You want to surprise your partner with the perfect Valentine’s Day getaway, but the world is a big place. You have a dizzying array of great destinations to choose from. What to do?
Luckily, we’ve taken some of the guesswork out of the equation. No matter what your pleasure is, this list showcases a wide array of places to suit most any couples’ fancy.
1. Seychelles
Even the name sounds utterly romantic. Stay on the ultra-private Fregate Island, where there is a resort with never more than forty guests at one time. Relax with free-roaming giant turtles, thousands of birds and seven beaches. Snorkel in the water with the sea life, then round out your day with a fruity cocktail looking out over crystal waters.
2. Budapest, Hungary
The Hungarian capital is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in Europe. The cultural buildings and architecture please the eye, and the vista points beg you to pull your partner in for a kiss and a selfie. It is also one of the most affordable places in Europe, and one of the coolest.
3. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Enjoy the Vegas of the Middle East – turned up about ten notches. Dubai’s endless stream of high-rises, luxurious shopping and culinary scene will make you feel like royalty throughout your entire stay. Soak up some rays on the beach, shop in the world’s largest mall, or take a day trip out to the desert.
4. Santorini, Greece
You’ve seen all of the photos of perfect, white-washed and pastel terraced structures, with crystal blue waters of the Sea of Crete beyond. But nothing prepares you for the real thing. Stroll hand in hand as you explore the island of killer sunsets and popular vista points. There are endless photographic opportunities to cherish forever.
5. Venice, Italy
For a town that was built on water, it practically begs lovers to come and enjoy each other’s company on a gondola, gently rolling along the waterway, with ancient buildings towering on either side. Stay in a hotel over looking the Grand Canal, eat your weight in Italian pasta (the best) and stroll through the cobblestone streets. Perfection.
6. The Maldives
For true luxury, a secluded archipelago in the Indian Ocean can be the perfect way to celebrate your relationship. Private white sand beaches are lapped by cerulean waters, where your personal villa resides amid lush vegetation. Water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling and windsurfing and delectable seafood are the norm.
7. Napa Valley, California
The wine-tasting alone is reason to travel long distances. Some serious planning is needed in order to hone in on just the types of vineyards that interest you – there are just so many of them! And if wine is not your thing, Napa doesn’t disappoint with its rolling grape fields, perfect for a leisurely road trip. Luxurious spa resorts, fine dining and boutique shopping will keep you busy.
8. Maui, Hawaii
You know we had to put Hawaii somewhere on this list. From the 10,000-foot summit of Mount Haleakala, to world-class snorkeling near the moon-shaped island of Molokini, there is no shortage of romance to be found in Maui. Oh, and the beaches are pretty good, too! The road to Hana is a must-do.
9. Bora Bora
There is good reason this destination makes it onto all of the luxury holiday lists. It is Paradise personified. Languish on the pristine beaches in your own private hut, snorkel the day away, or get active with a bit of hiking. Smack dab in the middle of the Pacific, it is also one of the premiere places for scuba diving. And with its popularity comes great deals to be had to get here.
10. Mount Cook, New Zealand
Truly get away from it all with your partner and escape to Aoraki Village at Mount Cook. Aoraki is a remote village in the mountains of New Zealand, and with the high elevation comes incredible views. Enjoy healthy mountain air with a bit of hiking and then relax with a hearty lunch in town. When the sun goes down, the night show happens with some of brightest stargazing on the planet.
11. Taipei, Taiwan
Okay, we’ll admit this is a bit unconventional for Valentines’ Day, but if you are a city-goer, it fits the bill. The capital of Taiwan is brimming with cultural goodies, fine dining, and night life up the yin yang. Foodies will go nuts here (pun intended) with a lively street food scene. The shopping is to die for, and you can even take a day trip out of the city to explore the countryside.
12. Aysen, Chile
If you are more the outdoor, adventurous type, this one’s for you. It will seem as though you are at the ends of the earth with your special friend. And in many ways, you are! You will see lakes, caves and glaciers galore as you explore the archipelago of islands. Visit the North Patagonian Ice Field at Laguna San Rafael National Park. And put your camera away, as nothing can capture the stunning vistas you’ll encounter (but you can try.)
13. The Cotswolds, UK
This has got to be the most picturesque village in the United Kingdom. Take a lovers’ stroll through immaculate gardens, rolling hills, see gorgeous old churches and medieval villages which surround this area of the U.K. Rent your own cottage and just try not to spend all your time in it. Rural England exudes romanticism, and a drive around the area is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Seriously, you won’t want to leave.
14. Your own hometown
I’m a big believer in the power of the “staycation.” Treat your partner to an incredible “trip” right in your own backyard. Or simply the next town over. Stay in a luxury hotel or a cozy vacation house. Cook them a fancy dinner, or make those reservations. Some of the best trips can be done at home. You may even find your next favorite hangout as you do research in your own neck of the woods.
Whatever suits your fancy, you will enjoy Valentine’s Day with your loved one in at least one of these world-class destinations. Surprise your one-and-only with a special trip that the both of you will remember and talk about for years to come.
