Category Archives: travel
Have You Considered a Mini-moon?
Planning a honeymoon can sometimes take as much time (and budget) as your actual wedding. Have you ever considered taking a Mini-moon before your REAL honeymoon? A mini-moon is a quick 1-3 day getaway right after your wedding for a chance to recuperate before heading back to reality. This is especially helpful if you’re planning on waiting to take a longer vacation later on.
Ste. Anne’s Spa – Grafton, Ontario
There are lots of reasons to take a quick getaway right after your wedding and save your Mega-moon for later:
- You need some time to save up.
- It’s not the right season (weather-wise) for where you’d like to honeymoon OR you find an amazing deal for the off-peak time of year.
- You can’t get all of your holidays/time off work in one shot – often you’ll need a few days off BEFORE your wedding.
- You don’t want to sleep through your honeymoon while recuperating from your big day. (You’d be surprised how many couples we know that have slept through the first couple days of their week long trip.)
Ok – so what are the options?
Regardless of where you live, there are bound to be hotels and other locations near by that will offer a quick getaway for you and your new partner to relax, recuperate and recharge. Many often have special couples packages including a few extras.
Maybe you stay in your own city, but book a night or two in a great hotel (check for last minute hotel deals!) or perhaps there are resorts or spas just outside your city. Rent (or borrow) a cottage for the weekend or find a sleepy B&B nearby where you can sleep in and stroll the day away.
We took our own Mini-moon a few weeks ago at Ste. Anne’s Spa near Grafton, Ontario.
Ste. Anne’s Spa is located about 90 minutes east of Toronto, Canada. Originally we thought it would be the perfect location for a girls trip or bachelorette party (FYI – it totally is!) but after visiting, we saw huge potential for a couples weekend or Mini-Moon (as we like to call it). The staff is attentive but know just how to maintain your privacy across the massive property.
The Beautiful Grounds at Ste. Anne’s Spa – Grafton, Ontario
Your meals are completely taken care of, and perfectly portioned/designed to energize and heal run down bodies. Rooms are cozy, romantic and very private. In fact, you need not wear anything but a robe across the property!
The Fabulous Food at Ste. Anne’s Spa – Grafton, Ontario
Dining Alfresco at Ste. Anne’s Spa – Grafton, Ontario
We asked the staff at Ste. Anne’s about the best way to create a romantic and relaxing Mini-moon at their property.
Here are all the secrets and top tips to creating the perfect getaway:
Q. All your rooms are decorated differently. Which rooms would you suggest for honeymoon couples?
Ste. Anne’s Spa – Maud Watt Room, Frances Anne Hopkins Room & Arthur Room
Most all of the rooms would be suitable, but a few of our romantic favorites are (left to right in image above):
Q. Your spa menu is extensive, what treatment would you suggest for relaxation and rejuvenation after a stressful period leading up to a wedding?
A body wrap is great for deep relaxation. We offer many, so couples can choose which ever one suits their particular needs.
Here are a few examples:
Q. Is Ste. Anne’s just a spa or are there other things to do on the property?
There are many activities ranging from total relaxation to strenuous physical activity! For those who are a little more active, consider participating in any of our wellness classes including yoga, stability ball class, meditation and more or simply do a workout in our gym.
There are also fantastic walking trails around the property. If you prefer a destination rather than a wander to take in the beautiful scenery, take the 10-15 minute walk down to the Maison Sante just 1 km north of the main inn. It houses an indoor pool equipped with hydrotherapy jets and a dry sauna.
Relaxing Outdoor Fresh Water Pool at Ste. Anne’s Spa – Grafton, Ontario
Couples can also choose to bring their own tennis rackets to play a game or two on the courts, enjoy the amazing spring water pool, or take part in caring for the 10 domestic horses kept on the property.
Chill Out Inside at Ste. Anne’s Spa – Grafton, Ontario
Q. Men are often leery of spa treatments. Are there any treatments designed specifically for men? Or those most enjoyed by men?
- BACK CLEANSING STONE TREATMENT: Deep cleansing, exfoliating skin treatment for the back. Hot basalt stones massage custom-blended herbal formulas onto your back. Additional heated massage stones are used to provide a light, relaxing back massage. (1hr. ~ $120)
- MEN’S EXPRESS FACIAL: A relaxing introduction to Aveda skin care and facial massage, customized for men with a soothing aftershave finish. (3/4 hr ~ $85)
- DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE with a Registered Massage Therapist: For people that are experiencing chronic pain or just like a deeper massage. Trigger points are manipulated to release tension, restoring muscle integrity and overall body balance. (1/2 hr. ~ $65 1 hr. ~ $120 1-1/2hr. ~ $180)
Q. What’s the best way to book a short escape?
If you have a particular room in mind, it’s best to call ahead and check availability. If you’re more flexible on dates, room preference etc, check out the last minute spa deals. Our packages are all inclusive of: 4-course dinner, breakfast, 3-course lunch & afternoon tea, 1 group wellness class (Wellness Classes are only available at Ste. Anne’s Spa) and complete use of the facilities.
High Altitude Hideaway in Sedona, Arizona
With milder temperatures than the rest of Arizona, Sedona is the perfect honeymoon spot for outdoor enthusiasts who would rather spend their time exploring than in an air conditioned suite. Romantic and picturesque, Sedona is also a great location for a North American “destination wedding”.
Honeymooners and wedding guests alike can experience hiking, golfing, wineries, spas and sightseeing all within the area. Even the Grand Canyon is a perfectly doable day trip.
Here are some of our best tips to experience the legendary Red Rock Country.
View from the back patio of Cozy Cactus Bed & Breakfast
Where to Stay:
Regardless of your budget, there are great accommodations in and around Sedona. Some of the best value for your money can be found at the intimate bed and breakfasts that provide prime locations and views, gourmet breakfasts, help to book your activities and plan your stay, and a more relaxed and private atmosphere.
The Cozy Cactus is a five-room B&B run by two of the most gracious hosts you’ll meet in Sedona. Two of their one-bedroom suites ($200/night) capitalize on red rock views behind the property. Their backyard literally borders the national park which is just a few minutes walk away from breathtaking hiking. The breakfast (included) is not to be missed and depending on the season can be taken on the back patio while you soak up the incredible views.
Sunset Villa Room at Adobe Village Graham Inn
Another rustic yet luxurious option is the Adobe Village Graham Inn. Featuring a private patio, kitchenette, fireplace, 2-person tub, and waterfall shower, the Sunset Villa room ($459/night) even has a breadmaker and includes a gourmet breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres.
Where to Eat:
After a hard day of playing in the sun, you’ll surely be hungry. Sedona has many restaurants and cafes. Make sure to ask for reservations, or have your hosts or concierge recommend the best time to go to avoid long wait times. We were pleasantly surprised to be served popcorn and drinks in the lobby of Elote while waiting for a table. Chef Jeff Smedstad puts a new spin on traditional Mexican cuisine. We started with fresh guacamole, the special blood orange margarita and salivated as we waited for the main course. My husband devoured his Puerco en Cascabel (slow roasted pork) and even sampled my pan roasted pacific snapper. We didn’t really have room for dessert, but who could pass up a pumpkin flan?
Another especially romantic option is Cucina Rustica. You may also enjoy the incredible views, seafood and delicious steaks from the Shugrue’s Hillside Grill back patio.
What to do:
You will never run out of things to do and see in Sedona, but here are just a few honeymoon highlights.
Little Horse Trail, Sedona ArizonaAmazing Hikes:
We only had time for one short hike on our visit, but we couldn’t have been more pleased with Little Horse Trail. It’s a relatively easy hike about 2 hours in length (depending on how many times your husband stops to take pictures). At the highest point (Chicken Point), you reach an amazing view point that several Jeep tours also hit. Most of the jeep passengers are dumbfounded that hikers just appeared alongside them practically out of the canyon. For more information on the various hikes, visit greatsedonahikes.com where you can search hikes by difficulty and duration. Not all hikes will require serious hiking footwear, but good quantities of water, snacks and sun protection are highly recommended.
Wine to Water Tour:
If you like a little vino with your adventure, this tour is for you. After an hour float trip down the Verde River (generally gentle with a few exciting bits to compliment the views), you’ll arrive at the winery. Alcantara Winery and Vineyard features a Tuscan style farmhouse where you’ll enjoy tasting their award winning wines under the guidance of knowledgeable sommeliers. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours departing from the boathouse in Sedona at 1pm daily. $129/person including tasting. www.sedonaadventuretours.com/sedona-wine-tours
Take to the Sky:
Perhaps you prefer to experience Sedona from the sky. For hot air balloon rides, try Red Rock Balloons or Northern Light Balloons. These two companies are authorized to fly over the red rocks while others are not. For a faster pace, try a Bi-place or helicopter tour with Sedona Air Tours.
By Land:
For a group outing, Pink Jeep Tours offers the Broken Arrow Tour which leads you on and over the red rocks surrounded by magnificent canyon walls. The drivers are experienced and tend to get you places where you might not otherwise venture yourself. Option two is to rent your own 4×4 Jeep Rubicon for the day (Try Barlow Jeep Rentals). Have your hosts help you plan a route and don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch, blanket, and vino for a romantic honeymoon stop along the way.
Special thanks to Carrie at the Cozy Cactus for her expert advice on honeymoons in Sedona.
Off to San Francisco
Big cities aren’t normally big honeymoon destinations. Then again, surfing and vineyards aren’t activities you can squeeze in before dinner in most big cities. If you’re the kind of urban vacationer who gets restless after more than two days of sunbathing, San Francisco offers world-class culture, shopping and food, but also easy access to beaches, the wine country, and other escapes from the city heat.
What to Do IN San Francisco:
Golden Gate Park
On sunny days, this massive 1000 acre park in the heart of the city is an ideal spot for a stroll and a great place to relax. Inside, you’ll find plenty of diversions including the De Young fine arts Museum, the California Academy of Sciences, a flower conservatory and a serene Japanese tea garden.
Alcatraz Island
Yes, it’s a tourist magnet, but for good reason. A guided tour of this storied old federal prison can be genuinely chilling, and the island itself affords unparalleled views of the bay. While you wait for the ferry, skip the overcrowded Fisherman’s Wharf and instead peruse the Ferry Building Market Place for gourmet foods and crafts.
Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito
Just across the bay, Sausalito is a picturesque little town close enough to access by quick drive or easy day trip by bike. On the way, you’ll cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the end of which affords mind blowing views of the city.
Lombard Street to Telegraph Hill
Famous as being San Francisco’s most crooked street, follow Lombard’s winding switchbacks east and onwards through the sloping Russian Hill and North Beach neighbourhoods until Telegraph Hill. It’s a steep climb to Coit Tower, but one that is rewarded by the view from atop the city.
Pit Stop:
Caffe Trieste (North Beach/Little Italy)
San Francisco’s first espresso bar, and still a prime people watching spot. A short walk from City Lights, one of the world’s great bookstores and the original epicentre of beatnik-dom. www.caffetrieste.com
Events:
Giants Game
Indulge your husband for an afternoon by taking in a Giants game at AT&T Park, one of the best parks in baseball. Located on the Embarcadero, the park is easily accessible by Muni transit, and borders on San Francisco’s industrial-chic SOMA neighbourhood, which is sprinkled with modern art galleries and shops.
Bay to Breakers
If your honeymoon happens to overlap with the third Sunday in May and you don’t mind a little public nudity, consider taking part in Bay to Breakers. The annual road race / giant party / spectacle brings the whole city out in costume (or lack thereof) for a day of revelry.
Where to Shop:
Hayes Valley / Lower Haight
A low-key pocket of cool just north of Market Street and the Civic Center, Hayes Valley offers a concentration of hip clothing and design boutiques, and great restaurants. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow Haight Street west to the Lower Haight, where you’ll find a good collection of boutiques and independent shops before the street explodes into full-blown madness at the intersection of Haight and Ashbury.
The Mission
A mix of punks, latino gangsters, boutique shopping and envelope-pushing art exhibitions, The Mission is one of the weirdest – and certainly one of the best – neighbourhoods in the city. The calm Mission Dolores Park lurks just behind the main street if you’re in need of a place to kick back and relax.
Union Square
If it’s Neiman Marcus and Louis Vuitton are what you’re looking for, you need not venture past Union Square, a centrally located shopping mecca stacked with high-end boutiques and large brand names.
Where to Eat:
Firefly (Noe Valley)
Upscale Americana comfort food served with offbeat artsy panache. Even though it’s tucked out of the way in a quiet stretch of Noe Valley, reservations are recommended. www.fireflyrestaurant.com
Slanted Door (Embarcadero)
One of the best Asian restaurants in the country, the Slated Door occupies a sleek modernist space in the Ferry Market Building. The renowned quality means reservations are hard to come by – book at least three weeks in advance. www.slanteddoor.com
Betelnut (Marina)
If a reservation at the Slanted Door proves elusive, Betelnut in the popular Marina district is a delicious consolation prize. www.betelnutrestaurant.com
Zazie (Cole Valley)
A tiny little bistro just a quick detour from the Haight, Zazie is one of the most popular brunch destinations in the city. Call ahead for reservations, especially if you can get a table on the enclosed backyard patio. www.zaziesf.com
SPQR (Pacific Heights)
Modern Italian, tapas style. Excellent and simple food, but a no reservations policy means you’ll be lining up for tables. www.spqrsf.com
Blue Bottle Coffee Company (Hayes Valley)
Located in a garage down an alley, this coffee-culture favorite may be tough to find, but is well worth it if you’re a discriminating coffee drinker. www.bluebottlecoffee.net
What to Do AROUND San Francisco:
Road Trip: San Francisco to Carmel
Rent a convertible and leave a full day to meander down the coast, stopping at public beaches and small towns along the way. The town of Carmel is a gorgeous beachside stop, and you can easily spend the better part of a day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. If you’re looking for somewhere off the beaten path to rest your head, try the Pleasure Point Inn in Santa Cruz. The small bed and breakfast feels like home, and its rooftop hot tub overlooks a popular local surf spot.
The 17 Mile Drive
The winding stretch of road between Monterey and Carmel is world-famous for good reason. Pay the park fee and enjoy a leisurely drive through some of California’s most stunning oceanside scenery.
Bonny Doon Vineyard
Sure, the Napa Valley is nearby, but if you’re looking for a unique California wine experience, Bonny Doon Vineyard is a short drive up into the cool hills of Santa Cruz. The counterculture winery is run by a mad philosopher with emphasis on design and experimentation.
Where to Stay:
High:
St. Regis Hotel, San Francisco
$400/night and up
5 star
Medium:
$277/night
4 stars
Low:
Harbor Court Hotel – a Kimpton Hotel
$140/night
3.5 stars
Ask about their green package for hotel discounts, and credit towards bike rentals.
French Riveria for a Fraction of the Price
Great news! If it’s a luxurious french honeymoon you’re after, more and more options are opening up on the Southern Coast of France. Forget Nice, Cannes and St. Tropez (the traditional seaside playground for the rich and famous) and venture west along the Riveria to Cassis (pronounced “ka-see” or “ka-seess”, depending on who you ask), a quick drive from the Marseilles airport. With sun, surf and unspoiled national parks, Cassis is the perfect honeymoon spot for smart brides who want all the perks without the exorbitant prices.
Read on for more information on where to stay and eat, and what to do while you’re there!
Where to Stay:
For a private and luxurious stay, look no further than Maison 9 ($195-245 Euro/night), a 4 room bed and breakfast with amazing rooms featuring rain showers, espresso makers, mini kitchen and everything you’ll need to chill out, or adventure around the southern coast. From the linens, towels to the soaps and complimentary wine, everything is hand selected by the hotel’s owner who shops the world to stock several family owned hotels around the globe.
Tucked down a rural laneway just beyond the buzz of the old town, the red ochre façade of an old Provencal abode reveals a luxurious country sanctuary with an infinity pool looking out over the distant cliffs. If you can even tear yourselves away from the hotel, make sure you schedule some time to enjoy the sumptuous breakfasts (included). Be prepared to lose track of time – you likely won’t be hungry for lunch any time soon!
What to Do:
Stroll Into Town: The town of Cassis itself is an excellent place to explore tiny cobblestone streets, relax over long lunches of fresh fish and locally produced wine (Rose is this region’s speciality), and generally soak up the easy going atmosphere.
Hike to a Secluded Beach: There are some perfectly adequate beaches to be lounged upon in Cassis, but supernatural splendor awaits in the Calanques, a series of finger-like inlets carved into pine-topped limestone cliffs. These French interpretations of fjords are anything but mundane, hiding vivid turquoise pools and tiny beaches accessible only by foot or small boat. Those adventurous enough to take the hour-and-a-half hike from Cassis to En Vau and Le Sugiton, the prettiest of the Calanques, are rewarded with an idyllic platform for sunbathing and swimming.
Hire a Private Sailboat: Not in the mood for scrambling down cliff faces in deck shoes? Elect to explore the Calanques in style aboard a private sailboat. Normally this would be a bank-breaking proposition an hour east on the Cote D’Azur, but we found a day-long charter on a 40-foot sailing yacht in Cassis for the absurd price of 50 euros per person. Our captain, a convivial ex-Parisien executive named Dominique, knows he could be charging more, but he didn’t seem to care.
Dominique piloted us in and out of the Calanques, where French holidayers lazed in the sun and plunged into the pristine waters from the rocky outcroppings above. Late in the afternoon we dropped anchor in an uninhabited island cove, and for a moment, it was as though we had the entire coast to ourselves.
Day Trips: An amazing island beach beckons from the small port of Le Brusc on the other side of Toulon. From here, Les Embiez is a quick ferry away. Purchased by the late Paul Ricard (of the eponymous Provencal pastis) in 1958, Les Embiez is far less rambunctious than you’d expect for an island owned by a legendary liquor magnate. Don’t be fooled by the pretty toy port lined with sailing yachts – the majority of the rugged little island’s population is made up of goats. Still, 10 hectares of vineyards, a smattering of secluded beaches and a bargain-priced aquarium provide ample fodder for a day trip, with a boutique guesthouse as backup in case you’re seduced by the island’s languid pace.
Where to Eat: As always, restaurants tend to come and go. We recommend checking a guide book, or doing a quick search of reviews on trip advisor shortly before you go to get the latest recommendations. However, one of our favorites was Poissonerie. Enjoy unobstructed views of the dramatic Château de Cassis over fresh fish caught daily. (5 Quai JJ Barthelemy, Cassis; 0442017156)
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Additional Info:
Getting There:
Air Transat offers charter flights direct to Marseille Airport (MRS) from Montreal and Toronto, Canada. National and Low cost airlines also fly from other major European cities. Try: www.airtransat.ca, www.easyjet.com and www.ryanair.com.
A rental car is a must for getting around and exploring the coast, and many rental agencies are available right from the Marseille airport. Rent well in advance, especially if your trip happens to coincide with one of the many french long weekends throughout the summer.
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