After "I DO"...Where to Bid Adieu

Spring is on its way and I'm already excited about being in the thick of wedding season.  And as we planners and brides-to-be continue with scoping and preparing for THE BIG DAY, it's also important to remember to put just as much thought into THE BIG DAYS AFTER.  That's right gals/guys, don't forget about the honeymoon.  I always say the honeymoon is likely the best of times between newlyweds, so special attention should be paid...especially when it comes to accommodations.

Now if you're on a tight budget, I may not be the person to talk to when it comes to destinations and accommodations.  Why?  Because ever since my husband and I honeymooned in Hawaii, frolicking the suites and sights of Halekulani and Fairmont Kea Lani (pictured above), we've somewhat unashamedly become hotel snobs.  For us, resorts and accommodations are extremely important and on them we do not skimp (which is why I don't do honeymoons and refer all of my clients to a world-class agent...wink).  Still, this doesn't mean you have to break the bank.  For goodness sake, you will have just gotten married.  But just remember to make it special and put lots of thought into your first days together as husband and wife.

Here are six of my favorite luxury resorts, perfect for honeymoons this year:
Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt (Africa)
Enjoy a seaside resort experience unparalleled in the Middle East. Superb dining, spa, fitness, diving and sports – and luxurious guest rooms clustered like a hillside village above the shimmering drama of the Red Sea.

Clayoquot Wilderness Resorts and Spa, Vancouver Island (British Columbia, Canada)
A premier eco-safari destination inspired by late 19th century Great Camps. Situated at the mouth of the Bedwell River, where it spills into a nine-mile-long fjord, an enclave of 20 great white canvas guest tents, massage and treatment tents, dining tents, lounge tents and a massive timber cookhouse peek out shyly from the dense bush. This resort offers a discreet paradox of individual pampering, and remote, untamed wilderness.

Scottsdale Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch, Sonoran Desert (Arizona)
Set amidst flowering cactus and framed against the majestic McDowell Mountains, private lakeside casitas overlook the Sonora mountains with rooftop decks for prime stargazing. Perfect for golfers and tennis players. Plus, their fabulous spa, Spa Avania, covers 2.7 acres of indoor/outdoor treatment rooms, gardens, pools, and meditative spaces.

Amanjiwo, Indonesia
This resort overlooks Borobudur, the ninth-century Buddhist sanctuary. Rice paddies and distant volcanoes complete the landscape. Couples looking for something special should book the Dalem Jiwo suite, which has a private 15-meter infinity pool and a personal butler on call around the clock. A beautiful natural location, outstanding facilities, exceptional service and a small number of rooms to ensure exclusivity and privacy.

Burj Al Arab, Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
This legendary and symbolic hotel has attracted international attention and awe, ensuring its place as one of the most photographed structures in the world. Designed to resemble a billowing sail, Burj Al Arab soars to a height of 321 metres, dominating the Dubai skyline. Illuminated at night by choreographed lighting representing water and fire – Burj Al Arab is simply individual, inspired, impressive.

One&Only Palmilla, San Jose Del Cabo (Mexico)
Considered The "Jewel Of Baja," the serenely private and sensually elegant One&Only Palmilla features expansive ocean-facing accommodations, each with veranda, sunbeds, and indulgent amenities. Internationally acclaimed as the quintessential embodiment of elegance, every need is attended to with gracious hospitality, and the distinctive artistry of Mexico is discovered at every turn, from wrought iron as delicately patterned as lace to massive wooden doors weathered with age for authentic beauty.

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by Rashana Anderson
Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY