Welcome to Destination I Do Magazine's Blog!

As an extension of our growing magazine and web site, we wanted to reach out a little further and start a blog. I hope you find this is another helpful tool in creating the spectacular destination wedding, honeymoon or romantic getaway you've been dreaming of.

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www.destinationidomag.com
Showing posts with label Travel Deals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel Deals. Show all posts

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Save $4500 on a Destination Wedding in Mexico

Lovers looking to tie the knot with a destination wedding need look no further than Marquis Los Cabos, the beachfront Baja California Sur resort that now features a "Take the Cake" package.

Complimentary for the bride and groom when a wedding group of 10 rooms minimum are booked for three nights or 15 rooms for two nights, the package offers $4,500 in savings.

The "Take the Cake" package includes:
  • an ocean-view casita with private pool on their wedding night
  • two 50-minute Aromatic Massages
  • a chilled bottle of champagne
  • a romantic gift basket
  • daily in-suite breakfast discreetly delivered via a private alcove
  • a one year anniversary certificate for a complimentary three night stay
  • tuxedo and wedding dress pressing
  • bridal bouquet and groom's boutonniere
  • mani-pedi for the bride
  • signature welcome drink"Take the Cake" package.

In addition, a professional wedding coordinator will arrange everything from the wedding location to the photography and minister. Special room rates starting at $295 are available for groups. For more information on the Marquis Los Cabos Resort, click here, or call 877.238.9399.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Free Destination Weddings for 2010


Elegant Hotels Group gives brides and grooms a gift that they can really use – a free destination wedding in 2010!

Couples can qualify for the new Free Wedding Packages at the five distinctive Caribbean beachfront hotels and resorts dotted along the west and south coasts of Barbados including Turtle Beach Resort, Crystal Cove Hotel, Colony Club Hotel, Tamarind Cove Hotel and The House.

The Free Wedding Packages at Elegant Hotels Group includes:
• Wedding coordinator
• Marriage license and registration
• Services of magistrate/ priest/ minister
• Local transport to/from registration office
• Bride’s bouquet & groom’s boutonniere
• Best Man, Maid of Honor and/ or witnesses if required
• Bottle of Champagne for the wedding ceremony
• Single tier wedding cake
• All taxes and gratuities

Extra Incentive: Enjoy a three-night stay to celebrate First Anniversary one-year from date of marriage ceremony with Elegant Hotels Group.

To visit their entire hotel collection, click here.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Save on Airfare for Your Destination Wedding or Honeymoon

Southwest Airlines is offering BIG savings - but for 48 hours only - click here to get flights from $30-$90!
If your destination wedding or honeymoon is between September 9th and November 18th, this may be the perfect time to get a serious bargain for you and all your guests. Log on to Southwest Airlines before 11:59 pacific time on July 8th, after that, the sale will turn back into a pumpkin.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Get a 5-Star Destination Wedding for Less Than $20,000

From now until December 14, 2009 - you can get a 5-star destination wedding for less than $20,000 at Half Moon Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Their "Allure" package includes:

For the Ceremony:

  • Marriage Officer
  • Marriage License and Certified Copies
  • Tropical Bloom Bridal Bouquet
  • 3 Bridesmaids bouquet of tropical blooms
  • 4 Tropical Boutonnieres for the Groom and groomsmen
  • 2 Tropical Corsages for the Mothers of the bride and groom
  • Tropical flowers adorning a draped canopy or wedding gazebo
  • Violinist, Guitarist or Saxophonist for the ceremony
For The Reception:
  • 6 Tropical Table Centrepieces
  • Votive candles and holders for each table
  • 4-hour Open Bar including post-ceremony cocktail hour
  • Chef Selection of Hors D’oeuvres for Post Ceremony Cocktail Hour
  • Grand Dinner Buffet or 3-course Plated Dinner Menu
  • Disc Jockey for Post Ceremony Cocktail and Reception Dinner (4 hours)
  • Three Tiered Vanilla Wedding Cake

Plus:
  • Photography Service for 3 hours with 60 5x7 prints
  • Professional Make-up at the Beauty Salon for the Bride
  • Wedding Location Setup to include Chair Ties and PA System
  • Personal Wedding Planner

If you've got a group of up to 50 people and have been spying Half Moon Resort as a possible destination wedding spot, this could be just the package deal you've been waiting for. http://www.halfmoon.com/

Friday, June 19, 2009

More Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Deals

Palace Resorts, known for their five-star, all-inclusive resort accommodations is offering complimentary wedding and honeymoon packages.

Combined with lower than ever price of airfare to Mexico and up to $1,000 in added-value promotions with the Palace Passport for wedding guests that stay at Palace Resorts for three nights of more, these new wedding and honeymoon amenities give all happy couples the chance to create a one-of-a-kind affair at some of the most affordable prices for tropical destination weddings and honeymoons.




The complimentary wedding package includes:
  • Personalized wedding planner
  • On-site location & decor
  • Ceremony music
  • Private dinner reservations
  • Personalized cake for up to 35 guests

If you are interested in adding other items such as a color themed event with personalized details, additional fees apply but are remarkably affordable. Packages range from $1875 to $2300.

To take advantage of their complimentary honeymoon package, it doesn't matter if you were married at Palace Resorts or not! As long as you were married in the past year, they will honor their romantic honeymoon package which includes:

  • Signature Palace Resorts five-star service
  • Double Jacuzzis
  • Premium liquor dispensers
  • Unlimited long distance calls to the continental U.S. and Canada
  • Breakfast in bed including a bottle of sparkling wine and honeymoon cake
  • Private romantic dinner for two
  • Special turn down service
  • Ten percent discount at the gift shop
  • Access to the exclusive honeymoon concierge desk
  • 6:00 p.m. late check-out

Who knew getting married could score you so many luxurious freebies?!

http://www.palaceresortsweddings.com/.
Images provided by Palace Resorts

Monday, June 15, 2009

What Kind of Destination Wedding is Right for You?

For the "History Lovers": The Inn at Perry Cabin, a colonial mansion steeped in history and located in charming St. Michaels, Maryland provides the perfect backdrop to run away and get married. Their “Elopement Package” includes a ceremony in a choice of locations including the waterfront gazebo or their private English garden, one night accommodation in a luxurious master suite offering verandas perfect for newlyweds to take advantage of the views of St. Michaels harbor, a three-course VIP dinner for two in the inn’s premier restaurant, Sherwood’s Landing, Champagne, chocolate covered strawberries at turndown and breakfast for two. www.perrycabin.com

For "Wine Lovers": La Samanna in St. Martin, French West Indies provides the perfect setting for a dream wine lovers destination wedding. Recognized as one of the best wine cellars in the Caribbean, La Cave serves as a unique and luxurious scene for a romantic dinner. With over 14,000 bottles from 11 different countries, this underground oasis of wine features heirloom cobblestone floors from France dating back over 200 years, arched portals, and wrought iron accents. Couples can take their vows in a special spot created exclusively for weddings in a clearing surrounded by lush foliage and a striking Caribbean beach front view. The Restaurant at La Samanna provides a perfect reception venue with an opulent dining room offering panoramic ocean views adding to the enjoyment of the delicious meal - complete, of course, with the perfect wine pairing. www.lasamanna.com

For the "Culinary" couple: Casa de Sierra Nevada, a luxury boutique hotel and cooking school in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, caters to the most tasteful world traveler. Couples and their guests can take classes at Sazón, the hotel’s highly regarded cooking school, offering the finest instruction in traditional Mexican cooking, peruse one of the town’s countless art galleries or enjoy San Miguel’s 400 year-old history, exquisite Spanish Colonial architecture, fountains and hidden courtyards combined with true Mexican traditions. Relax after an eventful day with a couple’s natural herbal massage in the hotel’s new Laja Spa www.casadesierranevada.com



For the "Mountain loving/Adventure-Seeking" couple: A luxury boutique hotel of grand style, Keswick Hall offers the ultimate in seclusion located at the foot of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains making the perfect backdrop for the big day. Before vows are swapped, the couple’s last few single nights require some serious celebrating with friends and family. For the bride and her “besties”, Keswick Hall offers a Martini Madness & Movie Night and a Pampering Pajama Spa Party. For the groom and his entourage, a golf tournament on Keswick’s 6,506 yard Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, a morning of fly fishing and clay shooting are an absolute must, followed by cocktails and cigars on the terrace and few rounds of Texas Hold’em. Keswick Hall also offers unique activities for all to take part in throughout their stay including Croquet and Wine Tasting, a Champagne Putting Contest, dessert and late night munchies after the rehearsal dinner and a Virginian Barbeque and Blue Grass poolside celebration. www.keswick.com



For the “Southern Belle and Gentleman” couple: Charleston Place, one of the finest hotels in Charleston, South Carolina is the perfect venue for a couple seeking a unique, timeless elegance with the essential southern charm and hospitality. The ceremony can be performed in the beautiful Palmetto Courtyard or on the hotel’s new intimate yacht, the Innisfail. What would a southern wedding be without a reception in the grand ballroom? Elegantly appointed with recessed crystal chandeliers and 16-foot ceilings, the ballroom can host up to 1,500 attendees in over 14,000 square feet. Finish the majestic day with a night in the Presidential Suite – with a full living room, wet bar, dining table, pantry, entertainment armoire, an Orient Express signature walk-in closet, full bath and a full king-size bed….to rest your head, of course. www.charlestonplace.com




For the “Foodie” couple: The Windsor Court Hotel located in the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana, a city renowned for spectacular food, marks the perfect spot for gourmet lovers to tie the knot. The hotel’s newly refurbished and famed Grill Room provides and upscale dining experience, offering guests innovative “Contemporary American” cuisine with Southern influences and local ingredients against a backdrop of jazz, New Orleans blues and instrumentals inspired by the great crooners. The newly married duo can begin the honeymoon in the exquisite Penthouse Suite. Offering complete privacy as well as secluded terraces overlooking the city skyline and the Mississippi River, original museum-quality artwork, Italian marble floors, a library, a full kitchen and a baby grand piano, couples will fall in love (again) with Windsor Court. www.windsorcourthotel.com



For the “Type A’s-Who-Need-to-Slow-Down” couple: Bora Bora Lagoon Resort and Spa located in dazzling slow-paced French Polynesia, allows fast-paced couples the opportunity to slow down, relax and take in the magical moments of their special day. Otemanu, the resort’s premier restaurant - known for its breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu and the Bora Bora lagoon, offers the perfect atmosphere for a rehearsal dinner. Exchange vows on the gorgeous main beach and celebrate on a sunset cruise. Couples can book one of the romantic Overwater End of Pontoon Bungalows which are carefully oriented to views and sunlight with privacy as a key consideration. www.boraboralagoon.com

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Take a Hike - And Save $400


For those of you who are looking to explore the countryside and enjoy a romantic tour through Italy, we suggest you take a hike!

Better yet, do it for less!

For price-conscious travelers not willing to give up quality experiences and fine service, Italian Connection offers the new “Simply Italian” option where guests save up to $400 USD on walking tours in Sicily, Piedmont, Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast.

By staying in simpler hotels or local B&Bs, guests still enjoy all the features of a classic Italian Connection tour but at a very friendly price. Travelers will taste the finest white truffles in Alba, hike to a hidden grotto decorated with 7,000 year old paintings in western Sicily, dine in an Italian grandmother’s home in Tuscany, and enjoy a private lunch along the spectacular “path of the Gods” on the Amalfi Coast.

The "Simply Italian" option is available on the following walking tours: Western Sicily & Egadi Islands May 6-11, Amalfi Coast & Capri May 17-21 and September 28 – October 2, Tuscany Hilltowns May 19-24 and Piedmont Vineyards & Lakes June 19-25 and October 9-15. Tours are 5 to 7 days, with 5 to 10 miles daily walking and have no more than 13 people in a tour. Prices with the savings start at $2695 per person based on double occupancy and include accommodations, guided walks, most meals, excellent wines and unique insider experiences.

www.italian-connection.com.

Monday, June 8, 2009

Get to Paradise for $565 Round-Trip


If you're looking for an amazing honeymoon destination, Fiji has it all, and now, it won't kill your wallet to get there! Air Pacific, Fiji’s International Airline, has just announced round-trip fares as low as $565 from Los Angeles to Nadi, Fiji. The sale is from June 30, 2009 for travel good through December 31, 2009.

Plus, with the exchange rate being so low, US citizens and travelers coming from many other destinations can stay, eat and play for less.

http://www.airpacific.com/

Friday, May 29, 2009

How to Book an Affordable Honeymoon in France

France is one of the most visited countries in the world and considered by many to be one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations, but travel to France often comes with a hefty bill.




Discover France, the leading specialist in hiking and cycling tours to all regions of France, offers honeymooners and valuable and affordable way to visit France. With their unique brand of self-guided itineraries, couples can still have the romantic getaway that they’ve always dreamed of without breaking the bank. Guests can choose between Discover France’s 30 unique itineraries or custom plan their own adventure.




Travelers choose from a menu of accommodation that fits any budget, and Discover France provides route maps, baggage transfers, suggested itineraries, and all support needed. Best of all, honeymooners can explore France on their own (without the hassles of large group tours) while having peace of mind that Discover France will take care of all of the details.


Most couples also desire a few additional romantic days in Paris, and Discover France offers services to help facilitate that dream, as well as any others.

Friday, May 15, 2009

For Boys Only - A Guide to Popping The Question

Okay gentlemen - we know that popping the question is one of the most nerve-wracking situations you'll be faced with. To drop to one knee and proclaim your love and intent to commit is about as heavy as it gets.

You want to impress her and show her that you've thought through a special proposal, but you may be stumped for ideas. We've got a few:


1. Take her on a weekend getaway

Lots of resorts offer proposal packages. One destination offering a special deal called Bethrothal Butler is LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort in Naples, Florida. The package comes complete with a personal sit down with Cartier to find th perfect ring, private beach side dinner, an after hours couples massage and penthouse suite post-proposal party. All of this and two nights for $998. Check em out: http://www.laplayaresort.com/

2. Have a picnic

Take her to a special quiet place - in wine country, in a park by a lake, in a butterfly garden or on the beach - check out the local digs or ask around for a cool place. Bring some champagne, a blanket and a basket filled with gourmet cheeses, bread, fruit and of course - chocolate. If you have a portable music player - put together a playlist of your favorite music and don't forget to include your song. When it begins to play, take the ring out and pop the question!

3. Go camping

If your lady is the adventurous/outdoorsy type, this is just the ticket. Spice it up by bringing some candles (be careful of fire restrictions in your area though), music, a big blanket and some pillows to sit on. Offer to roast her a marshmallow and when she goes to take it, put the ring on the end of the skewer and drop to one knee. I promise, she'll love it.

4. Do it while you're shopping

Ahead of time, go into the store where you plan to buy the ring and ask if they would be willing to help you. Most jewelers are going to want your business, therefore are willing to do just about anything you ask. After you've purchased the ring, have the jeweler put the ring into the display case with a little sign saying "Julie (or whatever her name is), Will You Marry Me?" Next, take her shopping. Nonchalantly ask her to come into the store with you. Pointing at the sign in the display case, ask her to take a look. By the time she's done reading, you can be on your knee asking for her hand in marriage.

5. Hire a professional photographer

Proposing is a HUGE deal, so it's a good idea to get it on camera. Hire a photographer for the proposal and take her out for a special evening. She'll be dressed up and looking pretty if she knows you'll be taking her out on the town, therefore, ready for a closeup. When you're at dinner, have the photographer sit at another table or in the background so that they aren't noticeable. Once you've popped the question, you can go out and take some shots together. Your bride-to-be will be thrilled that you thought through these specifics since it will allow her to use your engagement photos for things like your guest book and save-the-date invites.

6. Do something she loves and you may hate

So maybe she's a huge fan of River Dance and you loathe people in tights jumping around to the sound of bag pipes (I don't blame you), but it's not about you. The proposal is ALL about her. Take the time and learn about something she loves. Perhaps it's the opera or the ballet - just suck it up for an evening and take your lady out. She'll love that you put in the effort and put her desires first. Toward the end of the evening, she'll be gushing and you can move in with the ring. This also will increase your chances that she'll say yes!

Once you've popped the question, she's going to need your help. If you plan to do a destination wedding, you'll find you can actually have a pretty active role. Maybe offer to handle getting some of the group activities underway or handle scouting out a good DJ or band. A good marriage takes team effort, so your wedding planning will too.

Good luck and when she does say yes and you're finished saying your "Destination I Do's" send us your wedding photos and we'll put them on the blog! You can email your submissions to info@destinationidomag.com

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

“EXTRA’S” Wedding Week of Giveaways!

Love is in the air and the celeb wedding bells keep on ringing! Now YOU can say “I do” like the stars and “Extra” will help you pay for it.

All week on “Extra,” they are giving away wedding essentials – from the gown and the honeymoon to wedding bands and even the photographer!

Today’s giveaway is wedding bands courtesy of Tacori Jewelers. One lucky couple will win a woman’s wedding band in platinum with diamonds, and for him a band in 18 carat white gold.

Later this week, “Extra” will give away a honeymoon to Conrad Maldvies Rangali Island, a trip valued at $13,000! Plus, “Extra” will give away designed wedding invitations at Soolip.com and even a renowned photographer.

PLUS - What’s a wedding without the wedding party? “Extra” will give away 4 bridesmaid dresses and a flower girl dress by Kirstie Kelly Couture. PLUS, 4 pearl necklaces from Pearl Paradise and one pair of pearl studs for the bride.

Tune in to “Extra,” listen for the secret word and sign up on http://www.extratv.com/ to become an “Extra” friend for your chance to win!

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Free Destination Wedding in the Caribbean

Photos compliments of The St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino

As we embark on the 2009 wedding season, St. Kitts Marriott Resort is offering the Complimentary Wedding Package with any seven-night stay.

The Complimentary Wedding Package includes:
- Professional Wedding Consultant
- Picturesque Ceremony Location: Options include Beach, Lawn, Gazebo or Garden
- Religious or Non-Denominational Ceremony: Includes set-up of chairs, table for signing of the license, basic décor and officiant
- Wedding License, Including document preparation
- One Bottle of Celebratory Champagne
- Accommodation Upgrade

And if you are trying to save additional money, you can combine it with other St. Kitts Marriott deals such as the Super Escape Inclusive Package, which offers an all-inclusive option with rates starting as low as $299 per night.


The Complimentary Wedding Package is available through December 19, 2009 and is valid with minimum seven-night stays. Accommodation upgrades are based on availability and applicable for the bride and groom only. Other furnishings for the wedding ceremony (i.e., floral arrangements, floral wedding arch, musicians, photographer, etc.) are available at an additional cost.

To take advantage of this special offer, please contact the St. Kitts Marriott Resort directly at (869) 466.1200 or visit www.stkittsmarriott.com

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Complimentary Destination Wedding & Anniversary Stay by Ritz-Carlton

If you plan to tie the knot between May 1st and December 20 th of this year and are considering the Ritz-Carlton for your wedding getaway, you're in luck!

By booking a Reconnect® package for a minimum of three nights and 25 rooms or more anytime between April 1st and June 30th (to be held between May 1 and December 20, 2009), you'll get a complimentary destination wedding and three night first anniversary stay.


Redeemable at any of their five hotels: The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun;
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
; The Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort, Rose Hall, Jamaica; The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas; and The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Enter to Win a DREAM HONEYMOON

In partnership with Destination I Do Magazine, Destination Wedding Planner - The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding from Afar, has created a DREAM HONEYMOON vacation sweepstakes at the luxurious Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia!


INCLUDES: 5-nights accommodations for two in a luxurious Sun Sanctuary Suite Breakfast & dinner daily for two Romantic Couples Massage all valued at over $11,000!

Click HERE to enter to win! Good luck!

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Pueblo Bonito - Travel Deals for Your Destination Wedding

Quick getaways are easily turning into luxurious Mexican vacations with Pueblo Bonito’s current travel deal under their year-long Stimulus Package. Pueblo Bonito’s year-long Stimulus Package consists of a series of value-added incentives and exceptional travel deals effective February 18-December 31, 2009. The first and current travel deal offers guests 4th and 7th night free applicable at six of their properties in Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlan. Guests can take advantage of the 4th and 7th night free offer from now until December 23, 2009.


Participating Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas include their four all-suite properties in Cabo San Lucas – Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach, Pueblo Bonito Pacifica, Pueblo Bonito Rose and Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos- and two in Mazatlan-Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan and Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay.

For more information and current offers please visit Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas’ website http://www.pueblobonito.com/.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Discount on Weddings for Military Personnel


WHAT: Military personnel planning to get married will receive a special wedding gift from Marcus Hotels & Resorts: a 25% discount on receptions and other events held at Marcus’ 20 properties throughout the country. The discount applies to food and beverage as well as the ballroom spaces. The discount was established in response to a growing number of weddings being planned prior to military deployment, providing an option to those who are uncertain of a deployment date but still may be planning a wedding. Discounts apply for all military weddings and events contracted by May 10, 2010. Also, cancellation fees will be waived for any wedding or military event that must be cancelled or rescheduled due to an unanticipated deployment.

WHO: Marcus Hotels & Resorts

WHEN: Discounts apply for events contracted by May 10, 2010.

WHERE: For a list of hotels, please visit: www.marcusweddings.com/military or call 414-390-3802.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Dicounts for Your Destination Wedding or Honeymoon

I'm starting to run out of reasons for why couples shouldn't consider a destination wedding. For starters, the economy is creating travel deals we haven't seen in several years. Airlines, cruise lines and even hotels are offering spectacular discounts across the board.

Hotels.com released the first U.S. based Hotel Price Index study on Monday, which showed that consumers have an advantage in today’s travel environment. According to the study, global hotel prices dropped 12 percent last year, bringing rates nearly as low as hotel prices in 2004.

Carl Sparks, general manager of hotels.com, said, “While hotels faced a challenging environment in the fourth quarter, they rolled out the welcome mat to travelers like we have never seen before to fill rooms. Properties are continuing to offer compelling rates and added value options, so it continues to be an excellent time for people to plan trips and secure great deals.”

Hotels.com is no stranger to a good deal, and they are doing their part to create customer loyalty. With their WelcomeRewards program, consumers can enjoy a complimentary night stay for every 10 nights booked. Consumers can earn and redeem rewards at more than 53,000 hotels.com properties worldwide, including chain and independent hotels, bed & breakfasts, vacation rentals, and more with no points to collect or blackout dates.

Here's an idea, by booking rooms for your guests, you'll get that free night even faster!

Monday, March 16, 2009

All the Single Ladies, All the Single Ladies

The Ritz-Carlton NY, Battery Park Announces an All-Inclusive Bachelorette Party Package...

Who doesn't love NYC, chocolate, red wine and some time with your lady entourage? I do, I do! And to think, you can put all those together in a hotel like the Ritz?



Sounds like an episode of Sex in the City!

Invite lifelong girlfriends to celebrate the bride-to-be and receive five-diamond treatment as you check in to a luxurious Liberty Suite, experience the "hotel within a hotel” exclusive Ritz-Carlton Club® Level and delight en-suite in a divine private chocolate tasting.

The all-inclusive Bachelorette Party Package includes the following:
• Overnight luxury accommodations in a luxurious two bedroom Liberty Suite with Club Lounge access and panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor.
o The Ritz-Carlton Club® Level redefines the luxury hotel experience, combining intimacy, comfort and exclusivity with the personalized service and attention to detail that are the hallmarks of The Ritz-Carlton. This oasis is often referred to as a "hotel within a hotel” with a well-appointed, relaxed lounge environment and continuous culinary offerings featuring breakfast, light snacks, hors d' oeuvres, beverages and sweets.
• La Maison du Chocolat en-suite gourmet chocolate tasting paired with red wine or Champagne.
o Experience a private 90-minute gourmet chocolate tasting in the comfort of your suite with a Chocolatier from the world-famous La Maison du Chocolat boutique. Two bottles of either red wine or Champagne are included in the tasting.


This package is available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights beginning March 15, 2009 starting from $599 USD per person; there is a minimum of four girlfriends per package. This package must be booked at least 7-days before arrival, is exclusive of taxes and gratuities, and is subject to availability.

Please contact the hotel directly for information on additional room rates and additional person prices.
For hotel reservations and information, visit online at www.ritzcarlton.com/batterypark , or call 800-241-3333, or the hotel direct at 212-344-0800.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Why We Love Southwest Airlines

Right off the bat, let me just inform you, this is NOT an advertisement! I'm simply professing my love for Southwest Airlines.

Why do we love them?

Several reasons actually. And here they are in no particular order:

  • They offer some of the best prices in the industry, constantly offering fare sales - like right now, so book your tickets!!!
  • The employees are consistently friendly and greet you with a smile
  • The company is healthy because it's run by good people who aren't out to squash their competition, but rather bring a great product/service to consumers
  • They are user friendly - from the check-in process to getting your rapid rewards awards, there's not a lot of "fine print"
  • They don't charge to stow your bags
The reason I felt compelled to write this endorsement is because I just got done booking travel through them for the umpteenth time. It was inexpensive, easy and it just struck a cord with me, that it's always that way.

Not everyone agrees and some think that their boarding process is confusing and frustrating. Actually, if you pay attention, it's quite simple and you'll realize that if you're a prepared traveler, you can take advantage of the many perks this offers (ie. getting a good seat on the plane, getting checked in so early that you don't even have to wait in line or if you do, it's only to check your bag etc.).

So, from a frequent traveler who has flown several airlines in the past, I implore you to give this airline a go...