Daily Press (Sunday)

Ideas for all-inclusive resorts for honeymoons

- By Alisha Prakash Oyster.com

There’s no denying that the best part after saying your “I dos” is the honeymoon — well, that and spending the rest of your life together. Even better is having everything taken care of while on your post-nuptial vacation.

No matter the destinatio­n, an all-inclusive resort takes the worries out of travel — that is, if you pick a top-notch property that won’t let you down. To help, we rounded up a list of romantic, honeymoon-worthy all-inclusive hotels around the world

Gili Lankanfush­i Maldives: Romantic? Yes. Luxurious? Undoubtedl­y. Expensive? Definitely. This stunning resort lies on a palm treepacked private island, just 20 minutes away from the airport. If the phrase “private island” wasn’t enough to woo you, the overwater bungalows, which have outdoor decks with gorgeous views will surely seal the deal. Bare feet are encouraged, and each guest is pampered by a personal butler. Newlyweds can partake in a slew of activities — yoga, kayaking, windsurfin­g, canoeing, sailing are all free, though a number of other excursions, such as deep sea fishing and snorkeling, can also be arranged. Plus, the island is surrounded by beautiful white-sand beaches, so couples can relax all day, every day. It’s relaxed luxury at its finest — just ask tennis pro Novak Djokovic, who’s been spotted here.

Fowl Cay Resort, Bahamas: Exclusivit­y is the name of the game at Fowl Cay, a 50-acre private island resort in the Bahamas.

With a 28-guest capacity, the hotel makes newlyweds feel like they have the place almost all to themselves. Following a boat ride from

the airport, guests will have the opportunit­y to enjoy three private beaches, free kayaks and snorkeling gear, and personal boats for daily excursions. Six one- to three-bedroom villas with water views also await. That said, this level of luxury is reflected in the nightly rates.

Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia:

In a class of its own, Jade Mountain Resort is one of the most romantic hotels in the Caribbean — nay, the world — thanks to its incredible Piton views. The ride to the resort can be rough, but the doting service, hushed ambiance (no TVs or children allowed), and open-air restaurant make it all worthwhile. The suites are a real treat too. Through an open fourth wall, each enormous room overlooks

the sea. Some rooms even have private in-room infinity pools for soaking with your sweetheart. Keep in mind there’s no beach on the property (the closest beach is a short shuttle ride or hike away), but privacysee­king couples will find just what they need here.

Tadrai Island Resort, Fiji: Located in the Mamanuca Islands, this adults-only hotel ensures that honeymoone­rs and couples can enjoy some R&R without getting interrupte­d by wailing kids. Hole up with your honey in one of the villas (all feature private terraces with small plunge pools facing the ocean), indulge in free activities like kayaking, fishing, hiking, snorkeling and sailing, chill out on the beach or in the beautiful infinity pool, or take in the views (every angle of

Tadrai faces the sea).

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand: Despite its jungle location in the famed Golden Triangle — and only being accessible by boat — this resort is not lacking in luxury. The hotel has a lovely openair spa, as well as luxury tents with antique-style bathtubs, outdoor rainfall showers, and balconies that overlook the river and jungle. There’s also a small pool in the forest. A minimum two-night stay is required, though you’ll be wishing you could stay forever.

The Caves, Jamaica: With private cottages and suites set along dramatic seaside cliffs, this resort ticks all the boxes of a premier honeymoon pick: romantic, upscale, and intimate. Kids under 16 aren’t allowed, which helps preserve the calm ambience, plus added perks include a private Jacuzzi and romantic candleligh­t dinners for two inside a cave.

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, Mexico:

Set on a private whitesand beach, this adultsonly, all-inclusive resort’s secluded location makes it one of our top picks in Mexico for honeymoone­rs. In addition to the buffet, couples have a range of quality dining options, including French cuisine and romantic dinners for two on the beach (the latter costs extra). More to fall in love with: a full-service spa with couples’ treatments on the beach, several swimming pools, and water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling.

Zoetry Agua Punta Cana, Dominican Republic:

Zoetry Agua Punta Cana is as honeymoon-perfect as it gets: an uncrowded whitesand beach, spacious suites, a pristine pool, gorgeous spa and free on-site activities such as yoga, snorkeling, and a horseback riding session all cater to couples. To top it off, the atmosphere is serene — thanks in part to a difficult-toreach location.

Los Altos de Eros, Costa Rica:

Set on a mountainto­p and accessed via a steep, rocky road, this upscale, adults-only boutique hotel is fairly isolated. The other part of the draw is its rustic full-service spa, free daily yoga classes, an open-air fitness facility, and a freeform pool that overlooks the mountains and valleys of the Guanacaste region.

 ?? JON INGALL/DREAMSTIME ?? The Crusoe Villas at Gili Lankanfush­i in the Maldives.
JON INGALL/DREAMSTIME The Crusoe Villas at Gili Lankanfush­i in the Maldives.

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