News, Tips & Offers delivered to your inbox.

A Traveler's Tales As Bridal Guide's global girl and Travel Editor, I criss-cross the map, jumping planes, trains and buses to uncover the best bets. Want to be in the know before you go? Join me as I share my insider tricks, hot picks and travel tips to help you plan the vacation of a lifetime.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

February 5, 2010

global goss:

Stranded? There’s an App for That

Let’s face it: These days delays are more common, security breaches are the crisis du jour, and getting to your final destination when expected is a rare occurrence. And it seems to me, at least, that being stranded is becoming more commonplace. Now, sleeping on the airport floor may be your idea of a good time, but not for moi. So when I got a press release about the 2.0 Hotel Negotiator App by Priceline.com, I was pretty excited. There’s a coolio Hotel Radar feature which utilizes the iPhone’s compass to hunt down local hotels. Just tap and the app will list the surrounding places where you can get your head in a comfy bed. Bonus: Since the application is by the cost-saving saveurs at Priceline, it allows you to do on-the-spot last-minute booking for up to 50% off the published rate. Take that, linoleum.

Posted by Jenna at 10:45 a.m. | Comments (0)

February 4, 2010

website watch:

Fashionable Flier

There are a thousand and one ga-jillon travel websites out there, and figuring out which one to trust can be a major time-suck. That’s where I come in.

I have a serious love/hate relationship with all things Facebook. Hate: Seeing pictures of perfect bikini bodies in said vacations, homes and outings. Being reminded (and the whole world seeing) what I looked like pre-Pilates days. Love: Keeping in touch with people I never thought possible. Completely living vicariously through photos of others’ vacations, amazing homes and fabu outings (Grammy parties and Sundance—hello!). One of my pals that fits into both camps is Glam Globetrotter, Sarah Evans. A frequent flier and serious fashionista, this girl shares the goods on all things travel and style related on her site Glam Globetrotter. (She’s also got a fab Facebook group and terrific Twitter feed). Sarah highlights fun gear (know a jet-setting mom who needs a passport case?), cool deals (score sample-sale prices for hotel stays) and her personal fantasy destinations (hint: they are generally beach-related.) Her posts are fun and sunny—just like her personality.

Fashion forward Sarah loves to take flight.

Posted by Jenna at 4:29 p.m. | Comments (0)

January 27, 2010

global goss.:

Self Improvement

Having spent the bulk of last year gearing up for the Super Boda (wedding in Spainsh), my travel adventures weren’t as often as I prefer. One thing that I’ve promised myself I’ll do this year is a self-improvement retreat that focuses on fitness and introspection in a fantabulous locale free of the trappings of my regular life. Years ago I spent a week at surf camp just north of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and it truly changed my life perspective. And weeks before my wedding, I climbed the awesome Machu Picchu. Aside: There’s an amazing account of my trip to Peru in the current issue, so check it out!

This year I’d like to work on my breathing and yoga and see some more of Asia. Enter stage left: The new Leela Travel, a boutique tour operator that specializes in earth-friendly (and all-levels) yoga retreats. The group promises introspective adventures in remote, eco-friendly spots with pro instructors, amazing food and the opportunity to give back to the community. Itineraries include surfing and Vinyasa in Nicaragua, Ashtanga and Ayurveda in India, and eco-adventure and flow on a private island resort in Thailand. With all-inclusive pricing starting at about $1,200 a person, these retreats are just as easy on the wallet as they are the earth. For more information, go to leelatravel.com, and make sure you told them Jenna sent you! Namaste.

Fun Fact: Leela is defined as the “spontaneous sport of the Lord” or “divine play.”

Posted by Jenna at 3:23 p.m. | Comments (0)

January 26, 2010

global goss. & extravagant item:

Around the World in 119 Days

The Silversea's Prince Albert II just outside the Riviera.

Hey there, honeymooners. Have you got half a year and 60 grand to burn? Then this is the trip for you! The Silverseas Cruise line just announced an intiniray that circumnavigates the globe, hitting 60 different destinations in 25 countries. The ultra luxe ship departs from Los Angeles a year from now and docks in Southhampton 119 days later.

Along the way, passengers are promised amazing land excursions such as touring top wineries in Australia, shopping at a traditional souk in Dubai and having a private tour of the mind-blowing Picasso Museum in Barcelona. Onboard you’ll be treated to dream-worthy cuisine on offer at six different eateries, a ship-shape spa, Bulgari in-room prods (my absolute fave) and private butler service—oooh, la la. Shorter segments of 30 days or more are also available. But those booking the entire 119-day extravaganza (starting at $61,924) receive a $2,000 onboard credit as well as roundtrip business class air, private airport transfers and four complimentary world-cruise events. Go to crowncruisecollection.com for more information. And smooth sailing!

Posted by Jenna at 3:26 p.m. | Comments (0)

January 21, 2010

travel tip:

Where in the World is…

Jenna Mahoney?

The short answer is at my desk with a blinking light above my head. But the longer and certainly more travel-interesting answer is that I’ve been getting all Carmen Sandiego lately. After my big Club Wed extravaganza (look out for the actual wedding photos in the May/June 2010 issue), my wanderlust kicked it into high gear and I’ve been bouncing from country to country like a pinball. That also means more time in the airports. Now this is the part in the movie where I whine because I’m not a big fan of flying. I hate it in fact. But it is a necessary evil if I’m going to jet—literally to Peru, Jamaica, Thailand, Mexico and Spain (and that was just in the past five months!).

So what’s a gal to do when she is sitting all alone in the airport destined for great destinations? Well, here’s a tip: Hit the lounge. First and Business Class lounges are the bomb-diggity (oh, sorry TSA, was I not supposed to use that word?). They offer Wi-Fi, food, booze, cable TV and sometimes showers, all gratis. That’s right, all those First Class folks can get nice and liquored for free before soaring high in the friendly skies. “But, Jenna,” you’re saying, “I got a great deal on a tourist class ticket, so who cares about all that lounge activity since I can’t get in?” To that I say: Yes. You. Can. All you need to do is buy a day pass.

Depending on the airline and lounge, day passes can range from $25 to over a $100. If you’ve got a monster layover or delay, it makes sense and dollars. When you do the math you may actually save money. Some credit card companies also have agreements with certain airline lounges, so you may be able to access the fancy digs for free. (Raise your hand if you’ve seen that Tina Fey/Marty Scorsese AmEx ad!) *Note: And this is really, super uber duper important: They don’t always announce flight departures in the lounge, so be vigilant on time. Trust me on this, I’ve missed quite a few in my time…

So, there’s my travel tip for the week. Happy sailing. And I hope we can talk more soon. In the meantime, have you checked out the fabulous *new travel columns? I designed them with you in mind. They are easier to read and more interactive. Leave comments here with your feedback. And happy trails!

Posted by Jenna at 5:31 p.m. | Comments (0)

December 23, 2009

global goss:

Bora Bora or Bust!

Clear turquoise lagoons, of course.

Sunset cruises, a necessity.

The most romantic island in the world? Definitely.

Have you dreamed of your wedding taking place in a Polynesian paradise in the Pacific? No longer are brides to be persona non grata in French Polynesia with a new law passed that allows foreign tourists to be married on the islands. Le Meridien Bora Bora jumped on the nuptial bandwagon and constructed a new chapel over their brand spanking new interior lagoon that offers beautiful views as well as the lagoon itself visible underneath the chapel’s glass floor. Imagine saying ‘I do’ as fish swim underneath your feet and sea turtles waddle down the aisle with you! With room for up to 20 guests you and your loved ones can feel like your own island nation with a private, intimate wedding experience not soon forgettable by any member of the wedding party.

Read More >>

Posted by Jenna at 10:23 a.m. | Comments (0)

December 18, 2009

travel tips:

A Toothbrush By Any Other Name

Who doesn’t love kissing boys? It’s super fun and can be totally magical, especially when the boy is just sooo dreamy and you’ve got a perfect setting like a balcony for him to secretly climb up and kiss you (Juliet fantasies anyone? Yeah, hand raised up high over here.) The not so fun part of this scenario? Worrying that your Romeo is going to fall flat on his trespassing behind after getting a whiff of your breath.

Enter from stage right the DentaBurst Brush and Go. It’s a single use tooth cleaner that fits on your finger. The individual packages are thin and flat, making concealment in a purse or pocket easy as pie. They’re perfect for brides needing quick teeth touch ups for photos or after appetizers. New hubby isn’t going to be too pleased when you sidle up for your first dance reeking of tuna tartare or goat cheese!

The blue textured pad fits right onto your index finger and is dusted with powdered toothpaste, a plus opposed to similar products with just mint-flavored paper. Rubbing in circular motions releases the mint flavor and cleans plaque from your teeth. After only a minute your teeth are shiny and smooth, while your breath is mint-tastic! Because let’s be honest, who wants to see an unsightly roll of breath mints sticking out of your jeans or taking up too much room in your handbag? It ruins your whole look

Having a DentaBurst handy is going to make spontaneous kissing that much more pleasant. You won’t have to worry what to do with your chewing gum or whether your man is choking on the scent of your last meal. These cleaners give you the confidence to pucker up and dive in! Happy smooching!

Posted by Jenna at 9:16 a.m. | Comments (0)

December 16, 2009

guest blogger: Mara Berkoff, Bridal Guide Intern

Couples Retreat

If the coming of the cold weather is making all you brides-to-be ache for beaches and bikinis, Tahiti Tourisme has the solution to guarantee a honeymoon that is truly fun in the sun. If the expense of a destination honeymoon has been plaguing you since he slipped the ring on your finger, head to the luxurious island of Bora Bora for a seven-night stay, costing you—the happy couple—no more than $1899, including airfare!

One of the most romantic islands in the world will warm you with its valleys of hibiscus flowers, white-sand beaches and lagoons surrounded by palm trees. You’ll be treated to roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles (LAX) on Air Tahiti Nui with a one-night stay at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort, six nights at Le Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora (with an ocean view!), and daily American-style breakfasts. Visit tahiti-tourisme.com for more information.

Posted by Mara at 6:07 p.m. | Comments (0)

November 24, 2009

sponsored post:

Grab Your Girlfriends and Go!

Atlantis, Paradise Island really is a world unto itself. It's true that it has a Vegas-meets-Disney-meets-Caribbean feel, but that's the same reason why couples, singles, families and large groups flock there! It’s the ultimate locale for a bachelor or bachelorette getaway. The property is beautiful, there’s so much to do without leaving the grounds, and accommodations run the gamut in style and price.

During the day, relax at one of several gorgeous lagoon-style pools or situate yourselves beachfront, indulge in yummy Bahamian cocktails and eats, and add some awesome activities to your itinerary. Swim with the dolphins at the impressive 14-acre, Dolphin Cay, play a round at the Ocean Club championship golf course, or get pampered at the posh Mandara Spa onsite.

The Cove is the latest addition to the Atlantis property, and it has some amazing facilities that cater to adults only; The Cain at The Cove features an ultra-luxurious pool with an outdoor gaming pavilion, cabanas and daybeds. You can work on your tan while you’re playing blackjack

Top-notch dining includes Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill and the Japanese restaurant Nobu, as well as casual options such as Mosaic and Marketplace—There’s even a Johnny Rockets. And let’s not forget, the casino is always bustling, the nightclub Aura stays lively ‘til late, and there’s enough shopping to satisfy a New Yorker!

Check out BG’s Travel Exclusive developed by Atlantis just for you, and book now!

Posted by Amy Rauch at 4:01 p.m. | Comments (0)

November 9, 2009

guest blogger: Erin Szeto Chan, bridalguide.com Intern

North Star

Everyone knows about Napa Valley Wine Country, but the East Coast boasts its own amazing wine region on the North Fork of Long Island. Located about two hours away from New York City, the 30-mile-long peninsula juts out into the Long Island Sound and is dotted with dozens of charming vineyards that offer picture-perfect backdrops for small, intimate weddings.

One such venue is Pellegrini Vineyards. The 30-acre property features a romantic white gazebo for ceremonies or photo ops. The open courtyard, perfect for dinner and dancing, can be covered with a tent and leads to the tasting room and a wide hallway that provides sweeping views of the lush green grapevines. Guests will love the peaceful country setting—and the chance to sample Pellegrini’s world-class wines, from the robust 2005 cabernet franc to the crisp 2007 chardonnay with notes of pear, apple, vanilla and olive. For more information, check out Pellegrini at pellegrinivineyards.com.

Posted by Erin at 2:43 p.m. | Comments (0)