Looking to plan an intimate elopement for just the two of you? or a small intimate wedding with just a few guests? There are some wonderful locations here in the U.S. to choose from, and the best part, no passport is needed. Many of the elopement destinations in the U.S. are in national or state parks, and there are restrictions specific to each park regarding decor and amplified music. Below are three gorgeous spots for you to say ‘I Do.’
Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park provides a scenic backdrop for your vows and drop-dead gorgeous photos. The Alluvial Fan Bridge is a favorite location, with a large boulder-strewn river with a waterfall, a wooden footbridge, aspen trees, and most importantly restrooms. There is a non-refundable permit fee of $300.00 to reserve your wedding location.
Photo credit: NPS/Jacob W. Frank
Montana
Glacier Park. An amazing location for a picture-perfect outdoor wedding. Most of the locations have a limit of 15 people for wedding ceremonies. For weddings, you will need a special use permit. Make sure you apply ahead of time. The park limits the number of events, and permits are issued on a first come-first serve basis.
New Mexico
White Sands National Park. Located in the southwestern part of the state, with miles of white sand as far as the eye can see. You can submit your permit request up to 6 months in advance, but no less than 30 days before your requested date. A non-refundable $100 processing fee must accompany the permit application.
For more information on these elopement destinations in the U.S., and other locations available reach out to me here.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, provides diverse landscapes from deserts to beaches. Imagine a beautiful vacation spot that is filled with both land and sea activities. By day, you can explore what nature has to offer in Cabo San Lucas. At night, you’ll enjoy the loud, vibrant music and potential celebrity sightings. Cabo San Lucas is located in the Baja California Sur at the edge of the Baja Peninsula in Mexico. It is easy to reach Cabo by plane or by boat. Fresh seafood, moonlit beachside dinners, luxury resorts, and bountiful activities await you in Cabo San Lucas.
Here are some things you need to know before you go.
Getting Around Cabo
Cabo is a place that can easily be toured on foot. Many things to do in Cabo San Lucas are in the downtown Cabo San Lucas area, so if your accommodations are here, you’ll have no problem exploring the various places. Of course, you’ll need a ride from the airport to your hotel or resort. Arranging transportation ahead of time is highly recommended, and saves you some money.
Check ahead of time with your hotel or resort concerning shuttle availability. Many locations offer free or low-cost shuttles to get you to nearby attractions. You can also rent a car or book charter buses from a group bus transportation company for more freedom and convenience. There are also Airport transportation or airport limousine services that you can book for a convenient travel to and from the airport.
If you decide to rent a car, keep in mind – gas stations are not self-serve. Employees will come out to pump your gas for you. It’s customary to tip gas station employees and shuttle drivers.
Paddle By The Arch
The Arch, also known as El Arco, is a well-known monument that is a must-see while visiting. It is a large rock formation that forms an arch in the water. It sits in the water where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meet. You can easily reach this spot by renting a stand-up paddleboard. It is one of the best locations for spotting sea lions as they like to hang out in this area. Make sure to include it in your Cabo adventures.
Go Out Dancing
Cabo San Lucas is known for its active nightlife. Here, you can find an endless number of bars, clubs, and live entertainment that will keep you enjoying yourself all night. There is also a brewery if you’re interested in a more relaxed vibe. A few popular locations to stop by include Tanga Tanga, Jungle Bar, and Baja Brewing Company.
Observe The Whales
Whale watching is a highly loved activity in Cabo. Your best bet is to head out on a boat tour to catch sight of these majestic animals. Humpback whales are mainly visible in the winter – between December and April as they migrate during mating season. Viewing the whales by boat allows you to get up close and personal with them. Ride the waves in style with this Kawasaki X2 jet ski. Known for its agility and power, the X2 promises a fun, adrenaline-pumping experience on the water. Whether you’re into racing, freestyling, or just casual cruising, this jet ski has you covered.
Spend The Day At Medano Beach
When visiting any location in Mexico near the coast, it’s required to see the available beaches at least once during your trip. Medano Beach is an excellent choice as it offers both party vibes and serenity, depending on which section of the beach you visit. Closer to town, you’ll find bars and restaurants right on the beach. Further from town, you’ll find a relaxing spot calling your name.
This beach allows swimming and watersports like parasailing. A few other beaches of note include Lover’s Beach (also known as Playa del Amor), Divorce Beach, and Santa Maria beach.
Try The Cabo San Lucas Food
If you’ve ever visited Mexico before, you’ll know the cuisine is a big reason people love to travel here. Cabo is a great spot for fresh seafood. You’ll definitely want to try the fish tacos.
If seafood is not of interest to you, plenty of restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining can be found along the tourist corridor and at the Cabo San Lucas Marina. Expect to encounter food that has influences from China, the Middle East, and Germany as well. Many immigrants have traveled from these locations and settled in the area providing a delicious mix and variety of food.
For those looking to escape chilly winters, Cabo is an excellent vacation spot. With plenty of outdoor activities available and beautiful weather in Cabo, you won’t want to stay inside much when visiting. For hotter days – opt for water-based activities. Or, start your activities earlier in the day.
Reach out to me when you are ready to start planning your Cabo getaway
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well if one has not dined well.”― Virginia Woolf. The only thing better? Eating good food at a private dining restaurant while traveling somewhere new and exciting! Read on for some of the best destinations for foodies.
Why not enjoy a heavenly cup of coffee while enjoying the view from your hotel balcony somewhere in Florence, or going to a nice seafood restaurant by the coast? You may also try ordering pizza delivery service from various restaurants in your destination cities to compare their flavors. Maybe traveling makes you hungry, or perhaps being somewhere new stokes the fire of your inquisitive personality: Whichever the case, if travel only heightens your foodie nature, these destinations should be high on your list.
Barcelona, Spain
The Mercat de la Boqueria lets you know right away that Barcelona is a destination for food. One of the largest food markets in the world, with some of the best ingredients available in the Mediterranean. Tapas are on the menu when visiting Barcelona. Take a tapas tour to try some of the many varieties available, see the city and make new friends through food.
Italy
It’s difficult to choose just one place. Italy is well known for pasta, cheeses, olive oil, and of course wine. Enjoy Mediterranean dishes along the coast with fresh seafood. In Tuscany, pair a bold red wine with pasta and enjoy vineyard views. Add an authentic cooking class to your travel itinerary, and learn to make some of the best local dishes with your own hands.
Paris, France
Continuously voted the best foodie destination in Europe, Paris undoubtedly takes the lead as the top food destination in the world. French Chefs have an unmatched reputation for preparing deliciously satisfying meals. From dining at the Eiffel Tower to a dinner cruise along the River Seine, Paris is definitely one of the best destinations for foodies.
People travel for any number of reasons; some for love, some for work, and some for adventure. Regardless of your reason for travel, finding an exciting new foodie destination to treat yourself to will always be a perfect way to enjoy a new or familiar place. To plan your foodie adventure, contact me when you are ready.
