Thursday, February 09, 2023

Over-The-Water Bungalows Are Closer Than You Think…

 The purest form of bliss is escaping to a place that is paradise in true form. A place where you can not only find the sort of intimacy and tropical euphoria you’ve always imagined, but also enjoy it with the one you love. Of course, for such a place to be worth going to at all, it would need to be complete with scenic ocean views, swaying palm trees, greenery everywhere you look, and hopefully… Over-the-Water Bungalows. 

Fortunately for the ever-searching traveler, this piece of paradise actually exists. Accommodation options that match this description can be found in a number of destinations across the globe, including Asia and the South Pacific.

But… what if we told you that you don’t have to travel as far as the Maldives or Tahiti to have a luxurious Over-The-Water Bungalow experience?


What if it was possible to book your own Over-The-Water Villa with butler service just a one-and-a-half-hour flight away from Miami, a three-and-a-half-hour flight from New York City and 4 hours from Toronto?

If you are in fact looking to see what it’s like to spend days on end with your love taking in jaw-dropping views in a luxurious Over-The-Water Suite, Sandals Resorts has you covered. Sandals’ Over-The-Water Bungalows and Villas are among the Caribbean’s most alluring accommodations and include sea-through glass floors where you can catch a glimpse of what’s happening in the marine world, king-size beds for ultimate comfort, and spa inspired bathrooms. There’s a lot more to fall in love with when it comes to the surroundings of these bungalows, but it all depends on which island you choose.


Sandals’ Over-The-Water Bungalows can be found near the U.S.A. and Canada in Jamaica and Saint Lucia, and whichever island you choose, you’ll be thrilled at what you discover!

Four luxurious suites to choose from…

1. Over-The-Water Butler Honeymoon Bungalow

Resort: Sandals South Coast

Location: Jamaica's South Coast.
Flight duration from Miami: 90 minutes
For a quote: Please click here

Picture: Over-The-Water Bungalows at all-inclusive resort Sandals South Coast in Jamaica. Includes unlimited food and drinks at 9 world-class restaurants, (motorized) water sports and Elite Butler service.

Pictures: Over-The-Water Butler Honeymoon Bungalow

Staying at Sandals South Coast will certainly make for an unforgettable getaway. Among the many luxurious room categories is the Over-The-Water Honeymoon Bungalow, which blends perfectly with the ambiance of this laid-back resort. Some of the features you’ll love most about this Caribbean honeymoon suite, which can of course be booked for other occasions as well, is the chic furnishing inside, the attention to detail of its creators to setting the tone for romance, and the end result of an abode created for both love and relaxation.

Other aspects that set this bungalow apart from other room categories are the private patio, outdoor shower, private outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub for two and over-water hammocks. Of course, there’s also the glass floor panels inside the bedroom which add a touch of elegance and fun, and so many other inclusions that will really just blow you away. Sandals’ butler and 24-hour room service is assured in this room category, which is a sure sign that you’ll be in good hands!

2. Over-The-Water Private Island Butler Honeymoon Bungalow

Resort: Sandals Royal Caribbean

Location: Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Flight duration from Miami: 90 minutes
For a quote: Please click here

Picture: Over-The-Water Bungalows at all-inclusive resort Sandals Royal Caribbean in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Includes unlimited food and drinks at 9 world-class restaurants, access to a private offshore island, water sports and Elite Butler service.


Pictures: Over-The-Water Private Island Butler Honeymoon Bungalow

As if having its on private off-shore island wasn’t enough, Sandals Royal Caribbean also boasts Over-The-Water Bungalows. These stunning bungalows are located just off the resort’s private island and they’re loved by guests for more reasons than one.

First off, they’re private and romantic, and include things like glass vision floor panels for the best views of the undersea, a private outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub for two and an over-water hammock. These aren’t your average bungalows though — these were designed with luxury in mind and include hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, custom crafted king-size beds, and lots more. Couples especially love the private patio with its own extended sun deck, as well as the outdoor shower, sun loungers, and even a bistro set for two. Butler Elite service and 24-hour room service are included, which means your every need will be catered to for the duration of your vacation!

Did you know? Guests who stay in this gorgeous bungalow will also enjoy direct resort access via a “Royal Duffy” luxury boat whenever they decide to venture out of their bungalow haven to reconnect with the world!

3. Over-The-Water Private Island Butler Villa with Infinity Pool

Resort: Sandals Royal Caribbean

Location: Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Flight duration from Miami: 90 minutes
For a quote: Please click here

Picture: Over-The-Water Villas at all-inclusive resort Sandals Royal Caribbean in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Includes unlimited food and drinks at 9 world-class restaurants, access to a private offshore island, water sports and Elite Butler service.

Pictures: Over the Water Private Island Butler Villa with Infinity Pool

The Over-the-Water Private Island Butler Villa available at Sandals Royal Caribbean is perfect for honeymooners, or just couples looking for an exotic vacation with a short flight time! This bungalow includes a private plunge pooloutdoor shower, Tranquility Soaking Tub for two, and so much more. You’ll also have an in-room bar with premium liquor, a wet barwhirlpool tub, VIP arrival service, Butler Elite and 24-hour room service, and everything you’ll need for a getaway you won’t soon forget! This room category also includes round-trip Private BMW Luxury Airport Transfers from Sangster International Airport and Norman Manley International Airport.

4. Over-The-Water Honeymoon Butler Bungalow

Resort: Sandals Grande St. Lucian

Location: Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia.
Flight duration from Miami: 3 hours, 30 minutes.
For a quote: Please click here


Picture: Over-The-Water Bungalows at all-inclusive resort Sandals Grande St. Lucian in Saint Lucia. Includes unlimited food and drinks at 12 world-class restaurants, complimentary golf green fees, (motorized) water sports and Elite Butler service.

Pictures: Over-The-Water Honeymoon Butler Bungalow

From your serene and beautiful Over-The-Water Bungalow at Sandals Grande St. Lucian, you’ll have amazing views of the Pigeon Island National Landmark, as well as panoramic ocean views. In this Over-The-Water Bungalow, you’ll be able to make the most of your Caribbean experience by spending as much time as possible ocean side in your private outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub for two or lounging in over-water hammocks. Hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, and custom-made king-size beds are some of the other elements which will add a real luxurious feel to your vacation, as will the private patio with sun deckoutdoor shower, sun loungers, and more! Butler Elite service and 24-hour room service are included in this room category.

Sandals Over-The-Water Bungalows are a dream!

Picture: Sandals South Coast's Over-The-Water Bar with the Over-The-Water Bungalows in the background. The best part: drinks are premium brand and always included, always unlimited.

There’s no doubt about it, Sandals Over-The-Water Bungalows really make for a vacation with a difference, and one where you’ll be able to ensure the focus remains on you, your partner, and just how amazing it feels to enjoy such a luxurious vacation with the one you love. The best news: you don’t have to fly to the other side of the world for this experience!


By Kylie Morrow | February 15th 2021

Thursday, February 02, 2023

HOW TO PLAN YOUR DREAM DESTINATION WEDDING IN JAMAICA

 

With lush landscapes, pristine beaches and world-class resorts, it’s no wonder that Jamaica is a popular destination among couples looking to tie the knot in paradise. If you’ve narrowed down your list of wedding destinations to this picturesque island, you’re in luck – we put together the ultimate guide on planning your special celebration in Jamaica.

From resort and venue options to exciting excursions and official requirements, read on and start planning your big day in paradise.


Research your resort options

First things first – decide where you want to get married! There are plenty of beautiful resorts across the island, suited for a variety of budgets and wedding styles. Make a list of your wedding resort must-haves, whether that includes venues that can accommodate larger guest lists, free wedding package options or exciting activities to enjoy throughout the week; this will help you narrow down where you might want to host your big day. You can also bring your resort wish list to destination wedding team at Romantic Planet Vacations, who will also be able to recommend some options that fit your needs.

Some of the most popular wedding resorts on the island include Royalton Blue Waters, Royalton Negril, Riu Montego Bay, RIU Negril, Iberostar Rosehall, Bahia Principe, Hyatt Ziva, Grand Palladium, Breathless Montego Bay, Secrets, Couples, Sandals and more.



Secure your group space

Give your wedding guests piece of mind and convenience by securing the group space through a destination wedding travel agency in advance for them. In most cases, it will cost only a $500 group deposit to hold 30 seats for 90 days. Romantic Planet Vacations will provide you a complimentary wedding website with all of the information needed to make an informed decision including the hotel, destination, travel requirements, flight details, prices and more. The site even has an online booking page making the process very easy for your guests.


Add a local flair to your big day

You chose a great destination – why not incorporate the local culture into your big day? From locally inspired menus to authentic entertainment, there are plenty of ways you can integrate Jamaican flavours, sights and sounds into your destination wedding day. Royalton Negril Resort and Spa offers the Royalton Signature Jamaican Experience ($) which you can add on to your wedding package with a range of inclusions. Listen to a live steel drum band or Mento band performance while you snack on Jamaican hors d’oeuvres like beef patties and sip on traditional drinks during your cocktail hour. For your reception, you can enjoy a private dinner of traditional Jamaican cuisine like jerk chicken and curried goat while listening to a live reggae band. Finish off the festivities with a rum-infused wedding cake and a delicious rum tasting!


Plan an excursion for your wedding group

Explore all that Jamaica has to offer during your wedding week by planning an excursion for you and your guests through your designated Romantic Planet Vacations travel agent. Excursions are a great way to thank your family and friends for making the trip down south. Instead of giving the gift of traditional wedding favours, you can give the gift of making new memories together! There’s plenty to see and do across the island, whether you want to climb up the famous cascades of Dunn’s River Falls, learn about Jamaican reggae legend, Bob Marley, on a guided tour of his hometown or swim in the glowing waters of one of the world’s only luminescent lagoons. Your destination wedding consultant can help you plan the perfect excursion for your group at an amazing price.


Get your paperwork and documents ready

The resort is booked, your flights are scheduled and the wedding outfits are packed – now all you have to do is get your paperwork in order and make sure you meet Jamaica’s legal requirements. You’ll have to arrive on the island at least three business days before your scheduled ceremony and send the following documents to the resort at least 60 days before your wedding day:

  • Notarized copies of both your valid passports
  • Notarized copies of both your valid birth certificates (long form)
  • A notarized copy of the final divorce decree or death certificate (if you or your spouse have been previously married or widowed)
  • Notarized copies of Deed poll supporting any change or name (if applicable)
  • Jamaica Legal Wedding Form (provided by the resort)

Your Romantic Planet Vacations' destination wedding consultant will be able to help you organize all your paperwork and guide you through the process.


Contact:
Romantic Planet Vacations
1-866-247-8123
travel@romanticplanet.ca
www.romanticplanetvacations.com

#destinationwedding #jamaicawedding #jamaicabride #beachwedding




Saturday, November 26, 2022

Five Destination Wedding Favors that Give Back

Although travel is already the gift that keeps on giving, providing a destination wedding favor for your wedding guests that gives back to an international charity will continue that gift of giving. Romantic Planet Vacations, Canada's premiere experts in destination weddings and honeymoons, have comprised a list of five international organizations that offer unique gift ideas for destination wedding favors.

Mexico: Centro Ecologico Akumal

For more than 20 years, the Ecological Center of Akumal has been protecting the turtles that nest and hatch along the coasts of Akumal. 
It's symbolic adoption allows the Sea Turtle Protection Program to continue patrolling the beaches to monitor and protect these majestic endangered creatures. Your baby turtle adoption includes an official adoption certificate.


Dominican Republic: RTS Missions


RTS Missions is a faith-based organization in the Dominican Republic that acts as a voice against child slavery and trafficking with a medical center, two school start-ups and serves 40,000 meals a month. Their online store includes handmade items from Haiti or the Dominican Republic.  You will find beautiful jewelry, home décor, and seasonal items.  Every purchase has purpose. You help create and sustain jobs, keep families together, educate children and battle hunger.



Jamaica - Help Jamaica


Help Jamaica has been support educational projects in Jamaica since 2008. Together with various local initiatives, their mission is to create opportunities for children, youths and adults to learn, empower themselves, nurture new skills and develop their personality. Their online store includes a set of ten attractive postcards with artwork by Jamaican artist Michael Thompson. 



Canada: Indigenous Handicrafts

The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, located in Whistler, Canada, is home to a training program that empowers Indigenous youth to conduct tours of the centre’s museum and grounds. The space is a celebration of two Indigenous communities in the region and teaches local and international visitors about the region’s history. Choose from clothing, water bottles, and other items depicting traditional Indigenous art, handicrafts and music.

Costa Rica: Life Monteverde Coffee

Life Monteverde in Costa Rica was started by three farming families in 1990 and has grown into a union of 12 families dedicated to sustainable coffee production, agriculture and education on sustainability. Coffee purchased from their online shop will directly benefit 130 families in the nearby region.



Romantic Planet Vacations is dedicating to responsible tourism and giving back. For every travel booking including the wedding couple and their guests in a destination wedding, they will plant a tree in their honor. For more information on their sustainable tourism policy, please visit  https://romanticplanetvacations.com/sustainability/


Friday, November 25, 2022

Your Destination Wedding Planning Checklist


Planning a wedding can be trying at the best of times, but try throwing a wedding in an unfamiliar destination – even the smallest tasks can suddenly become overwhelming.

This checklist should give you an idea of what to do in the lead-up to your destination wedding to bring the stress levels way down, especially if you use the services of a Destination Wedding travel specialist.

9 Months – 1 Year Before Wedding

  • Determine your budget – including any wedding related costs, travel expenses and your accommodation. HINT: Many couples are also concerned about what their guests will be paying and will sometimes determine a guest budget as well. For an all-inclusive beach getaway from Canada for a week including airfare, transfers and accommodations will be around $2,000 - $3,000 per person depending on the date, destination and quality of resort.
  • Contact a certified destination wedding travel agency, like Romantic Planet Vacations, to help plan the big event.
  • Choose a wedding destination, location, and date (the earlier, the better!).
  • Choose your wedding party.
  • Create a guest list.
  • Send out a Save-The-Date notice to guests.
  • Block rooms and air seats. Romantic Planet Vacations can typically hold 30-40 seats for 90 days with a $500 - $900 group deposit.
  • Shop for a wedding dress.
  • Select wedding package/style. Discuss any add-ons you want to the package or customize the wedding package with your own personal style.
  • Work with your travel agent to find a caterer, florist, make-up artist, hair dresser, and wedding cake specialist at the location.

6 – 9 Months Before Wedding

  • Create a Honeymoon Registry.
  • Send our formal wedding invitation with details.
  • Confirm rooms and air seats.
  • Confirm your wedding ceremony location, if not already done.
  • Confirm dinner/reception area with the resort.
  • Launch a wedding website. This is complimentary with Romantic Planet Vacations.
  • Choose an Officiant.
  • Book a photographer.
  • Select attire for your wedding party.
  • Research excursions for your wedding group.

4 – 6 Months Before Wedding

  • Finalize food menu, décor, flowers, cake, etc.
  • Confirm hair and make-up appointments on wedding day.
  • Make sure passports are in order.

2 – 4 Months Before Wedding

  • Plan welcome party & rehearsal dinner (if required).
  • Prepare welcome letter for your guests.
  • Purchase items for welcome bags
  • Confirm honeymoon plans.

1 Month Before Wedding

  • Write your vows.
  • Finalize wedding ceremony
  • Create any signs needed.

2 Weeks Before Wedding

  • Re-confirm flight & hotel booking.
  • Review and a final confirmation on wedding details.
  • Create a seating chart & place cards.
  • Create your wedding program for guests.

On Arrival At Your Wedding Resort

  • Meet with the location’s wedding coordinator, go over wedding details and an inspection of your ceremony and reception sites.
  • Apply for marriage license (sometimes this can be done ahead of time, ask your travel agent  for details).

Have the time of your life…it’s your wedding day!

Monday, May 02, 2022

10 Best and Fabulous All-Inclusive Swim-up Suites You’ll Fall in Love With

 Having a luxurious home-away-from-home while on holidays is important to many travelers. Especially when it comes to all-inclusive getaways where you have the opportunity to be spoiled in every aspect from cuisine, fancy cocktails, and incredible service levels. These competitive beachfront resorts always seem to be one-upping each other on a regular basis and what feature is all the rage these days and in hot demand? The infamous swim-up suite room category but of course. 

What is a Swim-up Suite?

A swim-up suite essentially brings the swimming pool right to your patio. They are mostly located on the ground floor which allows you to walk out and be dipping in the refreshing pool within a few steps. Most times this pool is shared by multiple swim-up suites in the same building. It's a concept that has gained immense popularity for it's convenience of having everything within steps of your room.

#1 - Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres, Mexico

This is one of Mexico's newest 5-star all-inclusive resorts in the exclusive area North of Cancun called Costa Mujeres, located just 20 minutes from the Cancun airport. It offers spacious rooms and impressive oceanview suites combined with exceptional quality service including unlimited dining, unlimited premium liquor, infinity pools with ocean views, attentive butler service in The Club section and more.

The Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres has a variety of swim-up suites including the Majestic Swim-up Junior Suite for families, the Swim-up Suite with Outdoor Jacuzzi for families, Elegance Club Majestic Swim-up Junior Suite or Suite for adults only.

Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres Swim-Up Suite with Outdoor Jacuzzi Family

#2 - Sandals Montego Bay, Jamaica

The Beachfront Swim-up Millionaire Butler Suite at the adult-only Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica is as luxurious as they come. With breathtaking Caribbean Sea views, butler service, 24-hour room service, wet bar with premium liquors and a tranquility soaking tub for two, you'll never need to leave your suite.

The Beachfront Swim-up Millionaire Butler Suite, Sandals Montego Bay Resort

#3 - Sandals Royal Barbados, St. Lawrence Gap Barbados

The Millionaire Crystal Lagoon Swim-up Butler Suite at this exclusive adult-only resort not only provides you with a private Rolls Royce airport transfer, exclusive butler service, 24-hour room service and VIP check-in, it gives you access to a large swimming pool lagoon! This suite is one of the higher end swim-up suites available in Barbados and is also equipped with a four-poster king-size bed, a tranquility soaking tub with privacy curtains, and spacious patio.

The Millionaire Crystal Lagoon Swim-up Butler Suite, Sandals Royal Barbados

#4 - Dreams Las Mareas Resort and Spa, Costa Rica

Discover this emerald hideaway on Playa El Jobo in the middle of the Costa Rican tropical rainforest. Offering lush landscapes and awe-inspiring views, this charming all-inclusive offers everything for families and couples alike. The Preferred Club upgrade provides elevated concierge service, personalized check-in and check-out services, exclusive access to the Preferred Club lounge and designated areas, plus upgraded suite in premium location with enhanced room amenities.

There are four room categories that offer swim-up suites; The Preferred Club Junior Suite Swim Out Tropical View, The Preferred Club Master Suite Swim Out, The Preferred Club Master Suite Swim Out Oceanfront and The Preferred Club Presidential Suite Swim Out Oceanfront.

Preferred Club Master Suite Swim Out, Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica

#5 - Generations Riviera Maya Resort, Mexico

This all suite, all oceanfront, all gourmet-inclusive family-friendly resort will wow all visitors. It's not often that you can find a swim-up suite on your second or third floor balcony but you can with the Generations Riviera Maya Resort. The spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom oceanfront swim-up suites comes with direct access to an infinity pool from the balcony, rewarding you with privacy and stunning view of the white sand beaches and the largest artificial coral reef in the world. Alternatively choose the main level for direct access to the main pool and swim up pool bar.

Oceanfront One, Two and Three-bedroom Swim-up Suites at Generations Riviera Maya

#6 - Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort, Bahamas

The West Bay Honeymoon Hideaway Swim-up Crystal Lagoon Zen Butler Suite's key feature is Zen. From the moment that you walk out onto your private patio and find zero-entry access to a Zen Garden river pool, you know you've arrived to a relaxed paradise. The spaciousness and beauty of this room includes a four-poster king-size bed, a separate bedroom and living room (which includes a dining area), and an en-suite bathroom with a rain head shower/tub combo. Top off this luxurious experience with included butler service, 24-hour room service and private Rolls Royce airport transfer.

Honeymoon Hideaway Swim-up Crystal Lagoon Zen Butler Suite, Sandals Royal Bahamian

#7 - Sandals Grenada, St. George's Grenada

The Italian Swim-up Bi-level Butler Suite and the Italian Oceanview Penthouse 1 Bedroom Skypool Butler Suite in the Italian Village at Sandals Grenada are something so unique to experience that you'd think you've died and gone to a Caribbean heaven. These oversized Love Nest Suites are the pinnacle of luxury. Slip into your zero-entry elevated infinity pool in seconds from your private patio on the main level or private plunge pool with infinity edge with stunning ocean views on the higher levels. Each come with butler service, 24-hour room service and luxury private airport transfers.

Italian Swim up Bi-level 1 Br. Butler Suite w/ Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub - Sandals Grenada

#8 - Royalton Punta Cana Resort , Dominican Republic

The Diamond Club Luxury Swim-out rooms at this family-friendly resort ensures that the fun never ends. Guests here can enjoy full access to one of the Caribbean's largest water parks plus tennis facilities and more. The Diamond Club upgrade includes extra amenities such as butler service, preferred room locations, private lounge and pool access, nightly turndown service, exclusive beach area with dedicated bar and waiter service and much more.

The Diamond Club Luxury Swim-out rooms, Royalton Punta Cana Resort

#9 - Secrets Puerto Los Cabos, Mexico

The Junior Suite Swim Out Ocean View at the adult-only Secrets Puerto Los Cabos on the West side of Mexico offers striking views of native flora and fauna with miles of unspoiled beachfront of the Sea of Cortez. Elevate your stay with Preferred Club that offers personalized check-in and check-out, preferred club lounge access, preferred suite locations, private pool access and more.

Preferred Club Junior Suite Swim Out Ocean View, Secrets Puerto Los Cabos


#10 - The Finest Playa Mujeres, Mexico 

The unique feature of the Junior Suite Swim Up at the family-friendly Finest Playa Mujeres Resort is the overwater hammocks, private deck and privacy screens for ultimate relaxation. Guests can cool off with a dip in the pool right from their balcony. The resort is situated on a peninsula with pristine virgin beaches and endless sand dunes overlooking the deepest Caribbean blues. There is a separate section for adults only for those looking for extra peace and relaxation.


To check availability and to book your next upcoming travel retreat, please connect with Boutique Travel Services at 1-866-247-8123 or info@boutiquetravelservices.com. We are your dedicated travel agency to ensure the best price at the best service level.

Author: Laurie Keith
President, Boutique Travel Services
https://boutiquetravelservices.com/contact/