Luxury Villas in Santorini

Luxury villas in Santorini with their private pools and stunning volcano views, exemplify the ultimate romantic vacation experience.

5 Reasons You Should Visit Los Cabos Mexico

Los Cabos, located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, is a dream vacation destination with something for everyone. There are at least a dozen reasons why you should visit Los Cabos. But, for the sake of brevity, we’ve compiled a list of the top five reasons to visit Los Cabos for your next vacation.

Insta-Worthy Romantic Getaway Ideas

Whether you and your significant other prefer strolling European towns and villages or going on adventures in the middle of nowhere, you’re sure to like at least one of these romantic getaway ideas! Consider the following ideas and whisk your sweetheart away on a romantic getaway they’ll remember forever.

Proposing on Vacation

Mountaintop vacation proposal

We’ve all seen the romantic Facebook and Instagram posts of men and women proposing on vacation. While marriage proposals in exotic destinations as viewed on social media seem simple and flawless, there is much more planning involved than kneeling to pop the question. So, if you’re considering whether proposing on vacation is right for you, here are some questions and factors to consider.

The Intimate Vow Renewal

Couple's vow renewal on yacht

While many couples choose to have a destination vow renewal with all the bells and whistles, others choose more intimate ceremonies. Some keep the guest list small opting for just close friends and family. Others go smaller still with just the couple and the children. And, of course, It doesn’t get more intimate than a private ceremony for two.

How to Plan a Surprise Romantic Vacation

Couple surfing on vacation

I was barely one year out of college and working as an interpreter at a Travel Emergency Assistance company when I planned my very first surprise romantic vacation to rekindle the romance in a long-distance relationship. The skiing trip to Keystone Colorado was epic! And though that relationship didn’t survive, the skills I honed most certainly did and they have served me, my husband and my clients very well.

Top 10 Things to do on the Island of Hawaii

Top 10 Things to do on the Island of Hawaii Next to which Island should we visit, the question what should we do comes up quite frequently. That’s why we we’ve put together this article on the top 10 things to do on the Island of Hawaii. Hawaii is the name of our 50th state, but it’s also the name of the largest of the 137 islands that comprise the state of Hawaii. This is why the island of Hawaii is frequently referred to as the Big Island. Calling it the Big Island is certainly a great way to simplify  conversations. https://enlightenexcursions.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/hula-video.mp4In addition to being the largest of all the Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island has the most volcanic activity. So if, like me, you are fascinated by Volcanoes, the Big Island, comprised of 5 volcanoes, has lots to offer in that regard. The island of Hawaii also boasts the tallest mountain in the world and the most active volcano on earth. With all this it’s no surprise that the island of Hawaii has a diverse range of activities to keep travelers fascinated and entertained. From the huge waves, fern forests, and lava plains, to fascinating customs, and legends there is a great deal to discover on the island of Hawaii. These are our top 10 top things to do on the Island of Hawaii.Horseback Riding ToursExplore the coastline or venture to hidden trails on an exploratory horseback tour. Most companies offer private as well as group tours. Some countless ranches and stables accommodate tourists. Paniolo Adventures is one of the largest, with an 11,000-acre cattle ranch located in Waimea. LuausThese traditional ceremonies are a major source of entertainment on all islands within Hawaii. Take the opportunity to enjoy live dancing, learn about Hawaiian as well as Polynesian culture, and enjoy delectable cuisines. Hawaii’s Transformation Tour This is one of our favorite history tours in Hawaii. Learn about the transition from the Kapu system to Christianity and explore each way of life from the perspective of some native Hawaiians. In the enduring oral history traditions natives recount the battle between ancient Hawaiian Kapu System and Christianity as each side fought for their beliefs. You’ll do some hiking and visit a significant Catholic Church and several Hawaiian temples (heiau’s).  Whale WatchingThere are few instances when we encourage you to spectate rather than participate, but this is definitely one of those occasions. The Island of Hawaii is the most popular destination for whale watching in the entire Hawaiian Island chain. Annually, from December to April over 8000 Humpback whales make a journey of more than 3500 miles to Hawaii to connect, breed and calve. Peak Humpback whale season is January through March. Whether you take private boat tour or a group cruise be sure to choose a knowledgeable naturalist who will also help you spot Pilot and Sperm Whales, Manta Rays, Spinner Dolphins and Sea Turtles.Polynesian Tiki Carving Lesson Visit the charming rural town of Holualoa and take in the gorgeous views of the Hawaiian hillside as you learn how to carve a tiki from a 4th generation Master Polynesian Carver. Make your own authentic wood carving, using wood of exceptional quality locally grown on the Big Island. We love that each traveler gets to go home with a little piece of Hawaii, and memories we hope will last for generations Helicopter ToursWhen you take a helicopter tour on the Big Island you can fly over the Kohala Mountain and cruise down the stunning Gold Coast of Hawai’i and discover the sandy beaches of Makalawena and Kua Bay. You can also experience breathtaking views of some of the veiled treasures that Hawai’i’s spectacularly varied climate can offer. Your helicopter pilot will dip deep down into the Waimea valleys so that you get breathtakingly close to Hawaii’s magical waterfalls, some of which reach heights exceeding 2000 feet. Hawaii Volcanoes National ParkThis park is not to be missed. Highlights range from viewing active volcanic craters and steam vents to the historic Jaggar Museum. One of our favorite tours guided by a trained park ranger includes exploring a tea orchard, and a private winery in addition to the amazing landscape. And after a lovely dinner at Volcano Winery, you’ll get to watch for real-time volcanic activity as the sun sets.Mauna Kea This dormant volcano on the island of Hawaii is a unique wonder to explore. It last erupted over 4,000 years ago in 2460 BC. Today visitors can hike to the summit. But don’t forget to stop by the VIS (Visitor Information Station) for weather and safety tips. Private Homes and Culinary Experience Many vacation photos will give you a great idea of what it’s like to be a tourist on the Big Island. But what’s it like to live there? To immerse yourself in authentic island culture we recommend visiting local private homes. One of our favorite tours explores local homes and gardens ranging from ‘local-style’ Kamaaina cottages to spectacular estates. You’ll discover unique architectural and landscaping elements, like Ohia posts, Koa wood and Koi ponds. And, in addition, from the farm right to your fork, you’ll experience an authentic 3-course meal made from fresh locally grown ingredients. Horseback Riding ToursOf all the Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island has the richest history of cowboys and ranching. Yes, you read that right, cowboys. Paniolo is the Hawaiian word for those who were essentially Hawaiian cowboys. So whether you choose a private tour or a group tour, thanks to ranching history here there are miles and miles of rolling green pastures and equestrian trails to explore along with historic ranches. Horseback tours here allow for a wide array of adventures from a serene scenic trail ride to an oceanside coastal trail near Kealakekua Bay to a ride through the jungle to achieve stunning views of Waipio waterfalls. Kona Coffee Farm TourEven as someone who is allergic to coffee, I would not miss touring a farm that produces the world-renowned gourmet Kona coffee. In Kona, there are hundreds of coffee farms of all sizes, and consequently,

Best Honeymoon Destinations: Italy’s Lake Region

Mountains and walkway at Lake Garda in Italy's Northern lake region.

The lake region consists of lakes Maggiore, Varese , Lugano, Iseo, and Garda. Northern Italy has become one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe. Visitors can enjoy boating cruises around the lake or simply enjoy an evening of strolling through the streets of the dozens of small towns that line the lakes. Our certified honeymoon travel agents are available to help guide you through the many choices in Italy’s lake region.

Best Honeymoon Destinations in Northern Italy

Romantic Honeymoon gondola ride, Venice, Northern Italy

Congratulations on your pending nuptials! Now comes the next step in spending the rest of your lives together, the honeymoon. Northern Italy is a land of storied cities steeped in history and romance. With its fantastic architecture, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food, choosing your destination can be difficult. If you need help deciding, our certified honeymoon travel agents can point you to all the top spots in Italy.

Avoid These Top 5 Honeymoon Mistakes

Couples sleeos on bench, honeymoon mistake

It can cost as much as $300 to change the name on an airline ticket if you’re allowed to change it at all. It’s important that the name on your

Best Honeymoon Destinations Around the World

Gros Pitons St Lucia volcanoes honeymoon destination

Best Honeymoon Destinations Around the World In this article we discuss some of the best honeymoon destinations around the world. It doesn’t matter if you’re a couple who lives for adventure, or a couple who likes to kick back and relax; there are Insta-worthy honeymoon destinations around the globe that can keep those romantic fires blazing. You can explore lively urbanscapes packed with historical and cultural adventures. Or perhaps you’d prefer soaking up some sun on a soft sand beach with crystal blue waves. You might also want to consider these spots for proposal or anniversary trips or any type of romantic getaway. Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands The inviting sound of steel drums will greet you upon landing in Grand Cayman’s newly renovated airport. If your plan is to relax, take a romantic boat ride, hold hands and sip Pina Coladas while on vacation, then Grand Cayman is the place to be! Here you can kayak through the bioluminescent bay, watch the sunset on Seven Mile Beach or visit Stingray City where you can feed and kiss the stingrays. Legends say that if you kiss one of the area’s stingrays, you’ll have seven years of good luck! Home to sophisticated luxury hotels like the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, there are only a few all-inclusive resorts on Grand Cayman. However, in the off season your travel consultant may be able to find you an all-inclusive package at one of the larger hotels like the Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach or the Grand Cayman Marriott. These all-inclusive package promotions all depend on whether business is slow. Koh Samui, Thailand Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island with its palm-studded soft white sand beaches, is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world. Beyond Koh Samui’s crystal blue waters and pristine beaches, you’ll also find lush rainforests, waterfalls, charming fishing villages, luxury resorts, posh spas and a whole host of cultural attractions. You’ll love the array of activities, including taking cooking classes together or practicing Tai Chi on the beach. And couples can enjoy dinner during a sunset sail on a Red Baron luxury boat, dine in the treetops, or enjoy a private romantic dinner on the beach. Saint Lucia Frequently recognized as the number one best honeymoon destination, Saint Lucia is beautiful and unique. Beautiful hidden beaches and captivating geological wonders abound in St. Lucia. And this island is so much fun to explore as a couple. Slather down in the life affirming mineral mud of the Caribbean’s only drive through volcano, then sneak a kiss under the warm mineral waters of the cascading waterfall.  Enjoy gorgeous coastline views while you bask in the breathtaking sunset on a luxury catamaran cruise. Or strike out on adventure to socialize with locals at the Gros Islet Street party. And most inviting are the islands luxury all-inclusive resorts. How about a week-long stay in a Luxury Penthouse One-bedroom Terrace Jacuzzi Suite? Or perhaps an Over-the-Water Honeymoon Bungalow Suite with Butler Service? There is no end to pampering and indulgence at St. Lucia’s all-inclusive luxury resorts. New Orleans Louisiana has become increasingly popular among couples looking for a romantic getaway. And there is just something inherently charming about New Orleans in particular.  Perhaps it’s the beauty of the wrought-iron balconies wrapped in vibrantly colored flower vines, or the way the sun sets over the Mississippi river. Certainly, many couples enjoy the jazz dives with romantic lighting, strolling the garden district on a lazy afternoon or visiting the rooftop pools and the rotating carousel bars. There are also endless opportunities for sampling the city’s multicultural cuisine. From fine dining to food truck po’ boys New Orleans has something to please every palate. Don’t leave with enjoying a moonlit dinner on a steamboat cruise or a classic Creole dinner in the French Quarter. Northern Italy There are many reasons to add Northern Italy to our list of best honeymoon destinations. First there are tons of Insta-worthy romantic hot spots, including Lake Como’s hillsides and multi-level botanical garden’s, Venice’s canals, Lovere’s scenic views, Florence’s architecture & cuisine, and Milan’s Renaissance art. Add to this Verona’s historically romantic reputation, and Riomaggiore’s colorful houses and the breathtaking hiking path throughout Cinque Terre, it’s easy to understand why this area is unquestionably one of the best destinations for a romantic vacation. From castles to medieval monasteries, Tuscan vineyards and more, your travel consultant can advise you on the best honeymoon fit for you and your partner. You will inevitably make lasting memories on your romantic getaway to any one of the honeymoon destinations mentioned above.  To learn more about the best honeymoon destinations around the world, contact your Enlighten Excursions Travel Consultant today. We can help you plan an unforgettable honeymoon. Request a Consultation

Top Destination Wedding Locations in Montego Bay

Doctors Cave Beach at one of the top destination wedding locations of Montego Bay Jamaica

Do you want to get married in a tropical paradise without having to go all the way around the planet? Montego Bay, Jamaica is one of the top destination wedding locations in the world! Here’s a quick overview of what Montego Bay has to offer from the perspective of the destination wedding travel […]