RELAXED ROMANCE

BY MEAGAN DRILLINGER

WHEN THE WEDDING is over, that’s when the magic really starts to happen.

The honeymoon is a couple’s time to decompress after the energy and stress of a wedding and do something that is, without a doubt, exclusively for them. And since no two couples are the same, it’s wonderful to know that there are allinclusive honeymoon resorts around the world that are designed for each type of couple.

An all-inclusive resort is the perfect setting for a honeymoon because couples can truly click into relaxation mode the minute they arrive. Fortunately, the world is blessed with some truly memorable all-inclusive resorts that are geared toward every type of traveler.

From over-the-top wellness resorts to idyllic private island paradises and farm-to-table culinary escapes, these are five of the best allinclusive honeymoon resorts around the world.

1 Sandals Royal Cura Ao

When it comes to honeymoons, Sandals Caribbean Resorts is no newcomer. What is new, however, is its latest resort on the island of Curaçao. Sandals Royal Curaçao opened in June 2022 and it seems the brand has outdone itself.

The brand-new resort sets the bar for luxury among other Sandals properties. The resort even has two new signature suite categories: Seaside Butler Bungalows and the Kurason Island Poolside Butler Bungalows. Each of these suites has Tranquility Soaking Tubs, private pools, and the signature Sandals butler service.

Sandals Royal Curaçao has eight restaurants to choose from, as well as three beachfront food trucks, all of which are included in the room rate. The list of inclusions at this romantic beach resort are seemingly endless, from PADI-Certified SCUBA equipment to the mini bars, daily and nighttime entertainment and shows, and unlimited Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks Wines.

Couples can spend their days lounging at the brand's first two-level infinity pool, or board a catamaran to sail the turquoise waters around Curaçao. It's a resort that encourages couples to choose their own adventure for a honeymoon to remember. sandals.com/royal-curacao

Not all all-inclusive resorts have to be on picture-perfect tropical islands. In fact, you can find some of the best all-inclusive hotels and resorts tucked in rural parts of the planet. If you’re looking for that country farmhouse vibe for your honeymoon, with bucolic landscapes instead of beaches, Twin Farms in Vermont may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Nestled amid rolling hills and wreathed in pine forests, Twin Farms is a five-star Relais & Chateaux property known for its provincial landscape, charming cottages, decadent spa, and haute cuisine.

The cottages here are deliciously romantic with fireplaces, jacuzzis, and deep soaking tubs. When couples aren’t ensconced in their private suites, they may be experiencing farmto-table dining at its finest. Think private wine cellar tastings, gourmet picnics, or chef’s table dinners. www.twinfarms.com

3 GRAND VELA S LOS CABOS, LOS CABOS, MEXICO

Mexico is a treasure trove of riches when it comes to romantic all-inclusive resorts. But there is something about Grand Velas Los Cabos that is, quite frankly, dreamy beyond belief. The design of the resort is sleek, chic, and sexy with spectacular suites, all of which have dramatic Pacific Ocean Views. Tip: The Grand Class Corner Suites are a cut above the rest with oceanfront views and plunge pools on the terrace.

Couples can steal away to a quiet corner of the pool to enjoy fresh tiradito or shrimp tacos al pastor. Things get a little more sexy and elegant at Cocina de Autor with its 8-course tasting menu, or the decadent tomahawk steak for two at Velas 10. Dress down at the resort’s spectacular spa. Of course, the allinclusive package at the resort is supreme, with inclusions like complimentary bottles of artisanal tequila and replenished bottles of wine. The resort also includes Don Julio 70, one of the most premium tequilas you can find. Dial up the romance with a melty deep tissue massage at the spa, or sip an artfully curated cocktail and watch the sky explode into a burst of colours at sunset. loscabos.grandvelas.com

4 MI RAVAL ARIZONA RESORT AND SPA, ARIZONA

For the couple that geeks out on spa treatments, lives for yoga, and thrives on the trails, Miraval Arizona is the perfect allinclusive honeymoon resort. This stylish, Southwestern hideaway helps couples to disconnect with the world to reconnect with each other in the rugged and wild landscape of the Sonoran desert.

The pampering starts at check-in. Each couple is given a dossier with the activities of the day, which can range from yoga to rock climbing. Of course, no honeymoon experience at Miraval is complete without an indulgent trip to the stunning spa. The desert energy vibrates at a different frequency, and the Life in Balance Spa has a host of treatments that are only available at Miraval, featuring ingredients like Arizona clay and purple sage. For couples who want a little something extra, the astrological birth chart readings and sound baths are particularly unique.

Rooms are elegant and understated, harnessing that southwestern vibe but with an emphasis on luxury. White linens, exposed beams, stone, and tons of natural light fill the spaces. The Retreats are the most impressive. Couples will love the Reflection Retreat, which has a spa bath with free soaking tub and outdoor shower, full gourmet kitchen, and patio with reflection pool and fire pit. miravalresorts.com/arizona

5 JUMBY BAY ISLAND, ANTIGUA

Three hundred acres of private island paradise sits flecked in the Caribbean Sea. Jumby Bay Island, a member of the Oetker Collection, is a slice of Antigua that has drawn the likes of A-list celebs, from Paul McCartney to Justin Bieber. Sounds like the right recipe for a perfect honeymoon destination.

Exclusivity meets barefoot elegance at Jumby Bay. The resort is made up of 40 suites, 14 villas, and 22 private residences. All accommodations blend indoor and outdoor spaces, creating airy environments that maximize both the natural environment and chic touches. The resort opened 12 new Ocean view Suites, each of which have exquisite ocean views. Villas have the added perks of swimming pools and the option to add on a private chef.

When you're not dipping your toes into your private pool or blissing out at the oceanview spa, guests of Jumby Bay can enjoy the spectacular setting of glittering white sand, impossibly clear water, and languidly swaying palms. oetkercollection.com/hotels/ jumby-bay-island