Cotton Tree, Grand Cayman

You know, it’s weird, but even though the honeymoon is arguably one of the most blissful parts of getting married — besides, you know, becoming one with your soul mate, and all that jazz — we very often hear from brides — friends, family, coworkers, readers — that planning and booking your post-nuptial trip is a task that often gets dropped to the bottom of the wedding to-do list. Somewhat understandable, seeing as you really can’t keep putting off things like finalizing your menu with your caterer, unless you want some really angry guests — but you don’t want be scrambling to book what will potentially be the most relaxing, luxurious and romantic trip of your life, either, do you?

So, this post — if the sunny, lovely outside hasn’t already made you think of it these past few days! — is here to knock you out of your afternoon office doldrums: start researching! To aid in this task, we thought we’d share a few sweet package deals that have recently come across our desk, all at places we’d be happy to be, like, now. Happy planning!
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Half Moon, Jamaica

It’s that time of year again, I imagine you’ve noticed. The weather’s been cold and dreary for a while now, sure, but during holiday season, at least, there are distractions in the forms of twinkling lights, shopping lists, cookie-baking to keep you from noticing all that much. Or, at least, from caring.

But the holidays are over now, and it’s just, well, January. It’s gray and cold and the spring seems far away, and sometimes that can weigh on a girl as she bundles herself for the 16th time that day. But forget all that — because it’s not weighing on you! No, you have a honeymoon to plan! And if you’re planning that post-nuptial getaway during this time of year, my guess is, you’re going to be looking for some place warm.

So here, then, is a quick roundup of some fab warm-weather deals that have crossed our desks, recently, that you might either take advantage of them — or that they at least get the inspiration flowing for finding the perfect ‘moon locale. Happy booking!

Montego Bay, Jamaica’s beautiful Half Moon resort has a new “Celebration� romance package for 2011, perfect for your honeymoon, or even a quick pre-wedding getaway. With a minimum stay of three nights, you’ll get private transfers to and from the airport; a bottle of champagne and a welcome gift on arrival, breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, including drinks at the resort’s bars; a couples spa treatment at the seaside cabana, followed by a botanical soak in the stone tub with champagne and chocolate-dipped fruit; turndown every night that includes aromatherapy candles with the spa’s signature sweet orange-and-ginger scent and scattered rose petals; and a private bamboo rafting excursion along the Martha Brae river. Nightly rates range, depending on your chosen accommodation, from $884 to $2,285 until April 15, and then from $735 to $1,735 until December 14, 2011.
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Cocoa Island

Dear Brides:

If you are currently planning a post-nuptial getaway to some far-flung tropical locale, well, I am jealous. As I write this, cold November clouds are looming outside my window, and I’m struck with the realization that winter is coming. It’s coming, and it won’t be going away for quite a few months. Sigh.

However, just because I’m jealous, doesn’t mean I’d do something as horrible as hold back on some fabulous honeymoon deals that have recently crossed my desk. No, dear brides, I will share them, and I will continue to share them whenever I’ve got them, no matter how cold I am or how not in the middle of planning a far-flung tropical vacation I might be. That is my vow.

So, here you go — three absolutely awesome getaway deals. Happy planning!

If you’ve been married within three months of ‘mooning at the uber private Cocoa Island in the Maldives (you’ll just have to show your certificate before arrival), a COMO Hotel & Resort, you’ll get all kinds of amazing amenities, for a seven-night minimum stay: There’ll be a bottle of champagne upon your arrival; a complimentary sunset cruise one night with wine and an antipasto platter; a private yoga class for two; and a honeymoon souvenir from Cocoa Island. If you book your stay in the Loft Villas, or the one- or two-bedroom villas, you’ll also get a complimentary one-hour couple’s COMO Shambhala massage, and the option of combining this package with their promotion that offers seven nights for the price of six. Prices begin at $900 per night, depending on season.
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