Honeymoon Help
 

Hi,

My fiance and I are getting married at the end of June and are seeking the following things on our honeymoon:

- excellent beach
- snorkeling / diving
- relaxation
- activities such as hiking, boat trips, if possible - golf
- impeccable service
- no "family resorts"! - it's our honeymoon!

We have been to St. John's before and LOVED it...but want to try something new. Also been to PR, St. Thomas, St. Martin/Maarten (not that impressed) - although loved the day trip to St. Bart's. Looked into St. Lucia but not impressed w/the beach reviews - we want white sand. Also, checked out Belize but not for this trip. We are interested in St. Bart's - is it worth the extra $$? Cap Jaluca on Anguilla? Thoughts on Grenada?

$ is not a big issue. Having a difficult time because we are more of the adventurous/active type and we want something "different"; however, it's our honeymoon, so we do want a deluxe setting.

We had thought about Kauai but getting there with our miles is tough...also thinking about Europe but would rather not "tour", just relax & explore a beautiful island while doing it in style!

THANKS!

Have you considered Costa Rico - you can pretty much have everything there. I love Anguilla for the food, the beaches and the laid back atmosphere, but there is nothing to explore - except more beautiful beaches than you can go to in a week. Friends of mine just returned from Cap last week and they are still raving.

You should look into the Royal Hideaway near Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. We're going there this April after reading nothing but raves about it here and at tripadvisor. Do a search for it here and on Latin American site, and check it out on tripadvisor.com
From what I've heard, it's gorgeous, great white sand beach, perfect water, great food and service. A very popular honeymoon spot also, and no kids allowed, which is a big plus for you.
Also lots to do in the area, seeing the Mayan ruins, snorkeling, etc.
Good luck.

Also forgot to mention, there's a golf course that's supposed to be fantastic right across the street.

check out Cozumel for the great diving and snorkeling.

Riviera Maya--if you want luxury and adventure try the Xpu Ha Palace Resort. If that is too outdoorsy, you might try Aventura Spa Palace- it is full luxury with no kids allowed, however I warn that there isn't much of a beach. There are however lots of great places in the area for snorkeling and diving- such as Xcaret. And the sand is white!

Also check out Cayman Islands if you are really into diving and snorkeling.

We really enjoyed Grenada. We hiked to the top of Mt Qua Qua, muddy trail, but beautiful views. There are other hiking options as well.

Grand Anse is a beautiful beach. There are other lovely beaches too.

The town of St. George's is fun to explore as well. Very interesting outdoor market.

Lots of choices as far as accomodations. Lots of information on Grenadaexplorer.com

I recommend looking at Providenciales (Provo) in the Turks and Caicos. Easy to get to via Miami, New York and Charlotte NC. Grace Bay beach is about 12 miles long and is awesome. It is consistently ranked in the top 3 beaches in the Caribbean by readers of Caribbean Travel and Life and Conde Nast Provo has about everything you are looking for except hiking. Since it is a coral island it is relatively flat so no mountains, waterfalls or lush greenery but the beach makes up for that. Excellent snorkeling and diving, they do have a golf course, great restaurants etc. Most of the resorts are condo type with kitchens etc. I specifically recommend Coral Gardens suite 1212 or 1312 (The developers suite) if it is available Very private. The restaurant Coyaba is one of the best on the island. It is the only place the reef comes right up to the beach to snorkel. The march 2004 issue of Caribbean Travel and Life has a small article on Coral Gardens You can do 1/2 day snorkel trips, sail/snorkel trips, A day trip for two to a deserted Cay etc. have been to Provo 15 times and an equal number to Anguilla and love them both. The snorkeling/diving is only okay on Anguilla, it is also flat, no golf course (Building a Greg Norman course to be finished in 2005), also great restaurants but think for a honeymoon Provo suits what you want better. check out www.wherewhenhow.com the on line magazine of Provo for lots of info.