wj1

We're looking for ideas for a honeymoon for a young couple and would like some ideas. They are in their very young 20s and don't seem to want to venture very far from the U.S. We were all thinking that an all-inclusive might be a good idea because everything will be paid for in advance and they won't feel the need to scrimp to save money to start their new life together. Mexico or Costa Rica might be a good idea but they're open to other suggestions. We looked at Club Med and the Cancun location seemed like it might not be the best choice as it looks like it appeals to singles ready for partying. The Ixtapa location looked like it was primarily geared to families. While neither of these seemed ideal, the advantage of Club Med seems to be that so many activities are included. Any other All Inclusives we should have them look at? Their honeymoon will probably be in late August (undoubtedly hot) for 7 nights and the price tag should be $2-3000 (preferably with air fare). Less is ok too! Any help or suggestions you have would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance!

KarenJ

My husband and I spent a week at the Royal Hideaway in Playa de Carmen, which is about 40 minutes from Cancun. The Royal Hideaway is a 5 star, all-inclusive resort geared towards couples. Its a perfect resort for a low-key honeymoon. It may be a bit pricey, but the rates may be lower in August. My husband and I went to Costa Rica on our honeymoon last year. We loved Costa Rica. However, Costa Rica does not sound like a trip for these honeymooners. CR is not known for having large all-inclusive resorts. Also, to really appreciate CR, you need to rent a car and drive to various locations, ie, volcano, rain forest, beach, etc. High quality Costa Rican hotels can also be quiet expensive.

jlb

The Sandals Resorts.

shillmac

On the other hand, Costa Rica does have probably 8-10 all inclusives (ranging from medium to very pricey)--but within range. Costa Rica also has several smaller, more intimate, and very romantic hotels that cater to honeymooners. They offer special honeymoon packages. Check out Punta Islita, Tambor Tropical, Hotel Si Como No, just for starters. There are at least 10 that have excellent honeymoon reputations. Several in the Manuel Antonio area besides Si Como No. Costa Rica is so beautiful (naturally). As for All-Inclusives, here are 2 for you to check out. Allegro Papagayo (moderately priced and very nice) and Paradisus Playa Conchal--very luxurious but more expensive. With a package, I think it would still fit into your range.

Lisa1271

Where will your couple be departing from? We chose Paradisus Playa Conchal last April and departing from Toronto the price came to roughly $2500 including air. Teh resort is amazing and we are already considering it for spring 2005. Are actually going to Paradisus Punta Cana this year because we were so impresed with the CR location last year. Lisa S

wj1

Thanks everyone. I will check out your suggestions and pass them along to the young couple. If anyone else has any suggestions, please let me know. Thanks again.

ilovetulips

Hi,
My husband and I went to the Iberostar Quetzel for our honeymoon. It is in Playa Del Carmen about a one hour drive from Cancun. A shuttle takes you from the airport to the hotel. We really enjoyed it. The hotel had a variety of people from families to couples. The beautiful beach is literally right outside your hotel room. You can take day trips to Cozumel or the Mayan Ruins as well as walking to the town of Playa Del Carmen. It is probably less than your quoted price range, although I don't know where the couple are flying from. We flew from Texas. Look into the Iberostar hotels, they might find something they like.