Showing posts with label antigua. Show all posts
Showing posts with label antigua. Show all posts

Friday, August 26, 2011

Travel 101: Is An All Inclusive Hotel Right For You?

Many hotels are redefining what it means to be an all inclusive property.  With five-star restaurants, pristine beaches, and impeccable service, these resorts are most certainly worthy of their luxury reputation. This being said, all inclusive hotels aren't perfect for every couple.  It all comes down to the destination and the type of experience you are wanting.

Here are some things to consider when you are deciding whether to stay at an all inclusive resort:

-Budget: Are you wanting to know ahead of time exactly how much you will be spending on meals and drinks during your honeymoon?  Then an all inclusive hotel would definitely be great for you.  This way everything is pre-paid: food, drinks, taxes, gratuities, and usually some activities.
Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita, Riviera Maya, Mexico
Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita, Riviera Maya, Mexico
Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita, Riviera Maya, Mexico
-The Experience: Do you see your honeymoon spent mostly at your hotel, enjoying their beaches and restaurants?  Or do you see your days spent visiting the local towns and doing adventurous activities outside of your hotel?  It only makes sense to stay at an all inclusive hotel if you plan to spend a vast majority of your time there.

Coco's Hotel, Antigua
Coco's Hotel, Antigua
Coco's Hotel, Antigua
Coco's Hotel, Antigua
-Destination: Not every destination in the world has all inclusive hotels.  There are plenty in Mexico, the Caribbean and Costa Rica.  In Fiji many resorts include meals but not beverages.  In destinations like Hawaii and Europe all inclusive hotels are not an option.

Namale Resort & Spa, Fiji
Namale Resort & Spa, Fiji
Namale Resort & Spa, Fiji
Namale Resort & Spa, Fiji
Namale Resort & Spa, Fiji
While most people think all inclusive hotels are just large mega resorts, there are also small boutique properties.  So don't be deterred from staying at an all inclusive hotel just because you want to stay at a smaller resort.

I hope this helps with deciding whether to stay at an all inclusive hotel for your honeymoon.  Contact us at hello{at}everafterhoneymoons.com if you would like help finding the right hotel!


Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Real Honeymoon: Antigua


I am thrilled to feature the fabulous honeymoon that Patrick and Nicole recently took to Antigua!  They stayed at one of my favorite places, Coco's Hotel.  There are just 26 individual cottages on a hill overlooking the ocean with two private beaches.  Each cottage has ocean views and a balcony with a hammock and outdoor shower.  The hotel is also all inclusive, so the price you pay ahead of time includes all of your meals, drinks, taxes and gratuities.


This hotel is perfect for couples looking for a relaxing honeymoon on a beautiful beach, and want somewhere quiet and intimate.  I hope you enjoy reading about their honeymoon!

Look at that view!!!

  1. How did you decide on this destination?
There were so many reasons! All inclusive resort for adults only, private bungalows on a hillside just a short walk from the beach- perfect for honeymooners, as well as the beautiful views and teal waters of Antigua.


  1. Did you like where you stayed?
Absolutely loved it! The food was amazing, the employees were very accommodating and were eager to get us whatever we needed. The other guests were our fast friends!


  1. What did you think about the destination?
The beach and water were clean and the local residents we extremely friendly!

  1. Did you receive any special honeymoon amenities or upgrades?
The resort provided a “honeymoon dinner” with complimentary champagne as well as a complimentary 30 minute massage.


  1. What was your favorite part of your honeymoon?
Relaxing on our private porch in our bungalow enjoying cocktails (the resort kept our room refrigerator stocked) overlooking the ocean, lounging on the beach laughing with the other residents enjoying the fruity drinks the beach bartender Acare provided, and dinner was always delicious!


  1. Do you have any suggestions for other couples going on a similar honeymoon?
If anyone plans to attend during hurricane season, expect sand flies. They are tiny bug that are impossible to detect, and the bites are very itchy! Bring itch cream- the resort does supply everything you need to keep them away, however that does not work during the wettest season.

  1. What 3 words would you use to describe your honeymoon?
Dream honeymoon destination!

    Sunday, May 23, 2010

    Coco's Hotel in Antigua


    Coco's Hotel is an amazing boutique, all inclusive hotel in Antigua.  It is located on a bluff overlooking the ocean with private beaches on both sides of the hotel.  There are just 26 individual cottages.  Every cottage has an ocean view and a balcony with a hammock (!!!) and an outdoor shower.

    Here is their Superior Cottage:


    So open and airy!  I love the contrast of the dark wood floors with the white sheets and canopy bed.

    This isn't your standard all inclusive resort with average food and buffets.  They serve a lot of fresh fish caught by local fishermen, spicy local dishes and more international flavors such as pasta, tender steaks and classic salads.  The price also includes cocktails, soft drinks, water, brand liquors and spirits and house wine by the glass.  Here is their beach bar:



    And here is the beach:

    Incredible right?  Those chairs just call out to you!  The resort is only for couples only.  It is very relaxed and secluded, perfect for a honeymoon.  They also have kayaks and snorkels for no additional charge.  If you want to be more adventurous they can arrange other activities for you.

    Contact me for the best rates and for questions!

    *Photos from Coco's Hotel