Spring is here and love is decidedly in the air, with June brides and bridegrooms busily planning their wedding trips. For those who dream of exotic destinations for their honeymoons, but hesitate when it comes to long flights, Florida boasts many resorts that invite newlyweds to begin their wedded bliss with international flavors…but without going far. Here are some “around the world” destinations to consider in the Sunshine State –no passports needed!
* Bora Bora – Spectacular lagoon and over-water bungalows spell romance in this French Polynesian idyll, and now newlyweds can enjoy a South Seas experience right here in Florida with the opening of a themed resort with overwater bungalows on April 1.
Resort Name: Disney’s Polynesian Village Villas & Bora Bora Bungalows at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.
Ambiance: Laid-back and romantic, with bungalows on stilts in typical Polynesian-style architecture on the Seven Seas Lagoon.
Amenities: Plunge pool and private deck from which to view the nightly fireworks displays over the Magic Kingdom Park with the spectacle’s soundtrack that can be heard via an individual sound system, and also view the nightly Electrical Water Pageant on the Seven Seas Lagoon. The 20 bungalows have full kitchens, washer and dryer, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and living/dining area.
Nearby: Four Disney theme parks, two water parks, shopping, dining and other attractions of the Walt Disney World Resort. The Polynesian Village is on the Disney monorail line.
Noteworthy: For couples who would prefer a Mexican, African, or Caribbean theme for their wedding trip, Disney’s Coronado Springs, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, and Disney’s Caribbean Beach are resorts themed to these romantic areas of the world.
Info: www.disneyworld.com.
*Andalusia, Spain – Gracious Mediterranean architecture with red tiled roofs, orange blossom fragrance in the air, and senoritas with flowers in their hair executing flamenco dances – Andalusia in the south of Spain is the epitome of romance (and you can find it in Florida too!).
Resort Name: The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables.
Ambiance: A National Historic Landmark, the Biltmore was built in 1926 in Mediterranean style and a terra cotta color scheme and is surrounded by 150 tropical acres. It exudes Old World charm and elegance particularly in its tower, which ends in a three-stage cupola and is inspired in the famous Giralda Tower of the Cathedral of Seville in Spain’s Andalusia region.
Amenities: Fine dining and casual bites at a variety of restaurants, culinary academy, spa and fitness, themed pool and golf.
Nearby: The dining, shopping and attractions of Miami.
Info: www.biltmorehotel.com.
*Italy – Italy, and its romantic Riviera with its pretty-as-a-picture coastal towns, lures lovers like the sirens of old – and newlyweds can enjoy its charms right here in Florida too.
Resort Name: Loew’s Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort.
Ambiance: Pastel colored buildings with green shutters and cobblestone streets recall the Italian Riviera jewel of Portofino. A harbor plaza features nightly concerts of Italian musical styles.
Amenities: Three themed swimming pools, spa/fitness center, bocce ball, and dining opportunities that include Mama Della’s Ristorante onsite serving Italian fare to the tune of strolling musicians.
Nearby: Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.
Noteworthy: Newlyweds who prefer a South Seas flavor, can opt for Universal Orlando Resort’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort.
Info: www.loewshotels.com.
* Indonesia/Polynesia – Idyllic beaches with golden sands, swaying palm trees, balmy breezes and azure lagoons are dripping in romance in Indonesia and Polynesia –as well as in some enclaves in Florida.
Resort Name: Little Palm Island Resort & Spa in the Florida Keys.
Ambiance: Since Little Palm Island is accessible only by boat or seaplane guests have the impression that they are in “another world” – a private paradise.
Amenities: Chic suites have décor themed to the islands of Indonesia and Polynesia. Some of the suites are equipped with a private outdoor shower surrounded by tropical vegetation, and accommodations have no phones, radios or televisions to distract couples. There is a pool, white sand beaches, dining room, spa and salon. Water sports are available and included. Little Palm Island’s reception center is at 28500 Overseas Highway on Little Torch Key. After registering, the resort’s private launch whisks you and your love to Little Palm Island.
Nearby: The Florida Keys and their sparkling waters. The resort organizes optional fishing trips and diving trips to Looe Key Reef.
Info: www.littlepalmisland.com.
* Mexico – Haciendas with red tiled roofs, fountains, a profusion of flowers in interior courtyards, colorful tiled murals…Mexico has been inspiring love for centuries, and honeymooners can be inspired here in Florida too.
Resort Name: Blue Seas Courtyard in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.
Ambiance: Architecture and décor of this boutique hotel are those of an Old World hacienda in Mexico, inspired in the charming colonial town of San Miguel.
Amenities: Courtyards with tropical gardens, swimming pool, fully equipped kitchens, free wireless Internet, complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas and towels.
Nearby: El Prado Beach Park, Anglin’s Pier, Pelican Square with ocean-view dining.
Info: www.blueseascourtyard.com.
