What do Hollywood's hottest look for in a honeymoon? Luxury, relaxation and-most importantly-privacy.
By: Elissa KraskouskasLas Alamandas Resort, Mexico
What do Hollywood's hottest look for in a honeymoon? Luxury, relaxation and—most importantly—privacy. The Las Alamandas resort, on Mexico's Riviera, may be low-key and casual, but it's as secluded as can be. This posh hideaway sits on 150 acres just south of Puerto Vallarta, and has only 11 rooms. Perhaps that's why it's been the choice of some of Tinsel Town's elite, including Christy Turlington and Edward Burns (who spent their honeymoon in the Presidential Suite), and the former couple Brad Pitt and Jennifer Anniston, who rang in the millennium there.
With a staff-to-guest ratio of four to one, and not a creature in sight save the falcons in the property's bird sanctuary, it is clear that pure escape is what makes this spot so sweet. And while there can be as many as a couple dozen other guests, the place remains quiet—some visitors claim not to have run into anyone else during their entire stay.
Hidden among lush greenery, the stucco guest houses, with their thatched awnings, blend into the jungle. Inside, they're decorated in the shocking pinks, sunny yellows and stunning oranges of the Mexican palette. A hacienda theme plays throughout, from the straw roofs to the overstuffed sofas to the brightly colored tiled bathtubs. And while you could simply hide out in your room, sunning yourself on the terrace and ordering, well, just about anything you can think of from room service, there's plenty to do. The resort has a 60-foot freshwater pool, complete with massage jets, and terry cloth robes for guests. Farther afield, take an invigorating horseback ride, go deep-sea fishing or request a picnic lunch—the staff will take you by boat to a secluded beach where you can lay out the spread.
After a long day of peace and quiet, dine at the resort's Oasis Restaurant. Fresh fish, such as dorade or tilapia, is brought in daily by local fishermen and is served with mint, cactus or corn. The menu also includes many dishes made with the organic fruit and vegetables—including mangos and chilies—grown right on the property. You can choose from a selection of Spanish and Chilean wines, but we suggest the Mexican Monte Xanic Chardonnay or Cabernet Sauvignon. Order a bottle, then sit back and listen to the rhythm of the Mexican music! For more information visit alamandas.com.
