Something old, something new, and a honeymoon out of the blue The tradition of the honeymoon originated from Babylonian times, when the bride's father lavished the newly weds with romantic gifts, among which was a honey- based beer known to be an aphrodisiac, for the period of one lunar month after the marriage. Hence, the "honeymoon" came to be known as the period of bliss following marriage, full of romance and love. Tradition lives on, and the honeymoon today remains the first few moments of love and passion newly weds share with one another. Where better to share the experience of romance than in a paradise that is heaven on earth? Where better to live out your love than in a dream which is your reality? Where could all of this be found but at El-Gouna? It's "love suite love" when it comes to honeymooning at the elite Starwood hotels down by El-Gouna. Indeed, when the Beatles sang "All You Need is Love" they could well have had in mind the delightful, romantic lifestyle of Sheraton Miramar. This property offers the ultimate in honeymoon packages and newly weds are flying in from all over the world for that special romance with the Starwood style. Sheraton Miramar, already highly regarded as a holiday destination, is currently being introduced to the international market as a destination for honeymooners. The property will launch a honeymooners' package matching most of the desires of newly weds to find an escape in a world of dreams for their special honeymoon. The hotel reports that many honeymooners had come to the hotel for the "privacy, romantic atmosphere, luxury accommodation and excellent food and service". "Many guests have planned to come for a honeymoon and guests also recommend the hotel to friends and relatives as an ideal honeymoon destination," says Alexander Bieber, Sheraton Miramar general manager. Bieber adds, "guests have been here on honeymoons, of course, and they've had the most superb time, but the demand became so great we felt it was time to offer various packages in that regard. "We promise honeymooners the ultimate holiday experience, the happiest possible start to a long and happy marriage," says Bieber. "Our resort is a very romantic place with lots of areas where couples can simply be together and enjoy each other's company. For those who dream of unspoiled sandy beaches in perfect weather, we have it here." Sheraton Miramar is built on the most magnificent setting -- nine islands. Surrounding it are crystalline lagoons and pristine beaches, the finest the Red Sea can offer. All deluxe rooms have large secluded terraces with stunning views of the hotel's private beaches. The resort has its own Palace Suite, considered the most luxurious on the Red Sea. It boasts its own pool, two bedrooms, butler service and chef. The resort town of El-Gouna, a decade ago a nameless and barren desert, was developed to entice the sun-and-fun set from southern Spain. It is succeeding brilliantly, particularly among those looking for a charming, romantic destination -- hence the honeymoon initiative. If one word sums up Sheraton Miramar, it is "breathtaking". Canals and lagoons thread throughout the opulent, yet relaxing, complex. Many honeymooners also favour cocktails on Samir II, the property's boat-bar docked in the lagoon. Sheraton Miramar has found the perfect balance between an ideal honeymoon's three important R's in a couple's life: rest, recreation and romance.
