Monday, September 20, 2010
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Aruba...Charming. Perfect!
There’s absolutely no question as to the reason why the Beach Boys decided to croon about this week’s island hotspot – it’s got everything a couple would want to get away after wedding madness, and absolutely stunning waters and soft beaches make the perfect backdrop for a destination wedding. After recently arriving back from quaint Plantsville, Connecticut to celebrate a wedding I found my inspiration for this week’s blarticle (hey, I’m trying out new word mash-ups...artilog, blogticle...haven’t found a good one yet). In honor of my new friends Georgie and Donna getting hitched, I’ve decided to write about their particular honeymoon destination – Aruba!
One of the most easily navigable and user-friendly sites about Aruba was found at www.aruba.com. Here you will find everything from travel and entry requirements to local attractions, nightlife, resorts and eateries around the island. With a branding that smiles “90,000 friends you haven’t met yet” you can’t help but feel the exciting welcome and hospitality radiating from these multilingual and diverse people, waiting for you to step on their soil.
The culture of Aruba is certainly something of note as well. A diverse country with four main languages and a rich history make Aruba an interesting destination. The Amerindians, a tribe of hunters-gatherers-fishers originally used the sea for survival in the Malmok and Palm Beach areas as its earliest inhabitants, around 2500 BC – 1000 AD. Later on the island was ruled by both the Spanish and the Dutch (which it remains today) at different points in time, and briefly extended a rule under England, as well. Over the years, the aloe plant has grown ferociously on Aruba, which has extended its reach on the world by becoming the largest aloe vera harvester and manufacturer.
Getting married in Aruba has some requirements that could be a tad tricky unless you know about them ahead of time and are a stickler for details and preparation. According to Aruba’s main site, there are different requirements depending on whether you would like a civil or religious marriage. Across the board you must provide proof of identity, age, nationality, proper religious accreditation (such as a blessing from your home priest if you are Catholic or a certificate of Judaism from your local Rabbi) and for civil ceremonies you must have witnesses as well as a certificate of no impediment (AKA a “single status report” or “negative statement of marriage”). The best way to make sure you have all proper documents is by working with one of our Personal Honeymoon Consultants. They will keep you on track by pairing you up with a wedding consultant in Aruba or working with you directly to ensure all documents are to the Civil Town House at the appropriate time.
So, once you’re in Aruba....what on earth to do? Easy! First, you have to see the beaches. My advice? Rent a car or motorcycle through your travel agent or, if you’re deciding to do it last minute, walk right up to the front desk at your resort or hotel. The best way to see the island is to navigate it yourself and because of its size it’s nearly impossible to get lost. The very first stop to make is at the notorious Palm Beach, but that’s not the only beach worthy of a look. Baby and Arashi beaches are great for snorkeling. If watersports are more your thing than be sure to take a look at Eagle and Hadicurari beaches for surfing, boating and tubing. If relaxation’s the name of your game then Druif and Mangel Hatlo beaches are exactly what you need. All of these sport stunning clear waters, warm sun-kissed sand, and plenty of privacy for those needing to feel removed from the everyday world.
There are also multiple attractions that exude Aruba’s beauty, history and culture. The Bon Bini (which translates to “welcome”) festival takes place every Tuesday at 6:30pm rain or shine. This Oranjestad celebration features dancers, drummers and local artists and food. If you happen to hit Aruba at the right time you’ll see the Carnival Celebration, a once-a-year event that lasts for an entire month! (Check with your Personal Honeymoon Consultant to see when next year’s Carnival will take place.) If you’re looking for something a little mellower, Aruba’s Indian caves, the Casibari and Ayo rock formations and museums are ways to soak in the rich traditions of the island. In the Arikok National Park, couples will explore exquisite lava and quartz formations, tokens of the incredible power of nature on the island. Be sure to check out the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins and the Aruba Aloe Factory to see snippets of history and industrialism.
Let’s not forget about the nightlife. Aruba sports diverse dining and beachside activity after the sun sets. You can take a mini sunset cruise that leaves off Palm Beach and there are plenty of bars from which to choose. Try one, or try them all! One of the more famous eateries is Charlie’s Bar. Starting in the 40’s when mariner divers made a stop at Aruba they’d trek to Charlie’s Bar and leave a token behind. Today, the bar is overflowing with kitsch! If you’re feeling lucky, try one of the casinos in the area and see if you can win big!
There’s obviously more to see than what I’ve described here; Aruba is a treasure and deserves time and attention to truly explore every unique facet of the island. I’m absolutely positive my friends Georgie and Donna are having the time of their lives as they celebrate their new titles of husband and wife. If you’d like to make 90,000 new friends and see what Aruba can offer you, contact KHM Honeymoons to speak with our Personal Honeymoon Consultants today!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Monday, September 13, 2010
Puerto Vallarta - Classic and Charming
¡Bienvenido a Puerto Vallarta!
If you’re looking at Mexico for your destination wedding or honeymoon of choice, nothing compares to the old-world charm of Puerto Vallarta. There is so much fascinating history here, and combined with beautiful architecture & hospitable people you’ll find all the romance you’ll need! I’ll soon be traveling to this historic city myself, and wanted to look up some neat facts before I went. In my research, I found all sorts of pages on Puerto Vallarta’s history and growth. I also found a lot of information on creating perfect wedding or honeymoon memories too.
This secluded and exotic hideaway boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world- Banderas Bay, which is a haven for water sports enthusiasts as well as wildlife. Here, you can watch the whales from December until April, swim with dolphins and manta rays and explore exquisite underwater coral reefs. If you prefer to experience nature from a distance, never fear – Vallarta’s diverse culture will keep you busy with plenty of dining and shopping excursions as well as sightseeing tours and packages. It seems hard to believe that this pristine town filled with fun and excitement was once a small thriving Mexican village with a harbor for trade.
Puerto Vallarta had its beginnings when Cortes’ claimed control over the Ameca valley in 1524 and named the Banderas Bay, which translates to “flags” after the colorful native banners he found upon arrival. The bay thrived as a haven for those on the trade route seeking respite, and also garnered a reputation for piracy and smuggling in the latter half of the 17th and 18th century. During the 19th century Puerto Vallarta (then known as Las Penas) transformed from a fishing and pearl market to a more self-sustaining and realized village atmosphere in 1859. Evolving steadily but slowly, Americans started to take an interest in the area in the 1950’s but Vallarta bloomed after director John Huston filmed Night of the Iguana in 1963. The film, starring Ava Gardner and Richard Burton was covered heavily in the media due to the affair Burton shared with Elizabeth Taylor and tourism skyrocketed - (nothing like a scandal, right)?
Today, it’s easy to see why many couples flock to the quaint town to celebrate their nuptials or relax on their honeymoon. Many resorts here are all-inclusive and provide wedding services for free based on the number of nights you stay. Destination weddings are popular not only because of the price difference between a destination and a traditional wedding but because Puerto Vallarta has such an old-world charm. This is the picture perfect destination, folks…it doesn’t get much better than walking through the old town.
There are multiple places within the city which you must visit. Landmarks include the Parish Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, rock formations Pulipito and Pilitas, Playa Conchas Cinas (Chinese Shells Beach), and the Maelcon – a paved walkway along the seashore that is popular Sunday evenings. Along this beautiful path you will find contemporary sculptures by Sergio Bustamante, Alejandro Colunga and Ramiz Barquet. If shopping is more your style don’t forget to visit the Mercado Isle Cuale and Mercado Municipal Cuale- two of the largest open air markets selling souvenirs and other popular trinkets to take home with you. Be wary of cats, though- Isla Cuale is famous for their feline population. If you’re allergic, make sure you take a Benadryl beforehand.
If you’re an intellectual, you will certainly appreciate the Cuale Archaeological Museum on the west side of Isla Cuale. This museum has an important and historic collection of regional pre-Hispanic art as well as an intimate gallery full of contemporary works from local artists.
And food. Who doesn’t love food? In Puerto Vallarta there are three main dishes you simply must try: grilled marlin, ceviche and Huachingano Sarandeado…grilled marlin is pretty self-explanatory, but cerviche is raw fish, scallops or shrimp with chiles and lime juice. The lime juice cures the fish, and when served with tortilla makes a nice cultural treat; Huachingano Sarandeado is simply red snapper marinated and grilled.
All of these cultural delights melt together to create a perfectly romantic atmosphere for newlyweds. A sense of other-worldly charm saturates every part of Puerto Vallarta and promises days filled with learning, friendly people and something new at every turn. Nights promise impeccable dining, local hotspots and pristine scenery as sunsets become more than just an ordinary event.
Puerto Vallarta beckons to its travelers again and again. KHM Honeymoons constantly sends couples to this lovely town just inside Banderas Bay, and we’d love to get you there as well. If you’re at all interested in traveling for a destination wedding or honeymoon, contact our friendly and capable Personal Honeymoon Consultants for free honeymoon consultations.
If you’re looking at Mexico for your destination wedding or honeymoon of choice, nothing compares to the old-world charm of Puerto Vallarta. There is so much fascinating history here, and combined with beautiful architecture & hospitable people you’ll find all the romance you’ll need! I’ll soon be traveling to this historic city myself, and wanted to look up some neat facts before I went. In my research, I found all sorts of pages on Puerto Vallarta’s history and growth. I also found a lot of information on creating perfect wedding or honeymoon memories too.
This secluded and exotic hideaway boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world- Banderas Bay, which is a haven for water sports enthusiasts as well as wildlife. Here, you can watch the whales from December until April, swim with dolphins and manta rays and explore exquisite underwater coral reefs. If you prefer to experience nature from a distance, never fear – Vallarta’s diverse culture will keep you busy with plenty of dining and shopping excursions as well as sightseeing tours and packages. It seems hard to believe that this pristine town filled with fun and excitement was once a small thriving Mexican village with a harbor for trade.
Puerto Vallarta had its beginnings when Cortes’ claimed control over the Ameca valley in 1524 and named the Banderas Bay, which translates to “flags” after the colorful native banners he found upon arrival. The bay thrived as a haven for those on the trade route seeking respite, and also garnered a reputation for piracy and smuggling in the latter half of the 17th and 18th century. During the 19th century Puerto Vallarta (then known as Las Penas) transformed from a fishing and pearl market to a more self-sustaining and realized village atmosphere in 1859. Evolving steadily but slowly, Americans started to take an interest in the area in the 1950’s but Vallarta bloomed after director John Huston filmed Night of the Iguana in 1963. The film, starring Ava Gardner and Richard Burton was covered heavily in the media due to the affair Burton shared with Elizabeth Taylor and tourism skyrocketed - (nothing like a scandal, right)?
Today, it’s easy to see why many couples flock to the quaint town to celebrate their nuptials or relax on their honeymoon. Many resorts here are all-inclusive and provide wedding services for free based on the number of nights you stay. Destination weddings are popular not only because of the price difference between a destination and a traditional wedding but because Puerto Vallarta has such an old-world charm. This is the picture perfect destination, folks…it doesn’t get much better than walking through the old town.
There are multiple places within the city which you must visit. Landmarks include the Parish Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, rock formations Pulipito and Pilitas, Playa Conchas Cinas (Chinese Shells Beach), and the Maelcon – a paved walkway along the seashore that is popular Sunday evenings. Along this beautiful path you will find contemporary sculptures by Sergio Bustamante, Alejandro Colunga and Ramiz Barquet. If shopping is more your style don’t forget to visit the Mercado Isle Cuale and Mercado Municipal Cuale- two of the largest open air markets selling souvenirs and other popular trinkets to take home with you. Be wary of cats, though- Isla Cuale is famous for their feline population. If you’re allergic, make sure you take a Benadryl beforehand.
If you’re an intellectual, you will certainly appreciate the Cuale Archaeological Museum on the west side of Isla Cuale. This museum has an important and historic collection of regional pre-Hispanic art as well as an intimate gallery full of contemporary works from local artists.
And food. Who doesn’t love food? In Puerto Vallarta there are three main dishes you simply must try: grilled marlin, ceviche and Huachingano Sarandeado…grilled marlin is pretty self-explanatory, but cerviche is raw fish, scallops or shrimp with chiles and lime juice. The lime juice cures the fish, and when served with tortilla makes a nice cultural treat; Huachingano Sarandeado is simply red snapper marinated and grilled.
All of these cultural delights melt together to create a perfectly romantic atmosphere for newlyweds. A sense of other-worldly charm saturates every part of Puerto Vallarta and promises days filled with learning, friendly people and something new at every turn. Nights promise impeccable dining, local hotspots and pristine scenery as sunsets become more than just an ordinary event.
Puerto Vallarta beckons to its travelers again and again. KHM Honeymoons constantly sends couples to this lovely town just inside Banderas Bay, and we’d love to get you there as well. If you’re at all interested in traveling for a destination wedding or honeymoon, contact our friendly and capable Personal Honeymoon Consultants for free honeymoon consultations.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Benvenuti in Italia!
...Welcome to Italy!
What’s more romantic than an entire city set atop water? Venice speaks volumes to couples that loves classic romance and is one of the world’s most popular cities for romantic honeymoon destinations. With waterfront hotels that offer unique views of the Grand Canal, impeccable dining and plenty of vaporettis, gondolas and motoscafis for you to navigate the city’s waterways, you will always have something to explore.
Why Venice?
For me, the choice to write about one of the world’s hotspots for matrimonio was easy. I get inspiration from all sorts of places. This one came from my boyfriend, who loves to travel and upon peppering him with the question “So, what should this week’s topic be?” over morning coffee, he immediately replied “Venice. It’s romantic, right? And I’d love to go there someday!” One would think Venice is a hands-down, no brainer for couples looking to take a cultural European honeymoon. To my pleasant surprise, upon research I discovered little tidbits about this Italian city that only reinforce the love affair that draws 16.5 million people to the island every year.
Venice is bountiful in history, art, architecture and culture. It originated as a trading mecca utilizing both the Byzantine and Islamic trade routes. As it flourished, Venice became a cultural epicenter. Yet, due to clashes and war, the city fell into a “custody battle” of sorts between nations and finally came under Italian rule in 1848. Throughout its tempestuous history, though, the beauty and intricacy of this sophisticated culture has remained for lovers of all ages to celebrate.
One of my favorite stories of all time is that of Romeo and Juliet- star crossed lovers with feuding families engaged in a clandestine affair and marriage. The play’s tragic end is well known. Verona is a small ways away from Venice and offers a physical representation of the lovers’ trysting place: the infamous “Juliet’s Balcony.” Visitors may pose with a serene bronze replica of the young ill- fated girl. According to legend, if you rub the statue’s right breast you will find your true love and walls underneath and alongside the small stone balcony are littered with thousands of lovelorn letters from around the world. Juliet’s Balcony is a must-see for newlyweds; it is a poignant and nostalgic reminder that love can conquer all.
Another must-see: the tiny island of Murano. Since 1291 it has been a haven for glassmakers to establish and flourish their art (having been moved to the island during that year; most of the architecture in Venice at the time was wood and therefore a fire hazard). Murano glass is world-famous and beautifully handcrafted. Historically, glassmakers in the area were prized for their skills in making glass mirrors (a rare commodity) and have since created bowls, animals, jewelry, stemware, bottles, vases, centerpieces and other forms of art. If you take a daytrip to Murano, you will be treated to glassblowing demonstrations and tours. Taking home a unique piece of glass will cost you, but if you’re an art enthusiast or lover of culture it will be well worth it. Also, if you’re looking to take home a souvenir, you’ll find more kitschy fare now; pieces of candy, snow globes and other smaller works are more affordable and slightly less quality. Nevertheless, Murano offers an awe-inspiring time for couples who enjoy learning something new and can appreciate the long hours of time and talent it requires to craft such fine work.
As for the city itself there are plenty of sights to see: first of which is the Grand Canal. Hailed as one of the most romantic places in the world, you’ll navigate through Venice’s main water thoroughfare to see Renaissance palaces. Save some money and travel by Traghetto – it’s the same as a gondolier without the trimmings, and at 50 cents a ride you’ll have money left for other things.
St. Marks Square is also a treat. Known as the “drawing room of Europe” to Napoleon Bonaparte, and Piazza san Marco to the locals, St. Marks encompasses all sorts. Best time to visit? Some say early morning to enjoy the quiet, and others say in the evening to enjoy the sounds and sights of the square. Either way, avoid in the middle of the day – you’ll be swamped with tourists. Tour the Basillica and Doge’s Palace in the late afternoon to avoid lines and stay for the plethora of restaurant entertainment. Don’t forget to travel up the Campanile di San Marco bell-tower.
As for romance in Venice, that’s a no-brainer. The city itself is awash with beautiful sights and sounds, and breathes romance from its very core. But if you’re looking for more tips and suggestions, contact your Personal Honeymoon Consultant here at KHM Travel. We’d love to share with you our first hand experiences, and help create the wedding/honeymoon travel of your dreams!
Ciao!
What’s more romantic than an entire city set atop water? Venice speaks volumes to couples that loves classic romance and is one of the world’s most popular cities for romantic honeymoon destinations. With waterfront hotels that offer unique views of the Grand Canal, impeccable dining and plenty of vaporettis, gondolas and motoscafis for you to navigate the city’s waterways, you will always have something to explore.
Why Venice?
For me, the choice to write about one of the world’s hotspots for matrimonio was easy. I get inspiration from all sorts of places. This one came from my boyfriend, who loves to travel and upon peppering him with the question “So, what should this week’s topic be?” over morning coffee, he immediately replied “Venice. It’s romantic, right? And I’d love to go there someday!” One would think Venice is a hands-down, no brainer for couples looking to take a cultural European honeymoon. To my pleasant surprise, upon research I discovered little tidbits about this Italian city that only reinforce the love affair that draws 16.5 million people to the island every year.
Venice is bountiful in history, art, architecture and culture. It originated as a trading mecca utilizing both the Byzantine and Islamic trade routes. As it flourished, Venice became a cultural epicenter. Yet, due to clashes and war, the city fell into a “custody battle” of sorts between nations and finally came under Italian rule in 1848. Throughout its tempestuous history, though, the beauty and intricacy of this sophisticated culture has remained for lovers of all ages to celebrate.
One of my favorite stories of all time is that of Romeo and Juliet- star crossed lovers with feuding families engaged in a clandestine affair and marriage. The play’s tragic end is well known. Verona is a small ways away from Venice and offers a physical representation of the lovers’ trysting place: the infamous “Juliet’s Balcony.” Visitors may pose with a serene bronze replica of the young ill- fated girl. According to legend, if you rub the statue’s right breast you will find your true love and walls underneath and alongside the small stone balcony are littered with thousands of lovelorn letters from around the world. Juliet’s Balcony is a must-see for newlyweds; it is a poignant and nostalgic reminder that love can conquer all.
Another must-see: the tiny island of Murano. Since 1291 it has been a haven for glassmakers to establish and flourish their art (having been moved to the island during that year; most of the architecture in Venice at the time was wood and therefore a fire hazard). Murano glass is world-famous and beautifully handcrafted. Historically, glassmakers in the area were prized for their skills in making glass mirrors (a rare commodity) and have since created bowls, animals, jewelry, stemware, bottles, vases, centerpieces and other forms of art. If you take a daytrip to Murano, you will be treated to glassblowing demonstrations and tours. Taking home a unique piece of glass will cost you, but if you’re an art enthusiast or lover of culture it will be well worth it. Also, if you’re looking to take home a souvenir, you’ll find more kitschy fare now; pieces of candy, snow globes and other smaller works are more affordable and slightly less quality. Nevertheless, Murano offers an awe-inspiring time for couples who enjoy learning something new and can appreciate the long hours of time and talent it requires to craft such fine work.
As for the city itself there are plenty of sights to see: first of which is the Grand Canal. Hailed as one of the most romantic places in the world, you’ll navigate through Venice’s main water thoroughfare to see Renaissance palaces. Save some money and travel by Traghetto – it’s the same as a gondolier without the trimmings, and at 50 cents a ride you’ll have money left for other things.
St. Marks Square is also a treat. Known as the “drawing room of Europe” to Napoleon Bonaparte, and Piazza san Marco to the locals, St. Marks encompasses all sorts. Best time to visit? Some say early morning to enjoy the quiet, and others say in the evening to enjoy the sounds and sights of the square. Either way, avoid in the middle of the day – you’ll be swamped with tourists. Tour the Basillica and Doge’s Palace in the late afternoon to avoid lines and stay for the plethora of restaurant entertainment. Don’t forget to travel up the Campanile di San Marco bell-tower.
As for romance in Venice, that’s a no-brainer. The city itself is awash with beautiful sights and sounds, and breathes romance from its very core. But if you’re looking for more tips and suggestions, contact your Personal Honeymoon Consultant here at KHM Travel. We’d love to share with you our first hand experiences, and help create the wedding/honeymoon travel of your dreams!
Ciao!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)