Honeymoons Archives | Page 9 of 15

In Accessories

How to: 3 Easy bridal looks with RED DOT Cosmetics

January 30, 2020 No Comments

Whether you’re a super low-maintenance gal or simply want to cut costs by doing your own bridal make-up on your wedding day, these three easy-to-create looks using RED DOT Cosmetics will ensure you don’t go barefaced.

Watch the full video below then scroll down for the full list of products we’ve used. Bonus: Enter our competition to win a RED DOT Cosmetics product hamper worth R675 here.

Makeup products used in the video above:

Look 1

Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 11 Dark Brown
Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 10 Twisted Brown
Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 09 Nougat
Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 02 Beige
Cosmetics Catchy Eyes Mascara
Cosmetics Velvet Touch Lipstick in 009 Matt Sweetness

Look 2

Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 10 Twisted Brown
Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 11 Dark Brown
Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 12 Dark Grey
Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 05 Grey
Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 06 Plum
Cosmetics Catchy Eyes Mascara
Cosmetics Velvet Touch Lipstick in 159 Boheme

Look 3

Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 02 Beige
Cosmetics Forever Eyeshadow in 11 Dark Brown
Cosmetics Giant Pro Liner
Cosmetics Catchy Eyes Mascara

In Advice

How to take your love life to new highs

January 29, 2020 No Comments

Much importance is placed on a healthy sex life within marriage and often times stress, health concerns and a variety of other factors can weigh on this balance and put your marriage and your happiness in flux. A new study, however, has uncovered the miracles of cannabis and its benefits for intimacy and pain relief.

Many people are not aware but the human sexual organs have what is known as cannabinoid receptors which are able to effectively absorb and use cannabis to increase the aphrodisiac effect during intercourse.

The cannabis plant has the ability to increase blood flow to tissues it is exposed to and through this heighten the level of sensitivity and improve an overall intimate experience exponentially.

Researchers at the Saint Louis University in Missouri recently published their paper “The Relationship Between Marijuana Use Prior to Sex and Sexual Function in Women” in the Journal of Sexual Medicine.⁣ The study aimed to determine how much marijuana effected the sexual experience and in which domains.
⁣

A survey of 133 sexually active women was conducted where women used marijuana before sex, 68% reported that sex was more pleasurable, 16% said it ruined their experience and 16% said they were undecided.

Among those who reported enhanced sexual pleasure, 72% said it always did so, while 24% said it sometimes did. Almost 62% said it enhanced the quality of their orgasms and their libidos in general. ⁣
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Interestingly, 16% of these women also disclosed they purposefully use cannabis prior to sex specifically to relieve any potential pain associated with the act.⁣ This could be due to the plant’s CBD and THC compounds.
⁣
⁣CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid and is commonly used to alleviate the symptoms of many illnesses and allows patients to cope better with pain. Treating health conditions is only one of its benefits, as CBD can also be useful for overall wellness and can make a positive contribution to a good sex life.

THC on the other hand, is a crystalline compound that is the main psychoactive ingredient of cannabis. When THC, also known as tetrahydrocannabinol, is applied directly to any part of the body, it can enhance lubrication, ease discomfort and create a deep, tingly buzz right where you use it.

Since this discovery, local markets are introducing intimate aids that are charged with the benefits of cannabis.

CBD and THC are useful for both men and women. In the case of men, they have the potential to assist with erectile dysfunction by helping to repair damaged tissue and increase blood flow to the area where applied. Erectile dysfunction is caused by the process of natural aging, which releases a toxin called dioxin. CBD helps to reverse this process by flushing the toxin from the body, promoting a better sex life and boosting natural energy. When applied topically to the skin, the blood vessels are dilated by the CBD and the THC, and this allows fresh oxygenated blood to flow more freely. This will typically increase the strength of your arousal and enhance the stimulation will feel.

These, and other benefits that cannabis can bring to our sexual experiences, are highlighted by KushKush, which is a canna-centric community that focuses on educating and communicating about previously undefined topics – such as sex and intimacy – in relation to both CBD and THC usage.

To help its followers make informed choices and access a range of safe sexual intimacy products, KushKush carries a sensual CBD Intimacy Oil produced by Kiskanu, which promotes healthy relationships by enhancing pleasure and physical comfort. Comprised of calendula, cold-pressed sunflower, coconut and jojoba oils – which are blended to improve lubrication – it also features sun-grown hemp CBD, which reduces inflammation, relaxes muscle spasms, increases blood flow and enhances sensation. This makes for an easier and more enjoyable exploration with your partner.

The oil is available through www.kushkushonline.com.

Pictures: KushKush

In Advice

Romantic things to do in Sri Lanka

January 29, 2020 No Comments

Sri Lanka should not be overlooked as a possible honeymoon (or quick romantic getaway) destination. It has many unique experiences on offer, and its natural vibe will make you feel like you’re in paradise.

Here are some romantic activities to do in Sri Lanka.

– Visit the Madu River for a Boat Safari

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A boat ride is always romantic, so you’re sure to enjoy the activity with your other half. This boat ride, however, is more than a relaxing day on the water. It’s much more exciting and will definitely be a memorable experience.

You’ll be taken through lush forests and if you’re lucky you’ll see some animals too!

– Explore the Colonial City of Galle

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In years gone by, during the time that Sri Lanka was ruled by Sinhalese Kings, it was known as the “Old World’s Romantic City”. It was famous for its stunning harbour.

When you stroll through the town, you’ll notice some colonial influences including Portuguese, British and Dutch.

The town is often considered as one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka.

– Take a hot air balloon ride

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There is more than one place in Sri Lanka to go on a hot air balloon ride. This will definitely be a memory you’ll cherish forever. The stunning views and dose of adrenaline will be a highlight of your trip!

– Visit Sigirya Rock

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Legend has it King Kashyapa constructed his palace on top of the Sigirya Rock. He also built a fortress complete with water fountains, canals, and gardens. The ruins still remain today.

Pidurangala Rock, which is opposite Sigirya Rock, provides you with the best view of the legendary rock. Climb to the top of Pidurangala Rock, watch the sun rise (or set) and take in the history that you’re surrounded by.

– Take a romantic stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens

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This one is for those couples who love nature. A romantic stroll through the garden, containing more than 4000 different plant species, will give you some quality time together while you marvel at nature’s beauty.

– Hike up Little Adam’s Peak

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This hike is more picturesque than anything else, so if you’re worried about your fitness levels, there’s no need! It’s an easy hike that lasts only about 45 minutes. On the way to the summit you’ll admire some amazing tea plantations and when you reach the top the view of the rolling hills and valleys will knock you off your feet. The quick hike will be worth it.

– Go for a dip in the Ocean

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What’s a romantic getaway without some seaside chilling time?! Sri Lanka has no shortage of beaches for you to swim in or relax on. Take your pick.

Some beaches also have a host of water sports, including snorkelling, that is available for visitors.

– Visit Nine Arch Bridge

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This destination is great for a little walk and some great photos! Ensure that this romantic getaway is one that won’t be forgotten (and can be documented) at this stunning bridge.

– Sip some tea at a Tea Plantation

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There are several tea plantations in Sri Lanka. Some offer guided tours and serve you some tea with an amazing view of the plantation. This is a unique experience you won’t want to miss.

Image: Pexels

In Advice

Romantic things to do in Costa Rica

January 23, 2020 No Comments

Costa Rica offers some amazing activities to make your romantic getaway an unforgettable one. Perfect for romantic relaxation and activity filled adventures, the country will have you falling in love all over again. The rainforest country offers the best of mother nature in the form of jungles and beaches. It also offers culture, good food and much more.

Here are some suggestions for romantic things to do in Costa Rica:

– Soak in the Hot Springs

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Head to La Fortuna, a small town in Costa Rica. There you’ll find some of the most exquisite hot springs. Relax your body, mind and soul with your significant other by your side as you grab a cocktail and sink into the natural hot waters.

– Ziplining or Bungee Jumping

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For those couples who enjoy a good adrenaline rush, Costa Rica has got you covered. The Selvatura Park in Monteverde offers tree-top ziplining. You’ll see some amazing views of the heavily forested area. While you’re there you should also check out the hanging bridges!

If you want some more adrenaline then you’d be happy to know that Monteverde is also home to the highest (143m) bungee jump in Central America.

– Take a dip in one of the Waterfalls

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Go for a morning hike in the jungle and end it off with a dip in one of Costa Rica’s stunning waterfalls. There are many to choose from including Nauyaca Waterfalls, Catarata La Cangreja and the Jaco Waterfalls.

– Visit a volcano

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Since the country is known for its volcanos, it wouldn’t be right to skip this activity. The Arenal, the youngest volcano in the nation, is one of the ten most active in the world. It’s possible for you to see an eruption if you’re there at the right time.

– Sample some chocolate

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The Chocolate Forest Experience is great as it offers history, exploration, chocolate, wine, and views! What more could you ask for? The experience takes you on a tour through the area, teaches the history of cocao in the area, and, at the end of it all, gives you a professional chocolate tasting with some organic wine!

– Swim in the sea

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Costa Rica, with its coastlines on the Caribbean and Pacific, has some amazing beaches. Be sure to check some of them out! Depending on where you go, there are activities such as snorkelling and surfing available too.

– Check out the local markets

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Immerse yourselves in the culture, meet some locals, and stroll the streets! Make sure you pop by some of the markets too. You’ll get everything from fresh fruit and swimwear to souvenirs.

Image: Unsplash

In Destination

Beachcomber, the ultimate Mauritian honeymoon destination

January 22, 2020 No Comments

The most spectacular sites, a legacy of Mauritian lifestyle and excellent value are just some of the Beachcomber qualities.

Image: Supplied

In Advice

Meliá Bali: a dreamy honeymoon destination

January 20, 2020 No Comments

Located on the shores of Nusa Dua, Bali’s prestigious resort enclave, the Meliá Bali beachfront resort is a unique sanctuary of exotic beauty and comfort for those who seek a dream vacation.

Meliá Bali offers a selection of excellent arrangements for weddings and honeymoons. They undertake all the details of a perfect ceremony to create your dream wedding come true. Celebrate your wedding on the beach; enjoy the gentle sea breeze under the shades of the garden canopy or in a beautiful pavilion designed for traditional Balinese ceremonies while Meliá Bali creates the perfect setting for you to exchange your vows.

To plan your perfect wedding, contact Meliá Bali’s wedding specialist: [email protected]

Address: Kawasan Wisata ITDC Lot. 1, Nusa Dua 80363, Bali, Indonesia

Website: www.meliabali.com

Feature image: supplied

In Advice

Alternative hair removal options to try

January 17, 2020 No Comments

Removing all or some of your body hair is a personal choice, and we’re firm believers in doing whatever works for you. Many men and women do choose to wax, though, especially before the big day and long-awaited honeymoon. However, it’s not a very pleasant thought when making that waxing appointment. Often accompanied by pain, discomfort and even skin conditions like rashes or in-grown hair have made many skeptical of this procedure.

We take a look at the other options out there, which may just make things slightly easier and prevent you from getting in a sticky situation.

Sugaring

This method makes use of a sugar mixture which is applied at body temperature. That already means there is no chance of burning as is sometimes the case with wax. The sugar paste does not stick to live skin cells, only to hair and dead cells – giving the best exfoliation and leaving your skin smooth when the dry paste is removed. Although not completely painless, sugaring is considerably less painful than waxing.

Laser

Laser treatment’s biggest perk is the fact that it leads to permanent hairlessness over a long time if that’s what your goal is. However, it is quite expensive and you might still have to go for up to six treatments per year, depending on your hair growth and other factors like the quality of the laser machinery. Also, not completely pain-free, but most women say that it is definitely less painful than waxing.

Electrolysis

Different to laser treatments but working on the same basic principle, a probe emitting shortwave radio frequencies is applied to hair follicles to stop new hair from growing. This damages your hair follicles to prevent growth. Unlike laser technology, electrolysis is able to treat even blonde, white and grey hair.

Dry shave

It’s not groundbreaking, but it has proven to be an effective -and cheaper- alternative. Easy to do at home, a waterless electric shaver is quick and easy, with the bonus that it won’t cause in-grown hair like shaving does.

Image: Pexels

In Accessories

9 Websites for compiling your dream wedding registry

January 17, 2020 No Comments

If there’s any time at which you need the ease and conveniences of the internet the most, it’s during your engagement. Planning the big day is stressful enough so it only makes sense that when putting together your gift registry, you’d want to get the job done in the least laborious and time-consuming manner possible. These nine sites offer you the convenience of picking out wedding gifts without having to leave home.

1 Bespoke Wedding Registry

Launched by a Londoner, Bespoke Wedding Registry aims to fill the gap in the South African market for customised gifting. With a selection of homeware and kitchenware sourced from prestigious brands, including the namesake collection of world-renowned chef Jamie Oliver and local ranges Ardmore and Kikoi, you’re bound to find unique pieces that speak to your style. Plus, they offer a service where a group of guests can club together to purchase larger items such as furniture. You also score two free deliveries if you live in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban.

Contact +27 21 448 7155, [email protected], bespokeregistry.co.za

2 Wrapistry

Featuring products from a whopping 90 brands, Wrapistry’s offering include items to stock in your home as well as experiences. A variety of memory-making activities from a couple’s cooking class to wine tasting tours is available to add to your wishlist. If you ever feel like changing your mind, that’s no problem – you can do so as often as you like. To save you from the task of guessing who gave you a gift (and which one!), Wrapistry also mails you a list of guests and their purchases. Now, all you need to do is grab that mouse and start picking your favourites.

Contact +27 10 500 7503, [email protected], wrapistry.co.za

3 Banks Kitchen Boutique

What began as a lively shop in a close-knit community has now expanded to two boutiques and an online store. Apart from displaying their cutting-edge goods, the online store allows you to access their blog where you can discover recipes and browse product reviews. Once your guests have bought your presents, Banks Kitchen Boutique will happily wrap the goods, add a note from the gift-giver and deliver it to your door – all on the house. Customers have raved about this convenient outlet and we’re sure you’ll love it too.

Contact +27 21 461 3190, bankskitchenboutique.co.za

4 Yuppiechef

Voted South Africa’s best online store, you can rest assured their registry service is effortless. Not sure where to start? Navigate to the ‘Starter Collection’ tab to get an idea of what you’ll need to fill your first nest. Given our demanding, modern lifestyles, we could all spare a few bucks here and there, and Yuppiechef gives you the option of sending discount vouchers to three loved ones. However, if you do spot a pricey item you love, you can make it yours by swapping a few less expensive pieces for it.

Contact +27 861 702 4969, [email protected], yuppiechef.com

5 Carrol Boyes

Named after its internationally esteemed owner, this lifestyle brand specialises in premium homeware products. When creating your registry with Carrol Boyes, you have the option of selecting your goods online or enjoying a personal consultation with an assistant in a brick-and-mortar store. Once you’ve done so, your choices will be listed and placed online for your guests to seamlessly purchase what they please. If you want to return any duplicates, be sure to check that they are in the original packaging and in tip-top condition.

Contact +27 21 424 8263, carrolboyes.com

6 Granny Goose

With your mattress covered in fluffy pillows and duvets from Granny Goose, a producer of top-quality bed linen, you can luxuriate in deep, peaceful slumbers night after night. Apart from their bedding products, you can find Le Creuset cookware and Riedel Glassware items at their stores. To easily inform your guests about your registry, Granny Goose will provide you with little cards to insert into your wedding invitations. If anything wasn’t bought, you can get it at 10% off. What’s more, they’ll hand you a special thank-you gift for choosing them as your vendor.

Contact +27 860 388387, [email protected], grannygoose.com

7 @home

As South Africa’s prime shopping location for sophisticated homeware, you simply can’t afford not to enlist the registry service of @home. Head to the ‘Customer Favourites’ page to make sure you don’t forget to add any must-buys. In addition to a selection of top-notch products, you’ll receive a gift card worth 10% of the value of all your guests’ purchases. To keep this value updated and to record the buyer of each present in-store, remind your guests to notify the @home sales assistant that they are purchasing an item for your registry.

Contact +27 860 576 576, [email protected], home.co.za

8 Boardmans

Couple’s who have an Edcon Group Thank U loyalty card will enjoy all the benefits of the programme when they create a registry at Boardmans as you’ll gain 10 times the amount of Thank U points for all the gifts bought at the store. Given that there;s no limit on how many items are added, you could gain an enormous amount of points! These points can then be used to buy anything from Boardmans, or to shop at Edgars, Red Square, Jet, Legit and CNA. Talk about a shopping spree!

Contact +27 860 236 289, [email protected], boardmans.co.za

9 MRP Home

For home decor that’s uber stylish and pocket-friendly, there couldn’t be a better place to shop than MRP Home.Scroll through their ‘Inspiration’ section to view a variety of themes for your home along with a list of products to fit each theme. Although MRP Home offers online and in-store registries, they aren’t interchangeable so let your guest know which kind it is as guests wanting to purchase online for an in-store registry will not be able to do so and vice versa.

Contact +27 800 212 535, mrphome.com

Photography Crew/Unsplash

In Advice

Pre-wedding bridal skincare tips

January 17, 2020 No Comments

On your wedding day, you want to look and feel your best. However, getting here requires work that often starts months before your big day. Here are some tips to make sure you are looking and feeling your best come wedding day.

Develop a consistent skincare routine and STICK TO IT!

Hopefully you already have one in place, but it is important to have a skincare routine designed for your particular skin. Maybe you have oily skin, dry skin, or sensitive skin. Maybe you have discolouration, rosacea or fine lines. Regardless, there are many products created to cater for a multitude of skin types and concerns. Now, developing a skincare routine is not easy. It’s mainly just trial-and-error.

While Koreans are famed for their 12-step routines, many dermatologists recommend a simpler skincare routine with three key steps: cleanse, tone, moisturise. Another thing dermatologists agree on is that SPF is the most important skincare product everyone should be using. Sunscreen protects your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Many skincare and makeup products contain SPF, which makes it that much easier and leaves you with no excuse not to use it.

Facials:

Treat your skin to a facial with your regular aesthetician every month in the lead up to your wedding. When meeting your aesthetician, highlight what you want to focus on with the facials. It’s also important to speak up about your skin type. If you’ve got sensitive skin, your aesthetician has to be very careful about the types of products they use, and it’s the same for dry and oily skin.

Importantly, make sure not to get a new facial the day before your wedding. Your skin might react weirdly and leave you with a nasty pimple on your big day. Leave yourself a couple of days for your skin to calm down and really reflect the benefits.

Exfoliate:

Get rid of those pesky dried skin cells with a weekly exfoliant that will leave your skin silky smooth. Exfoliants help your skin appear brighter and glowing, which is always a good thing. Be careful when choosing your exfoliant, as some can be too harsh on your skin.

Importantly, over-exfoliating can leave your skin dry, flaky and irritated, so best avoid using this product more than three times a week. Usage will change depending on the strength of your exfoliator.

Manage your stress

I know it’s hard, but this one’s important. With all the wedding planning and small moving parts to keep track of, your skin and body is likely to show your internal stress. You need to keep stress at bay so that it doesn’t show up in your skin through a breakout. A host of other conditions like exzema and psoriasis can be worsened through stress.

Consider sharing the load and delegating jobs to your bridal party to help out so that you don’t carry all the stress of event planning. If you have an event planner, that’s even better! It’s also a great idea to participate in some stress-relieving activities like yoga, painting or reading.

Feature image: Pexels

In Accessories

How to WOW with Red Dot Cosmetics

January 15, 2020 No Comments

It’s your big day, and you’ll want to be the star of the show. Obviously. We show you how to achieve a flawless face, whatever your style, with the newest from red dot cosmetics.

FIRST OFF, YOUR FOUNDATION

RED DOT introduces the Mix & Fix Colour Drops which you can use in a variety of fun ways. Use the ‘Green’ option to reduce and hide any redness, and the ‘Dark’ option if your spray-tan is golden, but your face is still pale. Simply add a drop to your liquid foundation or creamy concealer and mix until the desired shade is reached. Add more if necessary.

NEXT UP, WINDOWS TO THE SOUL

Make sure your lashes get maximum volume without looking clumpy. Start off with a base coat of Fake It! Lash Primer in Grey which will fill, lift and help separate the lashes, while nourishing and protecting each one. Finish up with a few swipes of Catchy Eyes Waterproof Mascara to add gorgeous curves and a cat-eye definition that won’t smudge or weigh lashes down.

ARE YOU A RED LIP KINDA LADY?

You’ll no doubt want to take that along with you on the day. Rock a red that won’t budge, slip or fade. The Ultimate Lipliner – With A Twist in The Red will get you started with a perfectly primed, matte surface and rich colour payoff, lasting for up to 6 hours come rain or Champagne. Finish the lip off with a layer of Velvet Touch Lipstick – Matt in the same shade (The Red) for a creamy and flawless finish, ensuring your lippie lasts the entire night.