From proposals to happily-ever-after excursions, these on-site experts can arrange all kinds of romantic experiences.
By: Jenna Mahoney-AS SEEN IN BRIDAL GUIDE MAGAZINE-
Cape Fahn Hotel Private Islands
A sugar-sand-ringed archipelago of Koh Samui in Thailand is the ultimate paradise-on-earth honeymoon destination. Here, sun-soaked days are spent lingering by translucent waters that sparkle in the light. Meals are enjoyed poolside or in private, open-air villas and evenings are kissed with tropical breezes that welcome rejuvenating sleep that is only truly achieved on vacation. This hideaway of 22 independent villa accommodations stretched over two pristine islets encompasses all of this plus a romantic ultimate — a dedicated concierge to arrange all the honeymoon-perfect experiences you could ever imagine. They include moonlit dinners poolside at your villa, private musical performances, and intimate boating excursions (room rates start at about $870 a night).
Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spas
To the east of glittering New York City lie the tony beachside Hamptons communities. Here the see-and-be-seen crowd gather for all the requisite fun-in-the-sun activities including fishing, surfing and indulging in lobster rolls. The golden sand-fronted Gurney’s is not only one of the region's oldest resorts, it's also one of the only properties that welcomes visitors year round. With rustic-chic rooms, many with wide balconies, that overlook the impressive surf of Montauk, this chic property pulses with cool amenities including a one-of-a-kind spa with amazing water features sourced straight from the sea. For those who want to wed here, an on-site director organizes all the details for the most memorable — and influential — event (room rates start at $450 a night).
O2 Beach Club & Spa
Recently debuted on the windswept Caribbean island of Barbados, this mod-meets-beach all-inclusive resort promises pampering service, endless activities and excellent cuisine in an Instagram-perfect setting. And romance is constantly on the sun-soaked horizon, including ultra intimate dining experiences exclusively curated by the chef and romance team. Host a wedding here and you'll get all the details arranged by in-house experts that are all about spreading the love (room rates start at $752 a night and are all inclusive).
Casa Angelina
In a fairytale setting where the roads curve and hug mountains resplendent with lemon groves that rise above the storied Mediterranean Sea lies one of the world's most desirable honeymoon destinations — Italy's Amalfi Coast. It’s here that this secluded boutique property glitters with dolce vita amenities. There are 42 individually appointed rooms, a private beach and a photogenic pool that affords views of all the region's hallmarks. The hotel's boat is at the ready for coastal cruising and private seaside picnics, all arranged by a pair of romance concierges (room rates start at about $1,052 a night and include breakfast).
The London West Hollywood
California knows how to party. And at this hip hotel in Los Angeles' most famous zip code, guests are treated to the ultimate SoCal celebratory setting, from the rooftop pool to the seasonal eateries. Surrounding amenities are classic City of Angels draws, and the property’s esteemed concierge arranges all manner of excursions to experience them. Sure, there are the typical requests like tickets to performances at the Hollywood Bowl and the Walt Disney Opera House, along with tours at the Getty Museum and Paramount Pictures Studio, but he also arranges such memorable moments as proposal packages with all the romantic details (room rates start at $369 a night and include breakfast).
Nayara Springs
In Costa Rica's rich tropical rainforest stands an ode to all that is rejuvenating, resplendent and natural. A collection of 35 jungle-chic villas affords private access to natural hot springs and views of the ever-erupting volcano that creates them. At the heart of this adults-only hideaway's ethos is reconnecting with one’s self, one's partner and the surrounding nature. Two of the three on-site restaurants are called Amor Loco (crazy love) and Mis Amores (my loves), after all. A team of romance concierges arranges all the lovely, love-inducing adventures that come from staying at such a two-of-us retreat, while at the spa, couples are pampered in open-air treatment rooms that are cantilevered above the rainforest (room rates start at $885 a night).
Fun Fact: While the etymology of the word "concierge" is up for debate, the concept of the keeper of the keys or worker who procured goods and services outside the castle walls dates to medieval France.
