(Family Features) After all the planning and stress of a wedding, many newlyweds look forward to celebrating their union by taking the trip of a lifetime. With the honeymoon destination options nearly unlimited, however, choosing where to go on your post-wedding getaway can be more stressful than proposing or choosing the right venue to say “I do.”

Top Honeymoon Destinations

To help newlyweds make the most of their first trip as a married couple, consider this guide to some of the most lavish honeymoon destinations across the globe.

Explore the Romance of the Maldives
Known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters and luxurious resorts, the Maldives is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean. A perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic, lavish honeymoon experience, the Maldives offers a range of romantic activities for couples including sunset cruises, candlelit dinners on the beach, spa treatments and luxurious accommodations in private villas built on stilts above the ocean with direct access to breathtaking views, snorkeling and diving.

Adventure and Opulence in South Africa
From thrilling safaris to world-class vineyards, South Africa offers a variety of experiences for couples looking for a unique honeymoon experience. On safari, you can spot lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos in their natural habitats and witness the beauty of African wildlife up close and personal. After an exhilarating adventure, you can unwind at one of the luxurious lodges or tented camps before visiting the picturesque vineyards of the Cape Winelands, where you can enjoy some of the finest wines and gourmet dining in the world.

Cultural Riches and Exquisite Comforts in Italy
Rich in culture, history and exquisite comforts, Italy is a perfect honeymoon destination for couples who want to combine luxury and exploration. From the rolling hills of Tuscany – where you can indulge in wine tasting, visit medieval towns or take a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Italian dishes – to the picturesque Amalfi Coast, with its colorful cliffside villages, crystal clear waters and luxurious resorts, the country offers a diverse range of experiences. Plus, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Vatican City and the Grand Canal allows couples to immerse themselves in the rich history and art of the charming cities of Rome, Florence and Venice.

Indulge in French Polynesia
A tropical paradise made up of 118 islands and atolls, French Polynesia is known for its overwater bungalows and azure waters. These luxurious accommodations are built on stilts above the lagoon, offering direct access to the crystal-clear waters. With the South Pacific’s vibrant marine life and coral reefs, you can go on a snorkeling or diving adventure to explore the underwater world or take a boat or kayak tour to discover hidden lagoons and remote islands.

Private Island Seclusion in the Caribbean
If you seek ultimate seclusion and relaxation, the pristine beaches, turquoise waters and luxurious resorts of the Caribbean make for a romantic and intimate honeymoon experience.  One of the highlights of the Caribbean is the privacy and exclusivity of staying on a private island. In addition to the private accommodations, couples can go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs, take a sunset cruise or indulge in delicious Caribbean cuisine.

Find more guidance to make your honeymoon a once-in-a-lifetime experience at eLivingtoday.com.

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(Family Features) If gift-giving isn’t your strong suit, occasions like Valentine’s Day are likely to bring on stress and worry, but procrastinating will only serve to elevate your unease.

Follow these steps to simplify your shopping, and while you may not come to love the task of finding the perfect gift, your loved one will undoubtedly appreciate your effort.

1. Browse for ideas online. Many retailers offer special promotions and gift idea sections on their websites, so finding inspiration can be as easy as visiting the sites of your loved one’s favorite stores. There are also dozens of articles online to help get the ideas flowing. Searches such as “gifts for horse lovers” or “Valentine’s gifts for a new boyfriend” will reveal a long list of ideas to peruse.
2. Keep it simple. Although the advertising industry works hard to convince consumers otherwise, Valentine’s Day isn’t really all about the bling. Sure, a pretty bauble is a welcome gift, but there are plenty of ways to show your affection that don’t require spending a month’s salary. A heartfelt card paired with a memento of a meaningful event or place in your relationship sends the same loving sentiment.
3. Make it a (different) date. For many couples, navigating the demands of work, kids and life make spending time together a luxury. Instead of fighting crowds at busy restaurants on the official date, celebrate your love on a day of your own choosing, when you can relax and enjoy the time together without the pressure to rush through dessert so your table can be flipped for the next waiting couple.
4. Give blooms a boost. A dozen long-stem red roses is a beautiful gesture, but unless your intended rose receiver is a strictly traditional type, try adding a little spice to your floral arrangement. Go for a bouquet in her favorite color, or have the flowers arranged in a practical vessel she can reuse to remember the occasion, such as a cocktail shaker or a watering can.
5. Go ahead, gift yourself. It may seem counter-intuitive, but finding a gift you’ll enjoy may inspire an idea for your loved one. The trick is finding something you can share together, whether it’s tickets to a show or his and hers mugs for enjoying your favorite brew. Just be sure the item is something your intended will share your enthusiasm for, or you may as well go buy a blender.

Find more ideas to simplify every occasion at eLivingToday.com.

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(Family Features) If you’re feeling pressure to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day date, it may be time to veer away from tradition. While flowers, chocolates and dinner for two is a classic, thinking outside the box can make for just as romantic of an experience.

Consider these simple date ideas to reduce stress and make your day extra special.

Take a Dance Class
Learning something new together can be a great way to bond with your significant other. Research dance studios in your area and book a lesson for a night out. Many studios offer new or first-time discounts and typically have a variety of lessons available from ballroom to salsa, cha cha and more. If dancing isn’t really your thing, consider another skill-building class you can do together like pottery, cooking or painting, for example.

Recreate Your First Date
Take a trip down memory lane and go back to the beginning of your relationship by recreating your first – or a favorite – date. Whether you went bowling, mini golfing, to dinner and a movie or something else entirely, reliving the past can be a special way to connect and show your partner how much you care.

Plan an Indoor Picnic
If it’s too cold outside for an actual picnic, clear some space in your living room and throw down a blanket. Pack a basket of finger foods like sandwiches, cheese and crackers, fruit, a bottle of wine and dessert for a romantic meal for two in the comfort of home.

Book a Staycation
A getaway doesn’t have to mean going far from home. Become tourists in town by booking a night at a nearby hotel and visiting some local landmarks you’ve been wanting to check out or haven’t experienced in a while. A simple break from routine can make for an enjoyable escape, even if you’re only a few miles from home.

Schedule a Photoshoot
If the last time you had your photo professionally taken was on your wedding day or a family vacation, hire a photographer for a couples photo session, and use it as an opportunity to create fun memories together. Many photographers offer mini sessions, which only take 15-30 minutes, leaving time for a night out afterward. For an inexpensive option, have a friend take a few casual pictures or use a selfie stick to help document your date.

Cook Dinner Together
Restaurants are often booked up on Valentine’s Day, so try something different this year and make a special home-cooked meal together. Whether you make a tried-and-true favorite or whip up something new, like a heart-shaped dish, you’ll bond over the experience while creating a tangible (and hopefully tasty) reward once the oven timer dings. Then dim the lights, play some soft music and light some candles to create a romantic ambience while enjoying dinner together.

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Go On a Road Trip
Take a day – or a weekend – and venture to a destination you haven’t been before on a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway. Even if traveling far away isn’t possible right now, exploring a town or two over allows you to check out new restaurants, stores or other attractions and get out of your comfort zones.

Find more ideas for celebrating Valentine’s Day at eLivingtoday.com.

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