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Romance in Connecticut

It was snowing again. This is the soft white powder you would expect in Colorado, not in Connecticut. It makes everything quiet and clean and very cold. The large wrap around quintessential porch creaked below my snow boots. I glanced at the ice sculptures in the "green" which was now all white. As I walked into the lobby the roaring fire was a welcome relief to the snowy scene outside. I had just walked back in time to 1806 at the White Hart Inn.

On the first floor of this charming inn are the large banquet rooms each with its own huge original wood burning fire place. The wood floors and large windows make it a romantic and personal place for a wedding and reception. The cozy Tap Room on the main floor is a meeting place for all guests where one can grab a delicious meal or a hot drink at the bar. The hotel is only 26 rooms which ensure individual attention to all guests.

My favorite room at the White Hart Inn is the Edsel Ford room. The blue Waverly wall paper and royal blue carpet makes you feel like you are indeed visiting in the 1800s. The large 4 poster canopy bed is nestled between windows that offer views of the green and the town. Although the fire place is non working, it adds to the romantic ambiance of the room.

The annual ski jumping event had taken place the previous weekend to my visit and now this cozy bed and breakfast was quiet once again. Nestled in the Berkshire Hills, this area of Connecticut is called Litchfield County. While the area is best known for their many summer recreational and cultural activities, there is much to do in all four seasons. Spring is an excellent time for hiking, biking or canoeing. The Appalachian Trail has 13 miles of beautiful trails all through Salisbury. The winter offers downhill and cross-country skiing. The fall has the beautiful breathtaking autumn colors, of which there is nothing to compare. Visit a winery or do some antiquing all year round. Or just pull up a rocking chair and enjoy the feeling of days gone by at this perfect spot for your romantic honeymoon vacation!

For more honeymoon and anniversary information please contact me at Special Occasion Travel either by phone 1-800-691-0243 or email at Ellen@SpecialOccasionTravel.com. Please visit my website at http://www.specialoccasiontravel.com and sign up for my complimentary weekly travel tips.

Romance in Castries, St. Lucia

St. Lucia is your Caribbean dream of an island rich in unspoiled natural beauty. The twin Piton Mountains tower like majestic giants over the island. Below, verdant rain forests teem with eye-catching flora. Hugging the entire island are great stretches of beach. Colorful coastal villages and sprawling banana plantations reflect the island’s multi-faceted cultural heritage. Constant smiles and welcoming spirit make this one of the friendliest islands in all of the Caribbean. While visiting during Mother’s day I experienced this gracious friendliness first hand. Mothers and children in their finest attire allowed me to take their pictures. Adults and children alike welcomed me to their church and their island even though I was obviously a visitor. They captured my heart with their friendliness.
When you visit this island, your taxi driver will be so kind as to give you his card. If you are pleased with his service, he is yours for the entire stay on the island. Call him to take you on your shopping trip or around town. He will wait for you or arrange to come back for you without taking payment until the task is complete.
Windjammer Landing is located on a lush oceanfront hillside. It is a low-key and casually sophisticated resort. This Mediterranean-style resort tumbles down a hillside towards the pristine beach and crystalline waters of Labrelotte Bay. It offers its guests the option of independent luxury villa living combined with all the dining and recreational possibilities of a tropical resort.
The most romantic rooms are the richly appointed one-bedroom villas with a plunge pool. Tropical furnishings and breathtaking ocean views set the mood for complete relaxation. Because of the steep terrain, these villas offer seclusion and privacy, some of the most important ingredients of romance.
Whether you prefer casual dining or elegant cuisine, there’s a world of tempting dishes for all to explore in a variety of beachfront or hillside restaurants. Although this is a family property, some restaurants cater to adults only. For the ultimate in romance hire one of the chefs to prepare a gourmet feast in the comfort of your spacious villa.
Complete your trip with an exhilarating helicopter transfer back to the airport where you can view the deep blue sea and dominating mountains from the sky.
For more romantic travel information please contact me at Special Occasion Travel either by phone 1-800-691-0243 or email me at Ellen@SpecialOccasionTravel.com. Please visit my website at http://www.specialoccasiontravel.com and sign up for my complimentary weekly travel tips.

Romance in San Jose, Costa Rica

There are hundreds of ways to explore nature in Costa Rica and each one takes your adrenaline to the next level. Adventurous visitors can bungee jump, hike fiery craters, scuba dive with sharks, kayak through fierce currents and zip from tree top to tree top. And what does a romantic traveler do after a full day of adventure? Relax and enjoy the unique hotels available in every part of this beautiful country.

Most visitors start their trip to Costa Rica in San Jose. Because of the condition of the roads in this country and the late arrival of most flights, a one night stay is necessary in the city. If you are just starting your romantic getaway or honeymoon vacation, you will want a hotel that immediately relaxes you.

Xandari Resort and Spa with the palm-roofed Spa Village is reminiscent of an indigenous pueblo set amidst waterfalls and gardens. You can enjoy treatments and relaxation in your own private jalapa (palm-roofed pavilion) each with its own Jacuzzi perched on the rim of this tropical paradise. A full range of spa treatments are available.
Trails to a year-round river with private dramatic waterfalls add to the lap pools and outdoor Jacuzzi. Breathtaking views of San Jose increase the drama. Each room is decorated with local art and loving attention by the owner. The Zen feeling of the whole property just whispers for you to relax and enjoy.

This is a great resort to start your active trip to Costa Rica especially if you have just arrived from a hectic wedding!

For more romantic travel information please contact me at Special Occasion Travel either by phone 1-800-691-0243 or email me at Ellen@SpecialOccasionTravel.com. Please visit my website at http://www.specialoccasiontravel.com and sign up for my complimentary weekly travel tips.

Romance in Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Tortola is one of the many British Virgin Islands. Just 60 miles east of Puerto Rico lay the West Indies. These islands are accessible from the air via San Juan or by a 15-mile ferry via St. Thomas (approximately $50/person/round trip). The islands were named one of the top ten Caribbean islands for 2006 in the Conde Nast Traveler. The 12 inhabited islands have villas, apartments and resorts to choose from. Finding the most romantic on each island is my personal quest. I specialize in Romantic travel and I try to find at least one great property on each island I visit to share with my clients.

The BVI, as those in the know refer to them, are an overseas territory of the United Kingdom even thought the U.S. dollar is the only legal tender. To most visitors, the islands are really all about sailing. One can charter a yacht with a crew or attend a recognized teaching school for sailing. For me, it was finding a romantic hotel to send my honeymoon and anniversary clients to visit.

A wedding in the British Virgin Islands will be memorable and stress-free. A marriage license is simple to arrange and the certificate is valid in the United States. I was able to witness one of those stress-free weddings at the cozy and romantic Sugar Mill Hotel. The rain forced the wedding to take place under the large, tree-shaded alfresco gazebo. With twinkling lights, flowers and ribbons the ambiance was definitely romantic.

The Sugar Mill Hotel is set in a lush tropical garden among the ruins of a 17th century sugar plantation. According to Conde Nast Traveler 2006, the Sugar Mill Hotel is one of the top 5 in the Caribbean. The critically acclaimed cuisine in the historic stone building once housed the plantation’s rum distillery. The food is a culmination of Caribbean ingredients meets California cuisine in an imaginative, award-winning menu that changes nightly.

Across the street from a small white sand beach in reef-protected water this resort is located on the west side of the island. Travelers from the U.S. must remember that driving is on the left side of the road. I suggest a taxi from the airport. Car rental can be arranged at the Sugar Mill Hotel if one is so inclined.

The hotel has a honeymoon suite located very near the restaurant. Although superbly appointed, this stand-alone unit is too close to parking and the pool for me. I much rather prefer the Plantation House Suites. They are designed to reflect the charm of the traditional Caribbean architecture, with fine stonework, breezy porches and lacy gingerbread trim. These rooms are just a few steps from the beach. With an open plan layout, each master suite has a king size bed, large bathroom with double sinks a living room are with sofa and chairs, cable TV, VCR and kitchenette with microwave and refrigerator. Steep hillsides give all guest great views of the ocean and some neighboring islands.

The honeymoon package for 7 nights includes deluxe accommodations, bottle of fine champagne, 3-day jeep rental, 1-hour massage, full day sail to neighboring islands including lunch and drinks, gourmet picnic for two, a bottle of Sugar Mill rum, welcome cocktail and a copy of the Sugar Mill Caribbean cookbook written by Jeff & Jinx Morgan – Bon Appetit columnists. Breakfast and dinner can be included in your daily charge.

If low key and relaxing is what you are looking for than this island resort is for you. Not for the physically challenged, this hotel is for a few special people whom enjoy getting to know the staff and other guests.

For more romantic travel information please contact me at Special Occasion Travel either by phone 1-800-691-0243 or email me at Ellen@SpecialOccasionTravel.com. Please visit my website at http://www.specialoccasiontravel.com and sign up for my complimentary weekly travel tips.

Romance in Negril, Jamaica


Jamaica is the largest English-speaking island in the Caribbean with a population of 2.5 million people. No business is as important to them as tourism. It is a very mountainous country with half the island at 1,000 feet or above. Blue Mountain Peak is the highest point at 7,420 feet. The first Jamaicans were Taino Indians. The words hammock, hurricane, tobacco, barbecue and canoe were derived from the Taino language.

Negril is at the western tip of the island and about 1 hour from the airport. Calico Jack, the most notorious pirate in Jamaica's history was captured on the beach of Negril. There is a carefree ambiance and a wide range of accommodations in Negril. By law, no building is higher than the tallest palm tree! Here is where you will experience the best sunsets on the island.

I never thought I would recommend a resort that is not located on a beach but Sunset at the Palms Resort and Spa has such an intimate feel I just couldn't pass it up. It is a great honeymoon vacation or romantic vacation location. These private treetop rooms have white drapes that flutter over French doors in these airy, graceful guestrooms. Chic, Asian-inspired furnishings include gauzy linens, deep wood furniture and natural fibers. The sleek, modern bathrooms feature splendid slate tiles, chrome fixtures and glass-enclosed showers with four body jets and two showerheads. Daybeds on the balconies make you feel one with nature. These Deluxe Treehouse guestrooms offer spacious quarters and feature king size platform beds, air conditioning, satellite television, ceiling fans, natural fabrics and furnishings add to the breezy island vibe. These rooms have the feel of Tahitian bungalows (visit http://www.specialoccasiontravel.com/d/4021227_12257.htm for more information about Tahiti) but, instead of over water they are up in the trees.

This is an all inclusive resort which includes all meals, including fresh fruit grown on the resorts ten-acre tropical garden, beverages and cocktails anytime at any of the 3 bars, air conditioned gym, tennis, free internet access, non motorized water sports and a private beach. Although the beach is across the street, security guards help make the crossing safely.

A favorite hippie spot in the late 60s and early 70s, Negril has matured into a prime getaway for visitors looking for plenty of relaxation and fun. No problem mon!

For more romantic travel information please contact me at Special Occasion Travel either by phone 1-800-691-0243 or email me at Ellen@SpecialOccasionTravel.com. Please visit my website at http://www.specialoccasiontravel.com and sign up for my complimentary weekly travel tips.

THE BEST OF TAHITI:

People have asked me what my favorite place was in Tahiti. I think there are several answers to this question.
My favorite island in French Polynesia is Bora Bora. Called the most beautiful island in the world, Bora Bora graciously lives up to its title. Just an hour or so by plane from Tahiti, most visitors first see Bora Bora from the air. The sight is indeed something to behold - both stunning and breathtaking. Add to this Tahitian hospitality and you begin to understand what keeps visitors coming back. This is a romantic honeymoon location made by nature.
There are many properties to choose from when staying on Bora Bora. There is Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort for the most romantic honeymoon location, Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa for exclusive luxury, Hotel Bora Bora premier property with an awesome beach, Sofitel Motu with it's tree top bungalows and the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort, part of the Orient Express Hotel chain. This is the best place for a tropical honeymoon or island honeymoon.
But my favorite overwater bungalow was at Le Tahaa on a motu off the island of Tahaa.Luxury is defined at Le Taha'a, Private Island and Spa. This Relais & Chateaux property is the most luxurious in French Polynesia. Located on Motu Tautau on the coral reef, the resort faces the island of Taha'a on the lagoon side and offers an unsurpassed view of Bora Bora island on the ocean side. It offers helicopter shuttle between Bora Boar and Le Taha'a. This traditional Polynesian-style hotel offers roomy overwater and beach suites, private patio and tropical gardens, private swimming pools, spacious lounge and terras and private decks with direct access to the lagoon in an overwater suite.
Words can't describe the beauty here so just take a look at the picture above and image yourself on a romantic honeymoon or island honeymoon. This tropical location is perfect for the romantic honeymoon on a secluded island. This is one of the best places for a romantic honeymoon.
Ellen Keralla, Special Occasion Travel a Tahiti Tiare specialist.
1-800-691-0243
Ellen@SpecialOccasionTravel.com
http://www.specialoccasiontravel.com

A Wedding Vacation – Just as Important as the Wedding

As you and your partner prepare for that special, once in a lifetime day, there is one ultimate detail not to be overlooked: the wedding vacation. Sure, planning an intimate ceremony is crucial, but the first real fun of marriage is traveling together. Whether your tastes are for the lights of a big city or the seclusion of the silence of the islands, finding the perfect opportunity to relax after years of courtship and months of preparation is essential. Reward yourself. Go to the place that exists in your dreams. Go to the place that means celebration. Go anywhere. This is your time.

A honeymoon can be whatever you need: relaxing or rushed. If your idea of fun is sitting on a beach, sipping from a margarita glass and baking under the sun, you and your spouse can clear your minds and enjoy the beginnings of lifelong happiness. If you need to go horseback riding, tour a museum, sit on a boat cruise, eat an exquisite meal and wake up to do it all over again, the two of you should spend a bit more time on planning your post-wedding time. Take a look through the many spots that look good for honeymoons, and consider the price, the length of your stay and what you would most like to experience.

Most weddings vacations last approximately a week, but this is all part of your choice. Forget work, and forget about everything at home. This is the time to enjoy yourself in a romantic setting and celebrate love. Make a list of what you need from this vacation, and compare your favorite places to see what best fits each of your needs. Plan the excursion together, and look forward to the most memorable journey with the most important part of your life.

Looking for a beautiful place to get married and spend your honeymoon. Rainbow Weddings offers Hawaiian wedding packages and wedding planning services for the beautiful islands of Hawaii. They will take that precious time of your life and plan it into perfection, leaving you stress free on your wedding day and your honeymoon.