Torres del Paine is a paradise of extreme proportions

Torres del Paine National Park in Chile is an incredible region with raw beauty at every turn with ice fields, glacial lakes, unique wildlife, and extreme mountains. We were lucky enough to spend four days here at EcoCamp (for a full review of EcoCamp, read Anne’s post here), and experience a sampling of all the park has to offer.

To get a grasp on Torres del Paine National Park, our guides gave us a driving overview, pointing out the various peaks, available hikes, lakes and animals. The terrain had us spellbound and to add to the magic, fall turned the grasses along the lakes a beautiful mix of autumn colors.

Guancos are one of the few mammals ready to handle the extreme climate of Patagonia and they thrive here in abundance. Perhaps it’s because they know they are a protected species and irresistibly adorable, but they weren’t at all bashful. This one even batted her eyelashes at me.

Run-off from the numerous glaciers that crown Torres del Paine cut through the landscape in snake-like fashion. The three sharp thin peaks jutting out in the distance are the “towers” that give the park their name and the place we would be hiking in days to come.

Day 2 had us on a wild and bumpy boat ride toward the park’s second biggest attraction: Glacier Grey. En route, the amazing Almirante Nieto peaks were calling us to climb them.

Lucky for us, our EcoCamp guide Paulo was good friends with the boat captain, so he got us VIP access to the control room. After chatting it up in en Español for a while, the captain insisted that Anne take the wheel. With the feel of the strong winds and a glimpse of the upcoming icebergs, Anne quickly handed back the reigns.

The face of Glacier Grey is split in the middle with a large black island (which about a century ago was fully engulfed by the glacier). This view is of the right side– the “daintier” section of the glacier.

The blue hues of the glacier were so intense they looked surreal.

For the sunset sail home, we enjoyed pisco sours and whiskey on the rocks (the “rocks” are icebergs, of course). In the distance you can see the island splitting the glacier in half.

On our return back to the mainland we marveled at these amazing cloud formations hovering around the mountains. Later we realized this was no freak instance…the skies of gusty Torres del Paine never cease to amaze.

Day 3: The time had come, the Torres would be ours! (Well, at least to the base of them. Climbing to their peaks requires about a week, not to mention the 10-15 years of winter climbing experience). A gorgeous, and incredibly windy, morrain (Patagonia vocab word meaning a U-shaped valley shaped by a glacier) led us toward the Torres.

We made it! This photo (as with all of those previous) does a fraction of the justice the Torres deserve. This sight was so magnificent. The vista literally takes your breath away as you stare at the raw cliffs, lakes, snow peaks, and massive boulders.

Back at Ecocamp, we watch the sun go down behind and with a little Chilean red wine toast an unforgettable adventure through Torres del Paine.

Much love from Patagonia,

Mike & Anne
www.HoneyTrek.com

The windswept and glacier-carved Torres del Paine National Park has a softer side with the incredible comforts of EcoCamp

Part of the allure of Patagonia is how difficult it is to navigate.  The most extreme and breathtaking landscape doesn’t come right out and present itself, you have to track it down and wrangle it (with a little help from the experts.) For our trip to Torres del Paine, Chile’s most remote and alluring national park, EcoCamp was just the place to call. Their expert guides and luxurious accommodations turned what seemed like an insurmountable place, into an inviting, indulgent, and invigorating oasis.

The five-star treatment started with a pickup at our hotel all the way in El Calafate, Argentina and shepherded across the Chilean border to Puerto Natales. There we were greeted with another chauffeur who dropped us off at the cutest gourmet cafe to regain our strength and get a taste of the incredible wines and meals to come.

Our drive to EcoCamp kept our jaws to the floor the entire ride. The huge peaks, teal lakes, Guancos (a cuter version of the llama) and condors prompted us to ask for photo stops at what seemed like every mile.  Thank goodness for a patient driver!

EcoCamp is made of geodesic dome structures—inspired by the strong, agile, and natural homes of a 15^th century nomadic Patagonian tribe.  Leaving as little footprint as possible, all amenities are powered by solar and hydro energy and their sophisticated compost system combats nearly all waste created.

Glamping, as they call EcoCamp’s style of lodging, is a cute way of saying—this is the most sophisticated and glamorous version of camp you can ever imagine. Our honeymoon-worthy Suite Dome had a massive canopy bed with the coziest sheets, a fireplace, and chic lighting to set the mood.

Spoiling their honeymooners, the EcoCamp staff left us a huge bouquet of sunflowers, a bottle of champagne on ice, and wrapped presents of local delicacies (the dulce con leche with nuts was my favorite!).

To top it off, our room had the ultimate view: the Torres, the steep rock towers that give the park its name.

Unlike most hotels, EcoCamp is all about camaraderie amongst fellow glampers. Every night cocktail hour happens in the Core Dome, where everyone gathers for Pisco Sours, a bounty of appetizers (scallops, cheese, olives, meats, the works!), and to recount stories from their day exploring the park.

Connected to the cocktail lounge was a grand dining room serving beyond delicious meals, complete with Chilean wine (all included in the price of the stay).  Quinoa gnocci, butternut squash soup, grilled lamb, were just a few of the treats that kept us salivating.

There are infinite adventures to be had in Torres del Paine and your fun, friendly and knowledgeable guide can help make any of them possible. Here is a snapshot of our hike to the Torres but stay tuned for a full dose of the the park’s heart-stopping beauty in Mike’s upcoming blog.

Note: Ecocamp invited us to stay with them. Our accommodations were comped; however, all opinions are our own.

Much love from Patagonia,

Mike & Anne
www.HoneyTrek.com

What You Pack For Your Honeymoon Is Very Important!

Over the past few weeks I have received emails requesting information and ideas on what to pack for your honeymoon or next romantic adventure. I decided to share some ideas to help you make sure you have just what you need! Make a list or use our checklist located on our website.

When packing for your honeymoon it is important to have a check list in addition to a few little secrets to make your wardrobe go further and won’t burst out of your bag!

Here are just a few must pack items…..

Fold up beach/travel bag (even if you are not going tropical, pack this extra bag so you have something to take extra purchases home!)

This Handy Bag Holds it ALL! From maps to a water bottle and your room key!

Toiletries
• Shampoo & Conditioner
• Additional hair products: (Hair Dryer, Gel or Spray, Anti Frizz products, Hair ties & clips, Hair brush or comb)
• Razor & shaving gel & Moisturizers

Try this wonderful all natural lubricant by Aloe Cadabra!

• Birth Control/Lubricant
• Mini plastic bags filled with various medications: Imodium, Aspirin or Advil, A gentle laxative, A water pill, your vitamins
• Q tips, cotton balls (your hotel may have this)
• Perfume & deodorant
• Nail polish (to touch up)

Try This Wonderful Tinted Sunblovk by BeCome.

Clothing
• 2 bathing suits (if you are not going tropical, one suit is fine)
• Sexy Pajamas (hello, it’s your honeymoon!!)
• Bras & Panties
• One formal dress (unless your vacation has more then one formal evening planned!)

A Wonderful hat! This way your face is protected!

Don't forget a hat for both of you! Great for touring and the beach!

For every pair of shorts you pack have 2 shirts with it.
• Pack one pair of slacks with two tops
• Pack 3 sundresses

Don’t Forget to leave a contact list to whomever is watching your house.  This way they can always contact you in case of an emergency!
Must Do’s:
Must bring something with SPF for your lips too! You do not want to spend your honeymoon burned LIPS!
Have a secret stash of cash hidden on you at all times!
Have copies of your passport & travel documents.
Have emergency contacts & doctors information with you & have a detailed list of you and your partners list of medications

For extreme trips, try the 911 medical ID portable USB found in most drug stores. This will hold all of your medical history.

Romantic Must haves:
Try the Scandle Candle to heat things up….

The Travel Scandle Candle! Light and Perfect!

Your camera and or video camera.  If you plan on being alone and want to capture photos together then don’t miss the x-shot, the portable photo saver!

Never Miss Another Great Moment of You and Your Loved One!

We hope these ideas help!  Check back often for more on some great what to pack items!

Boutique Hotel de la Fonte is a quiet escape near the rush of the falls

There is something inherently romantic about waterfalls, but to bring them to honeymoon caliber, it’s got to be the Falls of Iguazu. And after a day swooning over the falls, with spurts of spontaneous giggling and jaw-dropping reactions, Mike and I knew we needed to come home to a hotel equally as romantic. And lucky for us that was Boutique Hotel de la Fonte in Puerto Iguazu, Argentina. Perfectly situated on a quiet street 30 minutes from the falls, a 15 minute walk from the center of town, and five minutes from the magnificent Triple Frontier (the river vista of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay), this charming property was the perfect home base for adventure and relaxation.

In keeping with its jungle location, de la Fonte has created lush grounds with a rustic lodge and luxe suites.

The property begs to be explored and enjoyed with unexpected features like this charming pond and footbridge, hammocks dangling from the trees, and garden nooks  for afternoon mate tea.

Though don’t be fooled by the rustic facade, the interiors were pure modern luxury. Within our spacious quarters, complete with patio (top), we had a graphic hand-painted mural framing the comfiest bed and a sleek leather seating area to enjoy our complimentary champagne.

The bathroom had gleaming fixtures, gorgeous tile work, and a tub that said “Soak here!”

For breakfast, we loved that we weren’t cooped up in a stuffy dining room but were told to pick any place in the garden we wanted to dine. We grew very attached to our poolside table and tended to stay for a couple extra cappuccinos. Not only was the food delish and beyond bountiful, the presentation in these custom wooden trays was so chic!

After two days at the roar of the falls, we enjoyed some relaxing water time by the pool.

We loved the teak chaise lounges and the warm and fresh towels ready and waiting.

On our last night before an incredible steak dinner (you will not believe how good the Argentine beef is!), we strolled down the street for a sunset vista of the Triple Frontier (Paraguay left, Brazil right, and Argentina below our feet!)

Of all the places we’ve visited in the incredible six weeks on our honeymoon, Iguazu has been the most magnificent. We would recommend starting at the Brazil side of the falls for a stunning overview of the falls, then two days getting up close and personal with this natural wonder on Argentinian side, followed two more simply enjoying the great grounds of Boutique Hotel de la Fonte. And if you can stretch your honeymoon beyond a week, it’s just an hour flight to the sexy city of Buenos Aires or Southern Brazil’s beautiful beaches.

Note: Boutique Hotel de la Fonte invited us to stay with them. Our room was comped; however, all opinions are our own.

Much love from Iguazu,
Mike & Anne
www.HoneyTrek.com

Last week honeymoons.com asked newly married couples to share with us what they did and where they went on their honeymoon.  We were overwhelmed by the amazing response and the outstanding honeymoon experiences! Just wait to you see what our couples were willing to share!

One particular couple traveled 9,000 miles from San Francisco all the way to the Maldives in the Indian Ocean!  However, it was well worth the long voyage because once they arrived, they were greeted with blue skies and crystal blue waters.

They Shared:

My husband and I went on the trip of a lifetime for our honeymoon in
September 2011. We traveled over 9,000 miles from San Francisco to the
Maldives in the Indian Ocean to stay at the Conrad Rangali Island resort.
It was everything we imagined it would be and more. It truly was barefoot
luxury.

The Perfect Reading Spot

Our private beach villa, with an outdoor bathing pavilion and plunge pool,
was mere steps from the white sand beach.

Outdoor Shower Station

We drank champagne every day, read on loungers on the beach or at the pool and had fresh fruit and cold water delivered to us, and feasted on amazing meals.

Loungers by the pool!

We also enjoyed a sunset cruise, a multi-course dinner with the Sommelier in the wine
cellar, many luxurious spa treatments, a bathing experience via room service and
nightly happy hours with tropical drinks while watching the sunset.

Happy Hour

One of the best nights was the champagne reception in the underwater restaurant and a private dinner on the beach to celebrate my birthday.  It was amazing.

Champagne under water!

Beach Lounge Area

Thank you to Nicole Shorter and her husband for sharing their wonderful honeymoon!

12-12-12

Wedding Receptions

Honeymoons

Destination Weddings

According to Fung Shui Notions a lucky wedding date illustrates harmony,

happiness, and prosperity. And, triple digit wedding dates occur only 12 times

every one thousand years. So, for couples who want to celebrate their marriage,

honeymoon, or vow renewal on one of the last unique dates in this century;

we've collected some wonderful ideas  & offerings for you from resorts and destinations

from around the world.

12-12-12 is a once-in-a-lifetime auspicious date. It's a perfect time of year for a tropical

wedding, and  it's a positive and uplifting time of renewal. Moreover, pay attention guys,

husbands who've married on this date will never have an excuse for forgetting their anniversary:-)

This Brazilian beach town is as chic as it is relaxing


In our three-week journey down the coast of Brazil we encountered some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen, but none as chic as Trancoso, Bahia. Accessed by a semi-paved road an hour from the nearest city of Porto Seguro, we bumped along assuming this was going to be a ten-shack town but instead we found the hippest side of paradise.

If a town’s center is meant to represent a place, then Trancoso planned it perfectly with the Quadrado, a wide open field surrounded by charming cafes and colorful casas. Though obscured here, the nighttime twinkle is one of my favorite features.

This Jesuit church was the heart of town in the 16th century and still is. Though I am sure the church square still has its share of devotees, this is now where artisans sell their wares and wild horses tend to congregate.

Trancoso is set on a bluff overlooking a beach filled by a system of rivers and lagoons. The change in tides keep them filling and falling, creating an ever-changing landscape that draws you down the coast. Just be warned, if you stay out too late in the day…you may have to wade part of the way home.

Trancoso is far from flashy but pay attention and you’ll notice the beach is full of little paths leading to luxury hotels.

Just when you think Trancoso is all about the jetset, a guy like this will roll by to keep it real.

This washed up boat was turned into the rustic chic bar, Uxia. Love the sun hat umbrellas.

Trancoso has found the winning formula for a beach-town restaurant: massive tree for shade, big wooden patio chairs for seating, and poppy pattern pillows to draw you in. Cafe Vitoria’s fun floral cushions tempted me curl up here with a book and a caipirinha.

With everyone on the beach all day, the town comes alive at night with art galleries and boutiques like Galleria Fulô and staying open until 10pm or later.

Trancoso is a magical place (If a white wild pony grazing in front of a blue beach cottage didn’t have you convinced.)

Essential Trancoso

Lodging

Relais & Chateaux is one of the most selective hotel groups in the world and there only have one property in the state of Bahia that gets its seal of approval: Estrela d’ Agua. If you want to be directly on the beach this is the spot to be.

Dining

Casa Timbo is one of the chic lantern-lit restaurants under the boughs of the Quadrado but with a better price than its neighbors.

Entertainment

Aue Zum Zum has a great outdoor music scene by night. Snag a table early or just can grab a drink at the adorable pop-up bars and listen in from a bench in the square.

Much love from Trancoso,
Mike & Anne
www.HoneyTrek.com

Few resorts in the world can truly claim they are the “Only” Resort with the best location…..but when your resort is the only one on the island and have 360 degree views of only water and sand…Peter Island Resort can make this claim with no exaggeration! It truly feels like your own piece of heaven.

The beauty and serenity of the British Virgin Islands is only intensified on Peter Island. Located next to Norman Island in the BVI’s, Peter Island boasts its beautiful beaches, scenic views and untouchable service along with a stunning very romantic location.

Enjoy A Hammock Off Your Suite

The Island, which is full of areas to hike and explore, all while offering 360 degree views from anywhere offers the peace and quiet honeymooners are in search of.

An evening by the pool

With 32 Ocean View rooms, 20 Beach Front Jr. Suites & a variety of high end over the top villas, this resort offers a ton to do and see.

The Stunning Bath In Your Suite.

The Beach Front Junior Suite

Enjoy Breakfast From Your Balcony in The Beachfront Junio Suite

A Stunning Standard Ocean View Room

Although your are on an island that only has 9 full time residents, it’s far from Gilligan’s Island with all rooms offering air-conditioning, ceiling fans, tea/coffee maker, iPod alarm-clock, direct dial telephone, hairdryer, iron & ironing board, private terrace/balcony, mini-bar, in-room safe, and bathrobes for use during stay. There is no distraction of having a TV in the room and you will find yourself opening up a window and letting the waves lull you to sleep.

Amazing Crystal Clear Waters and White Sandy Beaches

Those couples in search of action can enjoy 5 secluded beaches, enjoying a romantic picnic lunch, weekly Manager’s Cocktail Parties, themed dining events (Best of Caribbean Night, Gala Buffet), a freshwater swimming pool, 4 tennis courts, half-court basketball court, mountain bikes, fitness center, non- motorized water sports such as Hobie Cats, snorkeling, ocean kayaks, windsurf boards, and paddle-boards. Internet accessibility and unlimited resort launch to Road Town, Tortola is also available.

The Spa Pool

Those couples looking for that romantic couples massage will enjoy the 10,000 square-foot spa facility, along with luxurious indoor treatment rooms, oceanfront couples retreat suites, indoor couples suites, raised infinity pool, ocean-side Jacuzzi, tranquility garden, and secluded beach.

Spa Time Together

The Gardens Around The Spa

A Couples Treatment Room

Some of my favorites about this resort…..Peter Island Resort offers a little something for everyone.  Guests can be as chill as they choose or as involved as they desire.  The hotel offers very nice dining, although a bit pricey, the food is very well done and presented wonderful.  For couples, it offers a resort with a children’s policy of kids only over 8.  And since there is not much for kids to do, you find yourself in at atmosphere that is truly adults only.

The Resort & Island

I truly found that the Resort had one of the best boutique “gift” shops I have seen throughout my travels in the Caribbean.  Trust me when I say, you just can’t leave without buying something for yourself or a friend, it offers a wonderful variety of unique items and has a little something for everybody.

This resort at night is ultra romantic, with fire lit paths and the quietness of the island, all you can hear is each other and the ocean.

There is always something fun going on and they even have a band playing on the beach during the day making this a very fun place to sit in the sun and enjoy the ocean.

The Main Pool

Turtles.  As a turtle lover, The bays surrounding the resort are full of these wonderful creatures and if you just keep an eye out, you are sure to see one.

"The Peter Islander" Taxi to Tortola

Some of my warnings and what I consider the “Must Knows” before booking….. There are no TV’s in the room, however limited TV/ DVD players available upon request, I would do that in your reservation if this is important to you.

If you are a couple who likes to explore multiple dining locations or experience locals, this may not be the place for you, as you have to take a 30 minute ferry ride to see locals or experience multiple shops and restaurants.

In the off seasons, I have heard that some of the dining options on the island are not always open, check with this prior to booking.

These property is big, as it takes up the entire island, if you don’t like to walk or you are out of shape and don’t enjoy walking to or after dinner, this may not be the place for you.

The Well Lanscaped Paths

The St. John Westin

If you are looking for a place to go with kids that is safe and close to the US,  this is definitely the spot for you.  However, those looking for romance and seclusion, this is not the hotel to choose. Although located in a very secluded cove on St. John, the hotels beach and pool get very crowded and offers no escape from children or crowds.

Upon arriving at the Westin, with our little dog, we were checked in and I loved the layout of the lobby.  Breezy and open, I immediately felt relaxed.  We happen to have had our dog with us and they treated him like part of the Westin Family.  It was the best part of this hotel experience.

The hotel feels very large and you are escorted around on a golf cart and for anyone who has a big kid in them, you will enjoy this part.

The Terrace off of our room

Our Room.

The Bathroom

The hotel offers a variety of WONDERFUL restaurants in addition to one the best things I have seen at a hotel in the Caribbean.  A New York Style Deli where you can go and order food as you like it, sandwiches, soups, pizzas and even pints of ice cream to take back to your room.  It is a wonderful idea and so great for those looking to save money on dining out after a long day at the beach.

The Room

The Hotel offers a wide variety of tours and excursions around the island along with a variety of activity.  For those wishing for the Villa experience they offer what looked like gorgeous villas on top of the bluff.

The Pool

The View From Our Cabana

My Favorites….

I loved the Deli ~ awesome way to have casual meals.

We enjoyed the food and even room service, although not consistent, was always very good and fast.

The Pet Friendly Policy.  Our dog was welcomed and given his own dog bed, bowls and toys!

The New Balance Fitness Rentals ~ For $5 for your entire stay, those who have forgotten work out gear can rent sneakers, socks and work out gear.  This was awesome.

Programs and Entertainment ~ There is always something going on and they offer a wide variety of entertainment.

My Warnings….

Ask when the last time your room was renovated upon booking or checking in.  Our room, although we paid over $600.00 per night was motel level in quality. The bathroom had dirty old tile floors and the very old carpeting in the room made me feel like the room was even more dirty then it really was.

Save your paperwork. Those who are promised anything from the hotel or from your package such as special deals and/or package promotions need to make sure they hold onto your paperwork to verify.  We were guaranteed a late check out and were harassed all day by the staff to leave and had to prove to hotel staff with our paperwork  that were promised a late check out and then room to 4pm.

The most disappointing part of this hotel was the beach and pool chair ratio per guest.  There simply was not enough chairs for the guest and they allow guests to reserve chairs and never use them. If you were not out by the pool or beach securing your spot by 6am, assume your planting your butt in the sand.  Same goes for raft rentals.  We ended up renting a cabana for the day which guaranteed us our own private spot for the day but if you did not want to spend the extra money, then set your alarm and get there early.  We also over tipped a beach assistant to help us find some chairs when we arrived later then planned, this helped the situation as well. The chair issue seems to be a main issue as people around us were fighting with other guests all day over whose chair was whose.