Romanced by Bora Bora

Labeled as the most romantic place on earth, Bora Bora screams honeymoon and destination wedding. Romance, Romance, Romance which can steer travelers away unless going there for a monumental trip as opposed to going for a summer vacation.  When I went there; I wasn’t going on a honeymoon, having a monumental anniversary or attending a destination wedding and my trip surpassed all of my expectations. Bora Bora beach

If I’m being honest, it brought tears to my eyes, gave me an expressionless face, and left me feeling a way I have never felt before.  So is the label right? Is it a place that really needs that special romantic occasion to truly be enjoyed?
Not so much!!!  Seeing the  Bora Bora waters for the first time brought me to tears and had an effect on me that no other destination ever has and future destinations are going to have to work hard to live up to.

Granted, this was my #1 heaven on earth place to visit.  Was on my bucket list ever since I can remember so you can only imagine my excitement pre-trip; but nothing prepared me for what I would feel when I got there.   Mesmerized, in aw, speechless, and totally in love.  I was romanced by this small island in a way no man has ever romanced me.  I was transported to a place words can’t even describe.  I had finally found my soulmate.  A place that made me feel secure, giddy, and wanting to experience and share more.
In that moment I realized first hand why the tiny island of Bora Bora is known as the island of romance and that realization has nothing to do with a honeymoon, a wedding or even a significant other.  I could spend months alone in Bora Bora and never once be lonely, feel lost, afraid, or unhappy.  This tiny little island pulls you in, wraps you up in it’s beautiful blue waters and whisks you away to places you couldn’t even imagine even existed. (And let me tell you, I have an imagination like no other and even I couldn’t have imagined this!!!), so grab your favorite glass of wine and enjoy the love story That is Bora Bora…………….Tahiti

Yes it is true, couples you have found your ideal destination, but this little island is perfect for the whole family and solomooners alike. The small island of Bora Bora is only 18 miles in circumference, but it’s home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and waters that don’t discriminate, they love your little coconuts and solos as well as the love birds.
As a solo traveler, allow yourself to embrace mana and be swept away by the luxurious pampering resorts with overwater bungalows and thatched rooves we’ve dreamt of for our ultimate retreats. Spend lazy days sunbathing while watching the sharks and sting rays swim by your bungalow.  Your little coconuts will think they are living in a real life storybook when you let the azul waters wash over them and embrace them in this carefree, picture perfect lifestyle.
The captivating, majestic Mount Otemanu, sharply rising almost 2,400 feet above sea level, lush tropical slopes and valleys, transport you to a paradise that will forever be burnt into your mind allowing you to continue your love affair with Bora Bora long after you are thousands of miles away. bora bora
Your resort will be located either on the southern end of the main island or on its own motu (islet in the lagoon). The water is the key to what will keep you active when you want to venture from your lounge chair or spa treatment. The turquoise lagoon surrounded by picture-perfect white sand beaches is your playground for such unique experiences as shark feeding. You stand in the shallow lagoon far enough away but yet close enough to watch your guides hand-feed the sharks. Explore the lagoon via glass-bottom boat, motorboat or jet ski, or just snorkel from your bungalow or off the beach anywhere on the island. Diving is also huge attraction because Adventure off the coast and to the interior roads on a hike or 4X4 accompanied by a local guide. You’ll be treated to unbelievable overlook views. Be sure to make some time to shop for local and international original art, Tahitian pearls, perfumes and oils, and precious wood handcrafts. Bora Bora
Most meals will be eaten at your resort, where you’ll be treated to world-class dining, complete with some of the best water views you’re ever going to see. Many of the properties also offer after-dinner Polynesian shows, incorporating the cultural flavor into your stay. Cuisine here is as you would expect — lots of local seafood, fruits and vegetables to enjoy.
Don’t forget to have at least one of those over the top experiences like a gourmet picnic on a private beach or a sunset cruise with four-course dinner aboard a private catamaran. We can’t forget the ultimate in room service, breakfast by outrigger canoe brought to your overwater bungalow or villa. The flower-decorated canoe brings with it fresh fruits, pastries and juices by a welcoming resort staff member.

International flights land at Faa’a Airport in Papeete on the island of Tahiti. Flight time is just under eight hours from Los Angeles and about 12 hours from New York’s JFK with a swift 51 minute flight from Papeete to Bora Bora and your life with forever be changed.  Air Tahiti Nui is Tahiti’s national carrier.
The Bora Bora airport is built on a motu; making resort transfers by private motorboats from the airport which sets the tone for your amazing experience that is yet to come causing your little coconuts to ask why all resort transfers can’t be by boat!!!!
Whether you are traveling for romance, celebrating yourself, or introducing your coconuts to a real-life fairy-tale setting, Bora Bora will check all the boxes and when you visit; may your sleep be peaceful and restful, and may you wake by the warmth of the sun refreshed and ready for each new day of possibilities in paradise!!!

**Photo Cred – My Own!!
Miki Taylor of Taylor & Co. Travel
Bora Bora

Honeymoon Locations – Top 5

Honeymoon Designers shared their Top 5 Honeymoon locations, based on all our couples that are getting married and honeymooning for 2015. Bora Bora - Honeymoon Locations - Bungalow
1. Tahiti and her islands (Bora Bora & Moorea)– “Favorite honeymoon locations, year after year!” The most romantic place on earth, with its clear turquoise blue lagoons and palm fringed beaches. Known for their over water bungalows, small peaceful villages, this is a honeymooners dream paradise, rated #1 most romantic place in the world!

Maui, Hawaii - Honeymoon Locations - Waterfall
2. Maui, Hawaii– The second largest of the Hawaiian Islands. This island paradise is very desirable with its diversity and attractions, with white and black sand beaches, waterfalls and more.
Perfect for those couples that can only visit one island on their honeymoon and have never been to any before, Maui really is the best mix of all the islands wrapped up in one!

Belize - Honeymoon Locations - Bahamas Beach
3. Belize & her outer island (Ambergris Caye)– Located in Central America, north of Mexico & west of Guatemala. A divers paradise, truly unique with multicultural experiences. From rainforests to white sand beaches, whether you want to stay in a beach cabana or luxury resort, Belize really is really untouched beauty, it is Un-Belizable!

Fiji - Honeymoon Locations - Beach
4. Fiji– The magical isle with the friendliest people on earth! From glistening white sand beaches & crystal clear lagoons to untouched rainforests, known for their Tree Top Bure’s and many beautiful islands to chose from, Fiji really is a slice of heaven on earth!

Mexico - Honeymoon Locations - Beach
5. Mexico– The fastest growing tourist destination! From its soft white sand beaches, turquoise crystal clear blue waters, to its ancient Mayan ruins. Riviera Maya area attracts honeymooners looking for the perfect all-inclusive resort while being budget friendly as well.

To find your perfect honeymoon match, try our new interactive honeymoon planning tool @ www.VirtualHoneymoon.com 

Honeymoon Planning made easy!

Honeymoon Planning - Beach
Honeymoon planning can often be very stressful and overwhelming for couples,  keep in mind that perfect honeymoons don’t just happen, and planning requires thoughtfulness, patience, careful attention to details, and a lot of decision-making along the way. This is why we highly recommend using a certified honeymoon specialist who don’t charge any fees for their service and will save you alot of stress along the way, honeymoon planning made easy!
Here’s some of our top honeymoon spots from 2015:

Honeymoon Planning Sunset Beach OahuTop Honeymoon Hotspots

Your honeymoon can be the most romantic trip you’ll ever take, and it can also be a lot of fun. Look for a destination that offers everything you want. Remember that there is no “ideal” destination – the personality of you and your partner will determine where on the planet your honeymoon should be. However, the following locations traditionally are considered the greatest spots to honeymoon and top many newlyweds” travel wish-lists………BUT we recommend finding your personal honeymoon match, just take a quick fun interactive quiz together and find out your top 2 destinations match, you will be able to virtually explore together, try it now: www.VirtualHoneymoon.com
Once you find your perfect match with our new honeymoon planning tool, our honeymoon designers will help you find the best resort match based on our likes and dislikes, its complimentary to use one of our honeymoon designers, they have all traveled and been certified in every destination we recommend!

Hawaii – Hawaii remains the number one destination for honeymoons year after year because of its romantic sunsets, magnificent beaches, and luxurious hotels. Visitors to Hawaii can also conveniently hop from island to island to experience just about any climate and adventure under the sun, including kayaking, mountain climbing, surfing, scuba, and even hiking in a rainforest.

Mexico – From the Yucatan peninsula to the Pacific Coast, Mexico is all at once romantic, adventurous, and laid-back. A collection of spectacular land- and seascapes larger than almost anywhere else in the world, reasonably priced attractions and an easy-to-reach location make a Mexico vacation hard to beat. Honeymooners can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including eco-tourism, water sports, horseback riding, diving, and touring ancient Mexican ruins.

The Caribbean – The islands of the Caribbean have long been favorites for honeymooners. While we mention a few below by name, your travel consultant can assist you with destination materials that provide a wealth of information for helping you choose the perfect spot.

Bahamas – With over 700 separate islands, you”ll find numerous resorts with all the water sports, pampering, night clubs, fine dining, casinos, and beaches you could possibly want. Many amazing islands in the Bahamas can also be visited easily in one trip by booking a cruise. If you”re seeking a truly romantic paradise for your upcoming honeymoon, look closely at the Bahamas.

Jamaica – If you”re eager to just get away and relax after hectic wedding planning, Jamaica is the place to be. From the famous reggae music festivals to the beautiful shorelines, it”s easy to get into the Jamaican state of mind. Whether you stay on the island in a luxurious resort or simply visit for a couple of hours on a cruise ship stop, Jamaica”s culture of fun, sun, and romance will make you feel welcome.

U.S. Virgin Islands – Replete with sailing, snorkeling, sports fishing, and tons of shopping, honeymooners have long been attracted to the Virgin Islands for an active escape.

Tahiti and the South Pacific – These islands are becoming an increasingly popular destination for couples (including celebrities) seeking an exclusive honeymoon experience and are the closest most ever get to a private island retreat. The sheer beauty and history of the land and the people allows couples to participate in awe-inspiring eco-tourism and cultural activities. Many also opt to stay in traditional style burés, some of which are directly over the water, to take advantage of the unparalleled views.

Fiji- Is the magical isles with the friendliest people on earth! From glistening white sand beaches and crystal clear lagoons and unique atmosphere to world class diving, The Soft Coral Capital of the World has epic surfing and untouched rain-forests to explore. They have some of the most romantic beach bure’s from Treetops to the beach.

Wine Country, Ca. – Many couples are drawn to distinctive locations throughout the United States. California, one of the most popular, offers marvels ranging from San Francisco”s Golden Gate Bridge to Wine Country. Its incredible range of world-class hotels, entertainment, and shopping venues gives honeymooners an exciting vacation from home. Offering fun and romantic tourist attractions that welcome visitors year-round. Traveling within the U.S. is an excellent opportunity to experience the unique diversity for which America is world-renowned.

Honeymoon Planning - Costa Rica HotspringsPlanning a Stress-Free Honeymoon

For honeymoon planning, the best prices and availability we recommend booking 6-12 months in advance also considering your budget, know that all-inclusive resorts take care of most of your meals, athletic equipment, and tips. Some also include liquor and bar costs as well as resort-specific activities. These arrangements vary widely, however, with some including roundtrip airfare, so find out exactly what is and is not included in the price.
Speaking of budget, we recommend using a honeymoon registry, where your guests can help pay for your honeymoon, check this out here, its free: Honeymoon Registry

Once you have a budget, decide when to go and for how long. Figure out how many vacation days you have and how many you”ll need before the wedding to take care of odds and ends at the last minute. Decide whether you want to leave immediately after your wedding, or wait a few days or weeks to give yourself more time to focus on the trip. It”s usually a good idea to give yourself at least a day or two to continue the honeymoon after returning home, before you head back to work and settle into your everyday life.

Have questions with honeymoon planning or need more ideas, feel free to contact one of our honeymoon designers at info@virtualhoneymoon.com
Call us at 707-824-8826!

Romantic Honeymoon Destinations for 2016!

Below are our most romantic honeymoon destinations, read on to see why we love them so much!

bungalow bora bora close up
1. Bora Bora – “Honeymooners favorite year after year!” The most romantic honeymoon destination on earth, with its clear turquoise blue lagoons and palm fringed beaches. Known for their over water bungalows, small peaceful villages, this is a honeymooners dream paradise, rated #1 most romantic place in the world and our personal favorite, opt for overwater bungalow!

Fiji - Romantic Honeymoon Destinations - Matangi Treehouse
2. Fiji– The magical isle! From glistening white sand beaches & crystal clear lagoons to untouched rainforests, known for their Tree Top Bure’s and many
island to chose from, Fiji really is a slice of heaven on earth, our recommendation is to opt for Bure in the trees!

Ambergris Caye, Belize - Romantic Honeymoon Destinations - HM Cabana
3. Ambergris Caye, Belize– Located in Central America, north of Mexico & west of Guatemala. Ambergris Caye is one of Belize’s outer islands, small friendly island, main form of transportation there is  golf carts & bikes and of course walking! With their beautiful white sand beaches, quiet and serene or stay near town for little more action, opt for Cabana on the beach!

Kauai - Romantic Honeymoon Destinations - Oceanfront Kona
4. Kauai– The island of discovery, with 50 miles of breath taking beaches against the clear pacific ocean with its sparkling blue water to its lush rainforest and waterfalls with rushing rivers, colorful valleys and quaint historic small towns, opt for luxury resort with oceanfront lanai for the most romantic honeymoon destination!

Costa Rica - Romantic Honeymoon Destinations - Hotsprings
5. Costa Rica– One of the most bio-diverse spots on the planet, with stunning variety of landscapes, micro-climates, flora & fauna. If Mother Nature can ever be accused of showing off, it is in Costa Rica, opt for their most amazing spa resorts for another romantic honeymoon destinations!

Find your perfect Honeymoon match now @ www.VirtualHoneymoon.com