Planning and executing a wedding and reception is a monumental undertaking, no matter the size. And while the honeymoon exists at the wedding’s conclusion for romance and relaxation, leaving the party to fly to a far destination may be just as stressful, especially if you arrive at an odd hour with sleep on the plane.
The Woodlands outside Houston may be the perfect solution, a relaxing pit stop on your way to the final honeymoon destination. The planned community filled with high-end shopping, golf, award-winning restaurants and entertainment amidst acres of trees and green space is located only 20 minutes from George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
“The Woodlands — it’s such a beautiful destination,” said Wendi Gelfound, director of marketing for The Howard Hughes Group in The Woodlands, which represents hotel properties. “It’s deliberately designed and there are trees everywhere.”
Nestled away from the commercial side but only a short drive to the action is The Woodlands Resort with its golf course, bike, kayak and pedal boat rentals and fine dining at Robard’s Steakhouse which overlooks the greens. The enormous pool with waterpark and lazy river attracts families but there’s an adult-only pool as well. The resort also offers mixology and pastry classes and couples massage and nature-inspired treatments in the spa.
Complimentary car service take visitors into the heart of The Woodlands, which includes the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, the shops at Market Street, and the resort’s sister property Westin at The Woodlands and its dining venues. Transportation to the airport must be arranged ahead of time and additional fees may apply.
“We can provide any form of transportation,” Gelfound said. “There’s no need to have a car.”
Special packages for newlyweds include the Date Night Package, featuring a night in a guestroom or suite with dark chocolate truffles, a make-your-own martini amenity, a $50 dining credit and a rose petal turndown. The Spa Getaway Package includes deluxe overnight accommodations and the choice of two 50-minute spa services per room.
Gelfound has a background in science and wellness so she encourages newlyweds to take advantage of the 200 miles of wooded pathways and trails and the many water features throughout The Woodlands, a great way to relax and recover from the months planning a wedding.
“Spending time in nature is pure medicine,” she said. “Research proves it.”
Cruising out of Galveston
For those catching a cruise out of Galveston, both the Hotel Galvez and The Tremont House offer park and cruise packages. Park your car at either hotel, enjoy overnight accommodations and hotel staff will drive you to and from the cruise terminal.
The two Wyndham Grand Hotels located in historic buildings feature luxury accommodations, fine dining and exquisite bars with a spa at The Hotel Galvez. The Tremont House exists in the heart of downtown Galvez while the Hotel Galvez fronts the Gulf of Mexico.
Ships that sail from Galveston include Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruises. For more information, visit galvestoncruises.com.
