It’s a long running joke with friends that where ever I travel, I fall in love with the place and want to move there. For some the romance starts with ancient architecture and age-old traditions, others it is the simple pleasures of white sandy beaches and tropical waters. While the reality of day-to-day life may take the shine off some places, these four romantic destinations are sure to make your hearts flutter.
BALI, INDONESIA
Bali offers visitors more than just picturesque scenery. It is a world of ancient culture and spiritualism. It’s unique traditions will have you returning year over year. Enjoy the setting sun over crystal clear waters in Sanur, a popular beach destination. Meditate at Tanah Lot, a 15th-century temple that is built out over the ocean on a small rocky outcrop. For nature lovers don’t miss the five waterfalls between Bedugul and Singaraja. The furthest, Gitgit is 150 steps climbing to take in the Cascades.
Escape the crowds of the southern beaches by exploring Echo Beach in Seminyak. This secluded swath of sand often is shrouded in a dream-like mist.
RUNAWAY BAY, JAMAICA
Located on Jamaica’s north coast this world-class lovers destination is famous for romance and being the most beautiful bay on the island. From luxury boutique hotels to adult-only all-inclusive resorts, there is the perfect place to call home, even if it is just for a few days. While planning your Jamaica trips, plan for a full day of romance from sailing the blue Caribbean seas to a private candlelight dinner and who knows? Maybe you’ll walk down the white sand aisle to professions of love.
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
Buenos Aires is sophisticated romance with its diverse culture and colorful nightlife. You can move easily between an opera or ballet to dancing the night away at RojoTango, the most popular dance club with exquisite food, cabaret, and velvet-lined interiors. During the day visit the Palmero neighborhood for fine restaurants and boutiques along with miles of parks perfect for romantic strolls and lazy afternoon picnics.
CINQUE TERRE, THE ITALIAN RIVIERA
Ripped from the pages of a romance novel the dramatic shoreline of the Italian Riviera offers travelers the charm of harbor villages, stunning rugged cliff hikes, and gorgeous beachfront. Climb the Cinque Terre trails to wander through vineyards and towns. Stopping to enjoy famous wines and crusty Italian breads.
A painters paradise, the famous Giardini Botanici Hanbury has one of the largest gardens in Italy and offers sweeping panoramas of the water. Portofino is a lush seaside village, perfect for sipping espresso while people watching.
If you want to be surrounded by luxurious comforts, seek your hotel in the resort area of Riviera di Ponente to the west but nothing beats the Riviera di Levante to the east for secluded (romantic) privacy.