April is a time when folks are feeling flush, so why not spend those much-deserved tax refunds on a trip somewhere exotic? As springbegins to emerge, it’s the ideal time for a long-haul splurge, whether to Europe or Asia. Plus, almost anywhere you travel now, the first blossoms will be budding—and the flowers themselves can be reason enough to make a trip. Here is our pick of the seven places to travel in April.
Getty
Tohuku, Japan
Spend that refund on a long-haul trip to Tokyo, where thousands of cherry trees or sakura burst into bloom each spring and mark the end of winter (April 1 is the start of the academic and financial years in Japan). The Japanese cherish this tradition, so symbolic of the fleeting nature of life since each flower lasts for little more than a week. While you're there, make sure to take part in hanami, a ritual which literally translates as ‘looking at flowers': To make like a local, pick up a seasonal bento box from a supermarket and head to a park for an al fresco lunch under the branches. You can track this year’s projected peak blooms by area and, per that forecast, the best places for bloom-spotting this April are north of Tokyo in the Tohoku region. Try the hipster-heavy city of Onagawa, which has rebounded strongly since it suffered extensive damage in the 2011 earthquake. Later in the month, head to the top of Honshu island to Hirosaki Castle, renowned as one of the best places in the country for hanami: the centuries-old keep sits in a small park that’s crammed with more than 2,500 cherry trees.
Getty
Amsterdam
Picture a rowdy, raucous mashup of St Patrick’s Day and Mardi Gras, and you’re still not close to the annual King’s Day or Koningsdag celebrations that sweep the Netherlands on the last Saturday in April each year. It’s the official, rather than actual, birthday of the monarch—currently, King Willem-Alexander (until he took over from his mother, Queen Beatrix, in 2013, it was long known as Queen’s Day). Celebrations start the evening before—King’s Night—with street parties across the city, and continue the next day with more partying and huge flea markets selling trinkets and food. Just make sure to pack some oranje clothes if you want to fit in: the Dutch festoon themselves in their national color for the day. Even better, April marks the peak of Dutch tulip season, so you expect riots of color both across the revelers and in the parks around them.
Getty
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a popular winter sunspot for northern hemisphere types, but the muggy Porteño summer can make exploring the city unappealing. Come instead as fall begins in April, with the foliage gently turning and daytime temperatures consistently in the 60s and 70s (bring a light sweater for the cooler evenings). The city’s annual answer to Tribeca, BAFICI, turns it into a hub of Spanish language indie cinema for ten days, while the Nuestros Caballeros riding showcase offers the chance to experience Argentina’s horse-made culture first-hand. Hole up in the Faena Hotel + Universe, a sprawling hotel-cum-culture complex that singlehandedly helped revive the historic Puerto Madero neighborhood. And don’t miss a cocktail in the award-winning basement speakeasy, Floreria Atlantico, hidden beneath a chic flower shop.
Getty
Malta
This tiny island nation’s hub, Valletta, snared designation as a European Capital of Culture this year. That honor has helped spotlight a country whose strategic location saw it passed between successive empires, each leaving indelible legacies: north African-influenced architecture, Sicilian-style food and British politeness—not to mention several branches of U.K. department store-slash-national treasure, Marks & Spencer. This month, the country’s calendar includes the three day-long Fireworks Festival and a chance to gorge for the day on locally produced strawberries, known across the Mediterranean for their sweetness, in the village of Mġarr. Mark the Easter weekend here with a trip to the sister island, Gozo, where the Christian holy day is splashily marked—even non-believers can try a slice of figolla, the moreish Maltese Easter cake filled with almonds.
Getty
Zambia
April is shoulder season in Zambia, with the downpours of the artfully rechristened Emerald (or wet) Season dwindling but the heat, and prices, of high season not yet in full force—making it an affordable time to travel there. It’s the first month when weather makes the country widely accessible, so while the parks are usually quieter, the landscape is lush and green in the Lower Zambezi: many birds burst into full breeding plumage (look for heron and stork nests in the trees) and the impala begin calving. More than anything, though, it’s the finest time to witness Victoria Falls: The waters will be at their maximum, plunging noisily more than 300 feet, and the river is high, making water safaris more viable. Try a dual location safari from Robin Pope, to explore the Luangwa Valley and Lower Zambezi.
Getty
Alaska
There’s still ample powder for outdoor adventuring this late in the season, especially if you want an extreme adventure with former Olympian Tommy Moe, who co-owns Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, a short flight out of Anchorage. (One recent storm in Alaska dumped 10 inches of snow in an hour.) Come here for an all-inclusive getaway packed with extreme sports like heli-skiiing, snow hiking and fat biking. Combine it with a trip to nearby Denali National Park, the six million-acre wilderness that’s home to North America’s tallest peak, the namesake, 20,000-foot mountain.
Getty
Montgomery, Alabama
This month, another noteworthy monument joins the impressive haul in Montgomery. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice and the Legacy Museum will host a two-day summit over its opening weekend aimed at exploring issues of justice in America. The two new institutions join the Maya Lin-designed Civil Rights Memorial and Center, plus the Freedom Rides Museum and Rosa Parks Library, in a city where the Civil Rights movement is considered to have begun—it’s where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. began as a pastor, and where Rosa Parks was first arrested for refusing to cede a seat on the bus in 1955. These new memorials, set in and around a six-acre park, will act as a further reminder of struggles, both past and ongoing.
Are you looking for a cruise where you are immersed in the culture? A river cruise is one of the best ways to explore cities, towns, and villages as these boats can sneak into the nooks and crannies of the country you are visiting. We found this article and thought it was a great way to find out if a river cruise is for you; it includes best times to go and challenges you may find along the way. Check it out!
Article credit: Carolyn Spencer Brown; Cruise Critic Editor in Chief
A river cruise is a wonderful way to relax, watch the world drift by at a leisurely pace and explore the towns, cities and countryside of Europe and exotic destinations around the globe.
With more than 100 river ships launched over the past four years -- and 20 more debuting in 2017 -- along with an increasing number of river cruise lines and itineraries on offer, river cruising is the fastest-growing sector of the worldwide cruise market.
This means there's never been a better time for first-timers to get onboard. Seasoned river cruisers can expand their horizons and experience new and up-and-coming places. Where will your journey take you? Take a look at our river cruise tips to find out more.
Whether you're in Europe, South America, Asia, the U.S. or Africa, river cruising shares similarities -- along with plenty of dissimilarities -- from ocean cruising. The first point is that ships are much smaller than ocean vessels, particularly in Europe, where they are restricted in width and length to fit into locks and sail beneath low bridges, and parts of Asia where they have to navigate shallow waters.
Ports:
Unlike ocean ships, river vessels visit a new port each day, sometimes even more than one; passengers can visit up to four countries in a week. Itineraries are port-intensive with a busy program of culture-rich shore excursions -- mostly included in the fare and some fee-extra. An actual full day onboard is uncommon, though there is always cruising time, including nighttime sailing on some itineraries.
Food:
All meals are included, with many lines offering complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, plus unlimited tea and coffee. Some lines are all-inclusive and, in addition to an open bar, they also cover gratuities. There is generally an open-seating policy, so you can sit where you want. Meals can be fairly regimented due to the small size of the galley, so one sitting for breakfast, lunch and dinner is the norm (although some lines are more flexible with timings than others). Lighter meals can be enjoyed in the lounge, or outside on the deck, and some vessels have additional specialty restaurants.
Dress code:
The onboard experience is more laid-back than it is on oceangoing voyages, with no formal dress code. There's usually a captain's reception and gala dinner, where some people opt for smarter outfits, but it's not obligatory. The most important packing tips are to take layers to cope with unpredictable weather and comfortable shoes or sneakers, as many tours involve walking on cobblestones or uneven surfaces.
Entertainment:
Entertainment is low-key -- with the major attraction being the passing scenery (there is always plenty to see on both banks) and ports of call. The intimate nature of riverships also means you'll soon get to know your fellow passengers, and you certainly won't get lost in the crowd.
Cabins:
Staterooms tend to be smaller than oceangoing vessels, but they are not short on home comforts, particularly on the newest ships. Standard amenities include hotel-style beds, bathroom with high-quality toiletries, TV and entertainment system, hair dyer, safe and ample storage space. Some cabins have French balconies and proper walkout verandas, along with stocked mini-bars, suites with butler service and four-poster beds. If you're on a budget, the lower deck cabins have fixed windows but still provide a view, albeit at water level. Because cabin configurations and facilities vary from line to line, and ship to ship within a fleet, be sure to get all the details on how your stateroom will look before you book.
Motion:
When it comes to sailing, inland waterways are very calm and flat, soseasickness is never an issue on a river cruise.
Challenges:
River cruises are not well suited to wheelchair users or passengers with severe mobility issues. Most modern ships have elevators, and some have adapted cabins, but gangways can be steep, depending on the level of the river water, and sometimes ships are moored side by side, necessitating walking across one or more to disembark. Always check with a line before booking to assess how user-friendly it will be.
Editor's Note: Barge cruising -- which mostly focuses on boats that carry less than 25 passengers and ply the waters of even smaller rivers (and often just stay in canals) -- is a completely different style of cruising. They have a very cozy atmosphere and can also be chartered by families or groups of friends. The purpose-built hotel boats or converted working vessels contain comfy cabins and modern facilities, and most have onboard bikes. Read more about it in Canal Cruise Tips.
Choosing a River Cruise Line
Just like ocean cruise lines, each river cruise line has a different style and personality, even though the ships all look pretty much the same on the outside. Comfort and ambiance, as well as inclusions, can vary widely between lines' own fleets. New trends in riverboat design mean that vessels debuting after about 2008 offer a lot more extras and lot more space than the older boats.
Each river has its own limitations, and these determine what size ships operate on them. Locks can limit length, low-hanging bridges can restrict height and union rules for lock managers can determine times boats can cruise. Here are more specifics, by river region.
Europe is the world's top river cruising destination, and it's the best place to start if you've never tried a river cruise.
The largest number of cruises can be found on the Rhine, which flows through Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany, France and the Netherlands, and the Danube, which flows from the Black Forest in Germany to the Black Sea in Romania, passing through or between Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia and Bulgaria on the way. Which one is right for you?
Offshoots of the Rhine include the Moselle, known for its steep vineyard-covered hillsides and the Main, which connects the Rhine with the Danube through a series of canals. The Danube doesn't have as many tributaries, but if you've already done the central section through Austria's Wachau Valley, try the Lower Danube, which runs through Serbia, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria.
Other popular rivers include France's Seine, where ships are based in Paris and cruise down to the Normandy region. The Rhone, also in France, offers Provencal experiences between Lyon, France's second largest city and Arles. River cruises through Bordeaux and the Loire Valley are also becoming popular.
Other European rivers include the Elbe, which rises in Germany and flows into the Czech Republic; Italy's Po, gateway to cities such as Venice and Padua, and Portugal's Douro, surrounded by rugged, green scenery.
Russia's Volga, linked to a series of canals, lakes and waterways, is another popular river for cruising, and voyages typically sail between Moscow and St. Petersburg, with overnights spent in each city at the beginning and end of the cruise.
There are also seasonal cruises, including the spring "tulip time" itineraries sailing from Amsterdam through the Netherlands and Belgium. And in winter, Christmas markets voyages, primarily along the Rhine and Danube, are magical ways to celebrate the festive season.
Europe River Cruise Lines:
Most of the major river cruise lines sail in Europe, including AmaWaterways, APT, Avalon Waterways, CroisiEurope, Emerald Waterways, European Waterways, Grand Circle, Riviera Travel, Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld, Vantage Deluxe World Travel and Viking River Cruises. Amadeus, a long-established Austrian line, and German-owned A-Rosa are now selling cruises in the U.S., U.K. and other English-speaking countries. A newcomer on the scene is ocean line Crystal, which launched its first river vessel in 2016 and has more on the way.
The Season:
The river cruise season begins in early spring (typically in late March) and runs through late fall (the best time for value-seekers). Lines keep a handful of ships available for the holiday markets season (late November through New Year's Day) on the Rhine and Danube. And then they put ships away for the season, usually spending off-months on maintenance and refurbishment.
Challenges:
Too much rain or not enough can be problematic for river cruises, particularly in, but not limited to, spring (when snowmelt fills the rivers) and fall (when the rainy season begins). Rising or falling rivers can mean that passage under low bridges is not possible or that water levels are too shallow to permit safe cruising. Typically river lines plan ahead -- and in these situations may organize longer day trips, using roads to get around, or even for passengers to swap ships at key trouble points.
Myanmar, formerly Burma, has become the hot destination for river cruises in Asia, with lines launching more ships in order to meet demand. Most cruises are on the Irrawaddy, ranging from four-night mini-cruises from Mandalay to Bagan to two-week itineraries from Yangon and Mandalay, or Bagan. Even more remote is the Chindwin, the largest tributary of the Irrawaddy.
Another up-and-coming destination is India. Sailing on the Ganges, the country's holiest river, most cruises are seven-night sailings from Kolkata coupled with a land-based itinerary and visit to the iconic Taj Mahal. Even more remote is the Brahmaputra, in India's Assam district.
The Mekong River runs through Cambodia and Vietnam, with the most popular seven-night cruises wending their way from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City (many then opting for land tour extensions that visit Hanoi), passing rural villages, exotic temples and floating markets. New cruises take in the Upper Mekong, from Laos to China.
Smaller colonial-style vessels are used on the Irrawaddy, Ganges and Mekong, carrying from 10 to around 60 passengers.
Elsewhere in Asia, there is China's Yangtze River, which typically start and finish with a land-based stay in Shanghai and Beijing. Cruises range from three days to one week and will include a transit through the huge Three Gorges Dam. River ships that ply the Yangtze are much larger than those on other Asian rivers, so have more onboard facilities such as shops and coffee bars.
Asia River Cruise Lines:
APT, Abercrombie & Kent, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, CroisiEurope, G Adventures, Grand Circle, Pandaw, Riviera Travel, Scenic, Uniworld, Wendy Wu and Viking River Cruises offer cruises in Asia.
The Season:
Some Asia operators will go year-round, while others stick to the main April-to-October season.
Challenges:
On the ships, the cruise lines offer similar levels of service and quality as other regions, but the terrain can be rugged, and touring can be challenging. Disembarking on sections of the Mekong and Irrawaddy can involve walking on narrow planks and climbing muddy banks, so travelers need reasonable levels of fitness and mobility. The focus is on smaller, more rural pleasures, rather than major cities. (Visits to the major urban metropolis are usually organized as pre- or post-voyage experiences.)
Following the course of the Nile is an impressive and authentic way of tracing the course of Egyptian history. Nile river cruises traverse the waters between Luxor and Aswan, with itineraries ranging from three days to a week in length. On most trips, the major port stops along the Nile include Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo, but longer cruises may also call at Dendera and Qena (and spend more time onshore, to boot).
Egypt River Cruise Lines:
Abercrombie & Kent, Oberoi, Uniworld and Viking are among the river cruise operators offering Nile itineraries, although travelers can also book Nile cruises on chartered vessels through various tour operators.
The Season:
Nile River cruises operate year-round, but the high season is typically from October to May when it's not too hot.
Challenges:
In recent years Egypt's tourist industry has been blighted by a spate of violent political uprisings and terrorist attacks. Although the tourist areas along the Nile are currently not affected by travel bans, the U.S. Department of State and U.K. Foreign Office advise visitors to be aware of the potentially volatile situation that has seen many river cruise companies curtail their sailing programs.
Several oceangoing cruise ships offer itineraries on the Amazon River, but they tend to focus on Brazil (from Manaus, the Amazon's largest city, to Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires), where the river is wider and ports are more urban. A cruise on this section of the river is almost like being at sea.
But riverboats that ply the Amazon can maneuver into even more offbeat parts of the Amazon basin and offer a much more adventurous experience. (Peru's portion of the Amazon is particularly popular.)
Ships embark in Iquitos or the newer port just upriver in Nauta. Instead of touring cities or ancient temples, you'll trek through the rainforest to look for monkeys, river dolphins, parrots, sloths, insects and fascinating plant life or visit small villages where you can interact with the indigenous people. More so than on other river cruise itineraries, you'll actually spend little time ashore because the voyages focus on the river itself, with motorboat rides along the water's edge to look for bird life, piranha fish and alligators.
South America River Cruise Lines:
Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Delphin, International Expeditions, Lindblad Expeditions and Pandaw offer Amazon itineraries.
The Season:
Amazon River cruises operate year-round. The water levels do fluctuate, however -- up to an astounding 40 feet -- with December through May being the high-water season and the rest of the year low-water season. High-water season floods the forest, allowing you to move deeper into the forest via skiff and zip around smaller tributaries that, otherwise, are inaccessible. Low-water season permits more onshore walks.
Challenges:
A rugged place to explore, passengers need a good basic level of fitness. Crime has been an issue on the Amazon; cruise lines have reacted by beefing up onboard security.
In 2012, the Mississippi River, which had seen several of its riverboats go out of business, began a true renaissance when American Queen Steamboat Company refurbished the 1995-launched American Queen. In 2015, American Cruise Line (ACL) launched the brand-new Queen of the Mississippi paddleboat.
The Mississippi and its connecting tributaries is the most visible of North America's rivers when it comes to cruise lines, and the main itinerary is a seven-night cruise between New Orleans and Memphis, although you can also take an Upper Mississippi cruise between St. Louis and St. Paul. The Ohio River is also popular. ACL's other boats cruise along the East Coast's Intracoastal Waterway, the Chesapeake Bay and New York's Hudson River.
In Oregon, there are also seven-night cruises on the Columbia and Snake Rivers, which are gaining in popularity. They follow the historic route used by 19th-century explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark when they journeyed across the U.S. in search of the Pacific Ocean.
Several lines also offer warm-weather cruises along the Saint Lawrence Seaway, which skirts the borders between New England and Canada, as well as the Great Lakes.
North American River Cruise Lines:
American Cruise Lines, American Queen Steamboat Company, Blount Small Ship Adventures, French America Line, Lindblad Expeditions, St. Lawrence Cruise Lines and Un-Cruise Adventures.
The Season:
You can find North America river cruises from March to December, but sail dates and seasons will vary, depending on the particular river you'd like to sail. Christmas market cruises along the Lower Mississippi began in 2015.
Challenges:
One big difference between European and American river cruising is that most of the latter's cosmopolitan cities grew up around coastal ports, rather than rivers. So while you may visit the Mississippi's New Orleans and Memphis, the Chesapeake Bay's Baltimore or the Hudson's New York, these trips definitely are for slower-paced travelers.
This great article in a recent Travel Agent Center will prepare you for the perfect wedding, honeymoon, or even proposal. See what is hot right now and don't forget to jot down this number. Rhonda, Culinary Latitudes Travel, will provide you with a quick estimate on your romantic get-away! +1 (772) 888-1563Article by: Travel Agent Center; Joe Pike, David Moseder, Matt Turner, Adam Leposa |
Various reports put the revenue generated by the wedding industry as high as $76 billion annually, with average wedding costs reaching new highs year after year (more than $35,000, excluding honeymoon, according to The Knot’s most recent Real Weddings Study). To help you get your slice of the cake, Travel Agent spoke to a number of top experts in the destination weddings and honeymoons market and uncovered several trends and tips on everything from the proposal, places and products to the pitfalls of planning. Here’s what we learned:
Destination Proposals
The practice of traveling to a beautiful location to pop the question began to catch on a few years ago, mostly among Millennials looking for a cool, splashy way to promote their engagement on social media. And now, Carolee Higashino, president and founder of White Orchid Wedding (WOW) in Hawaii, says the niche is all the rage these days, from simple proposals to elaborate ones on the beach.
“Many couples are booking our services to arrange for their secret surprise by hiring a paparazzi photography session complete with a ceremony site, flowers, champagne and an intimate dinner for two,” says Higashino. “Often family and friends are invited as well and appear once the willing participant says yes.”
“Resort staff have always been more than willing to lend an assist in this area — and now hotels are beginning to capitalize with special add-on packages,” says Scott Wiseman, president of Travel Impressions. “One of our popular packages is the Secrets Resorts ‘Pop The Question’ package, which features a photo shoot, bouquet of roses, sparkling wine and additional special touches [ranging] from a romantic rose petal- and candle-lined path to the words ‘Will you marry me?’ written on the sand.”
Wiseman also recommends The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in California, which offers two proposal packages that have all the trimmings, including a kneeling cushion.
“If you’re aware that a proposal is in the works and are not recommending one of these commissionable packages, you’re leaving money on the table,” says Wiseman. “Beyond financial motivations, helping to make your clients’ special day even more memorable is a great way to cement loyalty.”
Couples looking for an out-of-the-box idea to celebrate their big day can opt for an underwater wedding offered by Buddy Dive Resort in Bonaire.
Unusual Weddings / Venues
Perhaps the biggest trend in selecting a wedding type or venue is quite simply avoiding a boring, traditional, ballroom wedding and instead opting for a once-in-a-lifetime ceremony.
“No one is getting married in a box anymore,” says Jenna Mahoney, travel editor with Bridal Guide Magazine. “The days of getting married in a basic ballroom are over because people realize you can be anywhere when you are in a ballroom. People now want a sense of place and a sense of experience.”
To avoid a dull celebration, here are a few popular, out-of-the-box types and venues that will wow every guest invited.
Naked Weddings / Vow Renewals: Jamaica’s famous all-inclusive, adults-only, clothing-optional resort, Hedonism II, is not your average getaway and thus doesn’t tote just your basic offerings. Weddings and vow-renewal ceremonies are always complimentary here and the tux and traditional white gown are definitely optional. Wedding packages include a personal wedding planner, a choice of location — whether it be white-sand beaches, lush tropical gardens or waterfall lagoons — a minister, marriage license, champagne, a wedding cake, flowers and music.
Underwater Weddings: Buddy Dive Resort on the Caribbean island of Bonaire specializes in offering underwater weddings. Their underwater wedding package starts at $450 per couple and includes dive equipment for bride and groom, an underwater video with editing and music included; and a wedding ceremony at Buddy’s Reef. Witnesses, champagne and additional services such as photographer, hairdresser and make-up, bridal bouquet, wedding dinner, party with live music are available upon request.
Weddings at a Volcano: Lena Brown of Largay Travel recommends clients get married in the Napali coast of Hawaii and take a Zodiac to a beach that has a stone-hole arch where the 1976 “King Kong” movie was filmed on Kauai. There is a cabin in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that you can rent and you have to hike down to it, says Brown.
Higashino tells us that White Orchid Wedding has also organized incredible experiences atop Maui’s volcano Haleakala at sunrise and even performed ceremonies on the Big Island near an active lava flow.
“We love utilizing historic and / or culturally significant spots as well as places that have the true essence of Hawaii,” she notes.
Get Married in the African Bush: Marsha Carroll of Travel Beyond points to Africa as a trendy spot for fresh wedding idea, specifically a simple ceremony in the African bush.
“All the planning will be arranged by the safari camp, and the intimate experience offers an unforgettable ceremony,” she says. “If you prefer something more traditional with ethnic clothing, a Masai blessing can be arranged.”
Not-So-Ordinary Domestic Weddings
Travel Agent also rounded up a few destinations in the U.S. for the most Instagram-worthy weddings.
In Palm Springs, CA, plan a wedding at The Merv Griffin Estate, the former home of the late singer and television host. Available on the 39-acre property are an infinity-edge pool, a two-plus-acre pond and equestrian racetrack — all of which are perfectly suitable settings for a wedding. Book the couple and their guests on-property.
The estate has two guestrooms in the main house, four guest cabanas to the east and an 1,800-square-foot guesthouse to the north. Nearby, the couple and their guests can explore the Mount San Jacinto State Park or Lake Cahuilla, or they can tee off in Hideaway or Madison Golf Club.
Chateau Cocomar is a castle-looking estate in Austin, TX with opulent chandeliers, elegant gardens and French-style ballrooms. It’s a wedding-focused venue, so it offers a Bridal Dressing Suite, Groom’s Dressing Suite and Family Dressing Suite. There are also seven additional Deluxe Overnight Suites.
For a totally far-out idea, suggest to your clients The Old Dairy, located in Bath County, VA. Surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, this venue was previously a fully functional dairy that operated until the second half of the 20th century. Currently, it’s a popular wedding venue with two silos providing the backdrop. Don’t worry: The property is fully restored and includes a dance hall. Tip: Make time to enjoy the natural hot springs. The property also has luxurious interiors, master bedroom suites, soaking tubs, heated floors, large decks and outdoor fire pits. The wedding party will also have access to the exclusive Warm Springs Dairy Community Center, so they can choose to cool off in the outdoor pool, or visit the fitness center, whirlpool and sauna.
Just to the southwest, in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains, is The Lodge at Brother’s Cove. This is a great venue for couples who enjoy adventure and fresh mountain air. The Lodge at Brother’s Cove is located on 450 acres; guests can get married outside or indoors under iron chandeliers in front of floor-to-ceiling windows.
Guests can be booked at the main lodge or at any of the other 50 cabins located on the property, sleeping anywhere from two guests to 24. We recommend the Fireflies in the Night property, whose three stories can accommodate 20. Each of the seven rooms has its own flat-screen TV, private en suite baths, a full kitchen, two dining tables, a fireplace, game room, multiple decks, hammocks and picnic tables.
Honeymoon Destinations / Hotels
The St. Regis Princeville Resort on Kauai is seen as one of the hottest properties to honeymoon at in Hawaii.
When it comes to the two biggest trends in honeymoon planning, several advisors we spoke to point to a client’s desire to get married in an exotic location and also their willingness to wait for peak season for the best experience.
Daniela Harrison of Avenues of the World Travel tells Travel Agent that her honeymoon-bound clients are choosing bucket list-type destinations like Sri Lanka, Africa, Maldives, Thailand and the Cook Islands, while traditional favorites like Mexico, Caribbean and Europe will always be popular.
“Africa is certainly one of the most romantic destinations for a wedding, honeymoon or anniversary,” says Marsha Carroll of Travel Beyond. “Africa has an allure that’s captivated the imagination of romantics at heart, boasting wide open spaces, breathtaking sunsets, stunning landscapes and the thrill of wildlife encounters.”
In Mexico, Pamela Walker of Escapes.ca says, she recently received “rave reviews” from a couple she booked at the Rosas & Xocolate Boutique Hotel + Spa in Merida, while Sayulita is a great destination for a more chill honeymoon just north of Puerto Vallarta.
And as far as properties go, over-the-water bungalows are dominating honeymoon bookings in both the Caribbean and Mexico.
“Honeymooners have alternate options open to them with opulent overwater bungalows, suites and villas now available in Mexico and the Caribbean, including El Dorado Maroma, a Gourmet Inclusive Resort, by Karisma in Riviera Maya; Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island; Sandals South Coast in Jamaica and Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort in Saint Lucia,” says Jack E. Richards, president and CEO of Pleasant Holidays.
Pamela Walker of Escapes.ca says she recently received “rave reviews from a couple she booked at the Rosas & Xocolate Boutique Hotel + Spa in Merida, Mexico.
The new over-the-water bungalows are so popular, says Anna Swenson of Journeys Inc., that travelers will even opt for a shorter trip — three nights instead of a week — to have a chance to stay there. Another option is to split a shorter stay in a bungalow with a stay in a lower-priced suite.
“They can get the amazing experience, if for a short time, and as a bonus, get those ‘Instagrammable’ pictures to show their friends and family back home,” says Swenson.
But although the Caribbean and Mexico may be the latest destinations to get into the over-the-water bungalows market, Richards says the South Pacific still remains the most desired location for this room category for clients looking to go “dream big” or go home.
“An iconic overwater bungalow perched above the translucent waters of a South Pacific lagoon in Bora Bora, Moorea or Tahiti is still the ultimate in ‘dream big’ honeymoons,” he tells Travel Agent.
Meanwhile, Walker says, “I love Playa Resorts’ Sanctuary Cap Cana in Punta Cana. It’s a beautiful, adults-only resort with a spa-like feel. There are gorgeous oceanfront luxury villas and private island suites. There are many unique features such as the Blue Marlin Restaurant on stilts over the water, and the incredible castle surrounded by a moat.”
Other unique and faraway destinations that are trending are Morocco, Bali and Thailand, notes Walker. Selena Bohinski of First Class Travel also points to Thailand as a hot honeymoon destination, while Singapore and the Maldives are also popular.
For domestic honeymoons, Hawaii is still king. Higashino says the hottest properties to honeymoon at in the Aloha State include Four Seasons Resort Maui; Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort; Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui; The St. Regis Princeville Resort on Kauai; Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina; The Laylow, Autograph Collection on Oahu and Four Seasons Resort Lanai.
And regardless of where they choose to celebrate their honeymoon, Hannah Schremp of Frosch Travel says many of her clients are willing to postpone their honeymoon in order to travel during the peak season of their desired destination.
The Over-the-Water Bungalows at Sandals South Coast in Jamaica are an enticing option for honeymooners.
“So, if their wedding date doesn’t coincide with ideal weather where they would like to travel to, they are happy to wait,” Schremp tells us. “They’ll do a stay-cation or a quick weekend getaway directly after the wedding and then wait six months to go on their dream honeymoon.”
Mahoney of Bridal Guide Magazine says “buddymoons,” in which the recently married couple invites friends to join them on their honeymoon, is continuing to grow in popularity.
She notes that the trend was born when former “Friends” TV star Jennifer Aniston got married in 2015 and had a honeymoon that included all of her friends.
“Last year was really the first year we heard about it,” says Mahoney, “but this year, we are starting to see properties getting in on it, like the Four Seasons Bora Bora.”
Trendy Wedding Locales
The Caribbean remains a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, according to several travel agents that we spoke with. The reasons being that it’s a quick flight and the atmosphere of the Caribbean and the people “seem to say, ‘Let’s party!’,” according to Julia Shore from Reid Travel. However, she tells us that she’s taken a special interest in Morocco lately.
“I love it so much that I have visited twice in the last four months, and can’t wait to return in March,” Shore says.
A few key points that make Morocco a great destination are that it’s easily accessible from the U.S. (especially the East Coast) and that it’s also an exotic and romantic destination. Shore tells us that there are plenty of “spectacular venues,” and that includes Moroccan palaces and hidden riads, as well as desert oases and beaches.
Palaces, hidden riads, as well as desert oases and beaches make Morocco a trendy destination for weddings and honeymoons. Seen here is the Royal Suite at Ansanga Riads Collection in Marrakesh.
For instance, couples can opt for a sophisticated garden wedding in Palmeraie (a palm oasis of several hundred thousand trees outside of Marrakesh), an Atlas Mountain where couples and their guests can enjoy the “star-laden Moroccan skies,” or in the Sahara, which can be followed by sleeping in tents or a private estate. This follows the trend that couples are looking to tie the knot in unique locations, but these also tend to be more intimate, as further destinations can be prohibitive to some guests.
Mexico is Pleasant Holidays’ number-one choice for international destination weddings, with Riviera Maya, Cancun and Los Cabos being the top picks, says Richards.
“Mexico resorts also make the planning process easy and seamless, with onsite wedding coordinators and directors of romance, free ceremonies, special promotions and more,” Richards adds.
Mexico and the Dominican Republic are also Travel Impressions’ biggest sellers for destination weddings.
“Resort brands such as Breathless, Dreams, Hard Rock, Karisma, Palace, Palladium and Secrets have become pros when it comes to executing picture-perfect nuptial ceremonies tailored to the dreams and aspirations of each couple,” says Wiseman.
“We went to the Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa for our honeymoon,” Shayna Pierce of Academy Travel, A Frosch Company, tells us. “What I recommend about that destination is that there are so many activities to do while you are there.” And while Breathless may give the impression of nonstop party, Pierce says, “It really is not. There are a number of opportunities to get away from the party scene, including the quiet pool.”
Hawaii is Pleasant Holidays’ top choice for domestic destination weddings, with Oahu and Maui being the top picks.
“While oceanfront sunset weddings are predominantly the most preferred option, guests are opting for the islands of Maui, Kauai and the Big Island for the most intimate offerings from these beach / oceanfront wedding venues,” says Higashino. “While many love the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, it can be a challenge to find a sunset spot without being inundated with people.”
Disney’s fairy-tale weddings are said to be a hit among second-timers, who have children from prior marriages. Seen here is the Walt Disney World Orlando.
Wiseman also points to Hawaii, as well as Las Vegas and California, as the most popular for destination weddings, although he noted that Travel Impressions is seeing some “renewed interest in Florida, spurred by Disney’s fairy tale weddings, which are a big hit with second-timers when children from prior marriages are in the picture.”
Products and Assistance
Agents are not wedding planners, so it is important for an advisor to seek the proper assistance from someone, either onsite or elsewhere.
“Clients need both of our skill sets and expertise; they want someone to scout venue with them in a destination, design all the elements and also handle their travel logistics,” says Heather Christopher, owner of Heather Christopher Travel Consulting. “Most wedding planners already have their plates full and are not well equipped to handle travel and hotel contracts on top of their regular duties. The partnership between the two can be as simple as handling hotel blocks for local weddings and building from there.”
Bohinski recommends joining The Knot or WeddingWire so couples can find you easily during their wedding planning process and to attend local bridal shows that fit your market and clientele.
“One thing that has helped our agency so much in booking destination weddings is attending wedding FAM trips and seeing the ceremony and reception set-ups in person and learning firsthand what is included at each resort,” says Bohinski. “Every resort is so different in its own way and being able to experience the resort and meeting with the resort staff and wedding staff is so important.”
Michelle Carbone tells us that seeing the resorts in person has helped set her agency, Michelle’s Destinations Unlimited, apart from the competition. “And you know people onsite usually can get to know your local rep or BDM in the process,” she says. “It’s important to ask lots of questions to properly qualify your clients and make sure they end up in the right resort.”
For further assistance, Higashino says White Orchid Wedding uses all the latest in event-planning apps and especially social media avenues such as Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, Social Tables and Hootsuite. She also says many event planners find Aisle Planner useful.
“I have been planning weddings and events for over 25 years and the best advice I can give is to be patient and listen to your customers’ needs and desires,” she tells Travel Agent. “Create their celebration to always exceed their expectations and take pride in your work. You must stay savvy with current trends and utilize the latest tools available in the trade. Stay personal with clientele, nothing worse than automated messages. Answer your phone and be professional at all times. Be sure you are a fit with your client as you often will be working side by side for quite some time throughout the planning process”
As far as new products go, Mahoney tells us the traditional photography packages offered at hotels are beginning to evolve with drone rentals set to be all the rage this year and beyond. Mahoney says more and more hotels are beginning to offer drone packages for couples looking for some spectacular aerial shots of their ceremony.
A Pair of Proposal Packages
Get Engaged Like a Royal: Meghan Markle isn’t the only American who can have a royal engagement. Now, The Milestone Hotel, London’s boutique five-star hotel overlooking Kensington Palace, is offering a special “Royal Engagement Package” to celebrate the upcoming nuptials between Prince Harry and American actress Markle.
The two-night package includes Royal Afternoon Tea for two; a romantic turndown with pink Champagne on one night; a chauffeured Bentley to a Hatton Garden jewelry store; a horse-drawn carriage around London to celebrate the new engagement; a private tour of Kensington Palace and a photo session with a hotel photographer in front of Kensington Palace.
Il Salviatino in Italy is offering the “Perfect Proposal” package. Seen here is one of the GreenHouse Suites, which have glass-encased living spaces.
A “Perfect Proposal” in Tuscany: Il Salviatino, a restored 15th-century villa located in the Tuscan hills of Italy, is offering the “Perfect Proposal” package, which includes accommodations for two nights in the room of the couple’s choice; a daily breakfast buffet; a one-hour couples massage at LA SPA; a romantic, candlelit, three-course dinner; and a three-hour tour with a personal shopper who will escort clients to the best jewelers on the Ponte Vecchio and Via Tornabuoni for the best fashion findings.
Avoid These Wedding Planning Pitfalls
Understand the Needs of Bride vs. Groom: Just because two people are destined to be with each other doesn’t mean they necessarily have the same tastes and interests, says Travel Impressions’ Scott Wiseman.
“Clients often come into an agency with two different ideas of what their dream wedding should be — and then you have outside influences such as the sister who appoints herself wedding planner,” he says. “As a travel agent, your job is to take all of that feedback and distill it into the perfect experience, which is no easy task.”
Do Not Avoid Using a Planner: While White Orchid Wedding’s Carolee Higashino recommends using a wedding planner, she also urges agents to reconsider hiring a planner the day of the actual wedding.
“Use a planner. Always. You may think you are capable and you may very well be, but, why? It is a huge burden of stress on the very day you hope to enjoy and cherish for the rest of your life,” she says. “Reconsider hiring a ‘day of’ planner as this often is not actually cost effective and you will feel quite stressed once again when passing over all of your details to someone at the final hour. As many couples are not experts in event planning, often something goes amiss and can become an issue in this scenario. Be sure to cover outdoor events as tropical weather can be unpredictable.”
Don’t Skimp on Memories: Higashino also urges advisors to invest in a great photographer and cinematographer to tell your story for years to come.
“Hire professional transportation for your events especially if your guests plan on imbibing,” she says. “Do not count on taxis and Uber, as they can be unpredictable and not available in certain parts of the islands. Do not try and be a travel agent for your guests, they are capable of managing this themselves. Align yourself perhaps with a travel agent partner to help your guests with these needs.”
White Orchid Wedding’s Carolee Higashino urges advisors to invest in a great photographer and cinematographer.
Don’t Overwhelm Yourself: Avenues of the World Travel’s Daniela Harrison tells us the best wedding specialists are the ones who give proper attention to every detail of the wedding, which is why she tries to limit herself to handling about one or two weddings per year. “They are so time intensive and take so much patience and hand-holding,” she tells us.
#GetSocial: In addition to creating a clever wedding hashtag for guests to include in their social posts, many couples are opting for a personalized Snapchat filter — essentially replacing the otherwise popular photo booth. This is according to findings of wedding trends gleaned by Destination Hotels. The team at San Diego’s Paradise Point Resort & Spa, for example, reports seeing more wedding attendees use live video capabilities on Facebook and Instagram to commemorate the special day. With today’s technology, friends and family who aren’t able to make it to the wedding don’t have to miss out on all the fun when they are able to tune into the action in real-time through social media.
Article by: Travel Agent Center; 
The Caribbean remains a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, according to several travel agents that we spoke with. The reasons being that it’s a quick flight and the atmosphere of the Caribbean and the people “seem to say, ‘Let’s party!’,” according to Julia Shore from Reid Travel. However, she tells us that she’s taken a special interest in Morocco lately.
