12 Romantic Places Around the World to Say I Love You
Set your heart on a dreamy getaway with someone special.
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Photo By: Prague City Tourism/www.prague.eu ©Prague City Tourism/www.prague.eu
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Photo By: Casa de Uco
Photo By: Paris Tourist Office/Photographer David Lefranc/Architect Ieoh Ming Pei
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Photo By: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson
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Photo By: Topdeck Travel
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Prague
Prague is a romantic, historic city, and one that escaped much of the destruction that rained down on wartime Europe. When you book a room at trendy pentahotel Prague on Secret Escapes, you can easily catch a tram and explore this "City of a Thousand Spires." Stroll hand-in-hand through the royal garden, or ride in a horse-drawn carriage down picturesque streets. Feed the swans on the Vltava River and walk across pedestrian-friendly Charles Bridge to buy souvenirs from local artists. After a tour of fairytale-like Prague Castle, share an order of hot dumplings and cold beer. Don't forget to visit the John Lennon Wall to draw a heart with your initials (yes, graffiti is allowed).
Botswana
Royal-watchers felt their hearts flutter when Prince Harry popped the question to American Meghan Markle during their trip to Maun. Although Maun is considered the tourism capital of Botswana, many visitors simply pass through it on their way to the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve or other region. Let the couple’s vacation inspire you, and go camping in the bush (ask about luxury accomodations or glamping). Then head out on a Botswanan safari or tour to look for elephants, hippos and other amazing animals.
Argentina
The sexy, sultry tango originated in Buenos Aires, which is a great place for a romantic escape. For an under-the-radar getaway, leave the crowds behind and visit lush Uco Valley, just southwest of Mendoza City. Considered one of Argentina's top wine-producing regions, it's home to many family-owned vineyards and wineries. Plan a stay at Casa de Uco, a boutique resort that offers open-flame barbeques, moonlit horseback rides, treks into the spectacular Andes, wine tastings and even Argentine-cooking classes. After all that activity, relax with a vinotherapy spa treatment.
Paris
Paris earns its reputation as the city of love. Locals as well as visitors exchange kisses under the Eiffel Tower and dine at the top to watch the city lights sparkle at night. You might sit for a couple's portrait in Montmarte or share wine, cheese and bread on the banks of the Seine. Sadly, you're no longer allowed to snap padlocks inscribed with messages of love on the bridge railings at Pont des Arts (the weight of thousands of locks was weakening them). A leisurely afternoon at the Louvre is a wonderful alternative.
Scotland
Outlander fans know Scotland is a swoon-worthy choice for lovers. Visit a picturesque village on the Isle of Skye and bunk in a cozy B&B; head to the Highlands for a horseback ride on the beach; or stop for a tour and a dram at one of the country's whiskey distilleries. In the evening, Glasgow beckons with opera, theater and ballet performances, as well as fine museums and galleries. If that’s not enough to stir your passion, book a champagne cruise on Loch Lomond; picnic atop Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano known for its breathtaking views; or gaze at the star-filled skies over Galloway Forest Park, an official Dark Sky Park.
Monte Carlo
Talk about the things we sacrifice for love: Grace Kelly was an Academy Award-winning actress when she abandoned Hollywood to marry Monaco's Prince Rainier III. You can sample that kind of royal glamour in the tiny city of Monte Carlo, known for its elegant hotels, swanky restaurants and legendary casino. Book a stay at Hotel Metropole, and set your lover’s heart racing with a "Get Dizzy with Speed" experience (it lets you become a Grand Prix driver for a day). Later, relax in a Prestige Suite with a private terrace that's perfect for sunning, lounging and maybe even proposing.
Hawaii
Aloha means both "hello" and "goodbye" in Hawaii, but it also expresses affection and love. The islands are a paradise for lovers, thanks to their warm Pacific waters, tropical flowers and sandy, sun-kissed beaches. Some beaches are rather secluded; if you want to be alone, try Makalawena or Makua. You can also opt for a couple’s massage in a private hut on the shore, or book a twilight cruise to watch the sun set over the ocean. When you’re ready to head home, slip a lei around your partner’s neck. Whether you’re arriving in the islands or departing from them, it’s another way to say "I love you."
Mexico City
Ever heard, "The course of true love never did run smooth"? It certainly didn’t for one of Mexico’s most celebrated painters, Frida Kahlo. Her volatile relationship with husband Diego Rivera played out in Mexico City, where you can indulge your passion for her art by visiting Museo de Kahlo, also known as the Blue House. If you're feeling adventurous, dine at one of the couple’s favorite restaurants, Prendes, and order a dish of Maguey worms, made famous by Diego. (Yes, really. The worms are found in Mexico's century plants). Top off your trip with a little dancing, a flight over the pyramids in a hot air balloon, or a luxurious spa treatment featuring indigenous ingredients (tequila, anyone?).
Marrakech
Think Valentine-red when you visit Marrakech, often called the "Red City" of Morocco. Many walls, palaces and other structures in this ancient city were made of clay, so they’re pink or terracotta-colored. Heat up your love life with some regional cuisine like tajine, a stew prepared with spices like ginger, cinnamon and saffron. Buy your loved one a pair of traditional Moroccan slippers or haggle for tin lanterns and Berber carpets at a colorful souk (market). A 10-day Topdeck Travel Moroccan Explorer tour includes a camel ride into the dunes, where you can snap selfies while the sun sinks over the golden sand.
New Zealand
Movie-goers know New Zealand as the land of Middle Earth, home to adventuresome hobbits, elves and other characters from Tolkien’s epic tale, The Lord of the Rings. With Topdeck Travel's Sweet as North tour, you'll take your own adventure from Auckland to Wellington, past roaring waterfalls, volcanoes and bubbling mud pools, and you'll experience Maori culture. There's downtime, too, of course, so you can visit a spa and relax by a fireplace in an alpine lodge. The trip ends in Wellington, the capital city, where it's said there are more bars and restaurants per capita than in the Big Apple.
Venice
Casanova, born in Venice in 1726, was a notorious womanizer, but he's also known as one of the world's greatest lovers. He'd probably recommend taking your special someone on a gondola ride through the canals. Of course, there's much more to do in the area. Catch a water taxi to Murano and see how glass is blown (a red glass heart, made with real gold, makes a perfect souvenir). Or stroll over to St. Mark's Square and overlook the rooftops from the Campanile Bell Tower. Just don't feed the pigeons. That romantic but messy tourist pasttime has been banned.
Banff, Alberta, Canada
A romantic getaway at Vermillion Lakes, in Banff National Park, is just a five-minute drive from the town of Banff. Pack a picnic breakfast and thermos of cofee, and go early to see the sun rise and paint Mount Rundle with watercolor shades of pink, yellow and orange. Later, look for moose, beavers and elk as you wander along Fenland Trail, or rent a canoe and paddle around the peaceful lake. If you're very lucky, you might even spot the ethereal Northern Lights on a dark night.