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What
are the most romantic
destinations in the world? Well, since romance is
a very personal thing, it's not a simple question. It
depends on what gets your heart pumping.
Is it strolling hand in hand at the edge of an ocean,
or is it exploring antiquities in ancient ruins? Is
it sipping wine in a sidewalk cafe next to a thousand-year
old cathedral, or is it soaking in a hot tub on a luxury
liner?
To help you decide, I've compiled a few of my favorite
romantic places. I've been to them all and written stories
about my journeys. The links below each brief outline
on the destination are to my stories.
Hawaii
, USA :
Hawaii has consistently remained the top romantic getaway
for North Americans, since in general, romance means
balmy moonlit nights, aromatic breezes, sun-kissed beaches,
- attributes befitting the Hawaiian Islands.
Nearly all luxury outer island resorts are self-contained
garden-like paradises. Though years ago, the image of
hula dancers swaying in the moonlight, just outside
our lanai, their soft romantic melodies drifting into
our room, is still vivid in my mind.
Mexican Riviera,
Mexico:
Mexico's Rivera is high on the list for lovers from
Canada and
the United States. Accommodating weather, strolling
Mariachi entertainers, intimate tavernas on the Malecon,
street artists standing by ready to paint your portrait
... Do these images stir your senses? Then Mexico's
Riviera is for you.
The Greek Islands, Greece:
A cruise of the Greek Islands is a favorite getaway
for sweethearts from every nation - for anniversaries,
weddings and blossoming
romances. The proof is heard every time dinner is announced
over the intercom in seven different languages!
Some couples never leave the ocean liner, content to
look at the whirring windmills and white-washed buildings
hanging off the island's cliffs from the comforts of
the ship's decks. Others choose to stroll the crooked
cobblestoned allies in the ancient villages, returning
to the ship to slow dance the night away under the sparkling
stars. I was the only one on the ship by myself. That's
why I can say with confidence that to really get the
most out of a Greek Islands cruise you need to have
a partner.
Quebec City,
Canada:
However spectacular sunsets and white sand beaches can
be, romantic places don't need warm weather and breathtaking
vistas to be romantic. Quebec
City is a favorite of couples from the entire globe.
Besides exploring ancient architecture and historical
sites together, bundling up in cosy parka's and going
sleigh-riding on snow-covered country roads can be very
stimulating and heartwarming.
Romancing Old Quebec
Paris, France:
Paris and romance have been synonymous forever. Paris,
where love not only blossoms, it literally blooms, especially
in April, when showers insure a good growth. Among the
hustle and bustle of the noisy city, you'll see lovers
strolling hand-in-hand on Champ Elyseese, lovers relaxing
in a bistro in full view of the Arch de Triomphe; lovers
dancing to a jukebox in a neighborhood pub and lovers
dining on an old steamboat on the River Seine.
Paris: Expect it All!
Venice, Italy:
It's hard to say what makes Venice one of the most romantic
cities on earth. Perhaps romance has to do with
contemplation - a mood that seem so appropriate to be
in, while floating on flooded streets on a gondola,
past old master paintings that belong in museums, listening
to the gondolier serenade "Be My Love". You'll
think for a minute that you've been caught in a time
warp or you are on a movie set and you and your love
are the stars of the show. Take lots of pictures to
prove that you really were in
Jeju Island:
South Korea:
If home for you is Asia, you are probably aware that
Korea's Jeju Island attracts honeymooners
from the eastern continents. Nearly every acre of the
island's unusual landscape of waterfalls, grottos, rape
fields and volcanoes tells a magical or love-struck
story. But past lore and romantic tales are not the
only attractions on Jeju Island.
The service and the amenities from the hospitality industry
are so superior your stay will surely be the most unforgettable.
The resort properties are beyond imagination - One such
property, the Hotel Paradise, offers a deluxe suite
in a cave!
If the brief outlines above and my stories whet your
appetite, start researching special romantic packages
to the destination, because remember, as important as
the destination is, the right accommodations are as
important. After all, a romantic
holiday includes lots of quality private time.
Lodging must be as spectacular as your pocketbook allows
and your heart desires. So choose carefully. Suites
come with heart-shaped beds and flickering fireplaces
and room service menus include chilled champagne, chocolate-dipped
strawberries, massages and breakfast in bed. Dinners
are offered in intimate settings, with candlelight and
soft music.
This is the time to splurge. You are in love, and you
want to go home with memories that will keep "that
lovin feeling" alive for years to come.
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