One of the best things about The Luxe Nomad are our flash sales. Every week, we’ll have different resorts from around the region at exclusive rates which you can’t find anywhere else. What does this mean??

Cheaper honeymoon = Vera Wang wedding dress = More champagne = Happier hubby!!
(we’re thinking out loud here)

Besides our launch partner hotel, Sri Panwa in Phuket, expect to see hotels such as The Amala in Bali, Constance in Maldives and many more!

Sign up now for early bird membership as The Luxe Nomad is member-only.

Start packing, WGA readers!

Besides the beautiful interior (which I’m trying to replicate at home!), I simply love the location of Villa M. To be very honest, my prior experience in Samui had kind of been limited to the infamous Full Moon parties, so I was surprised to discover that Fishermen’s Village is actually full of quaint cafes and boutiques.

Thus, if you’re looking for a honeymoon destination or even a great place to chill for a Hen’s getaway, then Samui is the place with a bit of everything.

There are five bedrooms to choose from at Villa M and of course, yours truly took the best one (haha)! The third floor has only just one large bedroom with a balcony and a small pool accompanied by deck chairs. How r & r is that? As with all villas in Asia, there is also a fulltime maid available who can also cook up a storm should you wish.

Thus my day equated to: Waking up. Having breakfast in bed. Swimming. Tanning. Eating & repeat!

Isn’t the interior amazing? Teak floors, white linen couches and personal paintings and pictures really make you feel like you’re staying at a friend’s vacation home!

It is interesting to note that there are no nightclubs in Fishermen’s Village. However, if you are looking for a bit of a boogie – simply hop in a cab and head over to Chaweng. Warning: Chaweng is popular with the beer-drinking, Singha singlet crowd – but I always have lots of fun dancing whenever I’m at the cheesy Green Mango Club (isn’t it always when you don’t know anyone there?!).

Or you can always just chill at home! Villa M’s pool is right by the beach. There’s nothing like an evening dip to complete a tiring day of shopping and sightseeing. :)

Here’s one of the most awesome things about Fishermen’s Village – every Friday evening, they have a “Walking Street” where the roads are all closed off to cars to give way to little stalls and shops that sell everything from jewellery to food. I started at one end and by the time I had reached the other, I’d had noodles, spring rolls, cake and so much more! Thank God a lot of walking was involved to burn off the calories, haha.

* So if you’re thinking of a honeymoon or a break before the big day, then have a look at Villa M in Samui. The island might not be as developed as neighbouring Phuket; but it truly has a charm of its own.

Attention, please!

“The perfect escape.”

If it has eluded you before, then fret no more as Sri Panwa certainly ticks all the boxes.  From winning numerous awards (World’s #2 Beach bar – CNN) to press coverage in the likes of the IHT, Harper’s Bazaar UK and so on, Sri Panwa is certainly a Thai brand that has made its mark.

Personally speaking, it has also long been on my list of Phuket resorts to stay at… like, we’re talking years! So as you can imagine, I was definitely counting my lucky stars when I recently got to visit this much talked about resort.

Here are my top 10 reasons, on why you should be heading there:

One of a kind

And I mean it literally! Nestled on the South Eastern point of Phuket, in Cape Panwa, you’re a while away from the standard tourist haunts. After all, isn’t it the point of a getaway to avoid the hustle and bustle? Privacy? Yes, please!

The View

Yes, I woke up to this every morning *sigh*!

The Villas

With such stunning views and your own private pool, Sri Panwa has been designed such that you don’t ever (or want) to leave. There are many rooms and villa types to choose from but if you feel like splashing out for the honeymoon, then you might want to think about the 2-bedroom luxury villa. Which even has their own steam room!

Not sure what you will get up to in the second bedroom, but the more space the better, no? *Wink* :)

Splash out

With its own beach and boats on standby, the ocean is your oyster!

Because you can say “I do”

Here at WGA, we know that many of you are opting for destination weddings so you’ll be pleased to hear that Sri Panwa is a popular venue. I had a look at their wedding arena and the most amazing thing about it is – that it looks straight out into the ocean.

And then there’s the party…

One of the few resorts to have a bar and a club, Sri Panwa is known to throw some awesome parties from time to time. For something chill, pop by Baba Pool Club for a drink or two. And for those of you looking for a destination wedding afterparty, why not book out the entire Baba88 club? If  you’re lucky, you might just be there when they’re flying in a famous international DJ or two!

Chill out at Cool Spa

It’s very blue and it’s definitely cool. Opt out for a few hours of “me” time as you choose from an array of spa services. Being the workaholic I am, I needed something tough so took the “Sri Panwa Sport Massage” for my back and shoulders. The massage was great and I really liked the effect of the waterfall that my room looked out on – I swear that’s why I fell asleep! :)

The food

Everyone loves Thai food so I don’t need to say much here! But interesting things to look out for in the menu is that there’s lots of (yummy) truffle around. Ooh la la.

Sunrise, Sunset

If you’re after some romance, then nothing beats sitting together while the sun goes down. With its panoramic views and sea below, the colours at Sri Panwa are just amazing at sunset. And if you’re really ambitious (or don’t sleep in like I do), then there’s always sunrise to wake up for!!

The Team
Let’s be honest, how many luxury resorts can you go to where the team are young, hip and fun?! Run by managing director Wan Issara (pictured above), who started Sri Panwa when he was just 23 years old, you can be assured that the Sri Panwa staff are always smiling and approachable. If you ask me, as much as a resort can be lovely to stay in, what really seals the deal is the service, oui?

Though he’s been interviewed by CNBC and so on, here at WGA we thought we’d ask Wan a tough question.

“Why stay at Sri Panwa?” His cheeky answer?? “Why not?!”

Now that’s the Panwa attitude you’ll find when you get there *wink*.

* In all, I had a great time at Sri Panwa and if you’re looking for a honeymoon spot or simply a vacation then I honestly recommend it. It might be a tad pricey but if you’re like me, just save on other expenses such as your flights (cue: AirAsia!) to fit it into your budget.  For inquiries about bookings, drop an e-mail to chill@sripanwa.com or call +66 7637 1000.

What To Do? Get Active!

New Zealand is famous for bungee jumping in Queenstown, Hammer Springs, Taupo and Auckland, and jet-boating at Queenstown and the Bay of Islands, but there’s also zorbing (the Kiwi-invented sport of rolling down a slope in a giant transparent ball) and blowkarting (another New Zealand innovation that has you ‘sailing’ on land in a custom-built cart). Thrill-seekers in New Zealand have been known to go river sledging in the waters around Queenstown and Wanaka. Then there’s cave rafting; riding a tube through the dark caverns around Waitomo, Westport and Greymouth.

N ew Zealand surfers wear wetsuits all year round, particularly so on the South Island. New Zealand’s best aqua action is around Bay of Islands, Goat Island or Marlborough Sounds.

The light traffic and good bike tracks make for enjoyable riding throughout. Coastal routes around the North Island can be scenic pedalling for beginners. If that sounds a bit tame you can hurtle down rough roads on a mountain bike – many wilderness areas have good trails such as New Zealand’s Queen Charlotte Track. New Zealand offers easy cycling – relatively flat, with plenty of camp sites or other cheap accommodation. Renting is affordable, though it’s also cheap to buy a bike when you arrive if you plan on doing a lot of cycling. Bear in mind that while laws in the Pacific are pretty forgiving, New Zealand slaps fines on cyclists for not wearing helmets and for riding under the influence of alcohol (funny but true!).

From June to November, New Zealand boasts the best downhill skiing in the southern hemisphere, particularly on the South Island around Queenstown, Wanaka and Arthur’s Pass. The North Island, while blessed with slightly fewer slopes, offers the chance to ski on volcanoes – both Mt Ruapehu and Mt Taranaki are popular resorts. Kaikoura on New Zealand’s South Island is the centre for marine mammal-watching, with dolphins and seals swimming year-round, while sperm whales are visible from October to August. Whakatane, Paihia and Tau are other good spots to experience swimming with dolphins in New Zealand. Look out for kiwis, the cute flightless national bird, at sanctuaries and parks across the country.

Festivals

World Buskers Festival: See the streets of Christchurch come alive in January as international performers have eyes on the trophy.

Big Day Out: A hard-rocking, roving music festival in late January in several Australian cities and Auckland.

Rugby Sevens Tournaments: A massive Pacific rugby competition (January/March) that includes much dancing, feasting and celebrating as well as the odd game of rugby.

Pasifika Festival: An explosion of Polynesian partying, from traditional dancing to hip-hop, on the streets of Auckland in March.

Marlborough Wine Festival: Gives you the chance to gobble great quantities of gourmet food and booze in mid-February in Blenheim.

When To Go?

When isn’t a good time to go to New Zealand? New Zealand’s South Island is not at its best in winter, but temperatures still compare favourably with the UK or North America. Overall, spring (September to October) and autumn (April to May) are probably the best times to travel. Heading into the Pacific during shoulder seasons (October and May) will reward you with smaller crowds and lower prices.

Food

New Zealand is known for organic produce, dairy goods and some damn fine wines. Some visitors base itineraries around wine regions such as Marlborough, Hawkes Bay or the aptly named Bay of Plenty. Cosmopolitan Auckland is one of the best places to sample Polynesian food. If you ever find yourself in the Pacific Islands, be sure to get yourself a plate of Maori-style hangi, which is mutton, or lamb baked underground using volcanic heat!

So have we reeled you in yet? ;-) Have a great week ahead!

Source: Lonely Planet The Big Trip

Fear not; here at WGA we have cobbled up some quick honeymoon alternatives for you.

Picture courtesy of www.media.lonelyplanet.com

The Mini-moon

Usually, couples who put off their big honeymoon trip find out that “real life” likes to put people’s plans asunder. In that case, consider spending two or three days right after the wedding on a quick getaway to somewhere close by to recuperate.

Check into a big hotel in a close by town for a few days and enjoy some quiet time with your partner before having to jump back into “real life”.

Picture courtesy of www.clubtread.com

Quickie outdoors adventure

You can also enjoy the great outdoors, whether it be camping or backpacking. There’s no reason why it couldn’t be a short, two or three-day romantic getaway to refresh you, as long as you both love nature. Plus, some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city could even be healthy.

Also, make sure you turn your cellphones to silent for the duration of the trip. You wouldn’t want your ringtones to spoil all the tranquility now, would you?

Picture courtesy of www.visualphotos.com

Staycation

Stay where you are, lock yourself inside your house for a few days to a week and relish in “not doing” anything at all. Alternate between trying out cooking with your new kitchen appliances, and fancy dinners in expensive local restaurants. Indulge yourself.

You can also pretend to be a tourist in your own home town or city and see your surroundings through the eyes of a visitor. You’ll be surprised sometimes, when you find out new things you have never noticed before.

Picture courtesy of www.cdn.sheknows.com

Camp out in your own backyard

An alternative to a full-blown outdoors adventure can be setting up camp in your own backyard. Pitch a tent, make a small campfire to cook sausages and marshmallows and snuggle up to each other in your sleeping bags.

It might be all the change of pace you need before going back to the corporate rat race.

Picture courtesy of www.goldcoastaustralia.com

Hit the local beach

While many of us would definitely list down “tropical paradise island” as one of your honeymoon picks, for those short on time and money, why not skip the whole “island” part of the deal for something simpler.

Why not head down to a local beach for a day or two. You’ll be in your own paradise as you lounge around in the sand, sipping drinks and lying down with each other; or splash around in the ocean and wash all your worries away.

Lastly, finish off the day with a romantic stroll down the beach at sunset, hand in hand, while contemplating your future lives together.

So ladies, how about it? xoxo

Photos are courtesy of Getty Images

From the mountains in the north to the beaches in the south, there is no place in Asia that can offer such a diverse blend of first-rate experiences quite like Thailand. Home to golden beaches, jungle-clad hills, tropical islands and warm, friendly people, this beautiful country really is one of those places you need to visit before you kick the bucket. This time around, we’re going to shine the light on Koh Samui, Thailand’s most popular honeymoon destination. We’ll save Phuket and Krabi for next time!

Nora Buri Resort & Spa

This brand new luxury resort and spa is located on a spectacular hillside setting, overlooking a secluded bay on the northern side of the world famous Chaweng Beach. Fun fact: Nora was named after the traditional mystical dance of southern Thailand.

Nora Buri Resort & Spa

After much researching, I must say if you’re looking for a place to hold a destination wedding in Koh Samui, there is no resort quite special like this one. Their Thai and Western Wedding Package includes:
• A Thai Ceremonial Blessing in the presence of the Holy Monks at the temple in the morning,
• A two-hour Anodas Spa Special Package (before and after the wedding day),
• The planting of a ‘Love Tree’ with both names written on the heart-shaped wood (almost sounds like an excerpt from a Nicholas Sparks novel, huh? Hehe).

Safe to say, they will give it their best shot to make your wedding day a truly unforgettable one :)

Banyan Tree

Banyan Tree Koh Samui

Set on unspoiled sands, the 78 all-pool villa Banyan Tree Samui combines the best components of a tropical escape with white beaches and sun, while being just 19 km from Samui International Airport. Pampering features abound include iconic dining locations, the island’s largest individual infinity pools in the villas, as well as The Rainforest, Koh Samui’s only hydrotherapy wellness facility. Designed to perfection, each villa is a private retreat set in lush tropical forest greenery. The décor is an aesthetic fusion of mod-cons and traditional Thai elements like natural rattan, bamboo furniture and brightly hued Thai silk.

Banyan Tree Samui is a dream wedding destination. Let their professional “eVents team” handle every detail of your wedding from the ceremony or reception to complementary celebrations such as a beach night for the bachelor party. They can even take special care of out-of-town guests and make them feel at home too. Moreover, their floral designer can create wedding bouquets, corsages, archways and traditional arrangements to your exact specifications. Hmm, everything suddenly seems so easy breezy…

Hansar Resort

Hansar Resort

Hansar Samui is located on a stretch of golden sands and cerulean waters of Koh Samui’s Bophut Bay. Did you know… that the name Hansar was taken from the ancient Sanskrit language and translates to mean happiness and joy? The concept and philosophy of Hansar Samui is to deliver a memorable and enjoyable experience to every guest. Basically, they will stop at nothing to keep everyone happy. Open yet intimate, each room has been artfully finished with teak floors, terrazzo bathrooms and local textiles to provide a sense of place.

The Hansar Samui’s well-reviewed LUXSA Spa offers a sanctuary for the senses. Get this, if you sign up for their Intimate Indulgence Package, not only will you be offered a romantic retreat, you will be treated to brunch-in-bed (complete with Butler service) and a hands-on ‘Pamper your Partner’ massage lesson for couples at the LUXSA Spa. If that doesn’t tempt you, I don’t know what will!

I’m actually heading there myself at the end of the year for some R&R and TLC because truth be told, one can never get tired of the smell of sunblock and pristine seawater. Hope to see you there! ;-)

The Maldives is renowned as the world’s foremost honeymoon destination, and with good reason; who doesn’t dream of a romantic retreat to a tropical island surrounded by azure waters and stretches of wondrous white sandy beaches? I think it’s no secret that Steph does, hehe.

Shortlisting which hotels to write about was no easy feat, but for now, we’re going to highlight three amazing honeymoon hideaways:

Alila Villas Hadahaa

Alila Villas Hadahaa

Designed by the award-winning Singapore-based architects, SCDA, Alila Villas Hadahaa is the first resort in the Maldives certified to the building standards of Green Globe. Not only does the resort incorporate systems such as rainwater harvesting and solar panels, much of the island has been left wild and untamed.

Nestled among the natural vegetation of the island, the villas offer an intimate setting for relaxation. Take a short sandy walk from the villas to the ocean to luxuriate in a rare stargazing experience. The island’s proximity to the Equator will give you a new-found appreciation for the wild blue yonder.

Alila Villas Hadahaa - definitely for the environment lovin' bride and groom!

You’ll be happy to know that guests celebrating their wedding anniversary or honeymoon will enjoy a romantic room set up with flowers and scented candles, along with a special selection of Alila amenities and a choice of bath experiences prepared by your villa host. And those wishing to renew their vows can opt to travel on a Journey to the Altar; it is said to be a truly unforgettable and culturally enriching experience.

Diva Maldives Resort

Don't you just love the name already? ;-)

This exclusive beach resort really sets the benchmark for transforming romance into reality. It barely takes any effort to embrace the beauty and pure warmth of this tropical getaway.

Admire dolphins, whale sharks and sting rays from your private terrace or make use of the complimentary snorkeling trips on the house reef, snorkeling equipment, pedal boats, and kayaks. And when you’re feeling a little hungry, tickle your taste buds with the culinary delights offered at any one of the superb restaurants and bars. Then complete your romantic, star-filled evening watching the sunset as newlyweds.

Have we reeled you in yet? If not, these facts will surely do the trick. Did you know that Diva is:

• A unique spot for whale shark-watching all year round
• Surrounded by four kilometers of beach around the resort
• A world-class water sports and PADI diving centre
• Well-known for its Infinity Spa with 15 garden and over-water treatment villas

The place almost looks like something out of a poem by Emerson

At Diva, they offer beautiful symbolic wedding services and exciting honeymoon packages. If you’d like to have an underwater wedding beneath the Indian Ocean, surrounded by some of the most breathtaking marine life anywhere in the world or even a castaway wedding on a remote sandbank, a professional wedding organizer will be on hand to help you with the nitty-gritty of the most important day of your life. It’s safe to say that the dedicated team at Diva will not stop at anything to cater to your needs.

View the e-brochure here.

W Retreat & Spa

W Retreat & Spa

With sublime weather and endless sunshine, W Maldives is an idyllic retreat and water sports playground. The place really is all about creating fun-filled days and keeping guests busy with thrilling activities.

I particularly love how the W Marine Biology Station provides guests with educational programs, presentations, guided trips and more. It’s great to know that guests won’t simply leave with just a pocketful of postcards, but with new knowledge about Mother Nature as well.

For something more hands on, take an underwater video course and star in and/or make your own underwater movie. If you and hubby are looking for an adrenaline rush, why not go for an overnight trip on their very own two-mast sailing ship to the world-famous Hammerhead Shark Point? Just try to refrain from reenacting a scene from Fear Factor, I think that’s best.

You'll find every hue of the colour spectrum in the Maldivian sky

Of course, sometimes (most of the time, in my case), one of the best things to do in a place as magical as the Maldives is to simply do… nothing. Take photos, read a book, or just have breakfast in bed and cuddle. It’s not every day you get the chance to do nothing but relax; relish it and enjoy every minute of it.

Did you know that last year, World Travel Awards named W Maldives the “Best Indian Ocean Spa Resort of 2010″?

I guess the time has come to pester the fiance to reconsider a honeymoon overseas, huh? ;-) Good luck working that charm, ladies!

All photos are courtesy of Getty Images and Adelto UK.

About the state

One of America’s biggest and most exciting trendsetters, the “Big Apple” or the “City That Never Sleeps”—New York is a melting pot of ethnic flavors. Its head official is Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. Oh how I miss those days of fighting with my dad for the remote; the man’s a Big fan of Bloomberg News.

Did you know that:
1. Between 1890 and 1913, J.P. Morgan spent nearly half his fortune on art. Most of it is now at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
2. New York is the birthplace of potato chips, ready-made mayonnaise, Buffalo wings and Thousand Island.
3. America’s women’s rights movement began in the Finger Lakes region.
4. There are over 560 spas in the state of New York. Sounds like my kinda city.

For more interesting trivia and facts, visit ILoveNy.com

Clockwise from top right: Metropolitan Museum of Art, Coney Island, Empire State Building

Top attractions

1. Metropolitan Museum of Art
To experience some of New York’s world-class cultural institutions, don’t forget to pin this destination on your NYC map. The Metropolitan Museum of Art welcomes over 5 million visitors a year. What I love about this museum is that there is something for everyone. Last year, for example, the museum’s exhibition on Picasso, stocked completely from the museum’s own holdings, drew 700,000 visitors!

Ezreena’s ‘how romantic is this place?’ rating: 3/5.

2. Coney Island
This is probably the next best alternative to Disneyland. An all-time favorite hangout, this place epitomizes the classic American fun fair. Munch on cotton candy, cuddle on the Ferris wheel, and snap photos of the vivid colours of the rides, and you’ll be sure to leave the place with fond memories. While you’re there, do make it a point to head on down to the famed Russian enclave Brighton Beach, which is just a short stroll away on the Boardwalk.

Ezreena’s ‘how romantic is this place?’ rating: 5/5. I’ve always had a thing for Ferris wheels ;-)

3. Empire State Building Concrete jungle where dreams are made oh, there’s nothing you can’t do, oh oh oh… Fans of modernist architecture, you’ll love this. Conceived during the prosperous 1920s, the Empire State Building was intended to be the largest and most prestigious office building in New York. Designated a National Historic Landmark, the building has been renovated regularly for modern convenience and continues to attract prestigious tenants. For many years its 102 stories made it the tallest building in the world.

Ezreena’s ‘how romantic is this place?’ rating: 5/5. I can almost imagine myself having a Titanic Kate & Jack moment on the rooftop. Sigh.

Central Park

4. Central Park
No trip to New York City is complete without a stroll in arguably the world’s most famous park, Central Park. In the summer, the Great Lawn plays host to free shows courtesy of The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic. Meanwhile, Rumsey Playfield serves as the primary home for SummerStage, a citywide free performing arts festival featuring music, dance, film and more. Nothing spells romantic better than breathing in jazz and blues along the dreamy park trails with your beloved.

Ezreena’s ‘how romantic is this place?’ rating: 5/5. Play frisbee, eat subs, soak in the sun. Here’s an inexpensive place to spend quality time.

5. Broadway
New York City is home to some of the finest theater in the world. From the biggest, breathtaking, award-winning new musicals like Wicked, Jersey Boys, and Mary Poppins to a host of new emotionally powerful musicals like American Idiot, and the arrival of the blockbuster Spiderman, Turn Off The Dark, to some of the most uplifting feel-good musicals of all time such as Mamma Mia, and the new arrivals from London, Billy Elliot, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, and the stunning War Horse, the list just never ends! Broadway tickets can be quite expensive, but sites like NYTix and BroadwayBox provide irresistible offers and discounts.

Ezreena’s ‘how romantic is this place?’ rating: 4/5. Show off that newlywed glow because it’s time to dress to impress!

Shop ’til you drop

New York is home to many hidden treasures and one of them is the Meatpacking District, the quintessential 24-hour neighbourhood located on West Side Manhattan. Alongside the meatpacking plants – fashion designers, graphic designers, writers, architects, artists and photographers have created a destination for design, architecture, fashion, salons, beauty and luxury boutiques. Restaurants and nightlife venues create an up-all-night vibe about the neighbourhood. For a better overview of the historical district, download the Meatpacking District Brochure.

The always street chic Jessica Stam loves SoHo! Photo courtesy of: The Sartorialist

SoHo in New York City has been quoted as the most unique shopping area of the world. This fashion capital is certain to exceed your expectations with its array of street art and high-end boutiques. More often than not, you can spot hot, young celebs like Agyness Deyn, Ali Larter, Keira Knightley, and the Kardashians hanging out in the area. Photo op!

Another noteworthy mention is the Lower East Side. Toted by NYMag as “vital and energetic, gentrifying but reasonably diverse”, here’s a neighbourhood with some of the city’s best nightlife, restaurants and shops. If you have a fixation for novelties and all things vintage, you’ll feel right at home here. Besides that, LES is also home to radical bookstores, fair trade cafes, and activist centers.

Say you and your boyfriend are in town, and he suddenly pops ‘the question’. You say yes, but wait, you don’t have a dress. Make a pit stop at Filene’s Basement. Here’s an excerpt from Steph’s “Savvy Ideas to Find Your Wedding Dress” post: Filene’s is historically famous for its sales on everything from fashion to homegoods, but perhaps the store is most well-known for its annual Bridal Gown Events where brides-to-be can save hundreds, even thousands of dollars on designer wedding gowns. And get this, there are six stores in New York alone!

Where to stay

For those of you who cannot afford the $35 000 a night, Ty Warner Penthouse, scroll down

AirAsiaGo.com
Even though I’m not big on budget airlines (my excuse – I have a sensitive back), I have to say, this site is an absolute Godsend! AirAsiaGo.com is a first-rate go to site for hotel listings. Once you’re on the site, you can sort hotels by best value, price, star rating, hotel name and the site’s picks. The site also publishes reviews posted on TripAdvisor. And this is good, as you’ll know that the place you decide to bunk for the night is the real deal, whether it is an inn in Chelsea or a motel in Queens.

No, we don't mean this couchsurfing :)

Couchsurfing
Deemed by one blogger as “nomadically delicious”, I became familiar with this site after getting my hands on a copy of Lonely Planet’s The Big Trip (an absolute must-have!). CouchSurfing is an international non-profit network that connects travelers with locals in over 230 countries and territories around the world. To describe how it works in a nutshell, “surfers,” or travelers are encouraged to interact in various ways. This can be simply over a cuppa joe, taking a tour around a city together or welcoming strangers into your home for a few nights. Meanwhile, hosts have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world without leaving home. It really is a novel idea as this allows more people to become travelers, because “surfing” truly does lower the cost of traveling. This concept might seem a wee bit ‘eccentric’ but Pedro Calderon de la Barca did once say, “When love is not madness, it is not love.” Rough it out with the most important person in your life and I’ll guarantee you’ll have a blast!

Morning Commute - Astor Place, NY

If you can’t walk, get around by public transportation

One of the best ways to get around is by mass transit, made possible by the City’s inexpensive, environmentally-friendly MTA New York City Transit system. Not to mention, it also operates 24/7. But first, you have to get yourself a MetroCard to get around by subway or bus. It can be purchased at any subway station, from either automated machines or from booth attendants. Patrons have the choice of buying a pay-per-ride or an unlimited MetroCard.

Subways are the easiest and quickest way to travel Riding the subway or “the train” is also the best way to feel like a local during your stay in NYC. New York City’s subway passenger ridership in 2008: 1.62 billion riders. Don’t forget to pick up a complimentary copy of the subway map from any booth attendant or at any NYC Official Visitor Information Center.

Buses are a great alternative. And what’s exciting about NYC’s ‘go green’ initiative is the number of environmentally-friendly hybrid-electric buses is continuing to go up, up, up. Public buses are a scenic way to see the City and a great way to reach destinations not convenient to a subway stop. Taxis are so expensive here, so I wouldn’t recommend hailing a cab unless you have heavy luggage or too many shopping bags to tote around.

New York socialites, Olivia Palermo (left) and Tinsley Mortimer (right). Photos courtesy of: Style.com

Find deals

NYCGo.com
From two-for-one admission to select museums to $1.50 oysters for supper, this site has it all. If you ever end up in Manhattan, broke and hungry for the arts, print yourself an offer to go watch Accomplice, and relish a theatrical experience unlike any other or make your way to midtown East Manhattan and visit the International Center for Photography. They even provide directions on the page. Handy for those of us who are not so GPS-savvy.

American Express Selects
“Around the corner. Around the world. Great offers are waiting.” Really, with credit card companies adopting taglines like these, it’s no wonder credit card debt is rising just as high as house prices. Amex owners around the world, rejoice! Thanks to Amex Selects, you can enjoy discounts off packages to the Caribbean, car rental fees, and receive exclusive offers from swanky hotels in the Big Apple. Of course, Amex is not the only company offering promotions like these. Check with your local banks and credit card providers for more special offers.

It’s time to put on those vagabond shoes and melt your old town blues in old New York!
Are you planning to go to New York to get hitched? Here’s an excellent post by Sylvia on New York Wedding Vendors.

One of the few privately-owned islands in Malaysia, Gem Island is in a Marine Conservation Park situated just off the beautiful East Coast of Malaysia. It also happens to have only one resort, which has 45 exclusive villas with a sea frontage view.

What does this mean? It means you can live it up by booking out the whole island to yourself, party the whole night through… and not break the bank.

The Beach: There’s not one, but three private beaches to choose from. Dip in the sea, bask in the sun and simply relax.

When To Visit: Best to come between April – September during the Malaysian ‘Summer’. This is also the period when the water is most clear and guests are able to catch a glimpse of turtle hatchlings.

Wedding Packages

Packages vary from couple to couple, depending on what is required. Whether you want the entire works complete with a wedding ceremony or just a casual gathering with family and friends. Every package is specially customised for the brides-to-be but as a reference point, wedding budgets have started from as low as RM 40,000 onwards.

The Civil Ceremony

Yes, even though you’re getting married on a secluded island – it is possible to be legally married! Gem Island can also arrange for a priest or religious representative to preside over the ceremony. However, the couple will still need to get their documents of consent from their respective home countries if they are foreigners. It can also be arranged to have couples married at the Registrar of Marriage in Terengganu (for the issuance of Certificate of Marriage)

The Villas

Out of the 45 villas, there are Water Villas, Premier Villas, Hideaway Villas and Hideaway Suites available.  The Hideaway Suite is the most exclusive and wedding couples are usually upgraded to this, as here they can have the view from 2 balconies.

The Cuisine

Brides can select dishes from either a Western or Chinese menu, as well as local Malaysian cuisine. And if you’re feeling thirsty, standard alcoholic beverages are easily available. Fancy a buffet dinner by the beach?

The Marine Conservation Park

It’s not everyday you get to wake up in the amazing surroundings of a conservation park, which is something Gem Island is very proud of. Explore the island and discover the marine life and beautiful coral reef. Or pop by the Gem Island Turtle Sanctuary that has been running for over seven years. Every year, the resort releases more than 2000 to 3000 baby turtles to the sea, to help sustain the turtle population.

The Story So Far

In the last couple of years, Gem Island has held quite a few destination weddings, with couples hailing from the likes of Australia, UK, France, Japan, Hungary and even Tunisia! And of course, local Malaysians included. Some chose to book the entire resort for the wedding so they can party the whole night through (no gatecrasher issue here, haha). A popular choice with tourists, the next couple to say “I do” are from Brazil!

How To Get There

The convenient location of Gem Island can be reached by a scenic drive along the East Coast or a swift flight, either by Air Asia, Malaysia Airlines or Firefly to Kuala Terengganu (TGG) – Firefly now flies directly from Singapore to Kuala Terengganu. From the airport, a 30 – 40 minute drive by road to Marang Jetty and then a 15-minute boat ride to the Gem Island resort.

Last Words From The Gem Island Team

Gem Island is a dream destination where picture perfect serenity & privacy rules for the ultimate wedding getaway!!

* If you’re interested in popping by Gem Island to hold your destination wedding or for a honeymoon, then check out their LWB page or website for more information. Enjoy and don’t forget the sunblock! x

My little brother, Justin, at Cape Sienna

As you can tell – someone is still on holiday mode! A few days ago, I made my way back from a trip in Thailand that was nicely finished off with a short stint in Phuket. Now for those of you who have been to the island many a time (as I have), let me tell you that I finally discovered the “other side” of Phuket that was a little more beautiful, a little more interesting than the conventional Patong/ Kata side.

The first thing you face when holidaying (or honeymooning, destination wedding, pre-wedding pics etc!) in Phuket is where to stay. It doesn’t matter what your budget or preference is – there is something for everyone. So my criteria was, (a) holidaying with little brother, and (b) nice resort in either Surin or Kamala Beach (as I had friends nearby who told me this is the ‘in’ place to be). After much researching and refreshing of pages on tripadvisor.com, I came across Cape Sienna, a relatively new resort that had already won quite a few awards, including 1st place for “Top 10 Romantic Hotels in Asia” by Traveler’s Choice Awards.

*All photos below courtesy of Cape Sienna

Cape Sienna by Kamala Beach, Phuket

The not-so-little Cape Sienna. Can’t complain about waking up to the sight of clear, blue skies and the pristine Kamala Beach below.
That’s what you call “A Room with a View”.

Fancy a dip by the pool?

Cape Sienna is the ideal setting for couples and honeymooners. Don’t expect to be pushing Olympic-length laps in the marble-clad pool as it is of medium size. But hey, if you’re heading to Phuket for a romantic escape, then forget the exercise because it’s all about the R&R.

Only single people need to workout (jokes!)…

Sea View Studio

The rooms are tastefully done with a modern, homely feel to them. You’re also given a flat-screen & DVD player should you feel like kicking back with a movie (tip: DVD shop down the road). As I was with my brother, I didn’t feel like going all out and splashing out on one of the coveted Jacuzzi suites or Sea View Pool Penthouse, so we opted for the Sea View room.

Of course, if one were to travel with their significant other – then I highly recommend the former :)

Vanila Sky - perfect for drinks after 5

For pre or post dinner drinks, make your way to the 3rd floor of the resort where you’ll find the Vanila Sky bar & lounge and its undisputed view of Kamala Bay. There is also a private room here called The Chambre Separe, which you can book for special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, private parties – or even as a glam place to propose? Yes, get your thinking cap on boys :)

Enjoy the sunset as you're wined and dined at Plum

O’ the romance! Sunset over the beach at Plum restaurant….

Peace of Mind

In all, Cape Sienna was a great escape. It caters to quite a European crowd but the resort was spread out enough that you don’t feel like you’re bumping into someone every now and then. Perched on a hill, it is just a five-minute walk down to the beach. The staff are friendly and courteous (as they usually are in Thailand) and there’s free Wi-Fi in the rooms and around the resort (I confess I did reply some work e-mails, hehe).

If you’re interested in booking a honeymoon to Cape Sienna, then just pop onto their site by clicking here.

Here are my other tips about the island:

Ka Jok See: You must, you must go to this restaurant! A cosy place tucked away in Phuket town (which is home to a few trendy bars), Ka Jok See may very well be Phuket’s best kept secret. Here, waiters masquerade as dancers who will pick you up and twirl you around all before the main course arrives. To be frank, my whole table was up and dancing just after the starters! Ring and book early as this place is always full. Word is, a few nights after us, David Tang had the whole place booked out for his pals such as Kate Moss. Hmmm, I wonder if she would be dancing like this again.

Catch Beach Club: I spent part of my New Year’s here and it is an awesome bar just off Surin Beach. For those Bali savvy peeps, think of Catch as a more relaxed, open version of Kudeta.

Famous Club: With a name like that, you’d expect to see something extraordinary at this bar. I was right. Arrive at this club and as you walk in, you’re greeted by a glass ceiling that gives you a voyeuristic view of girls swimming in their bikinis. Needless to say my guy friends were stuck there for a good ten minutes gawking (or admiring, I should say!). Walk upstairs to the rooftop where the swimming pool is, and find yourself surrounded by cabanas to lounge around in while taking in the view of Phuket (or the top half of the girls).

Tip: If you’re planning to take a dip in this pool, make sure you’ve visited the wax station beforehand… this see-through glass is most clear :)