Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

by

Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has long been a favourite destination of mine – stretches of sand perfect for beach-side camping, the aroma of coffee wafting from cafe-filled esplanades, and some of the most amazing views to be seen from your hinterland perch – thus, the Easter weekend provided the perfect opportunity to head there again. Our short getaway had us travelling to explore the much talked-about Spicers Tamarind Retreat, Maleny.

Hinterland Views 550x366 Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

One of several Spicers properties, Tamarind certainly lived up to its online description “an intimately unique retreat where Thai style meets the tranquility of the Australian bush.” This truly is a place to unwind, shrug on a fluffy robe, and escape the daily grind. Our one-bedroom villa surpassed the usual inclusions with the presence of a wood burning fireplace, super comfy king-sized bed, heated towel racks, and the best part – an outdoor cedar hot tub. Did I mention this would be a perfect honeymoon destination?!

tamarind 1bed villa lounge 550x338 Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

Cedar Hot Tub 550x299 Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

The next morning, breakfast was delivered to the villa at our chosen time, and I can validate the goodness of the coconut bread smothered with passionfruit butter. Executive Chef, Daniel Jarrett, says of his menu “Embracing flavours, philosophies and the unique culinary cultures of Asia, while using locally raised ingredients whenever possible and supporting sustainability here in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.” Kudos!

STR Restaurant External RET HR np a 550x345 Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

tamarind restaurant1a 550x307 Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

Onsite restaurant, The Tamarind, is an infusion of everything amazing! Being somewhat foodies, we indulged in a three-course dinner menu including a Saigon chicken salad entree with flavours that blew my mind; a tender beef rendang main which had been slow cooked in coconut milk and practically fell apart in your mouth; and my favourite, caramelised banana bavarois for dessert with tapioca, palm sugar syrup, and honey-sesame ice cream. I only wish I had time to take in a class at The Tamarind Cooking School.

Spicers Dessert 550x366 Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

If you can drag yourself out of the hot tub, then head to Tamarind’s purpose built day spa, Spa Anise, which offers luxurious treatments, a hydrotherapy room, and each guest is welcomed with complimentary refreshments and a signature foot ritual. Couples treatments are available but it is advisable to book in early so you don’t miss out.

str spa entrance 550x294 Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

str spa hydrotherapy spa 550x366 Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

Literally only a few minutes’ walk through the Spicers property is Gardeners Falls complete with the sounds of small wings fluttering and the cascading rush of water. Jump off the suspended rope swing, or take a picnic with you and simply enjoy the beauty of nature. Kondalilla Falls National Park is also nearby for the more adventurous, as are an array of boutique shops, arts and crafts, in neighbouring quaint villages.

Gardners falls2 550x366 Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

A trip to the Sunshine Coast hinterland isn’t complete without stopping in on the way home at Sweets on Maple – this time the salted caramel and macadamia fudge beckoned! And, who was I to say no to one last treat?

Swirl divider11 Add Some Spice to Your Honeymoon Retreat

The Polka Dot Travel Lounge – Deana from Creative Holidays

by

Dean from Creative Holidays Header The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Creative Holidays

Today we bring you warmth and sun direct from beautiful Bali and its surrounds, with honeymoon picks from the lovely Deana, Senior Head of Marketing at Creative Holidays! This is one part of the world way up on my list of “must-see”s, and today’s chat in the Polka Dot Travel Lounge has just bumped it up a couple of spots!  Creative Holidays is Australia’s leading independent holiday company offering extensive holidays packages to Bali and worldwide, so Deana is certainly the lady-in-the-know when it comes to this idyllic part of the world.

What is your favourite region?

Bali has to be my favourite place for a getaway as it ticks all the boxes. It has affordable luxury private villa accommodation, great restaurants and is the perfect destination to watch the sun go down while enjoying cocktails by the beach. What I love most about Bali is that it offers exceptional value for money, letting you live like a king or queen even if on a budget, and it’s only a short flight away from Australia.

Creative Holidays Bali rice field 550x361 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Creative Holidays

Top Resort Recommendation?

Would have to be the amazing five-star AYANA Resort and Spa in Jumbaran Bay, Bali. With world-class and luxurious facilities available, AYANA is a great spot to relax and unwind. There are five breathtaking pools, a ‘guest only’ private beach, an 18-hole golf putting course, one of Bali’s best spas and loads of dining and bar options to choose from, it truly suits all travel types. My favourite things to do while at AYANA include enjoying the stunning ocean views from the saltwater beach pool, relaxing on the resort’s private beach and making a selection from the cocktail list for a sunset beverage at the Rock Bar, located cliff side 14 meters above the Indian Ocean.

Creative Holidays Ayana Resort Jimbaran Ocean Beach Pool 550x321 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Creative Holidays

Suggestions for great honeymoon activities?

After the hectic lead up and emotionally-charged wedding day, nothing beats recharging at a luxury health retreat. Como Shambhala Estate in Ubud, Bali is the perfect place to do just that amongst serene surroundings, amazing spa facilities and their natural springs. There’s a range of experiences to try including yoga, hiking, biking and of course spa treatments. The retreat has a yoga and Pilates studio, steam room, pools, gym, tennis court and two restaurants. 

Creative Holidays Ubud Como Shambala Terrace 550x366 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Creative Holidays

The ideal location for a proposal?

A private dinner at the end of AYANA Resort and Spa’s private jetty. This wooden jetty stretches 30 metres right out to sea and was voted the most romantic dining venue in Bali. It’s truly a breathtaking, romantic and memorable experience. 

Creative Holidays Bali Balanese Dancer 550x825 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Creative Holidays

Best kept secret honeymoon location?

I would say the private secluded villa’s in Seminyak, Bali. Some of the top villas that come to mind include The Seminyak Suite, Sun Island Private Villas, The Samaya, The Maca Seminyak and Sentosa Private Villas. Here you can spend your days poolside in your own private villa, while at night explore the many great restaurants such as The Sardine, Matisse, Sarong and La Lucciola who offer supreme service and a romantic dining experience.

Creative Holidays The Samaya Bali Seminyak one bedroom courtyard villa pool 550x315 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Creative Holidays

Creative Holidays Maca Villas Spa Seminyak Seminyak one bedroom pool villa 550x345 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Creative Holidays

See, didn’t I tell you? I’m now firmly stuck browsing images of these gorgeous suggestions, and dreaming of cocktails by the pool, or at the end of a jetty! A huge thanks to Deana for providing the eye-candy and tips, and if you’d like to see more of beautiful Bali and its surrounds, head to Creative Holidays!

All images courtesy of Creative Holidays

Swirl divider7 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Creative Holidays

Lisa and Viktor’s Swedish Castle Wedding

by

swedish castle wedding24 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

Lisa & Viktor

A wedding from the other side of the world in somewhere as stunning as Sweden? That’s the journey we’re taking today on Polka Dot Honeymoons with this amazing Swedish celebration for Lisa and Viktor.

Lisa tells their story. “Viktor and I went to high school together. We became best friends during winter of junior year 2003. By summer we were inseparable. This one evening we were watching a movie at a friend’s house, he noticed I was acting strange so he asked me what was wrong. I told him I wanted to kiss him. One week later we were officially a couple. Three years later we moved in to our first apartment. Five years later we bought our first apartment and this is when we really started talking about weddings. After celebrating 9 1/2 years together Viktor blew me away with his proposal the night before Christmas eve 2011.”

Therese Winberg captured today’s intimate, moving images which are so beautiful!

swedish castle wedding02 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding03 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding06 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

“When Viktor and I had had our first look, all dressed up and with our bridesmaids and groomsmen along side we had lunch delivered to the hotel room. I try to always plan one step ahead and of course I had ordered 5 bathrobes for us girls to cover our dresses as we ate our lunch. I put my robe on, sit down and open a tiny jar of salad dressing and SPLAT! A stain at the very center of my gown! I screamed out for a second, stood up and laughed! We had deliberately ordered white dressing so no stains would ruin our clothing. We could remove the stain with club soda and everything was honky dory.”

swedish castle wedding07 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding09 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

“The most apparent detail was the streak of black. Only my mother and maid of honor knew I was wearing a black bow sash. I wore black shoes with bows on them, my purse had a black bow and for the table settings each napkin had a black satin ribbon and each wreath had a black satin ribbon. Both Viktor and I wanted our families to be involved and represented during our big day, unfortunately both Viktors’ grandparents have passed. To have them with us during our wedding day I had Viktors’ grandmother’s pendant pinned to my bouquet and Viktor wore his grandfather’s pocket watch. I wore an old hair piece my mother had as a broach when she was a teenager, it represented my Irish heritage and my Irish grand parents whom have passed. ” Lisa wore a gown from Forever Bridals while her bridesmaids wore black dresses from Asos.

swedish castle wedding10 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding11 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding12 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding13 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding14 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding15 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

Lisa and Viktor met for the first time n their wedding day in the hotel room.

swedish castle wedding16 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding18 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding19 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding20 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding21 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding22 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding23 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

Of their photographer, Lisa says, “Therese Winberg is a new found friend of ours. We got to know her and her husband 4 months before their wedding. The four of us had an instant connection, especially as we were all planning weddings. Therese is a multi-tasker in the wedding industry and we immediately loved her style. She booked us for an engagement session so that we could discuss our hopes for our wedding pictures. After receiving the photos from the engagement session we were absolutely smitten! She has a unique view, she captures the all the right people, all the angles, all the smiles, tears and laughs!”

swedish castle wedding25 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding26 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

Slots Biografen was chosen for the ceremony. Lisa explains “Both Viktor and I are from Uppsala and we knew we wanted our wedding in our hometown. Our guest list was larger than an average Swedish wedding so we needed a large venue to host the dinner party. And what better than a castle from the 16th century? Since we wanted a fall wedding (my favorite season) we had to find an indoor venue for the ceremony and we wanted it to be close to the castle. We had a few different options in mind but fell in love with an old movie theater at our first viewing. The theater went hand in hand with the style of the castle and our color scheme of ivory, champagne and black. ”

swedish castle wedding27 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

“Right before the ceremony we were hiding out upstairs. We got the signal to line up and get ready to walk in. As we were walking down the stairs and forming our line we could hear our song was almost over and song number two started playing! Viktor looked at me and we all laughed. After a minute or two we could hear the music being shut off, all our guests laughed, as the room was quiet the music started playing and the doors opened for Viktor to walk down the aisle and wait for me. Nothing could ruin my day and till this day we still laugh about it! ”

swedish castle wedding29 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

“Viktor and our bridesmaids and groomsmen walked in to “I choose you” by Willie Hutch. My father walked me down the aisle to “Let’s stay together” by Al Green. As newlyweds we walked out to “Are you ready for love” by Elton John.”

swedish castle wedding30 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding31 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding33 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding34 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding35 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding36 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding37 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding41 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

The couple held their reception at Ilalina, catered by Cajsas Kök. Lisa remembers, “The food was wonderful and the wine was lovely. Besides Viktor being a food enthusiast he is most of all a music enthusiast. The band he booked, the Clappers made our dance floor the best it could be! People were dancing barefoot till closing time and still tell us stories of how much fun they had while dancing!”

swedish castle wedding38 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

“We did a few DIY projects. My husband and I did all the planning ourselves, with the help of our families. I made about 60 tissue pompoms from scratch, I spray painted about 30 different kinds of glassware as candle holders, I sewed 114 linen napkins and tied 114 black silk ribbons for place settings. My mother did all the flower arrangements and 26 wreaths. My brother made the paper goods and with some help of a friend he also made our wedding website. My maid of honor hand wrote all the addresses on the invitations.”

swedish castle wedding39 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding40 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding42 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding43 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding44 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding45 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

swedish castle wedding48 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

Lisa remarks, “Since my husband is a DJ and music producer we spent a lot of time choosing the perfect songs for our wedding. Choosing the song for our first dance was the hardest. We wanted the song to be easy to dance to, not very typical but yet easy to remember. We listened to plenty of albums before deciding on the very first song, “What a difference a day made” of Jamie Cullum’s album “Twenty something”. It is our album of choice most Friday evenings as we cook dinner and start the weekend. We practiced our first dance at home in our living room and we both agreed we didn’t want to make it complicated. Just the two of us dancing to our Friday night song, just like most weekends.”

swedish castle wedding49 Lisa and Viktors Swedish Castle Wedding

Congratulations Lisa and Viktor! Thank you for sharing your wedding day with us! Thank you to Therese Swinberg for sharing today’s images!

Photographer: Therese Winberg / Bride’s Dress: Forever Bridals / Bride’s Shoes: Marc Jacobs / Groom’s Attire: Master Arnes / Groomsmen Attire: Tiger Of Sweden / Bridesmaid Dresses: Asos / Bridesmaid Shoes: H&M / Hair & Makeup Artist: Petra Stenhammar / Flowers: Purchased at Blomsterhallen / Invitations & Stationery: Bride's Brother at Sweet Creatives / Ceremony Venue: Slots Biografen / Reception Venue: ilalina / Band: The Clappers / Catering: Cajsas Kök

A Singapore Wellness Escape For Your Honeymoon

by

Honeymoon Wellness Retreat In Singapore2 550x412 A Singapore Wellness Escape For Your Honeymoon

I’ve been to Singapore and I can tell you: with its busy city life and steamy climate, it’s a trip full of excitement and certainly worth the plane ride. But, if you’re anything like me, no matter how exciting the city can be, sometimes you need a break from the hustle and bustle to do what you came on your holiday to do – relax!

That’s where the new COMO Shambhala Urban Escape centre comes in. Opening on the 15th of April, this luxurious health and wellness centre is nestled in the heart of Singapore. Six floors up in the Delfi Orchard shopping mall to be exact! With cityscape views and a team of resident and international experts; the Urban Escape is a far cry from what you’d expect from a traditional health centre. But that’s what makes it just so unique.

Honeymoon Wellness Retreat In Singapore 02 550x412 A Singapore Wellness Escape For Your Honeymoon

Taking off where it’s award winning sister centre the Bali-based COMO Shambhala Estate left off, Urban Escape offers a range of yoga and Pilates lessons with a focus on small class sizes. This means you’ll get personalised training that’s perfect for both beginner and experienced yogis. There’s also the option for private couple’s classes which would be ideal for a relaxing honeymoon!

If yoga isn’t your thing, there’s always the centre’s indulgent spa. Here, lucky clients can take advantage of COMO’s exclusive spa treatments and massage therapy services. From a deep tissue rub to their signature COMO Shambhala massage, there’s a massage to soothe even the tensest of muscles. Imagine, a shopping spree at the high-rise Delfi Mall, followed by a rejuvenating massage – I’m drooling at my desk just thinking of it!

Honeymoon Wellness Retreat In Singapore 01 550x412 A Singapore Wellness Escape For Your Honeymoon

So if you need a break from the big city, perhaps an Urban Escape is just what you need. For more information or to book a class, see the COMO Shambhala Urban Escape website.

All images courtesy of COMO Shambhala Urban Escape

Swirl divider A Singapore Wellness Escape For Your Honeymoon

The Polka Dot Travel Lounge – Deana from Flight Centre

by

Deana template The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Flight Centre

It’s that time of the week – hooray! I just love hearing honeymoon tips and secrets from the people in the know, even more so when the images of the destinations are so breathtaking! Joining us in the Polka Dot Travel Lounge this week is the lovely Deana, Public Relations Manager at Flight Centre Limited. Now that is an impressive title!

With all of the great holiday packages and flights offered by Flight Centre around the world, it’s a wonder Deana was able to narrow her answers down! I particularly love her suggestions for great places to propose. Gentleman – take note!

What is your favourite region?

Europe. If I was to be specific, it would definitely be Italy.

Italy Positano beautiful view DT 550x733 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Flight Centre

Positano, Italy

Florence 550x733 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Flight Centre

Florence, Italy

Top Resort Recommendation?

Alila Villas Uluwatu and Alila Villas Soori, both located in Bali.

Here, you will be totally pampered and treated like a star. Perfect for people who are looking for luxury, complete privacy, and pure relaxation – think personalised butler service, a private pool, in your villa,

Outstanding service, high standards and exquisite design elements make these 5-star luxury villas the best in the region.

Bali  Alila Villas Uluwatu 550x366 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Flight Centre

Alila Villas, Uluwatu

 Suggestions for great honeymoon activities?

Think about what you both enjoy doing or the things that you’re passionate about, whether it be food, adventure, sightseeing or relaxing, and then shape your honeymoon around those interests.

If you like exploring, consider destinations that offer plenty of outdoor activities, like a mountain trek, cycling day trip or animal safari.  On the other hand, if you are foodies, try a cooking class with your hubby or book a special degustation dinner for the two of you.

The ideal location for a proposal?

  • At Central Park in New York City, with a gourmet picnic basket.
  • At a luxury safari camp in Botswana or Kenya
  • During a private dinner on the beach in the Maldives.
  • On a gondola in the quiet canals of Venice
  • On the harbour in Sydney, overlooking the city lights and Opera House

Africa Game Drive  550x330 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Flight Centre

Africa Game Drive

Best kept secret honeymoon location?

Mauritius. For its exotic culture that blends the best of Indian and French to offer an interesting array of cuisine, accents and activities.

Cook Islands. For its magically perfect white sand beaches, clear waters and friendly locals. Not only is this an affordable destination, but its closer to Australia than most other secluded islands.

Cook Islands Aitutaki 550x365 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Flight Centre

Cook Islands 

See what I mean? How great are those proposal suggestions! We can’t thank Deana enough for sharing her wisdom and tips with us today, and if you’re after more info on the locations she has highlighted, or you have a secret spot of your own to research, head over to Flight Centre to check out their packages!

Swirl divider4 The Polka Dot Travel Lounge   Deana from Flight Centre