Seven Travel Tips for the Traveling Bride and Groom

We love destination weddings and honeymoons. There is something fun and exciting about packing your bags, and traveling to a new place to enjoy your special day, or relaxing days as husband and wife. So if  you a destination bride,  planning your honeymoon, or perhaps you are a travel newbie,  you will want to read on.  Whatever the case, we have seven amazing travel tips for every type of traveler.  It’s important you plan ahead, so you know you will have enough time for all the fun things you want to do, so take these tips to heart, and learn how you can do just that. Share this with your guests and bridal party!

  1. When traveling by air, you need to plan ahead. Many of the major airports are situated in and around big cities, so you need to plan ahead to avoid any delays, especially during heavily congested periods like rush hour. You should have your suitcase packed the day before you leave, so on the day of your trip you are totally ready to go. Complete and execute all of your plans well in advance of your flight. It feels terrible to miss your flight.
  2. Be aware that in some foreign cities many criminals will pose as policemen. Do not let anyone have your passport unless you are sure they are legitimate. If they state you must go to an office, offer to walk the distance with them. Do not get into a vehicle with strangers at home or abroad.
  3. If you have to drive a distance to the port to get on a cruise,drive there the night before and stay at a hotel that has free parking. You may want to contact the hotel administration about potential deals that they offer on parking even if it doesn’t look like any are available.
  4. Keep close track of your belongings while traveling, especially important things like money and identification. If you’ve got a purse, keep it tucked under your arm neatly. Do not use bags with zippers that provide easy access to people near you that could easily take your stuff. Always consider these things before purchasing your travel bags.
  5. Always remember to wear light, comfy shoes for air travel – shoes which you can slip off easily. They will have to be taken off when you reach the security checkpoint. It is important to be comfortable. You are not going to have to do as much walking as you will sitting in most cases, so the heavy-duty support isn’t really that necessary. Sandals and flip-flops are best for traveling.
  6. You will be able to observe incredible animals and plants. Deserts are a special kind of place that everyone should get to experience at some point in their lives.
  7. Start by subscribing to e-newsletters from the major airlines. The airlines use these newsletters to give you opportunities for deals that are not available elsewhere. Even though these e-newsletters can contribute to the congestion in your inbox, the money they can save you is well worth it.

Hopefully you now have a lot of very useful ideas on how to successfully compile a fascinating travel itinerary. One that you and your guests can really enjoy!  Happy traveling!

The Perfect Groom’s Gift

It’s not always easy to find the perfect gift for a man, and that’s mostly because they are not likely to go around dropping hints as to what they want.  So when it’s time to shop for a wedding gift for your future husband, it is up to you to search your memories and use your powers of deduction to come up with something spectacular. Here are a five great ideas to help you choose the perfect gift.

A Little Something Special. It’s natural for us women to appreciate the small details in life.  Show your groom that you want your wedding celebration to be a fun, light-hearted experience by surprising him and his groomsmen with a bottle of his favorite alcohol before the wedding.  Make it a bottle he doesn’t have often and can enjoy a pre-wedding toast with his friends.  Only give him one bottle to share, enough for one drink each…just to be safe.

Something for the wedding. The night before the wedding present the groom with something to rock on the wedding day. Give him a watch that you’ve had engraved with a message from your heart. Not only will it be personalized from you but it will symbolize the start of a new time in your lives.

Another great option for the wedding day is a pair of awesome cuff links.  You can have them personalized with his initials or you can go outside of the box and get him something that will really represent his personality.  Check out these handmade sterling silver cuff links by King Baby Studio.   He’ll appreciate adding this little bit of personalzation to his tux.

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Something for the Honeymoon. The honeymoon is the perfect opportunity to show your new husband just how much you really know him by arranging a special excursion for the two of you. If your husband likes hiking, snorkeling, touring, dining, etc. take the time to plan a special event just for him.  This is perfect if he enjoys the outdoors and will be a memorable bonding experience for the two of you.

Something for the House. After the wedding and honeymoon festivities have subsided, you and your husband will begin building your life as newlyweds. To help kick start the process, give him something for the house. Tools are great for the inevitable home improvements or if your man is into landscaping, surprise him with the necessary tools, and maybe even a starter plant/tree that will grow along with your relationship.

Something for life. Here is your chance to give him something really special, something he will treasure for years to come. Think back on your time as a couple and create a memory book for him with pictures of events that lead up to your wedding day. Give it to him the night before your wedding so he has something that will make him even more excited to take the next step with you.

TLC’s Four Weddings Episode Recap: June 20th

Friday is here! Fridays are the best right? I mean, I love them. Not only does it mean I get to start my weekend, but I get to provide you a recap of one of my favorite wedding shows on TLC. Yep, its a good day for sure! Did you tune into last night’s episode of  “Four Weddings” on TLC?  What are your thoughts of the four brides and their weddings? What details stood out for you? Was there one bride which had a total “wow” wedding day? If you missed it, we have a recap of the episode right here:

 

Who are the Brides?: TLC

  • Christian is ready to walk down the aisle at a grand cathedral where her ceremony takes place. Inside the cathedral there are high ceiling, stunning details, and a large aisle. The ceremony had little decor, however the bridesmaids wore lavender colored short dresses, each holding a small bouquet.  After a traditional ceremony, the bride and her groom together with their guests light up paper lanterns and release them into the sky. Following, guests go to a night club where the reception takes place. Inside there are many candles, stunning chandeliers, and white flowers. The cake is a three tier white cake with a masquerade mask with feathers as the cake topper  Guests join the bride on the dance-floor as her groom throws dollar bills from above into the crowd. Guests enjoy this unique money dance.TLC
  • Ashley a bride who has planned her wedding since she was a young teenager and is now ready to marry the love of her life.  The day begins outside on the green lawn of the plantation venue.  The alter is rustic with a chandelier hanging in the middle.  Ashley makes her grand entrance for the ceremony on a white horse and carriage. A very Fairytale entrance. After a heartfelt ceremony, the married couple release white doves, and then exit in the horse drawn carriage.  Inside the plantation venue, the reception begins. The space features blue up-lighting, vintage style decor, and tall floral centerpieces. A shout out for the guest bride, Christian for her birthday, and everyone was on the dance-floor having a good time.TLC
  • Courtney  has a love for nature and elegance. Her wedding takes place at a local zoo. First, the ceremony takes place at a church. The decoration consisted of pink and white flowers on the pews, and four grand floral arrangements at the front. After sealing the ceremony with a kiss, guests travel to the zoo for the reception. As guests enter, they are greeted by some of the animals such as an elephant, peacock, and flamingos. Inside the reception space, it is decorated with pink, white, and gold colors. The guest tables have a soft pink linen, gold chargers with pink napkins, gold candleholders, and a few small floral arrangements. The cake was a five tier white and gold cake with some intricate details. After a buffet dinner, the dessert table is set with array of desserts to choose from. At the end of the night there is a second line, and Courtney changes into a short white dress with silver beading on the top.TLC
  • Joy is ready to have a good time at her wedding.  Her wedding day is at a hotel and the ceremony inside. The ceremony space is all white with candles lining the aisle. After a jump over the broom, the couple is ready to party with their guests. The reception space features blue up-lighting, trees with hanging candles and peacock feathers.  After dinner, guests enjoy liquor filled cupcakes. The dance floor was high energy and everyone was packed on the dance floor. A second line joined in and the party continued.

A Hot Detail:  There was one detail from each wedding that stood out for me. I really loved Christian’s wedding gown. It was a lace with beading all throughout. This dress was made for her, and she looked gorgeous!  Okay, so this is a first, but I also loved Ashley’s wedding gown as well! Yep. What I absolutely loved about her gown was EVERYTHING! Her dress was a fitted satin mermaid trumpet style with feathers on the top. Totally stunning and simply beautiful. Perfect gown for this bride.    I actually loved the overall style and design at Courtney’s wedding. I loved the romantic feel of it all. All the details were simply gorgeous and elegant.   was a fitted A-line lace dress with a beautiful veil. It was perfect for her vintage style wedding.   What I thought was a “wow” factor at Joy’s wedding reception was the ice luge. The large ice luge had the signature drink flow right down into the guest’s glass. I thought this was super unique and fun for guests. A fun way to get your drink!

Who won?: Congrats to Courtney for winning!  She and her husband won an all expenses paid honeymoon to St. Martin.  I was not surprised at all about Courtney winning.  As soon as I saw her wedding, and all the gorgeous details, I knew she would win.  While I can not account for the food since I wasn’t actually there, all the other details – venue,  bride’s dress, and originality – were owned by Courtney’s wedding. I loved how it was so romantic and every single detail from the ceremony to the desserts, was absolutely lovely.  Those flowers and the gold and pinks, Swoon!  Every cent spent was worth it! Fantastic job Courtney!   So how did the other three brides score? Ashley came in second, Joy in third, and Christian in fourth. Were you surprised by the results?  Love to hear from you, so please share!

TLC

TLC’s Four Weddings Sneak Peek: June 20th

It is Thursday and that means it is time for this week’s sneak peak of “Four Weddings” on TLC. Are you ready?   If you have never seen the show, let me tell you a little about it.  This show features four completely different brides who have never met, and attend each other’s weddings with one wedding being deemed “the winner” at the end. The brides rate the food, dress, venue, originality, and overall experience of each wedding, except for their own. At the end, all the scores of each bride are tallied, and the one with the highest score wins an all expenses paid honeymoon.

TLC

On tonight’s episode the four brides are :  A bride who loves the New Orleans details, a bride who has a princess dream wedding, a high energy and fun loving bride, and a bride who has an elegant zoo wedding.  Each of these brides share their unique style and taste on their wedding day. Which bride will be your favorite? Which bride’s detail’s will you like the best? Which dress will stand out the most? What ceremony will be the most touching? Which bride do you think will win? What do I think? You will have to wait until Friday where I will provide a re-cap on this episode. All I can tell you know is that you do not want to miss this episode! Fire and partying like its 1999?  What? Well, you will have to tune in tonight and find out.

TLC’s Four Weddings airs Thursdays at 9/8c. So set your DVR’s, or watch it live tonight!

For more information on Four Weddings, check out the website: http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/tv/four-wedding

10 California Locales for your Wedding & Honeymoon

If you currently live in the Golden State, are originally from Cali, or have always wanted to visit, there is no better place to have your wedding or honeymoon than right here! These 10 California Bridal Hot Spots are sure to entice you to at least book a trip to do some wedding or honeymoon venue ‘research’!

1. South Bay Sizzle – Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach

Combined, these beach towns create the ultimate Southern California experience. With its ritzy shops, luxury hotels, and hot bods on the volleyball sand courts, Manhattan Beach doesn’t disappoint if you’re looking for an ‘as seen on TV’ beach scene! Check out Shade Hotel for a possible wedding venue. Hermosa Beach is a bit more organic, being the location of choice for local surfers. Redondo Beach, or more appropriately Redondo Pier, is our own little Coney Island featuring an arcade, paddle boats, ice cream treats, and an open seafood market with live creatures!

2. Victorian Romance in San Luis Obispo

Enjoy tea for two in the famous Madonna Inn, named after local pioneer, Alex Madonna. The Victorian architecture and turn of the century gardens & décor will inspire you to indulge in your harlequin fantasies! Oh, and did I mention they have themed hotel rooms? Go to brunch at The Apple Farm, an old time favorite spot with mouthwatering American cuisine. For a daytime excursion, head South to See Canyon to pick up fresh apples of multiple varieties! A wedding at the Madonna Inn and planned weekend here for your guests is sure to be unique.

3. Its Always Sunny in San Diego

Treat your honey to a Padres game at the gorgeous PetCo ballpark, just steps to the famed Gaslamp district. Its basically the Vegas strip of Southern California. Grab some drinks & dinner, then dance the night away! Save the Zoo and Sea World for the family trip.

4. Cozy little Cabin for 2 in Big Bear

Great for summer lovin’ or a wintertime romp in the snow, Big Bear is worth the gorgeous drive up the mountain. Cool Cabins of Big Bear offer themed cabins based on your tastes. You can go fishing, hiking, and boating in the summer, or hit the slopes in the winter! For a truly intimate or family only wedding, this would be a beautiful setting. You can rent a huge cabin with 7 or 8 rooms with a large yard area for the ceremony (if its snowing, in front of the fire hearth) or book a few cabins nearby each other.

5. Mission Style Fun in Santa Barbara

My friend got married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse in 2009 and to this day, it is still my favorite wedding location. The early California-Spanish architecture is truly inspiring, and the city charges only a minimal fee for use. Visit the Santa Barbara Mission, the Santa Barbara Courthouse, and boutique shopping on State Street.

6. Go Glamping (Glamorous + Camping) at El Capitan Resort

A 5 minute drive up the 101 North takes you to the hidden and best kept secret of Santa Barbara, El Capitan Resort! Rustic, spacious canvas tents set up with plush beds, lamps, and bedside tables adorn the campsite, complete with nearby communal bathrooms and a grocery/gift shop and café. Get married in Santa Barbara, then honeymoon at El Capitan. If your wedding party is the camping type, there is a huge Yurt that appears to be available to rent for large events. Be sure to book your yurt & tents well in advance!

7. Wine Tasting in Paso Robles

Treat your senses to the delights of the vine in the popular Paso Robles wine country. The weather is just perfect for tasting outdoors while overlooking generations of old vines. Wineries are always a lovely place to get married as well, since there’s tons of space, delicious food & wine pairings, and gorgeous views as far at the eye can see….

8. Leave Your Hearts in San Francisco

This cultural hub always is and always has been at the cutting edge of entertainment, arts, cuisine, shopping, and trends. Not to mention it is chock-full of significant historical sites. Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Haight-Ashbury, and Ghiradelli square….need I say more??

9. Sonoma Valley/ Dry Creek Vineyards

Head even further up the coast to Sonoma Valley and Dry Creek (take that chocolate with you) to sample some of the best wines in the world! Sit in world-class tasting rooms overlooking massive vineyard estates, making friends with tourists from around the world and sometimes on a lucky day, the owner of the estate drops by for a visit!

10. Peace Out – Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey

These three areas have no shortage of fabulous hotels, exciting nightlife, and million dollar yachts! If your wedding party is the big-city type, this is the place for you. Between The Erwin hotel, Shutters, The Huntley, The Fairmont, and The Ritz Carlton Marina Del Rey, you’ll be sitting pretty on your big day and afterward! The nautically inclined can book a wedding on a yacht and cruise through the Marina during your ceremony and reception. Venice Beach and Santa Monica have tons of sightseeing and famous landmarks for you and your group to tour.

Let this humble list inspire you to begin researching and designing your big day & tomorrows in sunny, fantastic California!

TLC’s Four Weddings Episode Recap: June 13th

Did you tune into last night’s episode of  “Four Weddings” on TLC?  What are your thoughts of the four brides and their weddings? What details stood out for you? Was there one bride which had a total “wow” wedding day? If you missed it, we have a recap of the episode right here:

TLC

Who are the Brides?: 

  • Karen is ready to marry the love of her life and share that love with her two kids. Her wedding day starts with a evening ceremony set inside a banquet hall. The ceremony space is decorated with simple decor consisting of  many candles and flowers. Karen walked in wearing a mermaid wedding gown with beading all throughout.  The ceremony was personalized with the bride’s uncle officiating  personal vows were shared, and all included were Karen’s two boys.  After the kiss, the two love birds were handcuffed together as they exited the ceremony. Just adjacent to the ceremony location, the reception room was ready for the guests. The centerpieces featured vases with candles floating on top, a single rose, candles, and all on top of a square mirror.  After a buffet which consisted of sandwiches, the guests joined the couple and danced the night away.
  • Michelle a bride who is ready to dazzle her guests with purple colored details. Her ceremony is set at a church with purple details all throughout. The pews are decorated with purple bows, the alter is decorated with white and purple flowers, and greenery. The bridesmaids all wearing purple dresses with purple flowers tied with a silver ribbon. After a heartfelt ceremony, and jumping over the broom, guests enter into the reception space. The centerpieces were very simple, and the four tiered white cake had touches of bling. Michelle had a dress change, and her second dress was a V-necked short white dress with some sparkle. After the wedding festivities, the couple exited their wedding with a red sports car.
  • Megan is a bride who goes Southern with a vintage style at her wedding. Her wedding is set at an old plantation with the ceremony outside. The ceremony featured white chairs, a white alter with pink and white flowers, and a picket fence on the sides of the alter. The aisle was decorated with tin cans filled with baby’s breath hanging off the chairs. Megan’s brother walked her down the aisle and then joined her groom at the alter. During the vows, the groom’s daughter joined the couple.  After the “I Do’s”, the couple exit the ceremony and the guests go inside the plantation for cocktail hour. The reception took place under a white tent outside. The guest tables featured a simple centerpiece. Candles and baby breath flowers. The cake was four tiered cream colored with lace, and a flower arrangement on top.
  • Tamika is ready to “wow” her guests at her over the top bling wedding. The wedding took place at the famous Superdome where the New Orleans Saints play football.  Outside the Superdome, the ceremony took place with very minimal decor. A white aisle runner, crystal chandeliers down the aisle, and chairs with purple sashes.  After the exchange of the rings and the kiss, the ceremony is complete. The reception took place at the club close by.  Simple tables with rhinestone candles, white lounge furniture, and purple up lighting.  The cake table had a personalized crystal centerpiece and featured four cakes all decorated with bling and flowers. When the second line started, guests danced from the inside all the way to the outside.

A Hot Detail:  There was one detail from each wedding that stood out for me. What I thought was so super unique and personal at Karen’s wedding was the cake. Her four tiered cake complimented her wedding gown, with all the bling and other gorgeous details. I thought this made her cake very personalized and memorable.  What I absolutely loved at Michelle wedding was the second line featuring a brass band. There were purple umbrellas and lots of high energy! I thought it was something fun for guests to enjoy . Very memorable!   I adored Megan’s  bridal gown. It was a fitted A-line lace dress with a beautiful veil. It was perfect for her vintage style wedding.   At Tamika’wedding ceremony was her grand entrance. She came in with a white horse and carriage. It looked like Cinderella’s carriage.  A total “wow” factor, and perfect for a princess bride!

Who won?: Congrats to Megan for winning!  She and her husband won an all expenses paid honeymoon to Ancient Israel.  I was not surprised about Megan winning at all, she seemed to deserve it! As soon as I saw her wedding, I knew that she would win. I loved it! Her wedding did not compare to the rest. I loved it all!  While I can not account for the food since I wasn’t actually there, all the other details – venue,  bride’s dress, and originality – were owned by Megan’s wedding. I thought that every detail of her Southern vintage theme was absolutely perfect. Her flowers, the dress, the gorgeous venue, and that cake, was all amazing. Simply beautiful! Great job Megan!  So how did the other three brides score? Tamika came in second, Michelle in third, and Karen in fourth. Were you surprised by the results?  Love to hear from you, so please share!

TLC

TLC’s Four Weddings Sneak Peek: June 13th

It is Thursday and that means it is time for this week’s sneak peak of “Four Weddings” on TLC. Are you ready?   If you have never seen the show, let me tell you a little about it.  This show features four completely different brides who have never met, and attend each other’s weddings with one wedding being deemed “the winner” at the end. The brides rate the food, dress, venue, originality, and overall experience of each wedding, except for their own. At the end, all the scores of each bride are tallied, and the one with the highest score wins an all expenses paid honeymoon.

TLC

On tonight’s episode the four brides are :  A bride who wants to share her special cake with her guests, a bride who is over the top and wants to “wow” her guests, a bride who goes Southern with a vintage feel, and a bride who adores the purple colored details.  Each of these brides share their unique style and taste on their wedding day. Which bride will be your favorite? Which bride’s detail’s will you like the best? Which dress will stand out the most? What ceremony will be the most touching? Which bride do you think will win? What do I think? You will have to wait until Friday where I will provide a re-cap on this episode. All I can tell you know is that you do not want to miss this episode! Handcuffs and the SuperDome?  What does that mean? Well, you will have to tune in tonight and find out.

TLC’s Four Weddings airs Thursdays at 9/8c. So set your DVR’s, or watch it live tonight!

For more information on Four Weddings, check out the website: http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/tv/four-weddings

TLC’s Four Weddings Sneak Peek: Season Premiere

Do you know what today is? It is the kind of day that has me  jumping up and down. Yep, I am actually jumping right now.  I am thrilled to announce that TLC’s “Four Weddings” is back for their season premiere, and I have the sneak peek right here. The popular show features four completely different brides who have never met, and attend each other’s weddings with one wedding being deemed “the winner” at the end. The brides rate the food, dress, venue, originality, and overall experience of each wedding, except for their own. At the end, all the scores of each bride are tallied, and the one with the highest score wins an all expenses paid honeymoon.

TLC

On tonight’s episode the four brides are :  A bride who cheers for the New Orleans Saints, a bride who will show off her floral design skills , a traditional Southern bride and a bride who shares her South American culture with her guests.  Each of these brides share their unique style and taste on their wedding day. Which bride will be your favorite? Which bride’s detail’s will you like the best? Which dress will stand out the most? What ceremony will be the most touching? Which bride do you think will win? What do I think? You will have to wait until Friday where I will provide a re-cap on this episode. All I can tell you know is that you do not want to miss this episode! The Harlem Shake, New Orleans style. Yes, it happend.  That is all I can tell you right now. So, you will have to watch tonight to see what that is all about!

TLC’s Four Weddings airs Thursdays at 10/9c. So set your DVR’s, or watch it live tonight!

For more information on Four Weddings, check out the website: http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/tv/four-weddings

Lucca, Italy:Your Honeymoon Destination

When it comes to preparing for your wedding, there is nothing more exciting than choosing the place where you will spend your first moments together as husband and wife.  If you are anything like me, you will probably make a long list of exotic locations which will make your choice even more difficult. Allow me to make it easier for you. Let me do the picking. I choose ITALY! Why you ask? Well, let me tell you why a honeymoon under the beautiful Tuscan sky will make the beginning of your life together even more memorable. Italy is synonym with romance. This is the country of Romeo and Juliette. This is the country of eternal love. Everything in Italy screams “romance.” As you walk through the old towns, you will live and breathe history together and you will partake in some of the most beautiful sightseeing that you have ever seen.  Every day you will feel like you are in a dream, and what better way to live a dream but next to the love of your life. Italy’s food is an aphrodisiac. Your palate will indulge in flavors that you have never experienced before. From the beautifully hand-crafted pastries, to the hand-tossed pizza, you will share the culinary beauties of Italy while looking into each other’s eyes. Guiltless. Free to indulge.  Can you already picture yourself, holding hands, and staring into each other’s eyes? Do you need more convincing? If yes, let me also show you a possible location and accommodation. If you have never been to Italy and would like to have a more romantic-quite vacation I would like to suggest to you to go and stay in Lucca. Awww, Lucca! Only thinking about it gives me googley eyes.

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Lucca is a Roman city surrounded by 10 feet tall walls on which you can walk, stroll, run, bike. It is surrounded by Tuscan hills on one side and by the Tirreno Sea on the other side. It is the city of Puccini (for all you Opera fans!). It is close to Florence, but not as hectic, and it is perfect for a romantic, quiet and intimate honeymoon. You can take day trips to different destinations such as Pisa (only 15 minutes away), Siena, Florence and the Chianti. Depending on the season of your travels, you can explore vineyards, taste different Chianti specialties and indulge in the great flavors of Tuscany. And, if you are more adventurous, you could hike the mountains and trails, and explore the small villages on the hills. I am telling you, it is a perfect destination for your honeymoon. You have my word.   Lucca has everything for everyone. And how about staying at your own apartment-villa? Here is your accommodation.

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{Villa Rosa Dei Venti}

The Villa is immersed in Lucca’s verdant country side ideal for walking or biking. The historic downtown of Lucca and the central train station are only 2 km away, thus reachable even by walking. The owners of the Villa have different luxury packages available, and everything can be customized to your personal liking. From private dinners, to wine tasting, to shopping at luxury brands stores, your vacation will not skip a beat. For more information please contact Bridal Hot List.

Whatever your dream honeymoon may be, there is nothing better than Italy to begin a new journey with the love of your life.

Top Five Things To Do On Your Hawaiian Honeymoon

Waimea Canyon in Kauai, Hawaii

Waimea Canyon in Kauai, Hawaii

Every year there are tens of thousands of newlywed couples that travel to the Hawaiian islands on their honeymoon. With some of the most breathtaking views and landscapes a person can find anywhere in the world, the destination remains a favorite with couples. For many visiting the islands, it’ll be their first time there and they’ll need to know some good tips for things to do. Having visiting Hawaii about seven times in my life, I’ve been fortunate to visit all the islands (that you are allowed to visit!) and have this handy list of things you should consider doing … when not busy with other activities!

1. Avoid Maui

I love Maui and this might be a little hard to admit, but it’s not an island to visit if you’re a newlywed. Maui is known as the activity island but it’s also known as the family island. Plenty of moms and dads bring the kids on a trip to Hawaii and end up in Maui. For a newlywed couple this means dealing with screaming kids, children peeing in the pool and worst of all – hearing parents scream at/for their kids. Don’t get me wrong, I love kids and I love families but the prospect of spending a week overhearing moms shouting at their kids and dads shouting at everyone isn’t exactly romantic. Wait for Maui when you have the family!

2. Two Island Experience

If you can, try to split the trip between two islands. If you like isolationism and total romance, definitely include Kauai in that mix. Even if you decide to spend the entire time (a week, for example) in Honolulu, there’s still plenty of opportunity to take a cheap flight over to either the Big Island or Kauai and take a full day tour and take the last flight home. My wife and I did this exact adventure the last time we went to Hawaii. We spent a week in Honolulu but we took a Hawaiian Air flight (costing us about $80 each round trip) first thing in the morning to Kauai. From there we took a full island tour on a luxurious tour bus and it was totally worth it.

3. Waimea Canyon in Kauai

Known as the “Grand Canyon of Hawaii” the exotic and breathtaking view at Waimea Canyon State Park is a must see. It’s one of my favorite spots on Earth and will be a place you will fondly remember for the rest of your life. It makes the entire trek to Kauai worth it. The view is amazing and there’s often some fresh fruit vendors that are a MUST try – especially the pineapple and mangos. Missing out on Waimea Canyon will make your soul cry – so don’t miss it!

4. Hanauma Bay in Oahu

While many are put off by the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, it doesn’t mean there’s not some great places on the island of Oahu. Checking out the north shore is like being on a different island altogether, in fact! One must-experience location is Hanauma Bay which is known as one of the best snorkeling spots in the world. One reason for that is that it’s perfect for beginners and kids! It’s also isolated off from the ocean thanks to a natural barrier so there’s no risk of dangerous sea life creeping in. The fish (and turtles!) you will see will BLOW YOUR MIND. Be sure to take an underwater camera because these pictures will be the highlight of your trip.

5. Attend a Luau Party

Going to Hawaii for the first time, or while you are on a honeymoon, and not attending a Luau should be a crime. A Luau is a big party with cultural dancing and plenty of food. Every island has various Luaus to attend and the one done by the Hilton resort on Oahu was especially magical. There’ll be fire, there’ll be pretty ladies dancing and there will be warriors, plus the amazing feast for everyone in attendance.