Ya Mon!

Tropical weather year round...hammocks on pure white sandy beaches...a mellow party that doesn’t stop. What’s better than Jamaica?

Jamaica is resplendent in natural beauty, offering an ever-present view of crystalline turquoise waters and green, luscious mountains. It is a tiny island filled with a rich cultural heritage, the perfect destination whether you’re looking to relax or have an adventure. The island’s markets offer unique shopping experiences and the Jamaican nightlife is one-of-a-kind. In Jamaica, there are plenty of opportunities to fulfill all your honeymoon desires! 

Jamaica’s ‘hot spots’ include Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril. Other popular vacation destinations in Jamaica include Kingston, Port Anticolo and Southcoast. Each offers something unique for any couple. Combined with a friendly and outgoing culture that values fun, nothing says “Fun in the Sun” quite like this tiny island. For those wanting to marry on the island, there are a few requirements, but they are very relaxed. According to the Jamaican Tourist Board’s website, www.visitjamaica.com, “visitors can be married just 24 hours after arriving in Jamaica, providing prior application has been made for a marriage license. The cost of a license is 4000 Jamaican dollars (approximately US $60–US $65).” In Jamaica, marriage officers charge anywhere from US $50–US $250. This fee can be added on if you book an all-inclusive vacation.

There are some necessary documents. Unlike many countries, Jamaica does not expect you take a blood test before getting married. The following documentation is required:

·                     Proof of citizenship - certified copy of birth certificate, which includes father's name.

·                     Parent's written consent if under 18 years of age.

·                     Proof of divorce if applicable (original certificate of divorce).

·                     Certified copy of death certificate for widow or widower.

Pretty simple, right? As always, the best way to make sure all your bases are covered regarding forms, documents and requirements is to work with one of our Personal Honeymoon Consultants. Kathy and Jeanmarie love Jamaica and can show the all the best secret spots! After asking them, as well as the rest of the office staff, which places they loved about Jamaica, the following cities were at the top of the list.

Negril

Negril is a laid-back destination that fills your soul with mellow vibes. Here you will certainly enjoy the black cliffs and azure waters, along with all the other natural beauty that has become Jamaica’s signature. Take your bathing suit and flip-flops as that’s all you’ll really need.

One place you’ll probably visit, especially if you stay at an all-inclusive resort, is Bloody Bay. Host to some of the most beautiful stretches of sand and surf on the island, the Bay most likely got its namesake due to whaling and piracy that centered in the area in the past. While some of the beach is still open to the public, most of its property has been claimed by resorts to maintain privacy for those honeymooners!

Even if you’re an adventurer, you’ll want to combine the need for relaxation and take the Jamaica Whitewater Expedition. This 3-4 hour water excursion takes you down the Cabarita River, 45 minutes outside of Negril. This leisurely experience allows you to bask in the 78 degree water and float gently down the river with your honey, while taking in the breathtaking scenery around the water’s edge.... after the stress of planning your wedding, what’s better than that?!

Want a little adventure with your meals? Then make a stop at Rick’s Café in Negril to watch seasoned divers and novice vacationers brave the cliffs and dive straight into the ocean! Rick’s Café has been a staple in Jamaica since 1974 when it turned the sleepy little fishing village into a hotspot with its novelty. Even the damage from Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, which completely leveled the restaurant and tourist attraction, could not deter the locals. They rebuilt Rick’s to be bigger, better and higher than ever and it is one of the absolute “must-see’s” during your Jamaica stay. Everyone loves Rick’s Café; many who are hired maintain that it’s their one and only job – especially head chef Phillip “Sheddy” Williams, who has been in the kitchen for over 15 years. The friendly atmosphere and sheer joy of the staff and divers will truly show you a carefree and heartwarming time. Did I mention the food is fantastic?

Montego Bay

Montego Bay can be characterized as energetic and stunning. The Bay commands a hedonistic lifestyle, bringing out gourmet appetites and the inner-golfer in us all.

One of the most famous attractions is the Luminous Lagoon, host to millions of dinoflagellattes...these micro-organisms, when agitated, create a stunning and mystifying green glow that outlines fish and other life in the waters. Take a breathtaking 45 minute lagoon cruise through the Glistening Waters Marina. You’ll get a full history of the lagoon and a chance to dive in and swim in the waters yourself (see if you turn green in the water’s light!) and after, you can dine at the Glistening Waters Restaurant. Talk to Jerry, who runs the marina, and ask him to croon some Bob Marley –most likely, he will!

If you’re looking for a great restaurant, look no further than Margaritaville! Any ‘Parrothead’ will tell you that there’s no finer time than the place named after Jimmy Buffett’s classic tune. Enjoy countless multicolored beverages, mile high burgers (try the signature “Burger in Paradise”) and then wait until evening, when music turns the restaurant into one nonstop party! There’s no closing time here, so stay and play until you drop – we guarantee there will still be people partying long after you get tired.

Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios creates the perfect blend of rest and relaxation in its Eden-like splendor; however, don’t let that fool you! Ocho Rios has an explosive reggae culture that nicely compliments its colored, lush gardens, golden sand beaches and magnificent waterfalls.

Speaking of waterfalls, nothing tops Dunn’s River Falls. Described as “a living and growing phenomenon, it continuously regenerates itself from deposits of travertine rock, the result of precipitation of calcium carbonate from the river, as it flows over the falls. The small dome-shaped cataracts are usually associated with thermal spring activity found in limestone caves.”  There is plenty to do in the falls, from climbing through the waterfalls to the top, to exploring the caverns, and you’ll never regret your time spent enjoying this beautiful natural wonder.

Directly adjacent to the Falls is Dolphin Cove, a fun and unique experience where you can literally swim and interact with dolphins! Enjoy the music of a live steel drum band as you encounter these wonderfully friendly creatures. You can also interact with other animals and reptiles on the Jungle Trail and enjoy their private beach. Shop for some memorable souvenirs and don’t forget to bring your camera!

Enjoy duty free shopping and a creative culture here in Ocho Rios and stop by James Bond beach to see some famous sights. Whatever you do, you’ll be sure to have a relaxing and exhilarating time.

Have I convinced you to stop by Jamaica yet? Their slogan remains true, assuring visitors that “once you go, you know.” How very, very true. If you’d like more information on Honeymooning in Jamaica, or want to plan a Destination Wedding there (or, if you’d simply like to know more!) stop in or call us – we can’t wait to share the reggae flavor with ya, mon!

Coming Soon...

(Photo Courtesy of Rachel Erb)

Germany!

Happy Fall!

I can think of no better way to welcome fall than kicking back and celebrating Oktoberfest with my friends....which got me thinking. Fall is a great time for a honeymoon, and the best beer comes from Germany! (I’m a little biased because of my heritage). Now, don’t think I’m crazy. Unless you’re deathly adverse to Oktoberfest or the thought of lederhosen (those leather shots for men and boys in traditional German garb) makes you want to cringe, hear me out.

Germany has castles (!), a richly loved and preserved history, and plenty of contemporary culture to delight anyone. As the home to many foreign car dealerships as well as a highway that has no speed limit, Germany is a viable option for the car enthusiast or speed demon in your life (not that I’m an advocate of speeding; always wear your seatbelt...etc etc....)

Germany is host to The Romantic Road – once a trade route through several villages and towns – has become a front runner for auto enthusiasts and romantic newlyweds alike. The best part about this adventurous road? No speed limit means you can travel as leisurely as you’d like....or, just as fast. It’s a perfect honeymoon adventure for the couple that wants to do or see something all the time! For my article today I’ll concentrate specifically on what this road offers honeymooners, and tell you a little bit about marriage requirements in Germany (which are very, very specific)!

Würzburg – The center of Germany’s Franken Wine region and one of the northernmost towns on the Romantic Road, Würzburg offers two major attractions: Marienberg Fortress and the Residenz.  The Residenz, which is home to the UNESCO World Heritage, is over 300 rooms styled in Baroque and rococo architecture. The Marienberg Fortress is built over the first church in Germany and hosts a museum, garden, and a 100 meter deep well. Including sculptures and carvings from Tilman Riemenschneider (the site also is host to his gravestone). The entire place is a park, with open walkways and plenty of places to explore.

 Weikersheim – Along this portion of the road, you’re guided through towards Rothenburg with the gentle Tauber River on one side, and lush vineyards on the other. Weikersheim claims the beautiful Schloss Palace as its own, with its pristine Baroque gardens which are open to the public and host open air concerts.

Creglingen – In this region, be sure to see the Fingerhut (Thimble) Museum, and the world-famous Altar of Mary by legendary woodcarver Tilmann Riemenschneider. Among others, ruins are quite plentiful here and bring about a serene reverence for the history of the Creglingen and surrounding areas.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Perhaps the most romantic spot on the road, Rothenburg o.d.T (as its’ nicknamed) has it all – shops, museums, churches, wine, festivals and an ever-present feeling of history. The entire town takes you back to a quieter, more peaceful way of life –that is, until you visit the hauntingly accurate Medieval Crime Museum.  For a glimpse at a romantic German sunset, try the  Burg Gate & Garden (near the rear), and for shopping you simply must try The Christmas Village. Not enough action for you? The Town Square boasts shops, performers and quaint architecture that will have your camera snapping away! For the child in everyone, the Figuren-Theater hosts’ daily puppet shows (think a more sophisticated version of the original Punch and Judy puppets).

Pfaffenwinkel – Known as the land of churches, this area boasts at least one church per village in the Rococo or Baroque style as well as numerous hiking paths and a splendid view of the Alps - essentially must for all architecture lovers and religious history buffs.

Neuschwanstein – This is definitely the place for the princess in us all. It includes the towns of Füssen and Schwangau as well as Pfronten and the resort village on Lake Hopfensee. Most importantly, it is host to castles, castles, and more castles! The most famous, Castle Neuschwanstein, was the inspiration for Walt Disney World’s magical creation in Florida. Other activities for the adventurous include castle crawling, swimming, hiking (or walking) along nature trails in the mountains, biking and sailing and boating...the options go on and on, and promise a grand time for newlyweds!

Of course, our Personal Honeymoon Consultants have much more information regarding these areas and can offer exclusive tips to the most popular, romantic and budget friendly hotels along the route.

But what if you want to get married IN Germany? Well, there are a lot of rule – but if you’re thorough and have the aid of a trusty Travel Agent, you will be just fine and can make that dream come true!

Europe and Germany are a little stricter on their marriage rules, and their deadlines are made weeks ahead of what we, as Americans, consider a normal schedule. Only marriages performed at a registrar's office (Standesamt) are legally valid in Germany. A Church ceremony may only happen after the civil marriage takes place.

Here is a list of applications and/or documents to be Submitted to the Registrar. Bring along original copies of the following:

·         Birth certificate (with certified translation if certificate is not in German)

·         Marriage certificate of parents (with certified translation if document is not in German). This certificate is not required if the birth certificate gives the parents' personal data and marriage date.

·         Proof of residence for German citizens (see below for non-residents)

·         Proof of citizenship (passport)

·         Health certificate (only if required under laws of American citizen's home state)

·         Certificate of Free Status (Ehefähigkeitszeugnis). Required of all foreigners marrying in Germany. Registrars will generally accept an Affidavit of Free Status executed before an American Consul.

·         Certificate of registration (Anmeldenachweis) required of foreigners in Germany. Written statement from local resident registration office that the foreigner is properly registered.

·        

While there are no residency requirements and no waiting period, it’s better to make sure all your I’s are dotted and your T’s crossed – stop in or call us to make your German honeymoon or destination wedding a reality!