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Picking the right honeymoon locale for you

By Roberta Graff

Couples in love are capable of creating their own magic wherever they happen to travel. However, there are made-to-order destinations for a fairy-tale honeymoon.

Here are some very special places -- each so intoxicating that they are guaranteed to make memories that will last a lifetime.
  • Breathtaking South Africa, with its sophisticated cities and spectacular safaris, friendly people and ferocious animals, is celebrating a decade of democracy. Honeymooners are now flocking to this exquisite country and heading for romantic Cape Town. They are checking in to the magnificent Cape Grace Hotel on the waterfront where the staff is determined to offer the vacation of a lifetime. They will arrange sightseeing and shopping excursions, magical sunset picnics at Cape Town's beautiful beaches, trips to the wine country, concerts at the world famous Kirstenbosh Gardens, adventure sailing, luxurious African influenced spa treatments, as well as safaris and game drives. There are superb restaurants at the hotel as well as in the city and the nightlife will have you dancing till dawn. 800-223-6800.
  • Anyone who has succumbed to the spell of the sea knows the only true vacation is aboard ship. Not only does it offer romance and excitement, but also the chance to visit fascinating ports without the hassle of packing and unpacking. The Silversea cruise line has been catering to honeymooners since they launched their first ship over a decade ago. They now have a fleet of four and each is as elegant as a grand hotel. All have spacious suites with queen beds, fitness centers, luxurious spas, quality entertainment and superb food. Choose an itinerary that will take you to the Mediterranean, the Far East or the South Pacific and see the world go by from your private teak verandah. Shore excursions are top quality and guides are superior. In addition, personal agendas, which might include hot air ballooning, mountain biking or rafting, are easily arranged. 800-772-9955.
  • The Mexican Riviera with its perfect weather, talcum-powder beaches and myriad of world class water sports has been luring honeymooners since it was first carved out of the jungle. You can stay at large scale resorts with busy beaches and a festive atmosphere: charming, unpretentious, family-run guesthouses nestled in seaside villages as well as elegant, intimate boutique hotels facing long stretches of snowy sand and sparkling water. One of the most fantastic honeymoon havens is the Presidente Intercontinental Paraiso de la Bonita. Tucked into a private beach and surround by mangroves and a bird sanctuary, this ultra-romantic property offers grand, spacious suites with glorious bathrooms, knock-out furnishings, every possible amenity and magnificent views. The gardens are lush, the food is superb and the water sports are unrivaled. The Thalassostherapy Center offers world class treatments and massages. What better way to unwind after all the excitement of a wedding? 800-327-0200.

-- Roberta Graff is a Woodmere, N.Y.-based freelance writer.

Copyright © 2008, The Virginia Gazette

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