Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dreamscapes.ca/i/739845
DREAMSCAPES FALL/ WINTER 2016 60 P aradisus Resorts by Spain-based Meliá Hotels International bend over backwards to ensure couples win big in the romance department—whether it's weddings, elopements, honeymoons or anniversaries. Packages with names such as Chill-Out Chic, Allure and Fantasy start the imagination rolling toward distinctive events. And the resorts' romance managers and co-ordinators help make those visions come true. On a recent girls' getaway to the all-inclu- sive Paradisus Resorts in Playa del Carmen and Cancun on Mexico's Riviera Maya, I met with several romance staff for a sneak peek into what's happening and what's possible. GETTING STARTED Alain Velázquez Meléndez, romance man- ager at Paradisus Playa del Carmen, reports the most popular of their five packages is the Caribbean Sea-themed Aqua, with decor focusing on turquoise tones and water. "The most personalized package, however, is Tailor-Made Romance," he says. "It is ideal for couples who want to customize their entire experience beyond just the day." This bespoke version has included supplying the groom with a horse to ride into the cere- mony, hiring a rabbi, adding a Mayan blessing—and organizing special events before and after the day. "Our event plan- ners are also certified in ethnic and cultural weddings." To help couples make their choices, the resorts offer a three-night Love at First Site package. On this visit, they can tour the venues, relax in the Meliá signature YHI Spa, sample menu options, and meet the staff and resort-approved vendors of flowers, photography and special items. If they decide to hold their wedding at that resort, the value of the stay goes toward their event. Paradisus Cancun romance manager Pilar González Fernandez advises couples to begin the planning process by consulting with the people who are most important to WEDDINGS IN PARADISE: PIECE OF CAKE BY E. LISA MOSES TOP: Paradisus Resorts by Meliá redefine romance. Meliá Hotels International OPPOSITE TOP: Couples can enjoy relaxation therapy at the resort's signature YHI Spa. Paradisus Cancun OPPOSITE CENTRE: Paradisus Resorts offer a spacious bridal suite for fittings, makeup, esthetics and bonding time. Paradisus Playa del Carmen A SMARTLY DRESSED MONKEY WALKS A GROOM DOWN THE AISLE. IN ANOTHER WEDDING, A GROOM PARASAILS ONTO THE BEACH WHILE THE BRIDE ARRIVES BY BOAT. SEVERAL DAYS LATER, TWO BRIDES, BOTH HAVING SAID "YES" TO THE DRESS, SWISH DOWN A SANDY AISLE IN A CLOUD OF WHITE.