Honeymoon Registry Blog | Traveler's Joy

Honeymoon Ideas: Outdoor Dining in Tulum, Mexico

2013-06-18T16:35:25Z

Looking for a truly memorable honeymoon activity? Go al fresco and register for an outdoor dining experience during your ultimate getaway.

For a little inspiration, check out one of our all-time favorite spots -- Hartwood Restaurant near Tulum, Mexico. The picturesque restaurant, which allows diners to eat out under the stars beneath swaying palm trees, uses wood burning ovens and open grills to prepare fresh, local food (from grilled fish to pork belly).

Meanwhile, beach huts, whitewashed roofs, wooden tables, and candles all add to the magical atmosphere.

No need to pinch yourself. This is your dream honeymoon restaurant experience come true.

Are you planning any memorable outdoor dining experiences for your honeymoon? Tell us all about where you plan on dining out.

Photo credit: http://www.paranaofalarsozinha.blogspot.com/

Real Honeymoon Stories: Best of Italy

2013-06-11T16:39:28Z

There's nothing better than hearing from TJ couples and learning about their amazing honeymoon stories. This week we've assembled a few of our favorites from Italy, also one of our most popular honeymoon destinations in the world. Hopefully these unique stories will give you a little inspiration in planning your own trip as well. Enjoy!

Kori & Logan

These former law students spent 14 glorious days in Italy, traveling between Milan, Florence, Rome, and Venice. The happy couple was sure to indulge in their love of fine wine and amazing foodie experiences, with standouts being winery tours, homemade gelato, cappuccino, and local trattorias, among others.

Said Kori, "The trip was perfectly decadent and yet, because of Logan's hard work in planning, we knew we got great value for every euro we spent."

Debra & Matt

After getting engaged on a magical gondola ride in Venice, these honeymooners returned to visit a few favorite spots before moving on to exciting new destinations in Italy. Trip highlights include attending an opera performance of Verdi's La Traviata, a midnight canal tour over regional wine, and a relaxing detour to the Lake Como region.

Said Debra, "Our dream honeymoon was to return to Italy to visit favorite places and explore new ones -- and of course to retrace the gondola ride."

Stacy & Matt

These Arizona newlyweds go from a vineyard wedding near the red rocks in Sedona straight to the scenic wineries of Tuscany. Trip highlights include stops in historic Rome, watching soccer with locals in Trastevere, hiking in the Cinque Terre, and meeting Italian friends in the Chianti region.

Said Stacy, "We tried not to cram too much in, knowing that we want to go back and explore other parts of Tuscany, Northern Italy, and the other coasts someday. We can't wait for our next adventure!"

Are you planning a honeymoon trip to Italy? Recently return from your ultimate getaway to Italy? Visit our Facebook page and tell us about your journey!

Top 4 U.S. Honeymoon Destinations for Foodies

2013-06-06T14:22:35Z

America is packed with one-of-a-kind road trip experiences that are particularly geared towards newlyweds. So we've joined forces with our good friends at Roadtrippers to bring you a series of blog posts that offer alternative honeymoon ideas for adventurous couples.

This week the focus is on amazing foodie destinations. Highlighted by colorful farmers markets, incredible grab-and-go food trucks, sustainable cuisine, and dazzling festivals, these four cities will provide an unforgettable food-themed honeymoon getaway.

Austin (TX)

Between its renowned food truck scene, world-famous barbecue joints, and cutting-edge dining establishments, Austin is a dream destination for foodies. One must-visit spot is Stubb's, where the slow-smoked brisket and lively backyard area make this one heck of a memorable detour. Go for brunch and take in some live Gospel music over fried catfish, southern-style grits, and Bloody Marys.

New Orleans (LA)

Traditional Cajun cooking and "New Creole" establishments merge perfectly in this charming southern city. Get your Cajun fix at Cochon over mouth-watering menu items like chicken & andouille gumbo and an oyster & bacon sandwich. Meanwhile, the Big Easy isn't the "Festival Capital of the World" for nothing. Be sure to attend a notable culinary event like the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience or Oak Street Po-Boy Festival.

Charleston (SC)

Charleston has recently emerged as a can't-miss foodie spot with its influx of acclaimed chefs and top-rated restaurants. Start your culinary journey at Husk, which only uses ingredients sourced from southern farmers. Nearby, Hank's Seafood serves up classic dishes in a memorable setting. After visiting the Charleston Farmers Market in the historic downtown area, head out to Bowens Island Restaurant for locally harvested oysters, cold beer, and a sunset view of marshes, wildlife, and nearby islands.

San Francisco (CA)

San Francisco truly is one of America's culinary meccas. The city boasts nearly 4,000 restaurants dishing out cuisine from all over the world. The region is also blessed with a mild climate year-round and enjoys easy access to phenomenal seafood, wine, produce, cheeses, and meats. Don't leave the region without visiting the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, easily one of America's finest farmers markets.

Are you stopping at any culinary hotspots on your honeymoon? Tell us on Facebook!

Photo credits:
The Peached Tortilla
Alex Demyan and NewOrleansOnline.com
Hank's Seafood
SanFrancisco.com

Top 3 Luxury Spas in Arizona Perfect for a Honeymoon Splurge

2013-06-04T18:03:36Z

Imagine sweeping views in all directions of both desert and rugged mountains. The scent of botanicals floats through the air. Enveloped in an oversized robe, you sink into a soft couch sipping tea after a soothing massage. This is exactly the feeling you'll want as a newlywed as the stress of planning a wedding can really take its toll. A honeymoon spa retreat may be the best way to decompress together.

Arizona is famous for its abundance of luxury resorts and spas, so choosing the right one can be a difficult task. While most spas will offer a variety of services and luxurious amenities, these three spas stand out with their alternative treatments, exotic style, or sense of place in the Arizona desert.

Spa at L'Auberge de Sedona

Sedona's unique new age spiritual personality is alive at the Spa at L'Auberge de Sedona. While a range of massages, facials, and scrubs are offered, this spa really shines with its healing treatments and rustic location.

Start the day off with an outdoor yoga experience at sunrise ($135, 60 minutes, $195, 90 minutes). Later, try the Japanese healing practice Reiki, which involves hand placements and energy transfers ($135, 60 minutes). Looking for an afternoon massage? Just say the word and you can enjoy a couple's massage at a suite overlooking Oak Creek. The trickling sounds of water are sure to add an extra layer of relaxation on top of an already soothing spa experience. At the end of the day, don't forget to enjoy the sunset over the famous red rocks -- this is how Sedona dazzles.

Spa at Camelback Inn

Set near the base of Mummy Mountain in Scottsdale, the Spa at the Camelback Inn offers a luxurious experience that almost could be termed "farm-to-spa." The indulgent Adobe Clay Purification Wrap ($165, 60 minutes) utilizes natural Arizona red adobe clay while the Desert Nectar Honey Wrap ($155, 60 minutes) incorporates local Arizona honey into the treatment. On Saturday mornings, you can even join a discussion with the resort's Master Gardner about the natural healing properties of many local plants and herbs.

At the Camelback Inn, the focus is on the Sonoran Desert. Spend a little time outside in their private poolside cabanas. Renting one for the day (starting at $125) will offer you sweeping views of the desert while you enjoy chilled aromatherapy face towels and fresh fruit.

The Joya Spa at Montelucia Resort

The Joya Spa is full of exotic flair. You'll be whisked away from the Arizona desert and dropped into the mystical desert of Morocco. The spa's décor is reminiscent of a palatial Moroccan riad, complete with ornate windows and doors, brightly colored accent pillows and flowing curtains, and even a traditional Middle Eastern Hammam.

Start with the signature Joyambrosia massage (starting at $219, 80 minutes) which utilizes the famous Moroccan cure-all Argan oil as well as mint and spices. Then, try out the Hammam ($40), which leads you through a mixture of steam rooms, whirlpools, cold water baths, and a traditional scrub with black soap (which contains more Argan oil) and a kassa glove. At the end of your international spa retreat, savor a fresh smoothie from the juice bar while taking in the view of Camelback Mountain.

Planning a spa-centric honeymoon to Arizona? Tell us which spas you'll be visiting on your ultimate getaway.

Honeymoon Travel Tips: How to Find the Best Airplane Seats

2013-05-30T20:24:12Z

From beginning to end, your honeymoon should be as comfortable and relaxing as possible, and that especially applies to your air travel. The last thing you want is to get stuck with seats next to the bathroom or with restricted recline on a 10-hour flight.

Our advice: Once your honeymoon flights are booked, visit SeatGuru or SeatExpert to help find the best two seats on the airplane.

Browse through airline seating maps, expert advice, user comments, plane tips, and more to assist in making your trip stress-free.

You could also try your luck at scoring first class seats and forgo the aforementioned process entirely. When checking in at the airline desk, mention that you are on your honeymoon. Complimentary business or first class upgrades are not out of the question if there is availability.

Got any travel tips to share with fellow honeymooners? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter!

Honeymoon Ideas: Romantic Treehouse Retreats

2013-05-24T14:04:29Z

There are countless romantic retreats -- many off the beaten path -- that are guaranteed to bring you and your significant other closer than ever. So, we've teamed up with our good friends at Roadtrippers to bring you a series of blog posts that offer you alternative honeymoon ideas, catered to the more adventurous couple.

This week, the focus is on rustic accommodations. Just think outdoor spiral staircases, rope bridges, and rooms only accessible by canoe.

From the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest to the peaceful low country of South Carolina, check out five of North America's most romantic treehouse retreats perfect for a honeymoon getaway.

How Do I (Tactfully) Inform My Guests About My Wedding Registry?

2013-05-23T20:32:54Z

When it comes time to create a wedding registry, just about every couple hears this piece of etiquette advice: "Never print gift information on your invitations."

So how exactly will guests know where to purchase gifts that the couple will really use? Below we've listed four easy and efficient ways you can notify guests of your registry while adhering to proper wedding etiquette.

Create a Wedding Website

Through a personal wedding site, you can easily let your guests know about many important wedding details, including your registries. You can even include your wedding website in your invitations, send e-postcards to guests with website info, or use announcement cards.

Traveler's Joy is a partner with three of the most well regarded wedding sites in the industry -- The Knot, WeddingChannel, and WeddingWire. All three offer beautiful websites with endless features and tools for the wedding planning process. Also, these sites link automatically with your Traveler's Joy honeymoon registry so it's easy for guests to find your registry page with just one click.

Tell Your Wedding Party

Your wedding party and close family members should know all the details of your wedding, including your registries. This is key so they can share this important information with other guests. Word of mouth remains a terrific way to inform guests about your registry.

Shower Invitations

Go-to etiquette sources say that it's perfectly fine for the host of your wedding shower to include the registry information in your shower invitations. For example, Emily Post says, "Include the information on a separate sheet in the envelope along with the shower invitation, but not on the invitation itself."

Social Media

Finally, using social media can be an effective way to share information with your family and friends. In fact, many of our Traveler's Joy members share their experience creating a registry via Facebook or Twitter. This gives friends an idea of where you're registered and you don't even have to tell them directly.

In the end, your guests really want to purchase a gift for you that is meaningful and helpful. With a little creative thinking, you can help guests find gifts that you really need while still following proper wedding etiquette guidelines.

Got any other ideas on how to share your registry with your family and friends? Let us know over on Facebook!

Honeymoon With a View: The Gritti Palace, Venice, Italy

2013-05-21T15:22:05Z

This month's Honeymoon With a View comes from the Redentore Terrazza Suite at The Gritti Palace in Venice, Italy.

Equipped with a mini pool and chaise lounges, the incredible space gives way to front row views of Santa Maria della Salute Basilica, the Grand Canal, and the island of Giudecca.

As for the rest of the suite, honeymooners will enjoy two separate floors of space highlighted by a private elevator, spiral staircase, oak parquet flooring, silk damask walls, and handcrafted Venetian mirrors.

After an extensive 15-month restoration, the historic property reopened earlier in 2013 and retains its status as one of the city's -- and world's -- finest hotels.

Did your honeymoon feature an amazing view? Send your best snapshot to blog@travelersjoy.com and we'll feature it in an upcoming article.

Traveler's Joy Real Honeymoon Stories: Best of Hawaii

2013-05-14T14:23:35Z

We love it when TJ couples share their honeymoon stories and photos from all over the world. From journeys on the Trans-Siberian Railway to fjord exploration in Iceland, it's amazing to read about those first few adventures that newlyweds take together. This week we've assembled a few of our favorite stories from Hawaii, focusing on the islands of Kauai and Maui. We hope you enjoy them as much as we have!

Mirelle & Patrick

Their once-in-a-lifetime trip featured luxury accommodations on the gorgeous Coconut Coast, a Jeep rental, and incredible sunrises each morning. The newlyweds also used their TJ registry to embark on a catamaran tour of the Na Pali Coast, which turned out to be their most memorable honeymoon excursion.

Said Mirelle, "Being with each other and sharing these experiences was the perfect way to begin our married life together."

Brittany & Gustavo

These newlyweds packed in quite a variety of adventure activities while on their Hawaiian honeymoon, most notably horseback riding, skydiving, scuba diving, and off-road ATV tours. They even wrote a honeymoon poem, which we thought was a creative way to summarize their experience.

"We didn't need toasters or a new fancy knife, just a romantic trip for me and my wife."

Corey & Bobby

Although residents of Hawaii, Corey and Bobby still decided to take their honeymoon to the Garden Isle of Kauai. It turns out they had the trip of a lifetime. Honeymoon highlights include scenic hikes in Waimea Canyon, thrilling zip-line tours, and lounging at beautiful Kalapaki Beach.

"Kauai is truly a lover's paradise and great compromise for both the husband and wife's needs when it comes to honeymooning."

Are you planning a honeymoon trip to Hawaii? Recently return from your ultimate getaway to the Aloha State? Visit our Facebook page and tell us about your travels!

The Top 10 Biggest Honeymoon Mistakes

2013-05-11T19:34:18Z

On the heels of a hectic wedding, it's easy for newlyweds to overlook certain key aspects of the honeymoon. However, between pre-trip planning and mid-vacation travel tactics, there are a number of ways that couples can ensure they have a stress-free and well-organized getaway.

Before you embark on your ultimate getaway, read through these ten biggest honeymoon blunders. By implementing just a few simple strategies, you'll be able to have the best experience possible and hopefully avert any kind of honeymoon disaster.

Leaving immediately after the wedding. It's been a whirlwind day already, so why make it even crazier by departing for your honeymoon directly from your reception? At the least, give yourself a day or two to unwind, say farewell to friends and family, and get organized for your trip.

Waiting to pack until the night before you depart. Just realized you don't have any sunscreen? Forgot your sunglasses? Now you'll be forced to take time out of your trip to buy replacements -- often at a marked-up price. Plus, by waiting until the last minute, you can put undue stress upon yourselves right before you leave. Check out our honeymoon packing tips article on how to get ready.

Planning too many activities. Just because you're on your ultimate vacation, it doesn't mean you have to pack your schedule with three dozen activities. Instead, pick a few can't-miss experiences, but leave time for simple, relaxing things, whether it's hanging out at a sidewalk cafe or kicking back at the beach.

Not researching or planning. It's one thing to be a little spontaneous, but it's entirely different to be clueless. Don't wait to learn about your destination or reserve accommodations until you show up. You may be in store for an awful lot of disappointment.

Only visiting touristy attractions. Head off the beaten path every once in awhile and search for more authentic experiences.

Picking the wrong time to travel. Here's another case of how a little research goes a long way. By picking a shoulder season or another ideal time to visit your destination of choice, you could bypass stress-inducing things like overflowing crowds, extreme weather, closed facilities, and bloated prices on hotels and attractions.

Forgetting to renew or acquire a passport. Or (heaven forbid) losing it. Check and then double check your expiration date. If you're in need of a new passport, make sure you apply at least three months ahead of your trip to ensure a smooth delivery. Additionally, when traveling with a passport, never leave it out of your sight. When at your hotel, lock it in your room safe. When traveling out and about, keep it on your person with a passport holder.

Not locking valuables and suitcases. This especially goes for baggage when traveling or staying at a hotel. To help deter theft, make sure you purchase a few TSA-compatible locks.

Overpacking. It may seem obvious, but it's one of the most common travel mistakes that honeymooners make. Not only does overpacking lead to excessive travel fees for heavy baggage (sometime as high as $100 per bag!), but it also makes it a hassle to lug your gear around. Check out our honeymoon packing list for a few tips and tricks.

Not going. No matter if it's Milwaukee or Milan for two days or 20, just make sure your honeymoon happens. After all, these trips only come around once in a lifetime.

Got any more travel tips for fellow honeymooners? Share your advice over on Facebook.

Amazing Honeymoon Experiences: Sunrise Elephant Trek

2013-05-08T14:33:09Z

Searching for that once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon experience? Make a huge splash at the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle in Thailand. Honeymooners will rise early to catch the sun rise from behind the mountains of nearby Laos -- while on the back of an elephant.

Guests can also enjoy morning coffee, pastries, and fruit along the journey as the elephants make their way to the Camp Peak, the highest point of the scenic property.

After soaking in the views, it's back down the hill for a dip in the bathing pool, where the elephants (and even guests) can partake in some splash time in the water.

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel & Resorts

Top 5 Places for a Honeymoon Sunset

2013-05-04T14:00:01Z

Regardless where you choose to honeymoon, watching the sunset is a romantic experience that's sure to be on your itinerary. A quiet sundown cocktail on a city rooftop is just as elegant as a private dinner at a beachfront resort or a mountain retreat. These five places around the world have made watching the sunset an event that no honeymooner should miss.

Oia - Santorini, Greece

Sunsets in Santorini, Greece are famous, especially in the town of Oia. It seems as if everyone on the island gathers here to watch the sun sink into the Mediterranean Sea. Oia's location on the northern tip of the island gives it unobstructed views of the sunset and of Santorini's sunken caldera.

If a crowded cliff-top viewpoint is not your idea of romance, Oia's many restaurants and small hotels may offer respite. Eateries such as the Kastros Restaurant offer sunset reservations for tables looking directly over the sea. If you'd like to watch the sunset from your hotel, the Xenones Filotera hotel offers elegant rooms and an infinity pool overlooking the horizon.

Seminyak - Bali, Indonesia

Surfers and sunbathers alike frequent Bali's shores, and there's no better beachfront place to watch the sunset than Seminyak. From the many resorts and restaurants that line the sand, you'll have a direct view of the water as the sun dips into the Indian Ocean.

For a lively sunset atmosphere, head to the Ku De Ta beach club. Live DJs are a common accompaniment to a well-made cocktail and international cuisine. If you'd rather relax in Balinese style, choose one of Seminyak's many five-star resorts or villas for a quiet sunset retreat.

Maui, Hawaii, USA

The island of Maui has volcanoes, beaches, and waterfalls in addition to killer sunset views. In South Maui, the beaches near Kihei have clear views over to West Maui that are perfect for sunset photography and an evening picnic. The Kamaole Sands beaches are popular, though my favorite Charley Young, is a little quieter.

If you are feeling adventurous, views of the sunset from the top of the Haleakela volcano are stunning. Being at high altitude will offer sweeping views over Maui as well as out to Lanai and even the Big Island. Remember to bring a blanket or a jacket as the temperature can fall quickly.

Herradura Bay - Pacific Coast of Costa Rica

Costa Rica's Pacific Coast is known for world class surfing, beautiful national parks, and golden sunsets. Herradura Bay, which sits just north of the surfing town Jaco, is a perfect place for a quiet honeymoon sundowner. At the Los Suenos Resort and Spa, the highest point in the hotel can be rented out for a private bird eye view of the bay and the sunset. There is even a wine cooler on standby in case you'd like to toast the moment with champagne.

Kowloon - Hong Kong

Watching the sunset over the skyscrapers of Hong Kong is a fantastic city moment, and Kowloon's waterfront promenade and many rooftop bars are perfect places to catch the view. If you are in the mood for a glamorous cocktail, head to Ozone bar atop the Ritz Carlton Hotel. From here, all glass walls offer a view of not only the sky, but also of the city lights once the stars come out.

2013 Featured Hotel: The Harmony Hotel, Costa Rica

2013-05-02T20:49:48Z

Inspired by old school tropical properties of bygone eras, the Harmony Hotel is a perfect honeymoon choice for couples looking for that ideal balance of relaxation and adventure.

The lush, sustainable property is located in Nosara, Costa Rica, just steps from the famous waves at Playa Guiones, a haven for surfers worldwide.

Notable amenities include a shimmering swimming pool, a highly-acclaimed restaurant serving three meals a day (using only fresh, local ingredients), a juice bar (serving up smoothies, salads, and sandwiches), and even a farm.

On the heels of adventure activities, couples will find the Healing Centre as a perfect way to restore and rejuvenate the body. The facility offers a wide variety of body treatments and an open-air yoga studio suitable for private and group classes.

Meanwhile, guests can explore the area via complimentary beach cruiser bikes, check out iPads for on-site use, and browse the property's own boutique shop selling books, art supplies, and locally made items.

When it comes to accommodations, the hotel offers there different room options: Coco rooms, bungalows, and suites. Each room has a large private patio with outdoor sunflower shower, hammock, and lounge area, plus king bed, A/C, and Wi-Fi. Suites also feature private wooden decks, separate showers and tubs, and nearly 1,200 square feet of space.

As for regional adventure activities, Harmony will set you up with only the best outfitters around, whether it's for horseback riding on the beach, coffee tours, canopy tours, or kayaking.

So what are you waiting for? Drop your bags at the Harmony Hotel in Costa Rica for a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon getaway. Click here for more information on current hotel packages.

Free Honeymoon Registry: How Does it Work?

2013-04-26T15:10:35Z

Honeymoon registries have evolved since Traveler's Joy was founded way back in 2004 (time flies!). Before then, honeymoon registries were mainly offered through a local travel agent that allowed friends and family to call or stop in to give a gift toward the couple's honeymoon. That worked well for the travel agent since they received a favorable margin on selling the trip.

Traveler's Joy changed this model by allowing members to plan their travel with whomever they wished (or just do it themselves). Traveler's Joy soon paved the way for a number of new companies offering similar services.

Fast-forward to today and you'll find a variety of honeymoon registry business models, including the "free" honeymoon registry. While this model might be a good fit for some couples, there are a few important things to consider before signing up with a free honeymoon registry.

• Can friends and family use their credit cards to give a gift? Lets face it, the majority of people use plastic to pay. What happens when Uncle Joe wants to use his Platinum Visa to pay for your couples massage? A fee is assessed to the couple or guest. There is no way around credit card fees. Even giants like PayPal charge 2.5-3% to process a credit card.

• Can the couple, friends, or family easily call customer service? What happens when Aunt Joan would like to give a gift over the phone or is confused with the website?

• Do you mind having advertisements on your honeymoon registry page? In addition to ads on the honeymoon registry page, be on the lookout for direct email advertisements that might include weight loss programs, wedding rings, and reception entertainment. There's often an additional cost to remove ads from your registry page.

• Do you want a bare bones registry or common registry features? Most free honeymoon registries have an upgrade fee for basic features like a photo slideshow, custom registry page design, to remove advertisements from the registry page, and access other "premium" features. Unless you're content with a very basic registry, then the upgrade fee will likely come into play.

We love honeymoon registries! After all, we've been around longer than almost everyone else out there. We helped to build this industry into what it is and think the market is large enough for lots of players. A free honeymoon registry has its place as you decide which service to use, as long as you know what to look out for. If you choose not to use the free model and would like to use a registry that accepts credit cards, does not have ads, has phone customer service, and allows you to personalize your registry, we hope you will consider Traveler's Joy! Either way, we hope this post helps a bit.

If you have any other questions, always feel free to contact us! Happy Honeymooning!

And the Ultimate Honeymoon Destination in the World is....

2013-04-20T13:01:38Z

The honeymooners have spoken. After three rounds, hundreds of votes, and seven incredibly close matchups, Rome has been declared the Ultimate Honeymoon Destination in the World. The ever-popular European travel destination beat out the likes of Costa Rica, Maui, and St. Lucia to take the crown.

Between March 19 and April 16, Traveler's Joy hosted a bracket-style tournament to determine the Ultimate Honeymoon Destination in the World. The bracket -- which also included weekly giveaways -- featured 8 of TJ's most popular destinations and was determined by fan votes. The destination with the most votes in each matchup moved on to the next round. Check out the final bracket below!

Thanks to everyone for voting and stay tuned for more giveaways throughout the year!