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Couples are optimistic about their relationships and intend to make more time for their partners in 2023 according to a recent survey by the Sandals Institute of Romance Sandals Resorts’ trend-house responsible for analyzing and spotting the latest global news in modern love, relationships, and intimacy. Surveying more than 1,000 adults across the United States in partnership with Wakefield Research, the data points to major trends, expectations, and other factors impacting relationships, passion, and connection in the year ahead.
The trend report revealed that romantic experiences remain a top priority despite an uncertain economic outlook and the hard reality of inflation. People expect to be far busier in 2023 than they were in 2022, and they’re making difficult choices about how much they spend, prioritizing immediate needs over frivolous ones. And yet, when it comes to spending their ever-shrinking dollars on romance, a majority say they don’t plan to forfeit gifts, getaways, and activities that strengthen connections and fuel intimacy.
What will romance look like in 2023?
For starters, couples are cozying up to a new year with optimism, with 89% saying their relationship will get better or stay the same in 2023. According to the survey, 4 out of 5 Americans 18 and older (80%) plan to make more time for romance, and nearly 3 in 5 (58%) say rising costs won’t derail their plans for a romantic vacation, as most Americans intend to find the time as well as the funds.
For many, what is considered romantic has evolved and changed over time, with 81% percent saying that they find romance has changed in the last decade. As for what’s romantic in today’s modern world, two-thirds (67%) say a getaway for two would be a particularly romantic gift and the top choice for partners in 2023.ADVERTISEMENTThe survey went on to reveal that more than gifts, sharing experiences is proving to be the ultimate love language. Watching the sunset (55%), trying new restaurants and shops (52%), and adventurous outings (51%) also top the list of what’s most romantic.

“The definition of romance varies from couple to couple, but there’s a common thread to a thriving relationship and that is to be intentional about making the time for connection,” said Marsha-Ann Donaldson-Brown, Sandals Resorts’ Director of Weddings & Romance. “The findings from our latest love study are invigorating and compelling, as Americans confirm their commitment to nurturing their relationships in the coming year – which is why we’re celebrating 2023 as the ‘Year of We.’ Getting away from daily life, free from distractions and stresses, inspires people to focus on what matters most, with the majority of couples agreeing they feel closest to each other while on vacation – and moreover, how this time away energizes the relationship beyond the trip.”
The Sandals State of Romance in 2023 survey went on to reveal much about the romantic pulse of America this year. See the full report here, with findings including:
Couples Plan to Make Time for Romance in 2023, Despite Tight Schedules
80% of respondents expect to be busier in 2023, with 2 in 3 (66%) acknowledging it is challenging to find the time for romance. Still, the vast majority (80%) are committed to making more time for it in 2023, with 31% strongly agreeing.The top obstacles for romance are finding the right setting (41%), financial constraints (38%), work (34%), social obligations (24%), and children (23%).For Boomers, finding time for romance isn’t as difficult, with 45% saying it is not challenging, compared to 32% of Gen X, 24% of Millennials, and 25% of Gen Z.76% of parents say it is challenging to find time for romance. Even in light of this, 88% of parents say they will make more time for romance in 2023, compared with 75% who are not parents.In Lean Times, Many Say Romantic Getaways Are Non-Negotiable
58% of respondents wouldn’t let inflation stop them from taking a romantic vacation, and 42% say that romantic activities would be among the last things to cut back during an economic downturn. Moreover, almost two-thirds of those who have been on a romantic vacation in the past year (64%) refuse to let economic factors stop them from taking one in the future.To help eliminate obstacles, at least temporarily, and create more time for romance, Americans are ready to pack their bags, with the majority saying a getaway is long overdue. Of the 63% who say they are likely to take a romantic vacation in 2023, Millennials are the most restless; 79% say they are likely to take a romantic trip in 2023.Vacations Are Key to Connection and Intimacy

A majority of Americans (51%) say the closest they’ve felt to their romantic partner is when they’re on vacation together.When it comes to romantic vacations that deepen connection, Americans prefer a relaxing beach vacation (67%), especially women (72%) and Gen X (74%).49% view 5 to 7 days as an ideal amount of time for a romantic vacation. Over a week-long romantic vacation, 30% would anticipate being intimate with their partner 3 or 4 days during the trip, and more than a quarter (26%) anticipate being intimate each day of the trip.Nearly three-quarters (73%) say intimacy is more satisfying when they’re on a romantic getaway. And, that satisfaction doesn’t end when the vacation ends: 80% prioritize intimacy with their partner upon returning home from a romantic trip.48% of Millennials say romantic vacations impact their intimacy by making them more adventurous, compared to 28% of Gen X, and 23% of Boomers.Surveying past guests as well as global travelers in committed relationships, the Sandals Institute of Romance’s data is designed to drive the development of integrated on-resort programming, innovative partnerships geared towards enhancing the guest experience, and expert relationship guidance for couples before, during and after their Luxury Included® vacation.
an gifts, sharing experiences is proving to be the ultimate love language. Watching the sunset (55%), trying new restaurants and shops (52%), and adventurous outings (51%) also top the list of what’s most romantic.

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SUSTAINABLE YOSEMITE RESORT, EVERGREEN LODGE, REOPENS FOR THE 2023 SEASON

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Choice Hotels International, Inc. is making travel even more rewarding for its Choice Privileges and Radisson Rewards Americas members. Travelers can now exchange points between the two loyalty programs at a rate of two Radisson Rewards Americas points per one Choice Privileges point.Whether travelers are planning out leisure or business trips for the year ahead, or looking to book trips with spring break approaching, this option gives people more flexibility to earn and redeem points for award nights.
“This program update, along with our recently expanded portfolio of more than 7,500 locations around the world in top and unique destinations, gives Choice and Radisson Hotels Americas guests more rewards options than ever before,” said Robert McDowell, chief commercial officer, Choice Hotels. “We offer the right hotel, at the right price, no matter where our guests find themselves. Allowing our 66 million combined loyalty members to seamlessly exchange points is a testament to how we continue evolving our programs to create better value for both customers and owners.”
Choice Hotels offers status matching with Radisson Hotels Americas following the company’s acquisition of Radisson Hotels Americas last year. Now, with the expanded option to exchange points between programs, travelers can reap the benefits of both loyalty programs even more easily, including:
Redeeming points at more than 7,500 properties across a diverse set of 22 brands in 46 countries and territories. Award nights start at 6,000 Choice Privileges Points or 12,000 Radisson Rewards Americas points.Access to lower, member-only rates when booking directly with Choice Privileges or Radisson Rewards Americas. Other membership benefits may include room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out and more.Ability to redeem points for gift cards at top gas, restaurant and retail brands.Ability to redeem points for stays at Bluegreen Vacations, PENN Entertainment casino resorts and hotels and now at the iconic Las Vegas hotel Circus Circus Hotel & Casino.Ability to redeem points for exclusive college sports experiences through Choice Privileges Experiences, including access to the court, game tunnel, meet-and-greets and more— with redemptions starting at 40,000 Choice Privileges Points.
To exchange points, guests need to be members of both Choice Privileges and Radisson Rewards Americas, which are free to join. Members can log into their account on either ChoiceHotels.com or RadissonHotelsAmericas.com and follow the prompts to exchange points between accounts.ADVERTISEMENTFor Choice Privileges members, this creates the opportunity to redeem points at more than 600 Radisson Hotels Americas properties, including resorts in the sought-after vacation destinations of Aruba, Punta Cana, or Miami, and top cities like Toronto. In addition to the thousands of Choice Privileges participating properties that Radisson Rewards Americas members can redeem points at, they can continue redeeming at Radisson Hotels in United States, Canada, Caribbean, and Latin America.
Named a top hotel loyalty program by both USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards and U.S. News & World Report, Choice Privileges membership is free and offers fast rewards, including free nights, airline miles, or credits for premium coffee and shared rides through the exclusive, personalized, Your Extras welcome gift. Guests can earn points for future stays at Choice and, through this exchange, Radisson Hotels Americas-branded hotels. Radisson Rewards Americas has also been recognized by NerdWallet and WalletHub as a top hotel loyalty company for 2022.  For more information or to enroll in Choice Privileges and Radisson Rewards Americas, visit www.choicehotels.com/choice-privileges or www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/rewards.

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LEGOLAND® Resorts believe awesome is for everyone! Today, LEGOLAND® California, LEGOLAND® Florida, and LEGOLAND® New York Resorts proudly declare that all Parks will become Certified Autism Centers™ (CAC) by spring 2023.The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) granted LEGOLAND Florida and LEGOLAND California with autism certification in 2022. LEGOLAND Florida’s three onsite hotels, as well as Peppa Pig Theme Park, just steps away from LEGOLAND, are also all Certified Autism Centers™. IBCCES is the only credentialing organization providing this type of certification, which includes evidence-based training as well as the perspectives of autistic individuals. In addition, the organization provides resources such as onsite reviews and customized recommendations, and renewal requirements to ensure LEGOLAND Resorts have the tools and support that can make a lasting impact for all guests.
Merlin’s newest North American Park, LEGOLAND New York, will officially become a CAC when it reopens for the 2023 season on March 31. All Resorts worked with IBCCES to train and certify staff in sensory, environmental, and emotional awareness – ensuring families can build a bricktastic vacation and make unforgettable memories.
“LEGOLAND Resorts are designed to inspire creativity amongst children of all abilities – our rides, experiences and entertainment all foster a child’s imagination through a lens of belonging.” says Merlin Entertainments CEO Scott O’Neil. “With 1 in 44 children diagnosed with autism in the U.S.A., we want to build understanding and empathy while also ensuring our teams have the tools and support strategies when engaging with a neurodiverse population. Through this certification, we’re providing our guests with more opportunities to create and play their way, while supporting parents through every step of the vacation planning journey.”
Here’s what families can expect as part of the new LEGOLAND Resorts experience:
Trained front-line team members equipped to better assist autistic guests or those with other sensory sensitivities.Pre-planning resources available for guests on the Resorts’ websites.Across the three Resorts, every ride will have a posted sensory guide developed by IBCCES indicating whether there are bright lights, loud sounds, or any features that guests might need to plan around. Rating each attractions’ sensory levels – touch, taste, sound, sight, and smell – makes it easier for families to plan activities that align with their needs and accommodations. On the guides, there is a Park map marked with low-traffic areas for visitors in need of a low-sensory break area.Low sensory areas allow guests with certain sensitivities to take a break and relax in a less stimulating environment. From 1- 2 p.m. at LEGOLAND California, their newest attraction, LEGO® Ferrari Build & Race, all sound effects are turned off for families looking for a less overwhelming experience.LEGOLAND Florida and LEGOLAND New York offer quiet rooms dedicated to children with varying sensory needs – where guests can decompress with weighted blankets, dim lighting, and tactile toys.Upon request, First Aid offers ear plugs to assist with sound and overstimulation and “Assisted Access Passes” can be requested at Guest Services.“IBCCES is honored to work with all LEGOLAND® Parks in North America to make sure autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and their families can make treasured memories and enjoy all the amazing experiences LEGOLAND has to offer,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “Our programs will provide long-term support with ongoing training and other supports to the Resorts in achieving their objective of providing accessible options for all visitors.”ADVERTISEMENTCurrent sensory guides and resources can be found here: https://www.legoland.com/california/media/b1oahwwa/llcr-sensory-guide.pdf, https://www.legoland.com/florida/media/g4ffsjti/22-llfr-sensory-guide-theme-park.pdf, and https://www.legoland.com/new-york/plan-your-visit/know-before-you-go/certified-autism-center/
For more information, visit legoland.com. To book your next vacation, visit https://www.legoland.com/new-york/, https://www.legoland.com/california/, or https://www.legoland.com/florida/.

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Sustainability has become the heart and soul of the hospitality industry and travel trade, especially with travellers being more concerned of the environment, climate change and well-being of local communities. Hospitality brands across the world are now opting for sustainable approaches to enable this mandate. This is further validated by the findings from the Sustainable Travel Report 2022 published by booking.com, where 78% of global travellers intend to stay in a sustainable property at least once during this year while 71% of travellers expect to put in more effort during the year to travel more sustainably.
Sustainability being the cornerstone of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and across its properties in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, continuously redefines new benchmarks in terms of sustainability and inculcating its core values of compassion, inclusivity, empowerment, and diversity.
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, a property managed by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, home to one of the best coral reefs in the Maldives has taken a step ahead in its sustainability endeavours. The resort focuses on several sustainable initiatives including minimising the usage of plastic, producing organic fruits and vegetables in-house and conservation of coral reefs.Minimising waste and single use plastic
During the bygone year the resort was able to reduce its plastic usage simply by replacing plastic garbage bags with washable and re-usable garbage bags and plastic laundry bags has been replaced by hand-made paper bags which are mad out of magazines found in the property. Moreover, the resort has replaced its plastic water bottles by introducing refillable, customized drinking water bottles and has introduced wooden key cards, paper bags, wooden straws, and wooden bins with the objective of further reducing the usage of plastic within the property. Through all these efforts the property has been able to reduce the usage of over 11,500 KG of plastic material during 2021 and 2022
Taking a step ahead, the resort has introduced tote bags which are purely made of damaged umbrellas found within the property. These bags have become a popular accessory among guests within the resort.ADVERTISEMENTFarm to Plate
The resort has introduced a special initiative, ‘Farm to Plate’, an organic vegetable farm which focuses on producing fresh fruits and vegetables within the property. The farm has a dedicated composting area where dry leaves are converted to compost and wastewater is used as the main source to water the farm. The resort works closely with the local community to recycle coconut palm leaves to make roofing covers for public areas within the resort.
Conservation of Coral Reefs in the Maldives
As part of its marine life conversation programme, the resort has placed several artificial Reef Cubes made from crushed glass to increase fish population around the property. In addition, monthly reef & beach clean-ups are arranged by the resort where guests are encouraged to participate. In an effort to reduce its carbon footprint, the resort has introduced various initiatives including the use of solar power, reduction of Carbon Dioxide emission and water saving initiatives.
Sustainability, which is a driving force has been embedded into the DNA of Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts and is an ongoing pledge and Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is dedicated to make a real difference by driving an eco-friendly change and delivering value to its guests, people, and planet. With a number of sustainability projects on the horizon, the resort remains well focussed on the current sustainability initiatives, and the future projects would draw more attention to the conservation of coral reefs, marine life, and ocean literacy, all while creating greater awareness on various issues related to sustainability and wellbeing. As a brand built on its core values and principles, Cinnamon Hotels & Resort is committed to creating a better tomorrow, both socially and environmentally.

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Fairfield by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, today announced seven anticipated openings of 2023, adding to the portfolio of 22 Fairfield by Marriott hotels in Japan.The new hotels will be located along national roadside rest areas in the prefectures of Hyogo, Kagoshima, Okayama, Saga, Kumamoto, and Fukuoka in the southern region of Japan, where travelers can discover hidden cultural and historical gems. The Fairfield by Marriott ‘Michi-no-Eki’ project aims to facilitate access to many of Japan’s off-the-beaten-path attractions, offering a comforting hotel experience along the country’s expressways.“We are thrilled to expand the brand in Asia with seven new Fairfield hotels expected to open in Japan this year,” said Diane Mayer, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, Classic Select Brands, Marriott International. “Fairfield is celebrated with a unique legacy in the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio and we look forward to delivering the promise of warm hospitality and inviting experiences for guests who are discovering up-and-coming destinations across Japan.”
Fairfield by Marriott was created on the principles of warmth, comfort and simplicity. The brand was inspired by the Fairfield Farm at the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia in the U.S. for its breath-taking natural sights and sounds, a restorative place that represents simplicity, balance and a comfortable way of life. The calm aesthetics, warm colour palettes, and straightforward design philosophy uses a combination of natural materials and colour tones to represent the connection between the outdoors and indoors, paying tribute to the brand’s origins in the Fairfield Farm. Guestrooms range in size from 21 to 25 square meters and feature complimentary Wi-Fi and a space-saving shower booth. 
The seven new Fairfield by Marriott hotels in Japan, scheduled to open in 2023, are:
HYOGO
Fairfield by Marriott Hyogo Tajima Yabu (88 rooms, opened January 24, 2023)ADVERTISEMENTFairfield by Marriott Hyogo Tajima Yabu is located next to Michi-no-Eki Yoka Tajimanokura in Yabu city, in Japan’s southwestern Hyogo Prefecture. The area is home to the picturesque rice fields of Bekku no Tanada and the beautiful Tendaki Falls, set against the backdrop of the highest mountain in Hyogo, Mount Hyonosen. The mountainous countryside is full of natural scenery with flowing rivers in the summer and snowy landscapes in the winter, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fairfield by Marriott Hyogo Awaji Higashiura (87 rooms, expected opening summer 2023)
Fairfield by Marriott Hyogo Awaji Higashiura is located at the charming Awaji Island, connected to the main island of Honshu by the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. Visitors can also enjoy one of Japan’s best beaches, Ura Kenmin Sun Beach, as well as the picturesque Awaji Hanasajiki Park where there are sweeping fields of flowers against the backdrop of Osaka Bay.
KAGOSHIMA
Fairfield by Marriott Kagoshima Tarumizu (95 rooms, expected opening spring 2023)
The new hotel will be located at Tarumizu city in Kagoshima at the southernmost part of Kyushu Island.  Kagoshima city is known as “Naples of the East” for its location on a bay facing the famous Sakurajima volcano. Nearby is also Tarumizu Marine Park, where guests can enjoy watersports activities in Kinko Bay’s warm subtropical waters. Adventurous travelers can also try canyoning in Sarugajo Gorge. Accessible by ferry from Kagoshima is the island of Yakushima, where the ancient cedar forests and natural landscapes inspired the Studio Ghibli animated film ‘Princess Mononoke.’
OKAYAMA
Fairfield by Marriott Okayama Tsuyama (78 rooms, expected opening spring 2023)
Located in Okayama, Tsuyama is a town full of history and culture known for the 17th century Tsuyama Castle, one of Japan’s three historic hilltop-style castles. Guests staying at Fairfield by Marriott Okayama Tsuyama can catch Tsuyama’s annual Cherry Blossom Festival every spring in Kakuzan Park, home to about 5,000 cherry blossom trees. Other lively festivals throughout the year include the Gongo Festival, Tsuyama Autumn Festival and Old Izumo Street Festival, where local residents wear traditional costumes and put on theater shows. Okayama is famous for its high number of sunny days and abundance of sweet fruit produced in the region.
SAGA
Fairfield by Marriott Saga Ureshino Onsen (84 rooms, expected opening summer 2023)
Fairfield by Marriott Saga Ureshino Onsen will welcome guests to Ureshino Onsen, a hot spring town in the southwestern Saga Prefecture. Its natural hot spring onsens and bathhouses invite visitors to relax and unwind in soothing alkaline waters. The hot spring waters is also used to make delicious local specialties such as hot tofu, and for preparing green teas. Travelers can also visit Hizen Yumekaido Ninja Village theme park and the 17th-century Yutoku Inari Shrine. The hotel is conveniently accessible by the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen bullet train, which began service in September 2022.
FUKUOKA
Fairfield by Marriott Fukuoka Ukiha (51 rooms, expected opening summer 2023)
Fairfield by Marriott Fukuoka Ukiha is located close to Chikugo Plain, an important farming region in Japan. The rural landscapes are home to rice fields and fruit farms, along with ancient ruins, temples, castles, sake breweries and hot spring onsens. In Ukiha, guests can pick fruits and sample sweets and desserts made with locally grown fruit. Another must-visit in the area is the Ukiha Inari Shrine at the foot of the Mino mountain range. Walk through 90 stunning vermilion torii gates that lead a path to the shrine.
KUMAMOTO
Fairfield by Marriott Kumamoto Aso (93 rooms, expected opening autumn 2023)
The hotel will be located at Kumamoto of southern Japan in the city of Aso, nestled within one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. The area is part of a fabulous landscape of mountains and valleys, with breathtaking sights of the Aso-Nakadake crater and its dynamic volcanic plumes, as well as the Kusasenri-ga-hama plain. The area offers activities to immerse with the natural landscapes, including hot air ballooning, canoeing and horse riding. Guests can also take a ride up the Mount Aso by a car and visit Aso Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Japan.
“The Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki project is aimed at creating a footprint of hotels that stretch from Japan’s snowy northernmost regions to its southern prefectures, where travelers can stop and get a good night’s rest as they explore the many historical and cultural attractions, culinary experiences, and natural sites across each region,” said Masahiro Taguchi, Project Director of Fairfield by Marriott’s Michi-no-Eki portfolio. “Guests can look forward to a pleasant and effortless experience every time they check in at a Fairfield hotel.”

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Grande Lakes Orlando, the 500-acre luxury resort destination in the headwaters of the Florida Everglades anchored by The Ritz-Carlton Orlando and JW Marriott Orlando, celebrates the full completion of its “grande” new waterpark experience.On the heels of its recently completed multimillion-dollar, property-wide renovation project that encompassed both hotels, this latest waterpark addition welcomes guests and families to an elevated aquatic experience with attractions and amenities for all ages.
Inspired by the resort’s natural surroundings, the newly reconfigured and expanded Grande Lakes Waterpark at JW Marriott Orlando now features six distinct zones including a signature lazy river, Headwaters Slide Tower boasting three waterslides, Aquaventure obstacle course complete with climbing and slide features, and a celebrated restaurant and VIP firepit lounge—Oasis. Separate areas are designed to encourage family fun or facilitate more secluded relaxation, with an abundance of private, full-service cabanas and daybeds also available to guests. 12 private cabanas offer varying levels of luxury, from options with simple loungers to high-end cabanas with furnishings, entertainment consoles, and private plunge pools. 26 poolside and swim-up daybeds line water features and firepits for added comfort. Integrated seamlessly into the resort to elevate its outdoor setting, the Grande Lakes Waterpark is set to become a primary attraction for explorative guests.
In addition to the enhanced waterpark experience at JW Marriott Orlando, guests can explore the recently enhanced aquatic fun at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando. Debuting with its recent renovation, the property showcases a new Solaire heated pool, lined with luxury poolside cabanas. The 12 exclusive cabanas feature a private butler, wireless internet, HDTV, a refrigerator, and other amenities. For a quiet respite, grown-ups can escape to an adults-only lap pool and hot tub at the award-winning Ritz-Carlton Spa.
Additional Poolside IndulgenceEnhancing the waterpark experience, Grande Lakes Orlando welcomed a new poolside dining option, Knife Burger, at JW Marriott Orlando. Here, guests can enjoy creative and casual fare from award-winning Chef John Tesar, whose on-site restaurant, Knife & Spoon, recently earned a MICHELIN star. Utilizing beef sourced from high-quality Texas-raised cattle at 44 Farms, guests can pair their choice of burger with crispy fries or a decadent milkshake to take their pool day snack game to the next level. Also available will be mobile poolside dining, where guests may order through the mobile app to indulge in the latest bites and beverages from Knife Burger with ease. And as the day winds down, guests are also invited to visit the enhanced lobby bar, EvrBar, for specialty cocktails, craft beers, and late-night light bites, with panoramic views of the waterpark through floor-to-ceiling windows.Make It an Overnight AdventurePerfect for any travel occasion with the family, guests can take advantage of overnight packages and resort credit offerings at Grande Lakes Orlando for even more fun at the waterpark and across the property. Families will embrace the new Executive Family Suite accommodations at the JW Marriott Orlando, offering king beds for adults, bunk beds for kids, and adjoining room options. Guests are also encouraged to explore overnight discounts with the Family Connecting Rooms Package.
For more information about Grande Lakes Orlando and to book a stay, please visit www.grandelakes.com.ADVERTISEMENT

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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S MOST SOUGHT-AFTER WEDDING DESTINATION

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Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor, one of the most highly anticipated new hotels opening October 2023, is set to become one of Southwest Florida’s most sought-after wedding destinations.From intimate gatherings to extravagant celebrations, Sunseeker Resort will offer event spaces that will provide the perfect setting for all of your wedding plans, including ceremony sites, a private bridal suite with convenient access to a full-service salon and waterfront ballrooms complete with floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces that overlook the picturesque Charlotte Harbor.Sunseeker wedding packages include a dedicated hotel representative who will partner with your wedding planner to take care of all the details such as arranging complimentary services like menu tasting for up to four guests, design of custom wedding cake by Sunseeker’s world-class executive pastry chef, selection of cocktail hors d’oeuvres & four-course dinner menu, coordination of guest room block and destination itinerary planning, and securing wedding night accommodations for the couple in one of Sunseeker’s exclusive Sunsuites™. Package enhancements include an enhanced champagne toast and a variety of curated food stations including a handmade sushi display, artfully crafted slider bar, international mini pastry tower and expansive dim sum presentation.
“From memorable milestones to once-in-a-lifetime celebrations, Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor provides a stunning backdrop for the wedding of your dreams,” said Sunseeker Resorts Director of Catering, Heidi Thixton. “We know that saying “I Do” is the most important day for couples and the team at Sunseeker ensures that no detail is overlooked. Whether you envision a classic black-tie affair or elegant contemporary celebration, our waterfront ballrooms, world-class hotel amenities and dedicated hotel, banquet and culinary teams provide extraordinary service, so couples know their only requirement is their presence.”
Every couple’s dedicated Sunseeker representative will guide them through unique ceremony options onsite and offsite including indoor options such as The Great Egret Ballroom, an impressive 15,000-square-foot space lined with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Charlotte Harbor that offers an elegant atmosphere that can accommodate up to 450 guests. The Royal Tern Jr. Ballroom is another elegantly outfitted ballroom perfect for intimate celebrations that features 5,500-square-feet of open space and idyllic views and can accommodate up to 250 guests.
Bridal parties can reserve access to Sunseeker’s plush bridal suite, the perfect location for bridal parties to primp and prep ahead of the event. The suite is conveniently connected to Sunseeker’s Lorelei Spa & Salon and even offers a customizable mimosa bar option.
After the ceremony, guests will be greeted by servers with white & red wine options and four selections of hors d’oeuvres upon their arrival. Following the reception, guests will enjoy a four course dinner inspired by Florida’s locally sourced ingredients that cover everything from land to sea. For the celebrated cake cutting moments of the event, the Sunseeker Resorts world-champion pastry chef, Patricia Nash, will help create a custom design based on the couple’s dream specifications.ADVERTISEMENTFor couples looking to host a rehearsal dinner or farewell brunch, Sunseeker Resorts’ 20 unique food & beverage concepts offer an endless of endless options to choose from without having to leave the resort.
Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor is located at 4949 Tamiami Trail Charlotte Harbor, FL 33980. The resort is just ten minutes from Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) and easily accessible to out of town wedding guests from several major international airports including Fort Myers (RSW), Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ), St. Pete-Clearwater (PIE) and Tampa (TPA).
For more information or to make reservations at Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor, visit www.sunseekerresorts.com or call (833) 909-5700. For the most up-to-date news and information, please follow the hotel on Instagram @sunseekerresorts.

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If you are looking for enriching experiences in the UAE’s capital, look no further than Saadiyat Island. Abu Dhabi’s leading beach destination, Saadiyat Island offers visitors unique and inspiring experiences, guaranteed to take you on a transformative journey.
Winner of Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination 2022 at last years World Travel Awards it delivers so much!
Overlooking the glittering turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, Saadiyat Island offers captivating natural surroundings, pristine white sandy beaches, luxurious resorts and a vibrant culture and entertainment scene. Located a short drive from Abu Dhabi’s downtown, and 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, Saadiyat Island is the place to expand your horizons, revitalise your senses, and nourish your soul.
Here is what visitors can expect from the island:
Soak in the sun on Saadiyat’s pristine, white beachesWith expansive white sand beaches, Saadiyat Island is the perfect place to relax by the tranquil, turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. Saadiyat Beach has a well-deserved reputation as one the best beaches in the UAE which is accessed via a wood boardwalk in order to protect the beach’s native wildlife including hawksbill turtles. For a more luxurious beach experience, head to Saadiyat Beach Club which offers guests access to a private beach, along with a selection of restaurants, an outdoor swimming pool with private cabanas, day spa and gym. Newly opened Kai Beach will transport you to a dreamlike ambience to rest, reconnect with your soul and rejuvenate. Expect white sands, turquoise waters and mesmerizing sunsets. Or stop on by Soul Beach – the picturesque beach features parasol-flanked sunbeds, guaranteeing a day to remember.ADVERTISEMENTUnwind at one of the hotels on Saadiyat IslandBook a weekend getaway at Saadiyat Island and have your pick from a plethora of hotels on the island. Expect lush greens, tranquil turquoise beaches and time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Choose from Jumeriah at Saadiyat Island Resort, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort and Nurai Island.

Marvel at the wonderful wildlifeSaadiyat Island is a protected haven for wildlife and marine life. The island is home to an abundance of beautiful animals, including Arabian gazelles, which are often spotted roaming around Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. If you’re lucky you might spot a Hawksbill turtle which seasonally nest on Saadiyat’s pristine beach. By the beach, beautiful bottlenose dolphins make frequent appearances at Saadiyat Island’s beach, leaving you in awe with their playful nature. A kaleidoscope of vibrant birds can be seen flying the skies across Saadiyat Island.
Visit the iconic Louvre Abu DhabiSaadiyat Island is the home to the first international outpost of the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi. With stunning architecture and a thought-provoking collection, the Louvre Abu Dhabi has been described as ‘one of the seven wonders of the urban world’.

Explore the restaurants and cafes along Mamsha Al SaadiyatFoodies will be spoilt for choice at Mamsha Al Saadiyat, a beachfront community with a wide array of restaurants and cafes stretching across a beautiful promenade with breath-taking views of the Arabian Gulf.
Immerse yourself in culture at Manarat Al SaadiyatSet in the heart of Saadiyat Island’s Cultural District, Manarat Al Saadiyat is a place and space for creative artistic expression. Visitors can experience a whole range of cultural activities, from interactive exhibitions, art classes and community events to performances, workshops and film screenings, all year round.
Relax and rejuvenate with Saadiyat’s wellness offeringsSaadiyat Island is an iconic wellness destination, offering premium yoga and wellness offerings. The spas across Saadiyat Island are an innovative, all-encompassing collective of health, fitness, and beauty. Witness a unique blend of sophistication and quality services with authentic, honest and genuine care.

Take a swing at Saadiyat Beach Golf ClubThe Par 72 Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is the Gulf’s first beachfront golf course, offering golfers an unparalleled experience with views of the glistening Arabian Gulf. The meandering, 18-hole, eco-conscious golf course has been designed with amateurs and professionals in mind ensuring that everyone, regardless of their skill, can experience this stunning golf course.

Stay at the exclusive Nurai IslandLocated a mere 15-minute boat ride away from the shores of Saadiyat Island, Nurai Island is the ultimate luxury hideaway. The boutique private island resort offers a piece of paradise with a world-class oceanside spa, fine-dining and casual restaurants, a beach club, and a calendar of exceptional activities on land and sea.
Unleash your inner model on Saadiyat IslandWith its exquisite natural landscape and stunning architecture, Saadiyat Island makes the perfect backdrop for a photoshoot session for those seeking beautiful wedding photographs or simply wishing to capture lasting memories against turquoise seas and white beaches.

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