New Series: Honeymoons

We’re starting a new series and we would love your feedback! We’re opening the series with a topic that is often left behind in wedding planning, though is the most fun – and unanimously enjoyed by everyone: Honeymoons!

Debuting the series is Jamaica! The Jamaica Tourist Board took us on a tour around their most popular Honeymoon and Destination Wedding locations: Montego Bay and Negril. If you know me, you’re probably aware of how much I love the beach. A little over 3 hours away from JFK airport in NYC, I landed at Montego Bay via JetBlue. Being a short flight away from a paradise destination is major points in my book. We stayed at the Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall, which is located 10 min away from the airport. The pampering began upon our arrival – The Ritz’s staff greets everyone with a flute of champagne. We visited several hotels in the area, and below are my personal picks – each hotel features a different price point, but all allow you to bring in your own vendors if you wish and are equally amazing for a Honeymoon.

Did you know that all you need to get hitched in Jamaica is your birth certificate? No need for blood tests. If you’re from a non-English speaking country, you just need a notarized translation of your birth certificates.

The images above are from Half Moon Resort. Their grounds are as large as they are gorgeous with over 400 acres of land. Half Moon is considered one of the most luxurious hotels in area, so their rates are a little saltier than most hotels. It’s definitely a splurge, but I highly recommend spending at least one night and have the day to explore their spectacular private beaches.

Later in the evening we were invited to meet the staff in an intimate setting by the beach. I had the privilege of meeting the Chef in charge of designing the 5 course meal chosen for the evening, which is also offered for Destination Weddings dinners. The setting is also the space for intimate chic weddings by the water. The Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall offers several different packages for Destination Weddings besides hosting a huge amount of newlyweds who come to stay for their Honeymoons. Their Destination Wedding packages start at $160 per person and include everything from ceremony arrangements to reception set up. You can also bring in your own florist and photographer. The Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall also offers discounts and packages – just ask and they might be able to give you a complimentary night stay or even waive the ceremony fee depending on how many rooms are booked for your wedding.

The Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall is incredibly affordable for a 5 star hotel resort – their rates start at $189 and offer a wide range of packages. Some activities they offer include cooking class with one the chefs (you will learn how to make authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken!) to sailing.

Next destination was Negril, which I was so excited to visit! It is about an hour from Montego Bay by car, but you can also take a quick flight (and enjoy the view!) The insanely beautiful photos below are from the Rockhouse Hotel, another unbelievable hotel for its price (rates start at $125 for Summer season). They also offer Destination Wedding packages with amazing view overlooking the Caribbean waters!