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Express Yourself In Style and Warm Hospitality At the Holiday Inn Express and Suites

 

Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Dickson City, PA

Are you stressed out from wedding preparations or have you already tied the knot?  In either case, take a deep breath and decompress at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Dickson City, Scranton, PA. 

Come home to unparalleled, award-winning service, neat, clean accommodations, and relaxing amenities. The venue’s upscale, modern décor is infused with a casual feel that will make spouses-to-be and newlyweds feel entirely at ease.

When you choose Holiday Inn Express & Suites, you receive the highest levels of guest satisfaction, as evidenced by the hotel’s numerous industry accolades.  These include the Torchbearer Award, received twice from InterContinental Hotels Group (an honor bestowed only upon the top two percent of the nation’s hotels), the Quality Excellence Award, the Trip Advisor Excellence Award, received annually for the past consecutive seven years, the Reader’s Choice Award for Best Hotel in the Area, and top guest reviews from Expedia and Hotels.com.

National Award Winning Hotel

Whether you decide to stay for pre- or post-wedding purposes, Holiday Inn Express & Suites’ friendly staff will go out of their way to treat you like family.  Take a site tour, sit down and have an in-depth conversation about the fine details with the hotel’s team. Then, relinquish the pressure, knowing that you are in the best hands.

Guest rooms for your party will be set up in the system, replete with codes for each group. Make reservations by phone or book online  and take advantage of special rates for couples, their wedding parties, and guests. In situating your party, the hotel ensures continuity and order, and a private shuttle service will be at their disposal.

The venue cultivates a culture of excellence, while attending to every nuance—so that you can take that much-needed cleansing breath.  Enjoy our complimentary hot breakfast buffet from 6:00a.m. to 10:00 a.m., then in the afternoon, sit back and enjoy the facility’s popular gas firepits or leisurely surf the Internet, courtesy of the hotel’s complimentary high-speed connection (No work, please! You deserve some down time.) Your only workout should be at the twenty-four-hour fitness center, or maybe, you would prefer a swim in the beautiful indoor pool.

If shopping is more your style, indulge in the delights of the area’s countless malls and department stores.  While you’re at it, have dinner in Restaurant Row or take in a movie at the nearby theater.  Everything you want and need is at your fingertips—all within a two-mile radius. 

Go on, express yourself! There’s no time like the present to have fun, shake off the anxiety, and leave the pampering to Holiday Inn Express & Suites.

 

Planning your wedding? Make it a grand event!

The Grand Bank – Ashley, PA

Embark on the marital adventure of a lifetime and step back in time for a wedding that truly will be a one-of-a-kind experience—right in Northeast PA’s newest wedding and events venue, The Grand Bank.

“In my dreams!” you say. Well, maybe; but as owner Ashlee Martinelli knows firsthand, dreams do come true. “I began searching for a space about two years ago, and nothing quite fit, until I found the bank. I stepped inside, and at that moment, I just knew. The place was everything—absolutely GRAND,” she affirms. Together with her husband, Scot, Ashlee began to convert and restore the 1920’s-style structure, watching in awe as her vision came to life—a dream crafted by lots of hard work, persistence, and patience.

Historic building The Grand Bank

With the new venue space, Ashlee had a brick-and-mortar home for Every Little Thing, LLC, (“ELT”) her event planning, coordination, design, and styling company. She ‘married’ her two businesses by including the ‘Essentials Package’ (twelve-month wedding planning assistance with a personal Lead Planner for Grand Bank couples), giving them an experience like none other.  The principal motivations behind the lavish setting and the services a of Every Little Thing are two-fold: (1) the happiness quotient the union of feelings that produce joy, without the angst and stress of preparation, and (2) detail-orientation—the fine details—of which many couples are unaware (e.g., keeping to a predetermined timeline of events, knowing when to cut the cake, and sensing when the toasts go too long—among other things that can scramble your brain and prevent you from enjoying the day).

From Day 1 to Day-of, Ashlee and her exceptional team ensure that couples compartmentalize the tasks at hand, giving them the best possible planning and Day-of experience, all in a historic setting with modern, state-of-the-art amenities. Managing the details in partnership with an expert who cares is key. ELT breaks down the large to-do list into smaller pieces and tackles each task in three-month blocks. This allows couples to focus on important tasks as needed, rather than all at once, giving them time for personal care and relaxation in the weeks leading up to the big day.

For engaged couples searching for their wedding venue, Ashlee advises them to look and book now! Time is of the essence, and popular dates book far in advance—quickly.

For the ultimate experience in venue choice and wedding preparation, schedule a visit to sit down with Ashlee and discuss options, available dates, and the special details of your GRAND event. Begin by planning from start to finish with an unparalleled personalized touch.

Wedding ceremony at The Grand Bank

 

Surround your love with lush landscapes, delicious food and some of the best wine in the world, a honeymoon like no other…Tuscany

Tuscany

Italy is a great honeymoon destination, but Tuscany is a destination, per se, in and of itself.   Home to some of the best wine in the world, paired with incredible scenery and great food, it’s a perfect region for a couple to start the beginning of their marriage together.


Hotel Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

Tuscany’s lush landscape will inspire newlyweds, just as it did famous artists such as Raphael and Leonardo. Rolling hills, olive groves and Cypress trees lend to the magical aura of the area.  Architecture and art are evident at every turn.  Couples can spend lazy afternoons sipping wine and evenings indulging on some of the most incredible food anywhere.

Honeymooners will find the most ideal time to visit Tuscany to be early summer (May) or fall, such as September or October.   Not only is the weather more mild, but pricing on accommodations may be less than visiting during the height of summer.    Harvest time comes in September which can be very popular, so couples will want to plan well enough in advance if they intend to go at that time.

Getting to Tuscany is fairly easy from Rome and Florence, however transportation around the area is usually limited to renting your own car or joining an organized tour.   Some adventurous couples may consider renting bicycles and pedaling their way along the vineyards.


Villa Sant’ Anna, Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

Accommodations range widely, from hotels to inns…and many even rent a Tuscan Villa or private home.   These days that’s easy to do through many booking sources right here in the U.S.   Some will even offer the assistance of a private chef for a fee.    And when it comes to eating…honeymooners will want to take advantage of all the local specialties, such as mushrooms, salami, ricotta, olive oil, and of course….wine.   Each town or region has its own specialty, so couples will want to sample it all.

Leaning tower of Pisa

There are a number of areas newlyweds can visit during their stay, such as Pisa, home to the famous leaning tower.    San Gimignano is a medieval town that is famous for its beautiful towers and Romanesque church.   Couples can spend time visiting the art galleries, restaurants and shops there as well. 


View of Siena Cathedral

In Lucca, couples can stroll among the grand churches, meet locals in an outdoor market or wander in the nearby gardens of Villa Reale.   Or they can visit the charming city of Siena, where they will find one of the best preserved medieval towns in Italy.    


Cortona, Tuscany

The streets of Cortona are filled with charm, as couples climb the steep alleys among the old buildings, to the top of Santa Margherita church for breathtaking views.  Just watch the movie Under the Tuscan Sun again and couples will recall the romance and magic of the scenery and daily life of such an idyllic place. 

– Melanie Jascoviez  CTC / DS 
MJ Travel
570-706-5775

Hotel photos provided by Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco 

Enjoy a storybook city for your exciting honeymoon chapter…Amsterdam

Amsterdam

Honeymoons use to be all about a tropical beach getaway, but these days many couples are more interested in finding a destination that matches their unique style and personality.

The Toren Hotel – Amsterdam

Many couples thinking of romantic European cities, conjure up thoughts of Paris and Rome.    Although many don’t think of it, Amsterdam should top that list as well.   Amsterdam is actually a very dreamy honeymoon destination filled with old world charm and modern amenities, and in some cases is more economical than the more famously labeled romantic European cities.

A storybook city known for its canals, row houses and bicycling culture, it’s a picturesque location that should be on many couple’s consideration list.   Amsterdam is a mix of new and old, of nightlife and culture, and yes, love and romance.

Amsterdam is a very much a modern capital filled with hip, contemporary design, top-notch restaurants and edgy fashion.  Romantic sidewalk cafes and outdoor restaurants abound where honeymooners can share a sweet treat or a few glasses of wine, while enjoying life as newlyweds.

Couples can stroll hand-in-hand along a canal, under pretty trees with street lights illuminated and shimmer on the evening water.   It’s a laid back city, but also offers much in the way of nightlife…something to suit any couple’s tastes and desires.   Amsterdam is very walkable and couples can simply get lost among the city’s streets and canals.   

The Toren Hotel – Canal View

Amsterdam is also a very “bike-able” destination.   For the Dutch, riding a bike comes as natural as breathing.   It’s how they commute to work, go to school and shop.   Numerous hotels will rent bicycles or couples can find many rental locations around the city.

The city also offers fantastic art such as the Van Gogh Museum, Rembrandt House Museum and the famous Rijksmuseum.   History buffs will be in awe of a visit to the Anne Frank house as well.   Some couples may want to work in a side-trip to Belgium, including a stop somewhere such as picturesque Bruges, which is only a two hour train ride away.

Despite its reputation for lenient drug laws and the racey Red Light District, if couples avoid questionable areas, it is a city filled with just as much history, culture and luxury as any other popular European honeymoon destinations.   Most of the locals in Amsterdam speak English and are extremely friendly and helpful, making it a great honeymoon pick.

Couples may consider it as a destination in and of itself, or paired along with a few other great European cities to create a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon.

– Melanie Jascoviez  CTC / DS 
MJ Travel
570-706-5775

Hotel photos provided by The Toren – Amsterdam 

Relax in private luxury on the beautiful island of St. Barts…

Villa Marie – Saint-Barth

These days many newlyweds have already had the luxury of traveling extensively before getting married.   Couples who are looking at the Caribbean, but wanting a destination that neither of them have been to, may want to consider the tiny island of St. Barts.

It’s a mix of easy island living, with a chic European vibe thrown in.   A place where you may rub elbows with celebrities, fashion models and the jet-set crowd.  Where you will see yachts docked in the marina and photo shoots for magazines and catalogs taking place.   Because of the lack of ease in getting there, and the expense, it is certainly a favorite for the Hollywood crowd.

This French West Indies island offers tranquil turquoise waters, duty-free boutique shopping, wonderful cuisine with French and Creole influences, and optimal weather during their peak season from December to May.   The rest of the year can be beautiful as well, with the knowledge that the summer months may bring hurricanes.

Although a bit harder to get to than some of the other islands, it can be reached by flying from the U.S. to St. Martin and catching a locally operated 10-minute flight over to St Barts.   Some additional service may be found from San Juan, St Thomas and Antigua as well.

This island is all about sophistication, people-watching from a café along the waterfront, and just basking the sun.  The island is home to a number of incredible public beaches, where you can snorkel and swim. Topless sunbathing is a rather common practice on St. Barts beaches.  

Gustavia Harbor – St. Barts

French and European influences can be found everywhere. From the architecture, to the language, to the food and attitude. Residents and guests alike, have a love for food, drink and having a good time.

Couples should be aware that not only is it a destination that is not easy to get to, it is also not inexpensive.   Many of the small, intimate hotels are rather costly.   But for couples who can afford it, and enjoy their privacy, this may prove to be a winning honeymoon destination.

– Melanie Jascoviez  CTC / DS 
MJ Travel
570-706-5775

Hotel photos provided by Villa Marie – Saint-Barth 

Hit the road for your honeymoon…

Charleston, South Carolina

Honeymooners who don’t want the hassle of getting a passport and traveling outside the U.S. for their honeymoon, yet want a romantic locale, can look no further than the lovely city of Charleston, South Carolina.

Charleston is “hot” right now.   This popular city is engaging and romantic, and its Southern charm is evident everywhere.   From the oak tree-lined streets, to the horse-drawn carriages seen throughout the city…and from the southern hospitality to the antebellum mansions, this is a city filled with romance.   

The best time of year to honeymoon in Charleston is in spring or late fall.   This avoids the hot sticky summers and the potential for storms during hurricane season.   With these popular times, bring the crowds, so couples will want to be sure to book well in advance to get the accommodations they desire.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort

There are a number of high-end hotels and boutique properties that cater to those looking for a bit more in the way of atmosphere, as well as numerous chain-hotels that will help keep the budget intact.    Certainly something for every wallet.

Charleston offers so much to see and do.   High on the list for history buffs is a visit to Fort Sumter, where the first battle of the Civil War took place.   A boat ride will transfer visitors over for a tour of the fort.    For more history, couples can visit one of many southern plantations in the surrounding area, or take in a haunted tour at the old local jail.

Fort Sumter Charleston Harbor

There is wonderful shopping along the cobblestone streets, from small boutiques to name-brand stores.    A walk along King Street will cover any couple’s shopping needs….with modern shops on Upper King and antiquing on Lower King.   And for those in Charleston on the Second Sunday of each month, they close off a portion of the street to become a pedestrian walkway.    Couples can also check out Marion Square on Saturday mornings for live music and food.


And if shopping isn’t enough, foodies will love the culinary scene in Charleston.    One of the best areas is surrounding the City Market.    The area offers an abundance of restaurants, along with arts & craft-style shopping booths.    Honeymoons can indulge upscale, wonderful southern cuisine…crab cakes, po’boy sandwiches, fried green tomatoes, grits, waffles & chicken and much more.    No one will go hungry in Charleston.

Honeymoons looking to just stroll the romantic streets, take in a little history along the way, and dine at some incredible restaurants, should consider checking out Charleston.     It’s a fantastic place to take in all the charm and hospitality of the South.

– Melanie Jascoviez  CTC / DS 
MJ Travel
570-706-5775

Resort photos provided by Kiawah Island Golf Resort 

Connect spiritually on your honeymoon in an exotic paradise.

Turta Gangga – Bali Royal Water Palace

For couples wanting the exotic, the beautiful, the spiritual, for their honeymoon, should look no further than Bali.   This lush volcanic island in Indonesia, is home to pristine beaches, exquisite architecture and fertile rice paddies. The beaches are perfect for romantic relaxation or action and activities, the choice is theirs.

Temple Bratan Lake

This part of Indonesia is home to pirates, dragons and misty mountains…and Bali offers some of the most beautiful accommodations to stay in anywhere in the world.   Gorgeous, romantic and memorable hotels are numerous, and make for an incredible honeymoon location.  From 5-star hotels to backpacker beach huts, there are places to stay for all budgets.

This sun-kissed, vibrant and stylish island of Bali is just right for honeymooners. A blend of architecture, culture and stunning natural beauty, it’s a destination associated with tranquility and relaxation.   It is a spiritual and magical place, which has retained its authenticity and culture, and also its pristine beaches and green-hued lush landscapes. 

Honeymooners can visit the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud, which is famous for art and craft, including carvings. In the world famous arts center of Ubud, couples will find numerous galleries, museums and varied cultural performances.

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort

There are endless ways couples can make this exotic destination even more memorable.   They can hike to Uluwatu and arrange for a Jimbaran sunset dinner, or they can dine on a 5-course meal, in a cave at Samabe Resort.

They may opt to take a helicopter ride over Bali to view the spectacular coastline and Mount Batur’s caldera, or they may choose to make a wish for lasting love at the 700 year old Great Banyan Tree in the north.   Just a few of the romantic adventures honeymooners can partake in.

Couples will want to consider when the ideal time is to travel to this part of Indonesia.   The dry season is from April to September and is also when humidity is at its lowest.  But that is also when prices are at their highest, during the peak of that time, between July and September.

With its beaches, palm trees and warm, blue waters, Bali delivers on all that honeymooners would expect of a tropical island.  For most, its most powerful draw is the island’s varied landscape of beach and volcanic land; for others the appeal lies in the spiritual culture.   Either way, it’s an ideal honeymoon destination.

– Melanie Jascoviez  CTC / DS 
MJ Travel
570-706-5775

Resort photo provided by Anantara Uluwatu Bali 

 

The Maldives… I’ll take 2 tickets to paradise

Luxury Maldives Villas by Anantara

The Maldives are a group of 1,192 islands located between the eastern coast of Africa and the southern the tip of India, and are part of the Asian continent.   And are simply paradise on earth.

The beaches of the Maldives, many of them untouched by human feet, are an oasis unlike any other beach locale.   Imagine laying on the silky white sand with your new spouse, taking a dip in the clear turquoise water, while it’s just the two of you alone on an entire island. The intimate setting this country offers to newlyweds, makes it a different honeymoon from any other.

The most ideal time to visit the Maldives is between November and April.  Couples who are interested in deep sea diving, should visit during April for clearest waters.  It’s advised to avoid traveling there from August to October when they can be affected by tropical cyclones.

Maldives is a destination for couples who like an indulgent style and are looking to be pampered.   It’s a rather extravagant trip, but one they won’t soon forget.    So for couples who want to spend their honeymoon in a little piece of heaven on earth, with the love of their life, this is the place they should be looking at. 

Honeymooners looking for true natural beauty, away from the distractions of other tourists, should consider a romantic stay in the Maldives.   There are an abundance of coral reefs for snorkeling, rich marine life, fishing and endless beaches.   Water sports abound with surf lessons, wake-boarding, windsurfing, sailing and more.   And all couples should be sure to visit the bioluminescence beaches at night.

Couples can take a flightseeing tour or the islands in a seaplane, visit the glowing beach at night, or if all of this is too tame, they can visit the capital of Male and tour fish markets, art galleries and the National Museum.

Sea – Underwater Restaurant

The island boast numerous luxury resorts, many with over-the-water bungalows and spas, and some with under water rooms.  Or couples may choose to island-hop instead, aboard a small ship cruise sailing to remote, uninhabited islands and deserted beaches.  

Whatever they choose to do, or not to do, this will surely be one memorable honeymoon they won’t soon forget.   An exotic destination like no other.

– Melanie Jascoviez  CTC / DS 
MJ Travel
570-706-5775

Photos provided by Anantara – Kihavah Maldives Villas 

 

A honeymoon destination you can truly enjoy year round. Experience the adventurous outdoors of the Land of Fire & Ice….Iceland

Kirkjufe Volcano – Iceland

Iceland may not be the first place that pops into the minds of honeymooners, but for those who are adventurous, outdoorsy and active, it’s the perfect match….the Land of Fire & Ice.

Largely uninhabited, Iceland’s landscape changes every few minutes. Honeymooners can go from volcanic, lunar-like landscapes, to grassy green hills, to thundering waterfalls and spouting geysers.   Located only a 5 1/2 hour flight from New York, it closer than the rest of Europe. 

From trekking on glaciers, to enjoying the long days under the midnight sun, a summer honeymoon in Iceland is filled with endless adventures.  Honeymooners can visit countless waterfalls, rugged canyons, the winding coastline and even the interior of this island nation.  Honeymooners can explore the geothermal areas, go whale watching or take a glacier lake cruise.

Northern Lights – Iceland

Winter on the other hand offers the magic of the Northern Lights.   Couples can go snowmobiling, join an ice cave exploration and enjoy one of the many natural hot springs around the country.   Iceland is truly the perfect destination year round..

The capitol of Iceland is the hip city of Reykjavik, the world’s northern-most capitol.   Here couples will find unbelievable nightlife…numerous bars and clubs will keep them partying into the wee hours of the morning.   If that’s not their cup of tea, they can head outside of the city on a self-drive of the Ring Road, going toward the east or the west to explore the unsurpassed beauty of this incredible island nation.   Some describe it as otherworldly and one of the most unique destinations you can visit.

There are many romantic and secluded accommodations….from B&B’s to Guesthouses to wonderful inns and hotels, located all over this amazing country, from the coasts to the mountains.  As secluded as this destination is, they have all the conveniences of the rest of the world.

Golden Circle – Iceland

Couples can explore the Golden Circle outside of Reykjavik, with it’s geysers, waterfalls and volcanoes.   And of course the world famous, Blue Lagoon geothermal waters.   Located near the airport, it’s a perfect stop off on arrival or before departing for home, to complete your magical stay.. 

An Iceland honeymoon can be as relaxing or adventurous as a couple wants it to be, but it’s sure to bring a bit of magic to your special getaway.  

– Melanie Jascoviez  CTC / DS 
MJ Travel
570-706-5775

 

A romantic honeymoon you will never forget..… Italy

A romantic honeymoon you will never forget..… Italy
There is no where else quite like it.   A fantastic destination filled with romance, gorgeous scenery, amazing cuisine, some of the best wine in the world and history and culture that dates back 3000 years.   Italy.

It is undoubtedly one of the most romantic places anywhere in the world.   A country that offers picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities, unmatched history and art, delicious food and wine, along with a slower paced way of life to help honeymooners relax and simply absorb the warmth and passion of it’s culture and people.

This is a country that beckons to lovers of all ages. The magical countryside offers the perfect atmosphere for a romantic honeymoon.   Charming villages, winding lanes, intimate inns and hotels, and warm people, embrace couples wherever they go.   The cities are full of culture, history and adventure.   The vibe of Italy is encompassing and unexplainable, but once you’ve experienced the romance there, you’ll always remember it.

There are endless things to see and do….from romantic gondola rides along the canals of Venice, to food and art tours in Florence, and private guided tours around Rome,… or simply relaxing along the Amalfi Coast.   There is so much to see and do, couples will have to make plans to return another time (for an anniversary perhaps) to experience more of this wonderfully romantic country.

Villa Rufolo Gardens and the Amalfi Coast – Italy

Food and wine play a big role in the Italian lifestyle, so couples should plan on eating and drinking a great deal.   There are fantastic little cafes and warm, wonderful dining spots everywhere.  And the people of Italy match that warmth and charm wherever couples may venture.

Italy is also a photographer’s dream….so honeymooners should be sure to grab their camera and be prepared to take in the scenic beauty and amazing sights they will see in this one of a kind place.  

Honeymooners should plan on spending at least 10 days in Italy, if not more.   Many take their first trip to the big three….Rome, Florence and Venice, but many will also include places like the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, the Lakes region and other lesser known locales.   But regardless where they visit, it will be a honeymoon filled with romance and love…one they will never forget.

– Melanie Jascoviez  CTC / DS 
MJ Travel
570-706-5775

 

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