activities offered in Fiji are endless. You will find a great diversity to satisfy all types of travelers. From relaxing on the beach, lounging by the pool, snorkeling just off shore, hiking to a waterfall, visiting a local village or school, and SO much more. Soft adventure activities such as kayaking, standup paddle boarding, horseback riding,ziplining… With Fiji being the soft coral capital of the world, scuba diving is very popular and much different than what you will find in the Caribbean and Hawaii. Foodies don’t despair. Your palate is tempted and satisfied as well. Indulge in a fusion of cuisines such as local Fijian, Indian, Polynesian and more.

island of fiji#4–Natural beauty. Breathtaking beauty is everywhere! From the Mamanuca Island group, to the Yasawa Island group, from Viti Levu to Vanua Levu. Some islands are small, some a bit larger, but ALL have their own beautiful setting. Did you know? One of the 1001 Places to See Before You Die is located within Fiji? Horseshoe Bay is an incredible site to see! The coral is magnificent, vibrant and a variety of colors. It seems to jump right out of the water. Speaking of those take- your- breath- away views. The best way to see many of the islands and coral is by air. Helicopter, seaplane or inter-island flight. However, you choose, get up in the air to see the amazing world below.

fiji sunset#5– Remarkable Sunsets. Fiji is blessed with some of the most remarkable sunsets in the world. I mean from every island! The colors light up the sky, like a new painting each evening. After the sun goes down, be sure to do some star gazing. You will see different stars and constellations that we are not able to see from the Northern Hemisphere. The most prominent are the Southern Cross and the Milky Way. Certain times of the year, these can be seen very clearly.

fiji locals#6– The locals. I have saved the best for last. By far, the best part is the Fijians themselves. From the moment you arrive, “Bula” is heard everywhere. It is a greeting, similar to aloha, but has other meanings. The literal meaning is “life” and also implies wishes for happiness and good health. When being greeted, remember they are saying more than just a simple “hello”. Fijians are exceedingly warm and friendly. They love to express their love of life and share it with visitors. They have an infectious joy, enthusiasm, and genuine hospitality about them. It’s easy to join in!

If you are looking for a destination that is “not just a spot on the beach” or “not just another resort with a comfortable room and swim-up bar”, take a look at Fiji. These islands truly touch your heart.
I dare you to visit and leave without tearing up or crying!

Fiji expertWritten by Stephanie Cannon of SC Travel Design

For more information on the Islands of Fiji, contact Stephanie Cannon @hello@sctraveldesign.com

Don’t know where to go on your next bucket list trip?fiji