Here are three honeymoon-worthy destinations that I have personally experienced with the same husband. I’ve highlighted them because they’re each unique and each a fine value for very different reasons:
The Don Cesar, St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
I don’t usually go for this sort of place, but what can I say? When you’re in love, your taste changes.
❤ Value for easy transport. If traveling within the US, flights to Tampa are frequent and can be relatively inexpensive if you plan ahead. St. Pete is a short drive from the Tampa Airport. For some in the south and even the northeast, St. Pete is within reasonable driving distance. Anytime you can save on transportation, the location gets a check plus for value.
❤ Unique for splendor. The Don Cesar is a pink hotel on the shores of the endless white sand beaches of St. Pete. Think of the honeymoon photos you’ll post. The Don Cesar’s rates are not usually in the budget category, but bargains can be found. For what you save on transportation, the splurge can be justified.
Tofino Botanical Garden & EcoLodge, Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
Assuming crossing boarders is still allowed, the TBGE is an ideal honeymoon destination for couples seeking an eco-life-changing experience. The garden holds days of activities for everyone, comfortable lodging options and a restaurant to delight the fussiest of foodies.
❤ Value for Adventure. Just getting to TBGE is an adventure. For our visit, we flew from Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon, rented a car and drove to Seattle. From there, we boarded a seaplane (YIKES they land on the water!) and spent the night in Victoria (at the Swan Hotel, very artsy, what a treat). In the morning, we drove aboard a ferry to Vancouver Island, then a day’s drive through magnificent mountains. We drove through spectacular views of flora & fauna (baby bears!) then onto the highway the curves along the sparkling Vancouver Island coastline to finally – our arrival this magical botanical garden.
❤ Unique for sheer awesomeness. TBGF is owned and operated by incredibly friendly, knowledgeable hosts. There’s a wonderful restaurant on site supplied by an enormous garden, along with many other themed gardens located throughout the 25-acre rainforest. Paths are wide & professionally maintained; access is easy; plants & trails are clearly marked. Lodging options are all clean, comfortable & really charming. Other guests can add to your memorable visit – noted visitors have included Justin Trudeau & Ed Begley, Jr. just to name two.
❤ A value for immersion into nature. You’ll see whales, their calves, seals, wolves, fox, salmon, eagles and mountain lions. Sometimes all in the same view.
❤ A value for the pocketbook. Room & cabin rates are reasonable & vary depending on time of year. Lodging is limited so definitely reserve in advance. There is an airport in Tofino if you want an easier transportation option.
❤ It won’t help much, but tell the proprietors Savoir Claire sent you.
Hotel de la Tulipe, Paris, France
http://www.paris-hotel-tulipe.com/en/
Winging it while traveling is all well and good. But when you arrive in a foreign city – especially after a long flight, it’s a good idea to have your first night confirmed. Choose a well-rated hotel. Justify the splurge by staying only one or two nights. Choose one with nice rooms (with a bath), hot coffee & a warm croissant in the morning, a place to get your bearings. Perhaps if pricing permits you can use this hotel as your home base as you travel around the French countryside.
❤ Unique for location. When traveling to Paris, Hotel de la Tulipe is our choice as a home base. Located in the charming & convenient Rue Cler neighborhood (thank you for spilling the beans, Rick Steves). You’ll be centrally located to enjoy many shops, restaurants, outdoor markets and the best sites of Paris.
❤ A value for a 3-star hotel. Start checking Hotel de la Tulipe’s rates as soon as you can. Rates vary with the seasons & bargains might be found with advance bookings. A direct call to the hotel owners won’t hurt either. Everything about this place is quintessentially French. A perfect place to rekindle the romance in your life.
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