Honeymoon Travel

Papohaku Beach

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Nearly 3 miles long and 300 feet wide, gold-sand Papohaku Beach is one of the biggest in Hawaii (17-mile-long Polihale Beach on Kauai is the biggest). It's great for walking, beachcombing, picnics, and sunset watching year-round. The big surf and rip tides make swimming risky except in summer, when the waters are calmer. Go early in the day when the tropic sun is less fierce and the winds are calm. The beach is so big that you may never see another soul except at sunset, when a few people gather on the shore in hopes of spotting the elusive green flash, a natural wonder that takes place when the horizon is cloud-free.

Kapalua Beach

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The beach cove that fronts the Kapalua Bay hotel is the stuff of dreams: a golden crescent bordered by two palm-studded points. The sandy bottom slopes gently to deep water at the bay mouth; the water is so clear that you can see where the gold sands turn to green and then deep blue. Protected from strong winds and currents by the lava-rock promontories, Kapalua's calm waters are great for snorkelers and swimmers of all ages and abilities, and the bay is big enough to paddle a kayak around without getting into the more challenging channel that separates Maui from Molokai. Waves come in just right for riding. Fish hang out by the rocks, making it great for snorkeling.

Hapuna Beach

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Just off Queen Kaahumanu Highway, south of the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, lies this crescent of gold sand -- big, wide, and 1/2 mile long. In summer, when the beach is widest, the ocean calmest, and the crowds biggest, this is the island's best beach for swimming, snorkeling, and bodysurfing. But beware of Hapuna in winter, when its thundering waves, strong rip currents, and lack of lifeguards can be dangerous. Facilities include A-frame cabins for camping, pavilions, restrooms, showers, and plenty of parking.

Lanikai Beach

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One of Hawaii's best spots for swimming, gold-sand Lanikai's crystal-clear lagoon is like a giant saltwater swimming pool that you're lucky enough to be able to share with the resident tropical fish and sea turtles. Too gorgeous to be real, this is one of Hawaii's postcard-perfect beaches: It's a mile long and thin in places, but the sand's as soft as talcum powder. Prevailing onshore trade winds make this an excellent place for sailing and windsurfing. Kayakers often paddle out to the two tiny offshore Mokulua islands, which are seabird sanctuaries. Because Lanikai is in a residential neighborhood, it's less crowded than other Oahu beaches; it's the perfect place to enjoy a quiet day. Sun worshipers should arrive in the morning, though, as the Koolau Range blocks the afternoon rays.

Experience Miami, Florida on a budget

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It might be notorious for its late-night party scene, swanky beach hotels with steeply priced drinks and the beachgoers who wear barely-there $300 swimsuits, but vacationing Miami-style doesn't have to cost a fortune.

From $3 beers to staying at a hostel for $34 a night to $7 bike rides along the Florida Everglades, visitors looking for deals have lots of options in the area.

Lodging

If you're adventurous and on a tight budget, consider staying in a hostel. Rooms can house anywhere between three and 14 travelers, sleeping on bunk beds, from $18 a night per person to about $40, depending on season and room size. Hostels in Miami Beach include Tropics Hotel & Hostel, 1550 Collins Ave., http://www.tropicshotel.com, Jazz on South Beach Hostel, 321 Collins Ave., http://www.jazzhostels.com/ and South Beach Hostel, 235 Washington Ave., http://www.thesouthbeachhostel.com.

For more conventional lodging, research your hotel at the one-stop shopping Web site http://www.miamihotels.com. Book a room while looking for nearby attractions, beaches and events.

Miami Beach

The Lincoln Road pedestrian mall is perfect for strolls and people-watching. You'll find dozens of restaurants and shops, along with locals walking dogs or weaving through the crowds on roller blades.

For a quick bite, check out Pizza Rustica (667 Lincoln Road, other locations on Washington Avenue), where you can get a huge slice of gourmet pizza for about $5. This is also a great spot for club-goers looking for something to fill their stomachs after a few drinks since it's open from 11 a.m. until 3 or 4 a.m.

At 625 Lincoln Road is a hidden gem popular with the locals. Snuggled between two stores is the narrow, tiny bar called Zeke's Roadhouse, which boasts over 80 bottled beers and drafts from around the world -- each just $3. No hard alcohol is sold here, and no outside food or drinks are allowed on the premises. Keep your ID handy since bartenders check it with each purchase. No ID, no beer. If you prefer to spend your time on the sand, the beach is walking distance (and free, unless you rent the pricey beach chairs). On your stroll, check out the Art Deco architecture and ritzy hotels. Or snap some pictures at the Casa Casuarina mansion where fashion designer Gianni Versace once lived, now a luxury hotel at 1116 Ocean Drive.

A drink at a trendy hotel bar on the beach -- the Delano, Setai, Shore Club, Gansevoort -- can cost up to $15, but you might just run into a celebrity. Owen Wilson was spotted at the Delano while filming "Marley & Me" with Jennifer Aniston. She reportedly spent time at the Mandarin Oriental.

Many restaurants in South Beach and other touristy areas automatically add a tip (usually 15-18 percent) to the bill.

Art

The Miami Art Museum -- 101 W. Flagler St., http://www.miamiartmuseum.org/ -- has a unique collection of different cultural traditions of South Florida. Adults pay $8, seniors $4, free for children under 12 and students with ID; free to all on the second Saturday of each month. Also on second Saturdays, local galleries and studios in the Wynwood Art District offer free wine (or beer) on a gallery walk, 7-10 p.m. The Wynwood galleries are open other days as well.

A short cab ride away, in the heart of Miami about a mile from downtown, is Vizcaya Museum & Gardens -- 3251 S. Miami Ave., http://www.vizcayamuseum.com/ -- built by agricultural industrialist James Deering in 1916. The landmark property includes a main house filled with treasures from around the world, a walkway lined with fountains and foliage, 10 acres of formal gardens and a hardwood hammock overlooking Biscayne Bay. Admission for adults is $12; children 6-12, $5; ages 5 and younger free.

Not far, in the Miami suburb of Coral Gables, is the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden -- 10901 Old Cutler Road, http://www.fairchildgarden.org/ -- with an extensive collection of rare tropical plants. Stop by its verandah restaurant or garden cafe, or spend the afternoon drinking tea here. Adults pay $20; seniors $15; children 6-17, $10. Admission is pay as you wish on the first Wednesday of each month (next two, Nov. 5 and Dec. 3).

Entertainment and Food

Transit Lounge in the downtown area -- 729 SW First Ave., http://www.transitlounge.us -- hosts several local bands during the week that play Latin and funk music. A drink is around $6; open late (5 a.m.). If you get tired of dancing, sit along the walls adorned with paintings done by local artists and play that favorite game from childhood, Connect Four.

Calle Ocho, or Eighth Street, hosts Viernes Culturales or Cultural Fridays the last Friday of every month. The art and street festival spans four blocks lined with more than a dozen galleries, restaurants blasting Latin music and cigar shops -- some offering free drinks and appetizers. Stages are set up for live music. Organizers say the Latin festival attracts over 10,000 people to the heart of Little Havana. Dancing and cigar smoking is encouraged.

While on Calle Ocho, don't miss the Cuban food and coffee at Little Havana's famed Versailles Restaurant, 3555 SW Eighth St., a required stop for vote-seeking politicians -- including, most recently, Republican presidential contenders Rudy Giuliani and Mike Huckabee.

Nature

The best way to see South Florida's alligator-infested waters is riding an airboat through the Everglades. Everglades Alligator Farm is about 35 miles south of Miami in Homestead, http://www.everglades.com, while Everglades Safari Park is about 15 miles west on the Tamiami Trail, http://www.evsafaripark.com/. Both places offer a chance to experience Florida's river of grass up close. You can even take a picture holding a baby alligator or watch an alligator show. The adventure, airboat and all, costs about $23 for adults, $15 or less for children. Both Web sites offer printable discount coupons.

Also in Homestead, Shark Valley Tram Tours -- http://www.sharkvalleytramtours.com/ -- rents bikes for $6.50 an hour. A 15-mile nature trail through the northern region of Everglades National Park takes two to three hours. If you'd rather rest your feet, a two-hour guided tram ride with wildlife viewing and a stop at the Shark Valley observation tower for a panoramic view of the Everglades costs $15.25 ($9.25 for ages 3-12). (Access to Shark Valley was limited in early October due to flooding, with tram tours suspended and bike routes limited, so check on conditions before you plan a trip there.)

The fee for car entry to Everglades National Park is $10, good for seven consecutive days, or $5 per person on foot, bike or motorcycle; http://www.nps.gov/ever/.

Transportation

Miami lacks comprehensive public transportation, but there are economical ways to get around. You can't miss the big blue Super Shuttle vans from the airport to the beach and Miami hotels, $20 plus tip. The Tri-Rail is a convenient, affordable way to navigate the region, with stops including area airports, Fort Lauderdale, Delray Beach, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach. One-way fares are $2-$5.50, all-day $4 weekend fare.

Taxis are widely available if you prefer not to rent a car. A ride from the airport to the beach can cost about $30-35.

Plan Your Las Vegas Destination Wedding

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All you need is love to tie the knot in Las Vegas. Well, you also need $55, valid identification and a social security number to get the license. But in comparison to a number of destination wedding laws, Las Vegas is pretty straight forward. There are no waiting periods or blood tests required. And ceremonies can cost as much, or as little, as couples want. Las Vegas also has virtually everything you need for your wedding, even if you feel like a traditional wedding. There are so many chapels to choose, and from wedding rings to wedding dress, there are a number of one stop wedding centers, both on and off the strip.

Have you considered exchanging vows dressed in renaissance costumes? What about a Star Trek wedding aboard the USS Enterprise? Las Vegas wedding venues range. Choosing where to hold your Las Vegas destination wedding can be a difficult decision thanks to the many types and styles of wedding ceremony available. Many chapels and hotel casinos offer a variety of ceremony themes. From a drive-through chapel on the Las Vegas Strip, to ceremonies presided over by an Elvis impersonator, to upscale affairs, Las Vegas has you covered.

These wedding chapels also have experienced and professional staff members to help make everything go smoothly and according to your wishes. For your convenience, most wedding chapels offer a variety of packages, from very simple to very elaborate. Contrary to popular belief, many people put as much effort into planning their Las Vegas destination wedding as they would if they were having it back home. Las Vegas resorts are providing some spectacular traditional weddings that can seat parties of 300 of the bride and groom's friends and family. With its endless entertainment possibilities, couples considering a Las Vegas destination wedding certainly don't have to worry about keeping friends and family busy!

Just be sure to get to the Clark County Marriage License Bureau beforehand. You must gain an official marriage license before going forward with your Las Vegas destination wedding plans. You must have this document before any legal ceremony can be performed. And with so many venue choices and entertainment options, it's no wonder Las Vegas has been one of the world's most popular destinations for weddings for more than 50 years. Last year alone, the Marriage Bureau here issued more than 122,000 licenses.

Las Vegas is local enough that you can invite a few guests, yet far enough away to transport you to another world for your big day. There's no question that the Las Vegas wedding is an integral part of the popular culture. Everyone has a Vegas wedding story, it seems, and everyone knows the long list of celebrities who have been married here, from Michael Jordan to Elvis to Britney Spears. So make your own mark on this town, and plan your Las Vegas destination wedding today!

Imagine a Picture Perfect Hawaii Destination Wedding with American Express Travel Deals

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Imagine yourself exchanging vows barefoot on the sand. Smell the white orchids of your bridesmaids' bouquets. The orange glow of a luxurious Hawaiian sunset streaks the horizon as your family and friends gather to celebrate your new beginning. Hawaii is a beautiful place, and a marriage here is an ideal way for a couple to start life together. Whether you’re a first time visitor to the Islands, or a seasoned Hawaiian enthusiast, you and your beloved are now wishing to celebrate a most cherished moment in paradise. Whoever you are, AMT American Express Wedding Division is ready and willing to service all you Hawaiian destination wedding travel needs. Our goal is to make your wedding day as free from worry as possible. Aloha and best wishes!

Now imagine a place dedicated to making your wedding day the incredible event you've always envisioned. Choose from ceremony and reception sites ranging from quiet beach fronts to lavish resort ballrooms in Hawaii. Leave the details to AMT-American Express Wedding Division, who will guide you in everything from luxury guest accommodations to combining your wedding package with your honeymoon package.

As for after the ceremony, what more can we say about one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world? You'll just have to experience it together.

But remember, for any person to lawfully marry in the State of Hawaii, a license for that purpose must be obtained from an authorized agent. Once the license has been issued, there is no waiting period before the marriage can take place. American Express Vacations makes it a point to remind their clients that marriage licenses and marriage certificates are different documents. The marriage license permits a marriage to take place. The marriage certificate indicates that a legal marriage has been performed.

The marriage certificate is prepared and filed by your licensed marriage officiant or performer with the Department of Health. A newly married couple receives one (1) certified copy of the marriage certificate at no extra charge, upon payment of the marriage license fee, which will be sent to the couple by mail (60-120 days) after the marriage has been performed. If a marriage certificate is needed sooner than this, you can apply for one or more additional certified copies.

With all the small details, it’s important to use American Express Travel to arrange the perfect luxury Hawaii destination wedding for you and the one you love. By organizing all the details to go through one agency, you can get the added benefit of group rates, special honeymoon amenities and you and your party are the first to receive complimentary upgrades.

Luxury Florida Honeymoon Packages for All Interests

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Florida is one of the top luxury honeymoon destinations for several reasons. First, honeymoon couples can experience the comfort and safety of staying within the United States. Florida is also a relatively close destination for American honeymooners. But most importantly, Florida is such a diverse destination, with so many attractions and activities, that it appeals to many honeymooners.

On your Florida honeymoon vacation, the Everglades National Park is not to be missed. The Everglades is perfect for the nature enthusiest or adventuring couple, and there are several luxury resorts near the Everglades that cater to honeymooners. Protecting more than 1.5 million acres, Everglades National Park is the 3rd largest national park in the lower 48 states. The area is home to rare and endangered species, such as the American crocodile, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee. Make sure to tour the Royal Palm Trail, which is great for spotting wildlife. American Express Tours sugests that travelers use this tour durring wet season in order to escape the heat and bugs. The Everglades is perfect for the nature enthusiest honeymoon couple, and there are several luxury resorts near the Everglades that cater to honeymooners.

For those honeymooning couples looking for the island experience, plan a Florida Keys honeymoon vacation. A favorite haunt for playwright Tennessee Williams and novelist and poet Ernest Hemingway, the Florida Keys nurture a free-spirited way of life that is continued today. The water sports and beach attractions make the Florida Keys even more entertaining. You can add a cruise and tour to your honeymoon vacation package, which will offer diving or snorkeling in order to show you North America's only living, coral barrier reef. You can even get in some fishing with the one you love. But the beauty of the Florida Keys is unparalleled. Once you visit the Keys, you'll see why some of the some of the most renowned dive photographers and writers in the world make this their home base.

If you and your new spouse are looking for some hot beach action, combined with the ultimate luxury, make a stop on your Florida honeymoon to South Beach, Miami. Take the opertunity to bask in the sunlight and in the spot light on your honeymoon!Today, it is considered one of the most wealthy and prosperous commercial areas on the beach. Housing some of the bigest names in fame and fourtune, South Beach has become a major entertainment destination with hundreds of nightclubs, restaurants and luxury oceanfront hotels.

And yes, we had to mention Disney World. There are several Disney honeymoon packages that cater to the young at heart. A Disney honeymoon is ideal for Disney fans or travelers who have never been. You can make your stay one day on your honeymoon, or stay at the parks your whole time. Disney World is truly a must-see for any honeymoon couple. From simple counter dining at McDonalds all the way up to the only 5 star, black tie restaurant to be found in the Orlando area, Disney World offers numerous luxury experiences . When combined with the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, its pristine golf courses, and other surrounding attractions, the Disney property provides plenty of fun on your Disney honeymoon vacation packages.

For all these reasons and more, consider Florida for your dream honeymoon vacation package

Honeymoon in a Winter Wonderland With American Express Travel in Canada

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American Express Vacations recently asked its clients what they thought the ideal honeymoon was. Well, not surprisingly, when people envision their honeymoon, everyone sees something a little bit different. Some people envision themselves on a beach, somewhere warm and exotic. Others wish to tour some of the world’s most ancient and spectacular sights, such as Rome or Paris. But a surprisingly large number of people saw themselves enjoying the cold weather in Canada.

According to American Express Travel, Canada has been growing as a honeymoon destination in the last couple of years. The reason? Simply that Canada has a large number of attractions for honeymoon couples. For couples who prefer contemporary setting, there several large cosmopolitan cities such as luxurious Montreal and Toronto in the south of Canada. Near Hudson Bay, there are several Eskimo settlements to explore. And of course, for those interested in water sports, the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean on either side are an ideal.

There are also over thirty National Parks in Canada. In these parks, honeymooners can enjoy various activities like canoeing, kayaking and white water rafting. But it is in the winter time that the country sparkles. From boarder to boarder, the Canadian winter is a magical winter wonderland. The snow blankets everything, and seems to glisten blue in the moon light. The stars twinkle in a black sky, not unlike the diamonds in the rings of new honeymooners. The country offers numerous luxury skiing resorts for ski lovers, and lovers of all time. In addition, it is not unusual to see the infamous Northern Lights dance across the sky.

There are several lodges that cater to honeymooners interested in Canada as a destination in all seasons. Travelers can experience the height of luxury travel by staying in the most incredible accommodations. Some of the finest hotels in the world are located in Canada. The country offers a wide range of internationally acclaimed luxury hotels, and even beach resorts for comfortable accommodations in the summer time. All the resorts and hotels in Canada offer an array of facilities to make your honeymoon the most memorable event of your life.

The Many Flavors of a California Honeymoon

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California has become on of the top honeymoon destination in the US, and it’s not very hard to see why. California has been on of the top travel destinations for years, so it’s no surprise to see it pop up on the radar of honeymooners. No matter what you want to see and do on your honeymoon, chances are you can do it in California. In addition, California offers American Honeymooners the luxury of staying within the United States and a number of reasonably priced air carries cater to the Sunshine State.

Full of Surf and Sun

The state that started the surfing craze is famous for honeymooners wanting to experience the famous California beaches. Discover what the Beach Boys were talking about at one of the hundreds of beaches along the south coast. From the well know Seal Beach, to the rocky shores of Malibu Beach to wealthy art town of Laguna Beach to the quirky Venice Beach, there is so much more than sand and great waves to California beaches. Each has its own unique personality, and offers couples interested in a California honeymoon.

Full of Outdoor Adventure

For couples interested in hiking, rafting, camping and horseback riding, a California honeymoon offers a great choice to explore the great outdoors. From the high sierras to the southern sierras, our mountain ranges play host to numerous camping grounds and lodges. California is also the state of Yosemite National Park. And the back woods offer a number of seclude ranches and other resorts that cater to people interested in being close to nature without roughing it. No matter what woodsy activity interests you, there is always something to do.

These are just a few different flavors of a California honeymoon. No matter what style you and your beloved desire for your honeymoon, chances are California offers it. But a California honeymoon really caters to the thousands of couples who want a little bit if everything, all in one place. So if you are interested in sampling the many types of entertainment available in California, consider a California honeymoon to share with your dearest love.

The Glitz and Glamour of a Las Vegas Honeymoon

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For the couple who love to play in luxury, the glitz and glamour of a Las Vegas honeymoon could be just what the doctor ordered to rid the bride and groom of wedding day stresses. Las Vegas is a great honeymoon destination spot that offers great value and a wide variety of entertainment and activities. This city may be notorious for surprise weddings, but it's also rated among the top honeymoon spots. Vegas is now the king of luxury hotels, offering honeymooning couples with a taste for adventure and upscale accommodation salivating for more.

The high rollers that Vegas has become famous for having changed the atmosphere of some of the most famous hotels in Vegas into luxury honeymoon resorts. True, you can still find hotels with velvet rugs, heart shaped beds and a champagne glass Jacuzzi, but for the most part, the strip has become a place of sophistication and class. You can even find five star resorts at a three star price to attract tourists, and honeymooners, year round. But it's important to keep it all in perspective. The hotel with the best deal may not be the hotel you and your new spouse want to stay at. Think about what amenities and Las Vegas special touches will enhance your fun, and not make you luxury Las Vegas honeymoon seem cheesy. Consider staying at the Rio. Just off the strip, this decently priced hotel is an all suite hotel. Don't be fooled by this catch phrase, a standard room is pretty unremarkable. But for just an extra hundred a night, you can stay in the lap of luxury.

The Venetian is also a great hotel to consider. This hotel features some of the largest guest rooms on the strip. The bathrooms are decorated in marble, and you can stay in a suite with a Jacuzzi tub. Not to mention the Venetian has the amazing array of canal shops, where you and your beloved can take a romantic ride on a gondola while being serenaded by a talented gondolier. For the young and restless honeymoon couple, stay at the young and hip Hard Rock in a suite. This casino will give you and your beloved a chance to live it up with the hip youth who descend on the Hard Rock's world famous pool.

The entertainment in Las Vegas is pretty hard to beat. Simply go to the first floor in whatever hotel you choose, and gamble at a craps or blackjack table. Most casino and resorts offer at least one big headlining performer. From the magic of Penn and Teller, to the sounds of Berry Manilow, to the latest and greatest Broadway show, there is so much to choose from. And at night, the strip glows with a thousand neon lights, and you can catch a show downtown of the Las Vegas experience. Vegas night clubs come alive, with all different kinds of music and atmospheres. You and your honey can share in the excitement.

Whether you're looking for a crazy and eccentric honeymoon romp on fake leopard skin rugs with some low stakes gambling thrown in for fun, or a traditional, high-minded honeymoon of exclusive entertainment and gilded luxury, Las Vegas is your town, baby!

Dreaming of a Luxury Hawaiian Honeymoon with American Express Vacations

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A luxury Hawaii honeymoon surpasses the stuff dreams are made of, especially when you are getting a good deal with American Express Travel. With the amazing sights of turquoise blue water, and beaches kissed with the sun, many honeymoon packages are centered on a Hawaii honeymoon vacation.

According to American Express Tours, Hawaii landscapes all welcome two special people joined together in love. A Hawaii honeymoon package is the perfect way to mark the beginning of a new life together. Hawaii is a luxury honeymoon vacation paradise, full of excitement and adventure. With activities such as swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling or surfing, play with your intended in some of the clearest waters in the world. If these water sports are not enough vacation material for your luxury Hawaii honeymoon vacation, consider some alternatives in the form of mountain biking, hiking and picnicking in secret hideaways. A Hawaii honeymoon package can meet any expectation because of the sheer diversity of the seven main islands. Also, the Hawaii islands are world famous for their hospitable and welcoming natives. And honeymoon couples are always treated no less than the royalty.

Fern fields, dried lava beds, white sandy beaches, underwater corals and beachside getaways are to be found in Hawaii’s islands of Kauai, Oahu and Maui. American Express Exclusives offers a luxury adventure honeymoon package that allows you to fly through the breath-taking beauty of Hawaii as you soar across the island on a zipline. There are American Express Exclusive Hawaii honeymoon packages which offer American Express Travel deals.

Exploring green sand beaches, relaxing at a spa, joining a beach-side party and star-gazing at a clear and unpolluted night sky are all possible in your luxury Hawaii honeymoon vacation. American Express Vacations offers honeymoon packages which suit all budgets. The most affordable Hawaii honeymoon packages are to be found with your AMT American Express Honeymoon Specialist. They can help choose the perfect honeymoon vacation itinerary to follow.

Hawaii is also a hub of activity, offering honeymooning couples no shortage of entertainment, lodging, historical sites, and quiet places to dine while gazing at each other over candlelight.

For the more adventuring honeymooners, AMT American Express Wedding Division can book a tour to Pearl Harbor, help you rent a kite board at Kailua Bay or arrange a surfing lesson on the Waikiki beach. Or you can try a quiet picnic at Honolulu’s Iolani Palace or in the tea house at Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. A sunrise hike to Makapu'u Lighthouse may reveal migrating whales and the silhouette of the island of Molokai. Or set out on a day of art appreciation, topping it off with fine cuisine at the Honolulu Academy of Arts café. No matter what your taste, style or preference, AMT American Express Wedding Division has sent hundreds of clients there before. With over 35 years of experience, trust the most important vacation of your married life to AMT American Express Travel Wedding Division

Aruba

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Introduction

Good things often come in small packages. Aruba is one of them. It is totally equipped with all the elements needed to chill and have fun: powdery, white beaches, crystal waters, fabulous cuisine, casinos and great nightlife. Best of all, the trade winds make the tropical climate palatable. The winds also force the island's trademark, the watapana or divi-divi tree, to grow at a 45-degree angle.

Who goes there?

In a word, everyone. The island caters to the upscale traveller and those looking for a moderately-priced vacation; the party animals and the visitor that likes to curl up with a book on a secluded beach; families and honeymooners.

Where in the world?

Aruba, approximately 184 sq km (70 sq miles), sits in the southern Caribbean, just 20km (15 miles) off the coast of Venezuela. It is the most westerly of the A, B, C islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao) which are all below the hurricane belt. It is part of the Kingdom of The Netherlands.

Beach

It doesn't get any better than a walk on powdery sand and turquoise waters sliding over your feet. Bordering the hotel zone, Palm Beach, located about 17km (11 miles) north of Oranjestad, is often crowded. It is the place for watersports (diving, parasailing, kite surfing) or just lazing in a lounge on the sand. Many prefer the calm surf and sand expanse of Eagle Beach, 20km (15 miles) north of Oranjestad.

Beyond the beach

Not all the wildlife is at the dance clubs. Donkeys, as well as scores of birds and lizards, find Aruba just as appealing as humans do. Nearly 20% of the island is a national park with exotic landscape like petroglyphs, odd rock formations and caves. Learn all about aloe production at Aruba aloe in Oranjestad, the island's charming capital.

Family fun

Shallow Baby Beach, about 14.5km (9 miles) south of Oranjestad just passed San Nicolas, is calm and wading pool-like, so it is perfect for the little ones. Hikes and off-road jeep adventure are fun terra firma trips for everyone. Learn about creatures at the butterfly farm, on J E Irausquin Boulevard in Palm Beach, or the ostrich farm on Makividiri Road.

Retail therapy

Since Aruba has it roots in Holland, think Delft pottery and cheese. The island is also the world's largest producer of aloe. It is available in every form imaginable. Browse the ‘duty free' shops on Oranjestad's primo shopping street Caya G F Betico Croes. Sometimes luxury items (jewellery, cameras, perfumes and so on) are discounted by as much as 25%. But be a savvy shopper. Price and compare in Aruba and before leaving home. The best deals on such items, especially liquor, can be had at the airport. And a word to the wise. Don't even thing about haggling. Locals consider it rude.

A night on the town

No problem looking for action when the sun goes down. The nightlife grooves with 11 casinos and tons of clubs and bars. Things don't start shakin' until around midnight but continues to the wee hours. The funky Kukoo Kunuku, takes revellers to dinner and bar hopping aboard a 50-year-old, brightly coloured bus. The tour operates Monday through Saturday from 1800 until midnight and changes watering holes daily.

Eating out

Cuban, Brazilian, Italian, Japanese, French, Caribbean, seafood. Aruba's eateries run the gamut. Sample local specialities like pan bati (a pancake-like sweet bread), keshi yena (a brown sauced covered, spiced seafood or beef baked in a Gouda cheese shell), or scavechi (marinated fish). To save a little bank, check out the Aruba Gastronomic Association (website: www.arubadining.com). They offer three-course, discount dine-around packages at high end restaurants.

Getting around

Arubus, the island's reliable public transportation, runs every 20 minutes. It will take you practically any place you need to go. Car rentals are available but to navigate the isle's rugged terrain, get a four-wheel drive. For true adventure, rent a Harley.

Exploring further afield

Hop a puddle jumper (Dutch Antilles Express: website: www.flydae.com) to Aruba's neighbours, Bonaire or Curacao. Each has its own personality. While Aruba is party central, Bonaire is laid back. With 86 awesome dive sites and 213 fish species, it is tops with those who like to explore the ocean's bottom. Curacao has fine beaches and lots of watersports but is more cosmopolitan. In fact, it looks like a pastel-coloured Holland with palm trees.

Splashing out

Visit Charlie's Restaurant and Bar on Mainstreet in San Nicolas. Paste your business card on the wall. Everyone else does. This island institution, one of the most popular watering holes on the island, has been around for 65 years. The staff will fill you in on the happenings of the little hamlet of San Nicolas.

Flying in

Aruba Queen Beatrix Airport (AUA)

St John's

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St John's abounds with history but it is without one of Antigua's 365 beaches. Busy with cruise-ship visitors during the day (not to mention its 45,000 inhabitants), the island's commercial centre has several interesting historic sights and remains popular with day visitors coming for its wide range of duty-free shops. The closest beaches will be found on the nearby Five Islands peninsular and are very fine indeed. The peninsular, a few kilometres west of St John's, has several of the island's better hotels, but the area is primarily gated and inaccessible unless you are a guest.

St John's teems with day-trippers by day and has a few lively restaurants and bars by night, so it draws a wide range of British and American partiers, including families and singles. The resorts in the Five Islands peninsular are primarily geared toward adults.

The beaches closest to St John's are in the Five Islands area, most notably Galley Bay and Deep Bay, though the former is less protected and can have moderate to pounding surf. One beach, at the Hawksbill by Rex Resort, is clothing-optional.

To look beyond the beach, you'll have to look beyond the Five Islands peninsular. In St John's are several interesting historic sights, including the Anglican Cathedral of St John the Divine, between Long and Newgate streets. The Museum of Antigua & Barbuda, in the former courthouse at Church and Market streets, has several hands-on exhibits. It's easy to travel down to historic Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour, one of the Caribbean's best-preserved historic districts and the only Georgian-era dockyard still in use; in addition to a museum, it's filled with shops and restaurants.

You'll find few shopping opportunities in Five Islands unless you want to limit yourself to the offerings of your hotel's gift shop. Most of the island's shopping opportunities are concentrated in St John's, or at Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour. Duty-free bargains abound in the shops of St John's Heritage Quay, though the most charming of the island's shops can be found in Redcliffe Quay, also in St John's. Cedars Pottery in Buckley and Rhythm of Blue Gallery in English Harbour are two locally owned shops that produce their own high-quality wares.

St John's has the upscale disco The Coast, but much of the nightlife is in faraway English Harbour. The island has three casinos, the largest being the Grand Princess in Jolly Harbour; the King's Casino in St John's is closer to resorts in the Five Islands area. Sunday-afternoon barbecues at Shirley Heights Lookout start in the afternoon but continue well into the night with reggae and steel-pan bands, drawing a mix of both locals and visitors.

Jolly Beach

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The Jolly Beach area draws a wide range of British and American holidaymakers, including families and singles. Resorts are a mix of large all-inclusives (which draw the majority of visitors) and smaller hotels.

Jolly Beach is a fine stretch of powdery soft sand, but if you are willing to travel a few kilometres south, Darkwood Beach is almost deserted during the week (though popular with locals on weekends), and Johnson's Point/Crab Hill beaches, a bit further south, are even nicer, with calm water for swimming and even a few good beach bars for refreshments.

The Jolly Harbour Marina has some good shops, including an outlet of Quin Farara for duty-free tobacco and liquor, but most of the island's shopping opportunities are concentrated in St John's, or at Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour. Duty-free bargains abound in the shops of St John's Heritage Quay, though the most charming of the island's stores can be found in Redcliffe Quay, also in St John's. Cedars Pottery in Buckley and Rhythm of Blue Gallery in English Harbour are two locally owned shops that produce their own high-quality wares.

The Jolly Beach area has the best of the island's three casinos, the Grand Princess; its Liquid disco is one of the island's hot spots. The King's Casino is north, in St John's. Castaways is another popular (and sometimes raucous) beach bar in Jolly Harbour, but most nightlife is concentrated in the English Harbour area, where the best bars, pubs, and discos can be found. Sunday-afternoon barbecues at Shirley Heights Lookout start in the afternoon but continue well into the night with reggae and steel-pan bands, drawing a mix of both locals and visitors.

Dickenson Bay

2008-11-03T13:16:00.000-08:00

Introduction

Antigua boasts of having 365 beaches, one for every day in the year, so even though you may be staying at a large resort, it's easy enough to escape to a secluded cove where there will be not a soul in sight. With a string of relatively large resort hotels, beautiful Dickenson Bay has one of the island's largest concentration of rooms (the other main concentration is in Jolly Harbour). The beachfront is lined with restaurants, beach bars, and water sports concessions, making it easy to escape your resort's confines if you choose, but you'll have to go into St John's to do any serious shopping. To find nightlife, you'll need to travel south, to English Harbour.

Who goes there?

Dickenson Bay is popular with a wide range of British and American holidaymakers, including families and singles. The large all-inclusives resorts draw the majority of visitors, but there are also some small hotels.

Where in the world?

Antigua is largest of the Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, roughly midway between St Maarten and Guadeloupe. The island's international airport is east of the capital, St John's. Dickenson Bay is a large beachfront area approximately 3km (2 miles) north of St John's and 11km (7 miles) northwest of the airport. It's the most developed area on the island, with a wide range of resorts and activities.

Beach

Dickenson Bay has a long stretch of powdery soft sand and exceptionally calm water. With a wide range of water-sports concessions, bars, and beachfront restaurants, it's an easy place to escape from your resort if you choose. A less developed, though narrower, beach, Runaway Bay, is directly to the south if you crave a less frenetic atmosphere.

Beyond the beach

Antigua is one of the Caribbean's major sailing centres, so trips out on the waves to more isolated snorkelling spots abound. The island's waters are also an unsung diving destination. Guided kayaking trips take you through mangrove forests along the north shore. Harmony Hall is a former sugar plantation, now a gallery and restaurant. Historic Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour is one of the Caribbean's best-preserved historic districts and the only Georgian-era dockyard still in use; in addition to a museum, it's filled with shops and restaurants.

Family fun

Dickenson Bay resorts draw a fair number of families to its powdery soft beaches. Most of the larger resorts have organised activities for children. Kids always enjoy sailing and snorkelling trips, and you'll find several operations right in Dickenson Bay.

Retail therapy

Shopping is not one of the strong suits of the Dickenson Bay area. Most of the island's shopping opportunities are concentrated in the capital, St John's, or at Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour. Duty-free bargains abound in the shops of St John's Heritage Quay, though the most charming of the island's shops can be found in Redcliffe Quay, also in St John's. Cedars Pottery in Buckley and Rhythm of Blue Gallery in English Harbour are two locally owned shops that produce their own high-quality wares.

A night on the town

There are a few good beach bars right in Dickenson Bay itself and in nearby Runaway Bay, but much of the nightlife is in faraway English Harbour. The island has three casinos; the King's Casino in St John's is the closest to Dickenson Bay, but the largest casino is the Grand Princess in Jolly Harbour, and it has the island's best disco. Sandhaven, a bar in Runway Bay, is right on the sand, drawing a mix of local cricketers and holidaymakers for cheap burgers every night and live bands on weekends.

Eating out

A proper British breakfast is available at most resorts, but the growth of all-inclusive properties has brought a decline in the number of independent restaurants. Still, there are a few standout establishments, particularly at some of the island's posh resorts and even a few stand-alone restaurants, particularly in Dickenson Bay and St John's.

Getting around

The island's bus service has well-travelled routes from St John's to either Falmouth or English Harbour, but it does not extend to any of the main resort areas. If you are staying in Dickenson Bay, you may not need to rent a car since there are many options for dining and nightlife nearby within walking distance. Organised tours are a popular means to see the island, and taxis (with fixed rates) will do for a few trips out of your resort, though costs will mount quickly if you plan to tour or dine out often.

Exploring further afield

Antigua's sister island, Barbuda, is just 42km (26 miles) north and can be visited easily either by a 15-minute flight or 90-minute ferry ride from St John's. Day tours to see the island's famed Pink Beach and bird sanctuary are easy to arrange but can be costly.

Splashing out

The trendy 'Beach', right in Dickenson Bay, is a casual yet sophisticated mix of lounge and bistro and a popular destination in the immediate area. If you want to dance to reggae and Latin club music, head over to Runway Bay to the club Rush.

Flying in

V C Bird International Airport, St John's (ANU)

Dreams Cancun

2008-10-26T14:15:00.000-07:00

Dreams Cancun is ideally located at the end of the island of Cancun, better known as Punta Cancun. Surrounded by the beautiful, turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean, Dreams Cancun guarantees magnificent ocean views and spectacular beaches. Close to entertainment, shopping and the convention center, Dreams Cancun lies in the heart of the hotel zone.

Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa provides a high level of luxury and ambiance for couples and couples with children, in unparalleled tropical settings. Surround yourself with Unlimited-Luxury® where everything is included: Sumptuous suites with stunning views, 24-hour room service and daily refreshed mini-bars. Countless daytime activities and nighttime entertainment to amuse you. An array of gourmet dining options and exquisite bars serving premium brands. Unlimited-Luxury®. A new and better way for couples and couples with children to have it all.

Dreams Cancun Resort and Spa was recently awarded one of the top ten resorts in Mexico by Conde Nast readers, Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa is an Unlimited-Luxury resort combining traditional Mayan and contemporary Mexican architecture. Designed by renowned Mexican architect, Ricardo Legorreta, Dreams Cancun boasts open spaces and beautiful interior atriums, providing the enjoyment of warm tropical breezes and the calm, turquoise sea.

Exclusively situated at the shore point known as Punta Cancun, Dreams Cancun is the only resort surrounded on three sides by the brilliant turquoise Caribbean; it’s also the first resort in Mexico with a dolphinarium on site, and just steps from the shops, sights and nightlife of Cancun. A variety of room and suite sizes meet any family’s needs. All offer private balcony views of the ocean, beaches or lagoon. Each is luxuriously appointed with marble floors, elegant furnishings, sitting area, mini-bar, satellite TV and 24-hour room service. Several suites provide private whirlpools and other enhanced luxury amenities and services. Shimmering pools, excellent gourmet à la carte restaurants, friendly lounges and bars are all part of this Unlimited-Luxury package. Relaxed and airy, alluring colors and designs add to the beauty and originality of the resort. Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa is the perfect dream get-away.

The Bel Air Collection

2008-10-26T13:32:00.001-07:00

Where Body Mind & Spirit Become One

When the place is the right one the energy flows spontaneously. Bel Air Collection Hotel & Spa enhances your meditation and serenity; where everything is dedicated to your wellness and to restore completely your body, mind and spirit. Located just 10 minutes from the Cancun airport and just 15 minutes from the main shopping, restaurants and the exciting Cancun nightlife on the Hotel Zone. Bel Air Collection follows a "hip" and minimalist trend, for those of you who look for a relaxing and romantic vacation experience.

Bel Air Collection could be just the place for your next Cancun vacation!

Beach Palace

2008-10-26T12:58:00.000-07:00

Memorable Family Vacations!

The Beach Palace is all new, and all exciting for your next all inclusive Palace Resort vacation. The Beach Palace has 15 floors featuring luxurious accommodations all with double Jacuzzi's in the room. This means that while the adults enjoy this new exciting amenity, the little ones are busy participating in the "Kid's Club". The Beach Palace Resort will still remain as it is famous for, which is a family oriented resort, with plenty to do for kids of all ages.

There are several fine dining restaurants serving a variety of cuisine to satisfy everyone's palette.

For those of you who are looking for a more pampering experience the new ultra modern Spa will offer exactly what you are looking for: a combination of ancient spa therapies with new techniques and the know-how for a comprehensive spa experience.

Are you planning a meeting? The new and improved all-inclusive Beach Palace Resort has all of the facilities at your fingertips. With a convenient location, small groups can take advantage of the new amenities in a complete all inclusive retreat.

Barceló Costa Cancun

2008-10-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

Exceeding your expectations

Discover why singles, newly weds, couples and families all agree that the contemporary Mediterranean-style resort is the best place to spend their all-inclusive Cancun vacations. The Barceló Costa Cancun is a beautiful beach front complex on the sheltered bayside of the Caribbean, overlooking Playa Linda. The hotel offers 318 comfortable units and lush tropical gardens surrounding the spacious pool area.

Barceló Costa Cancun Room & Suites is distinguished for its excellent service, quality and personalized all-inclusive program. With a magnificent location at the heart of the Cancun Hotel Zone and only five minutes away from the downtown area, the Barceló Costa Cancun is close to the best golf, shopping centers, restaurants and nightlife that Cancun has to offer. Barceló Costa Cancun is Cancun's best value and most popular 4 star hotel!

Are you planning a honeymoon? Are you planning a tropical wedding? Are you planning a family vacation? Are you planning a group vacation? Perhaps you are single and looking for a place to go. Well...look no further, because the all-inclusive Barceló Costa Cancun resort on Cancun's Hotel Zone has everything you need for your Mexico vacation needs.

Enjoy an all-inclusive vacation, Barceló style!

New York Honeymoon

2008-10-16T13:19:00.000-07:00

New York City is a true American landmark. It is beloved not only by its millions of residents, but also by the millions of people who visit the Big Apple each year. New York is a fun and exciting spot to have a destination wedding.

Many people think that destination weddings are all about beaches and resorts. But they certainly do not have to be. If there is a place that delights you and holds special memories for you and your fiance, why not have your wedding there? For many brides, that special place is New York City.

There are many iconic New York locations from which to choose, and just as many others that are unique and lesser-known. A bride with huge guest list (and a budget to match) might love the idea of having her ceremony in St. Patrick's Cathedral. Dealing with a national landmark will present some extra challenges, but it is sure to impress your guests. You would want to follow a grand service in a massive cathedral with an equally famous reception site, such as the Rainbow Room, or a ballroom in the Waldorf-Astoria.

Fiji Honeymoon

2008-10-16T13:16:00.000-07:00

If you are looking forward to a vacation of attractive rainforest, pine, scenic tall mountains and miles of warm sandy beaches, Fiji honeymoon vacations are just what you need. This island archipelago wonderland consists of 330 islands scattered across 200,000 square miles of ocean, several thousand of which are just too small for human habitation. The larger islands of Fiji are mainly of volcanic origin with high rugged terrain, whereas the smaller ones consist of coral or limestone, with little tropical vegetation. Additionally, most of the islands are made up of surrounding coral reefs and lagoons, just superb for snorkeling and diving activities.

You can expect breezy warm tropical weather in your Fiji honeymoon vacation with temperatures between 26°C and 31°C all year round. However, the best months to enjoy the soothing tropical weather would be March through November. During these times, the cooling wind which blows from the south-east softens in the evening and picks up again by mid-morning. Occasionally, there may be periods of heavy rainfalls and cyclones, so be sure to consult your travel agent on the current weather status for your specific destination amongst the Fiji islands.

Jamaica Honeymoon

2008-10-16T13:11:00.000-07:00

Jamaica with her sandy beaches, unbeatably blue waters and luxury resorts is and has been a honeymoon favorite. Undeniably, the Caribbean climate makes this island one of the best destinations for newly-wedded sun-worshippers year-round. But there is more to Jamaica than her sandy white beaches; the incredible food, the plethora of water activities and the friendly faces are just some of the gifts of this Caribbean island - Jamaica is also making leads in eco-tourism and cultural-education tourism. If you are planning to honeymoon in Jamaica, be sure to venture outside the established resorts to experience some of the best cultural aspects of this romantic getaway - and to avoid tripping over other tourists.

Hawaii Honeymoon

2008-10-16T13:07:00.000-07:00

There are many exotic, romantic spots in Hawaii to spend a honeymoon. Each of Hawaii’s islands boasts of many resorts, hotels and restaurants, and many are perennial favorites of honeymooners from all over the world. These resorts offer romance, and everlasting perfect weather. They come in a range of styles and price ranges to suit any taste; they are the perfect way to complement your honeymoon in Hawaii.

A honeymoon in Hawaii must include visiting all the islands Maui, Hawaii and Honolulu, and what better than visiting them aboard a Hawaii honeymoon cruise. These special packages contain everything you expect from a top hotel in the World. To start they have special accommodations for honeymooners and this includes a special service too.

Seychelles Honeymoon

2008-10-16T13:01:00.000-07:00

Seychelles has long been dubbed the 'islands of love' - a place where romance is as natural as the breeze gently blowing the trees making them sway in dance and with grace. A place was honeymooners can keep the flame of love a blaze. Seychelles is also home to the unique, Vallée de Mai which is yet another wonder to the beauty of the islands. With its diversity of tradition, culture and its people it is a place of harmony and true beauty. Honeymooning in a place as sensual as the islands, a place claimed by some as the original site of the Garden of Eden is an unforgettable breath taking experience.

A place of serene beauty, with a leisurely pace set for the idyllic holiday. The Creole cuisine is filled with aromas that make the mouth water and the senses delirious with each flavour that bust on to the tongue with every bite. Seychelles holds the key to your dreams, dreams that are made as natural as the waves caressing the shores of a secret cove at midnight with a full moon guarding its entrance. Enjoy a day cruise along the north coast of Mahe, aboard the traditional Dutch-built schooners. Be wild take public transport and visit remote secluded beaches or hire a car. Snorkel alongside a whale shark (during season) dive with the shark or an eagle ray, come be captivated by the under water world that is the Seychelles.

Malaysia Honeymoon

2008-10-16T12:47:00.000-07:00

Malaysia

was first colonised by the Portuguese around 1510, the Dutch were to follow in the mid 16 hundreds and finally the British arrived the end of the 18^th century. It was the British who introduced many Indian and Chinese immigrants to Malaysia, creating the countries racial mix that exists to this day.

Malaysia

can also boast some of the finest beaches in the region and the islands of Langkawi and Penang have established themselves as two of the country’s leading tourist destinations. However there still remain a whole host of lesser known destinations if you are willing to venture a little further from the beaten track.

Maldives Honeymoon

2008-10-16T12:44:00.000-07:00

The Republic of Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean. Situated south of India and south west of Sri Lanka, the Maldives total twenty-six atolls with over 1000 small islands, most of which are inhabitable.

Most of the resorts have their own entities with some resorts taking up whole islands - these resorts offer great privacy and ensure a relaxing vacation. Nearly all of the holiday resorts are located on the five main atolls, which are Kaafu, Vaavu, Baa, Alifu and Lhaviyani. Alifu is the main tourist zone where new hotels and resorts are in the process of being built.

Travelling to the Maldives is pretty straightforward. Standard travel documents, such as a passport are needed, but you don‘t need a visa. Visas are only required if you are planning to work there.

Accommodation in the Maldives differs from resort to resort and from island to island. Some resorts offer basic huts with outdoor bathroom facilities that will give you the traditional island feel, while others offer all the standard services that we are accustomed too.

Mauritius Honeymoon

2008-10-16T12:38:00.000-07:00

Mauritius is the central attraction of the beautiful Indian Ocean, treasured since the times of silk and spice trading. Mauritius offers soft and powdery beaches shaded by palms and casuarina trees, fields of sugar cane and excellent and friendly service. The architecture is also fascinating, from the elegant old colonial sugar plantation houses to the thatched roofs of the modern hotels, combined with the natural phenomena of the seven-coloured earth dunes at Chamerel.

Mauritius has incredible natural beauty that combines once active volcanic craters with gorges, waterfalls and lagoons. This natural beauty alongside the cosmopolitan bustle of the capital Port Louis makes Mauritius a consummate holiday experience.

Mauritius has a tropical climate that is significantly affected by southeast trade winds. It is warmest in February (85 degrees Fahrenheit) and coolest in July (70 degrees Fahrenheit)it is wisest to visit during the winter months; it is much cooler and rains less, mainly in the evening or just a passing shower in the day. The midday sun is strong so you can still get a tan. An added bonus this time of year is that the hotel charges are discounted for the Off-Peak Period.

Barbados Honeymoon

2008-10-16T12:32:00.000-07:00

Barbados - a 'Little England' it may be, with local cricket matches, British place names and even a beautiful hilly area known as Scotland, but Barbados is also alive with local flavour, reggae rhythms, excellent nightlife and some beautiful beach hotels. Beyond its coral sand beaches and turquoise sea, there are colonial plantation houses, landscaped gardens and hidden caves to explore on this tropical holiday.

Barbados is the perfect location for your dream wedding. Whether you are seeking a wedding on a perfect beach, a traditional wedding in an old church, a wedding in a historic plantation house, or on a private island, Barbados offers a wide choice of exotic and traditional locations for you to choose from for your dream wedding.

Dubai Honeymoon

2008-10-16T12:27:00.000-07:00

Dubai is the most reserved of the United Arab Emirates in terms of the way of life Western experts can enjoy. It will also characteristic a fashion island comprising high and mid-fashion that will pay worship to fashion design and host just about each most important fashion brand in the world. You can drink alcohol in your own homes and in various hotel bars and restaurants in the silhouette of the Burj Tower will be another aggravated development - It will offer an array of spare time pursuits, including a three story aquarium featuring glass tunnels where you can skate accurate all the way through and come face to face with sharks, tingle rays and other striking oceanic life.

Dubai is the home of sun, sand and shopping where gleaming skyscrapers stand next to ancient mosques, souks and wind towers. Set between the desert and the warm waters of the Southern Gulf, Dubai has something for everyone. Immaculate beaches to relax on, clear blue waters perfect for scuba diving, sailing or fishing, plenty of souks and bazaars to explore and for the more adventurous camel riding, dune driving and desert safaris.

Wedding Themes With Flair

2008-09-21T15:08:00.001-07:00

By Anne Sutantyo

Today’s modern bride simply isn’t content with the “same old, same old.” Sure, tradition can be fun, but it’s in the personal touches that a good wedding becomes a lifetime memory for you and your guests. What better way to make your big day stand out than with a creative, unique theme to bring everything together? There are many themes to choose from, and you might even be able to put one together on your own. Here are a few ideas to start your wedding bells ringing in style.

Summer Wedding Theme

A summer wedding theme can often be combined with a nature theme, giving your reception a warm, outdoorsy feel. Nature themes can range from animal-inspired weddings to beach receptions – it’s up to you! Try using seashells and sand dollars to decorate for a summer beach theme, and serve tropical-colored martinis during the cocktail reception. If you’re going for a more floral summer theme, try pairing your flower arrangements with summery citrus fruits! Yellow, pink, and orange colors will have your guests longing for the sunshine. As a creative summer wedding favor, try setting up a table full of candy jars with small bags for your guests to help themselves as they leave!

Autumn Wedding Theme

If apple cider, crispy leaves, and cool zephyrs make you smile, perhaps a fall wedding theme is the thing for you. Chocolate browns combined with subdued reds, oranges, and yellows give a rustic feel to your reception hall, and will have your guests dreaming of nature’s beauty in no time! Try using antique lanterns with scattered pine cones to make a quaint centerpiece, and give your guests some delicious homemade fudge as an autumn-inspired wedding favor.

Winter Wedding Theme

If cold weather makes your heart warm, choose a winter wedding theme to have your guests dreaming of holiday magic. White lace mixed with a rich evergreen and mahogany color combination bring elegance to a winter theme – mix in some silver accents to give your reception that ‘wintery’ feel! Try presenting your guests with mini bottles of champagne for a delightful winter wedding favor, especially if your big day falls close to New Year’s!

Spring Wedding Theme

Bright bouquets, fragrant flowers and pretty sundresses all say: spring wedding! A spring theme is colorful and cheery and should reflect your fun side. Try going against the grain and choose linens with a tiny gingham pattern, or be flirty with bright, colorful polka dots. A spring theme is gorgeous with pastel pinks, blues, and greens. Use small-bloom flowers in your centerpiece displays, and hang heart-shaped wreaths around the room. Don’t forget the cake – try serving strawberry shortcake with ice cream, or go creative with a cupcake tower decorated with pink icing and cinnamon candy hearts! As an adorable spring wedding favor, you might present guests with packets of flower seeds for their own gardens, labeled with you and your partner’s name and a cute little phrase that reads “Let Love Grow.”

Budget Conscious Couples Plan Alternative Honeymoons

2008-09-21T14:48:00.000-07:00

By Robert J. Carlton

Planning a terrific honeymoon on a shoestring budget does not have to be an impossible task. Sure, if money is no object you might have the opportunity to fly halfway around the world and see wondrous and foreign sights, but if you remember that the goal of a proper honeymoon is to bring you and your new spouse closer together, you will understand that can be accomplished halfway around the world but also in the next county. Since the wedding itself will eat up a good chunk of money, the odds of your having enough cash on hand to also afford an extravagant honeymoon are slim.

The money savvy couple knows that has its priorities straight knows that the location of the honeymoon is secondary to the actual closeness and the memories that will be generated by virtue of this getaway. Thus the idea of planning a honeymoon on a shoestring budget can actually be a lot of fun! Considering also that the venues which are available for cheap are steadily on the rise makes this an easy goal to accomplish.

Cruises are becoming one of the most popular packages for the honeymooning couple with a small budget. With all expenses included, there is little room for surprises and thus very little odds of overspending. Since cruises may take you to Mexico, the Caribbean or Alaska, you have a plethora of option open to you and will not have to compromise.

If you have the travel funds but do not have enough money to also spring for the accommodations you need to make the trip happen, you have the option of joining a housing exchange. If you have an apartment of local vacation home you can exchange with a couple in another country or state who are also looking to vacation, you will save money simply by swapping homes for the duration of the trip. Granted, it is a bit odd to be living in someone else's home for a while and have them living in yours, but when you are working with a shoestring budget, being imaginative and open to perhaps more adventurous solutions is required. Besides, at least you won't have to sell your engagement rings to be able to afford it.

This of course also leads to the many couples who will go on a camping trip for their honeymoon or those staying closer to home but attending all the major fun spots nearby. Amusement parks, cultural venues, concerts, and also docent led tours are in high demand for those who do not have the funds to travel to more exotic locations. This is also a great time to explore your country's wonderful sightseeing opportunities and if there ever was a good time for a road trip to visit the various sights of the United States, this is it! Without children, just starting out your life together, exploring the country together is a wonderful way to grow closer together and make wonderful memories.

What About Exotic Destination To Spend Your Honeymoon

2008-09-21T14:38:00.000-07:00

by Anton Winkler

If you are getting married, you know that one of the most important parts of a wedding is the preparation of the wedding ceremony. However, you also need to consider that the honeymoon is also one of the most important. Besides, the honeymoon is where you will spend a romantic getaway with your loved one. This getaway should be planned in advance to make it an unforgettable event that you and your spouse can be proud of all of your life. You also need to consider that that honeymoon only happens once in your marriage. Of course, you can always go and plan a second or even a third honeymoon, but nothing will compare to the romance that you and your spouse will feel on your first honeymoon. This is why it is important to make your first honeymoon an unforgettable one.

On any kind of honeymoon, you have to consider that the location is considered to be one of the most important aspects of the honeymoon. You have to choose a location where both you and your beloved one can enjoy. So, if you want to fully enjoy your honeymoon, you should choose an exotic location to spend it.

You have to consider that there are quite a lot of exotic locations available in the world where you and your spouse will definitely enjoy. It is very important that you should know where these destinations are and also be prepared to spend some cash in order for you to fully enjoy your honeymoon. However, you have to know that spending your honeymoon in an exotic location doesn't mean that you should spend a lot of money to the point that your life savings will be spent. All you need to do is know how to choose and also know how to save money.

Before you start calling your travel agent, you first need to research about the different exotic honeymoon destination available. You can take a look at travel magazines and even take a look at a bridal magazine. By dong this, you will have an idea of where you and your spouse will spend an exotic honeymoon vacation.

You have to consider that there are quite a lot of popular and exotic honeymoon destinations located at different parts of the world. You can consider going to Hawaii, the Caribbean, Europe, and even the tropical islands in South Asia to name a few exotic honeymoon destinations. In these locations, you will find great honeymoon packages with your travel agency. However, if you really want to save money, you should try and purchase a honeymoon package online. You will find that online booking can offer great discounts and offers with a lot of resorts. Another important point is that you spend time in what type of documents and papers you need. In some exotic locations you might need a special vaccination. All these preparations have to be considered when planning your honeymoon to exotic destinations. You can find these information by calling the embassies of the different locations or travel agencies or even online.

Another great way to save a lot of money is to book a flight with an economy seat. You have to consider the fact that you will mostly be sitting in the plane the entire time you go to your destination. Economy seats may not offer comfort, but it can offer great savings that you can use once you and your spouse reach your destination.

If you want a luxurious and exotic honeymoon vacation package, you can consider purchasing a honeymoon cruise package. Most cruise liners today now offer honeymoon packages with great discounts.

These are some of the things you should consider when you are planning your honeymoon vacation destination. As you can see, with planning and knowing how to find it, you can definitely have a great honeymoon in an exotic destination and prepare you in advance for unforeseeable obstacles. This way you will get an unforgettable honeymoon vacation.

Four Premium Exotic Places for Honeymoon Vacations

2008-09-21T14:35:00.000-07:00

By Peter I. Wilson

A honeymoon is an unforgettable holiday that every newly married couple embarks on, before establishing their marital life. Although a honeymoon is a traditional idea, nevertheless it carries romantic sentiment and in some cases, honeymoon holiday packages are also gifted to the newly weds by parents and relatives.

Choosing a honeymoon vacation destination can be a little confusing, but there are travel agencies out there who offer wonderful honeymoon packages. There are a number of exotic places that a couple can visit and travel agents are the best informed to help with the final choice. The US alone has so many exquisite places to visit.

Hawaii has been ranked as the number one honeymoon destination for decades now. Sun-kissed beaches, azure water, hidden coves, world class accommodation and the delicious cuisine make Hawaii special. Popular and incredibly beautiful, Hawaii is a lovers paradise. For those who are sports enthusiasts, Hawaii is ‘the’ place to be in to enjoy amazing water sports. Hawaii is one of nature’s perfect creations and the weather is simply perfect all year round.

The places worth visiting in Hawaii are Waikiki and Maui islands that display the island’s culture and natural beauty. There are many luxurious accommodation options in Hawaii that offer wonderful packages and benefits like Halekulani, Hyatt Regency and the Kahala Mandarin Oriental Hawaii, to name a few.

Niagara Falls is another perfect destination for honeymooners. Niagara Falls is both, beautiful and economic and its panoramic view can be viewed from the US as well as Canada. The main attractions at Niagara Falls include the ‘Maid of the Mist’ boat cruise that screens an enjoyable feature film from IMAX about the history of Niagara Falls. The other must-see attractions are:

- The Guinness Book of World Records Museum

- Mystery Maze

- The Haunted House

- The House of Frankenstein

You should not forget to visit New York while you are at Niagara Falls. You will get a lot of room to splurge on shopping, restaurants and some of the world’s best theaters.

Florida may be ranked third, but no other destination can compete with Florida in terms of the warm festive ambience that it extends to its guests. Florida offers something for everyone and its itinerary of must see places is so long that tourists are often confused about where to go and what to leave out. Starting from Walt Disney World to the wonders of Orlando, Palm Beach, Miami, Daytona and the Florida Keys, the place is amazing. Along with sightseeing, Florida also offers all its guests lavish accommodation and the most exhilarating assortment of water sports.

Las Vegas is at number four not because it lacks something, but because it has a bit more than a couple on a honeymoon can expect. Las Vegas is also famous as the ‘city that never sleeps’ and is known for gambling and quick weddings, besides sightseeing. This city offers every couple on a honeymoon an experience of a lifetime.

Apart from these places, other hot honeymoon destinations in the US are California (Wine Country), Pennsylvania (Poconos), Louisiana (New Orleans) and almost all the southern states on the Gulf Coast.

Beach Honeymoon Holiday

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Holiday beach honeymoons are fantastic if you are looking for a romantic honeymoon holiday. Why not try the Indian Ocean? There are countless islands to choose from such as the Maldives, Mauritius and the Seychelles.

Even if you are not a fan of romantic holidays you will surely succumb when you are on your honeymoon and the waves are lapping against the shore as you have dinner on the veranda of your romantic water bungalow overlooking a dream holiday destination.

And romantic beach holidays aren’t just for honeymoon couples. If you want to relax with the family in a fantastic destination or just you want to unwind from a busy year at work then a nice quiet romantic honeymoon holiday retreat could be the perfect beach place to get some well deserved peace and quiet!!

Indian Ocean with luxury Masai Mara fly-in safari

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Kenya offers some of the finest beaches in the world, miles of golden sands lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Our selection of beach holidays are based at a range of properties to suit all tastes. They all share the thrill of a 2 night safari in the world famous Masai Mara. Included in the price are flights to and from your safari, giving you the chance to experience the excitement of looking for the Big 5 in one of the most famous reserves in the world.

Kenya Camping Highlights

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A comprehensive overview of Kenya and many of its parks. In the Masai Mara and Amboseli you stay in semi-permanent camps where you find everything ready for you on arrival. Elsewhere you camp in two-man tents, complete with foam matress and are accompanied not only by your guide but also by a cook to prepare all your food.

The joy of camping in Kenya is the chance to get off the beaten track and experience the scale and peace of the wilderness. The Swahili word "safari" means journey and over the years Kenya has become one of the most popular destinations for such an experience. Justifiably so, boasting diverse and beautiful landscapes and the most diverse collection of wild animals on the continent. Situated on Africa’s east coast, Kenya straddles the equator and its eastern coast is lapped by the Indian Ocean. The Rift Valley and central highlands form the backbone of the country, and this is where Kenya’s scenery is at its most spectacular. The vast plains of the south are dotted with flat-topped acacia trees, thorn bushes and the distinctive bottle-shaped Baobab tree. On the rarified slopes of Mt Elgon and Mt Kenya, bamboo forests sprout and even higher up is the bizarre groundsel tree, with its huge cabbage-like flowers, and giant lobelias with long spikes. If you are more into fur and feathers, then head for the teeming game parks. Lions, buffalos, leopards, elephants and rhinos all cavort openly in at least two of the major parks. Endangered animals such as the black rhino are slowly making a comeback and sanctuaries for these creatures can be visited in Lake Nakuru national parks.

Family Safari

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The perfect family safari which offers all the main highlights of Kenya. The accommodations used are specifically chosen for being child friendly and offer an international standard of comfort in some of the best locations for year around wildlife viewing. Children can enjoy a camel trek, feed a giraffe and get up close and personal with a chimpanzee as well as enjoying the abundant wildlife that Kenya has to offer in its amazing game parks.

Childrens Adventurers Club
The adventurer's Club offers the ultimate children's holiday. Aimed at children between the ages of 4 and 12, they join highly trained naturalists and cultural specialists on an adventure of enlightening series of walks, talks, games and activities designed to help them better understand their wild surroundings.

But this is no ordinary "bush school", in fact the programs are so much fun that we guarantee your little Adventurer will return home with something to teach you! The subject matter is as diverse as it is fascinating - from mammal habits and habitats to the migration of butterflies and birds, from natural camouflage and defences to the use of medicinal plants, from environmental quizzes and treasure hunts to traditional dances, games and handicrafts. All adventurers will have a chance to craft their own plaster-cast of a local animal track - giving them a unique souvenir that takes absolutely nothing away.

Masai Mara Fly-in safari + Indian Ocean

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Kenyan Camping safari and beach

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This short safari lets you see two of the most famous reserves in Kenya, the world renown Masai Mara with its superb wildlife and Lake Nakuru, famous for its huge flock of flamingos. At the end there is a week to relax on the golden beaches near Mombasa reflecting on your experiences of the last few days.

The joy of camping in Kenya is that it allows you to get off the beaten track and experience the wilderness. In the Masai Mara you will stay at a semi-permanent camp where everything is ready when you arrive. At Nakuru you stay at a local hotel because there are no camping facilities in the park. The Swahili word "safari" means journey and over the years Kenya has become one of the most popular destinations for such a trip. Justifiably so, boasting diverse and beautiful landscapes and the most diverse collection of wild animals on the continent. Situated on Africa’s east coast, Kenya straddles the equator and its eastern coast is lapped by the Indian Ocean.

Tanzania Lodge Safari & Zanzibar

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This is the Classic lodge safari that covers many of the most famous areas in the north of Tanzania, known as the Northern Circuit. You visit some of the best wildlife areas in Africa, including the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. The lodges you will stay at are characterful and more intimate than our standard tour. Excellent facilities and services. They are all situated in beautiful locations to give views out over the Savannah or surrounding countryside. Often you have the luxury of game viewing from the comfort of the room terrace or from the lodge while enjoying a cool drink. All lodges provide en-suite facilities.

At the end of this you transfer to the Island of Zanzibar to enjoy the beautiful beaches and warm waters of this fabled Island.

Tanzania has some of the best wildlife areas in Africa- no less than 25% of this vast country is dedicated to the conservation of wildlife - and names like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara bring forth images of savannah abounding in wildlife. It is East Africa’s largest country. The bulk of the country is a highland plateau, some of it is semi-desert and the rest savannah and scattered bush. The highest mountains – Meru (4556m/14,943ft) and Kilamanjaro (Africa’s highest at 5895m/19,335ft) – are in the north-east along the border with Kenya. Nowhere else in the world will you see wildebeest, gazelle, zebra and antelope in such enormous numbers – and Tanzania’s characteristic plains make spotting wildlife easy. Blessed with some of the world’s largest game reserves, the country also has one of the highest concentrations of buffalo, crocodile, hippo, hunting dog, chimpanzee and elephant.

Fly-in Lodge safari

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Botswana is one of Southern Africa's least visited and yet most fascinating destinations. It has a wide variety of habitats, from desert to wetlands and some of the finest game-viewing in Africa. For many years it has concentrated on high quality facilities, limiting the number of visitors annually to ensure that its reserves and parks are not damaged or saturated by mass tourism.

A result of this can be seen in the facilities available, some of the most luxurious and exclusive lodges and camps in the world. This trip takes you to 3 of these, each beautifully located and offering the best facilities, and yet each in completely different landscapes and offering different type of game-viewing. From the large elephant herds of the plains, to the wetland of the world-famous Okavango Delta you will get to experience some of the worlds best game-viewing while staying at some of the worlds best camps. The luxury tents you stay in have the facilities of the best hotels and yet offer the true safari experience of the African night. Transfers between camps are by light aircraft, saving days of bumpy transfers and the food is superb.

Safari and Mauritius

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The excitement of safari, combined with the chance to relax on superb beaches- the perfect combination holiday for those who want to do something different on their holiday or honeymoon, while still having the chance to relax and unwind.
You start at one of the finest lodges in the Kruger National Park, enjoying safari in search of the Big 5 - lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant. The morning and evening game-drives are taken by expert guides and leave plenty of time for relaxation during the heat of the day.
The tropical island of Mauritius is known as 'The Pearl of the Indian Ocean'. It is becoming even more renown not only because of its natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes but also because of the legendary kindness and hospitality of the Mauritian people, a fascinating mixture in their own right. The coastline of 330 kilometres is almost entirely surrounded by one of the largest unbroken coral reefs in the world and its proximity to the Tropic of Capricorn assures Mauritius a typically warm and sub-tropical climate. It make the perfect destination for a beach break or to celebrate a honeymoon or special occasion.

Governors Camp and Lamu

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A relaxing safari that stays at one of the Maras most atmospheric camps. The setting is magical. So much so that almost a century ago it was reserved, exclusively, for Kenya’s colonial Governors and their royal visitors. Now Governors’ Camp nestles in the forest along the winding banks of the Mara River, it’s waters teeming with hippo and crocodile. After you game-viewing, you fly to the coast to relax on the tropical island of Lamu.

Victoria Falls and Mauritius

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A holiday that takes you to one of the most beautiful places in the world- the Victoria Falls- and combines it with one of its most exclusive islands. At Victoria Falls you have time to explore and the option to have a day on safari, all from the comfort of one of the Worlds most famous hotels. You then fly to the tropical island of Mauritius, known as 'The Pearl of the Indian Ocean'. It is becoming even more renown not only because of its natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes but also because of the legendary kindness and hospitality of the Mauritian people, a fascinating mixture in their own right. The coastline of 330 kilometres is almost entirely surrounded by one of the largest unbroken coral reefs in the world and its proximity to the Tropic of Capricorn assures Mauritius a typically warm and sub-tropical climate. It make the perfect destination for a beach break or to celebrate a honeymoon or special occasion.

Tours in Oman - 2/3 Day Tours from Muscat

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Wahiba Wilderness
Visit the Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating sand dunes rising up to 200 meters are also host to a variety of flora and fauna. The ever-changing patterns of the dunes are a photographer’s delight.

Shaw Travel can arrange accommodation overnight in a permanent camp in the Wahiba Sands with camel rides or for those wanting more comfort, a night in a nearby hotel within reach of the Desert. Dune buggies are also available on request.

Camel Safaris can be arranged for a small group with a moveable camp and the support of an expert guide and back up vehicles.
View A taste of Oman itinerary

Turtle Watching
From July to December witness the spectacle of Loggerhead, Hawksbill and Green turtles arriving on the beaches to lay their eggs at Ras al Hadd and Ras al Junayz. Throughout the season the sand erupts and thousands of tiny turtles emerge and head out to sea, to begin the cycle again.

Accommodation is at the tented camp site which has very basic facilities or alternatively at the nearby Ras al Hadd hotel.
View Turtle Watching tour itinerary

Discover Dhofar
After the Khareef, from June to August, the area transforms itself into a lush green landscape.

Fly down to Salalah, the southern capital of Oman. The area is steeped in myths and legends dating back to biblical times. Explore the Empty Quarter, and visit the frankincense markets in the souq!

Mountain & Desert Tours of Oman

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Wadi Bashing (11 Hours - 580 KM BY 4WD)
This tour along the coastline to Sur offers breathtaking glimpses of the blue waters of the Gulf of Oman offset by pristine white beaches. Stop off at the Bimah Sinkhole, a spectacular limestone crater with blue green water at the bottom. Picnic lunch at the beautiful Fin’s beach. The pretty Tiwi village provides a surprising contrast with its lush green wadi and plantations. The ruins of Bibi Miriam’s Tomb can be seen at the village of Qalhat. Return to Muscat on the main road.

Batinah Bash (8 Hours - 340 KM BY 4WD)
A full day tour along the Batinah coast. Stop at the Seeb Fish Souq. Drive through the date palms to the sparkling springs and Fort at Nakhl. Visit the beautiful Wakan Village famous for its terrace farming. The next stop is Wadi Abhyad which has large patches of white sedimentation and when translated means white wadi. The drive winds through the mountains with small pools of water dotting the wadi bed.

Oman's Grand Canyon (11 Hours - 560 KM BY 4WD)
Drive to the foothills of the Jebel Akhdar mountain range. Stop at the Nizwa Souq famed for its antiques and silver jewellery. A brief photo stop at the Round Tower Fort before proceeding ahead. Our next stop takes us to Wadi Nakher located in the depth of our deepest canyon. Visit Misfah a pretty mountain village with stone dwellings still in existence. While heading for Jebel Shams stop at the terrace farming village of Wadi Ghul. In the Jebel Akhdar range, Jebel Shams the highest peak, offers a spectacular view.

Jebel Akhdar Trail (11 Hours - 550 KM BY 4WD)
Leave Muscat and proceed to visit the Nizwa Round tower Fort and the Nizwa Souk. Drive to the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz. Enjoy a walk through the lush green date plantations. Proceed to Wadi Al Madeen, from here a 36 km stretch of winding road takes one to Jebel Al Akhdar (2000 meters above sea level) the green jewel of the Al Hajjar mountain ranges, a truly unique spot in the Arabian Peninsula. Enjoy the cool climate up in the mountains.
Jebel Al Akhdar is famed for its fruit orchards typically laid out terrace style along the slopes of mountains, which are endowed with natural springs. A large variety of fresh fruits such as peaches, apricot, fig, grapes, apple, pears, plums, almond, walnuts are grown here. The villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib (the village of the old houses) and Al Ain dot the landscape. The villages overlook a spectacular landscape of dramatic peaks, gorges and wadis. The roses of Jebel Al Akhdar fill the air with fragrance when in full bloom (March / April). Rose water is distilled in the homes of the villagers. Lunch at the Jebel Akhdar hotel. (Permits are required and take a day to process).

Shaw Travel would recommend an overnight stay at the Falaj Daris to allow more time to visit the area.

Day Tours from Muscat - Oman

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Mystical Muscat
Muscat offers the visitor a unique opportunity to witness a modern commercial centre existing in harmony with its traditional culture. With its natural harbour, Muscat means “Anchorage” and lies in a natural volcanic bowl. The tour of the Grand Mosque and Bait Al Zubair Museum is a brief introduction that traces Oman’s history and development. Drive along the waterfront Corniche visiting the Fish Market and the colourful Muttrah Souq. Proceed for a photo stop to the magnificent Al Alam Palace, official palace of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos flanked by the 16th century Portuguese forts Mirani & Jalali. Duration: 4 Hours.

Bird Watching
Oman is a strategically located bridge between Europe, Africa and Asia and consequently offers birds from three continents on one country. During the twice yearly migrations in spring and autumn, millions of birds pass through Oman and an impressive selection can be seen in the Muscat capital area.
The bird watching tour takes place once a week between October and March and includes pick up from the hotels, the services of an experienced guide and permits where required.
View specialist Bird Watching tour itinery

Nizwa and the Fascinating Forts
Nizwa, capital of the interior, is the birthplace of Islam in the Sultanate of Oman. Nizwa boasts the famous Round Tower Fort, built in the 17th century, and its Souq renowned for its Friday cattle auction, intricately hand-carved “Khanjars” and ornamental silver jewellery. Jabrin, the finest of Oman’s castles built in the late 17th century, became a seat of Omani learning. The castle displays the highest achievement in Omani ceiling painting & beautifully executed woodcarvings. En route to Muscat visit the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz situated at the foothills of Jebel Akhdar. Enjoy a walk through its oasis and dense date plantations. Duration: 10 Hours - 450 KM.

Twilight Dhow Cruise
Transfer from the hotel to the pier side to embark on a relaxed dhow (fishermen’s boat) cruise. See Muscat through the eyes of ancient seafarers who piled this route for centuries. Photograph the spectacular Al Bustan Palace Hotel before returning back to the pier.
(Soft drinks, tea, coffee and dates served on board)

Bait Musna Art Gallery
Visit an art gallery that houses traditional and modern art from around the world. Shaw Travel would be happy to arrange a private visit to the gallery to meet the owner. The gallery often hosts exhibitions for local artists.

Muttrah Souq
A visit to this traditional souk is a must! Spices, gold, silver and bargain pashminas are worth hunting for. Shaw Travel can arrange for a car and driver to take you to the souq for a leisurely shop!

Sea Based Tours

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Dolphin Watching
Search the seas for Dolphins and Whales. Watching wild dolphins is a thrilling way to start the day, with an occasional sighting of one of the many species of whales that can be found just a few kilometers from Muscat’s rugged coast. Not every trip guarantees a sighting, but you are sure to enjoy a trip out to sea and enhance your knowledge of nature’s most fascinating marine mammals. Soft drinks, tea and coffee are included with an on-board breakfast. (Duration: 4½ Hours either sunrise or sunset)

The Damaniyat Islands
Discover this protected chain of Islands rich in marine and bird life. The Islands offer shelter to migratory birds, over a 100 species of fish as well as Hawksbill and Green Turtles. Drop anchor, and spend a relaxing day swimming and snorkeling with a picnic lunch.

Scuba Diving / Snorkeling
Bluzone Dive Centre in Muscat offer Beginner, Open Water and Advance diving PADI courses. A twin centre itinerary would include diving around Muscat as well as from the As Sawadi beach resort an hour north of Muscat, with easy access to the Damaniyat Islands offering challenging diving and excellent snorkeling.
For more information on Diving in Oman click here

Deep Sea Fishing
Experience game fishing in the waters of the Arabian Sea, home to Marlin, Sailfish and Yellow Fin Tuna. The company we recommend is a member of the International Game Fishing Association who can hire out luxurious, fully equipped cruisers.

Diving in Oman

The Dive operator that Shaw Travel highly recommend, has a Five Star PADI Dive Centre offering excellent facilities and the most experienced instructors and guides in the country. They are conveniently located in Muscat, at Bander al Rowha Marina.

Welcome to The Oman Experience

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Oman takes one back in time, a country that has remained unspoilt with so much to offer the discerning traveller. The Omani people are so warm and friendly, keen to show off their wonderful country in which you can explore miles of pristine coastline with an ocean full of marine life, and visit the beautifully restored forts and ancient archaeological sites. Drive up into the Hajar mountains where fruit is grown on the terraces and rose water bottled. Whilst the mountains of the Musandam peninsular plunge dramatically into the sea, this area is a hidden gem and still undiscovered.

Walk along or swim in the wadis surrounded by date palms, scuba dive or snorkel around the Damaniyat Islands, visit the Wahiba Sands written about by Wilfred Thesiger and camp overnight amongst the Bedouin. The Dohfar region in the south transforms itself after the Khareef (monsoon) and is well worth exploring – a visit to the frankincense markets is a must for your holiday in Oman!