Valentine’s Day is here and, if you’re anything like me, you haven’t even begun to think of a gift. But don’t start making the same book of coupons for items like “1 free hug” that you gave your mom for Mother’s Day circa 1996 just yet. Because there are plenty of options out there that will sweep your significant other, girl/boyfriend, or booty-call-who-you-really-don’t-want-to-take-off-the-table-yet off their feet!
So what can you do to really wow someone? Candy and flowers are fine but they’re pretty clichéd and just not memorable enough. What you want is something that will create lasting memories for the two of you. Because life is all about the experiences you share with those you love. Sometimes they’re the terrible experiences — like when you get stuck in an airport for 24 hours and they send all your luggage to Peru for some reason — but even misadventures can bond a couple.
While I have no idea what physical gifts I’ve received the past few Valentine’s Days, I remember all of of the trips down to the most minute detail. Because there’s nothing better than traveling with your best friend and partner. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of some of the most romantic destinations on earth
Bonus: you’ll totally win at “present giving” (which is good because a healthy relationship is one that’s entrenched in constant, bitter competition).
The Ranch at Rock Creek — Philipsburg, Montana
The Ranch fulfills your cabin in the woods fantasy without giving up any of the luxuries of an amazing hotel. Over Valentine’s Day weekend, they offer multiple activities like group yoga, snowga, gourmet tasting menus, a barn dance, a wood fire barbecue, and a special Valentines Day dinner as well as opportunities to ski, ice skate, and snowmobile.
While I am normally anti-all-things snow-related (mostly due to my propensity to horribly injure myself and fall BEFORE you add any ice or snow into the equation), this property has so many options for fun, romantic activities that you can’t go wrong.
And it’s in Montana! You don’t get a more romantic landscape than Big Sky country.
The Chateau at Lake La Quinta — La Quinta, CA
The thing I love most about Palm Springs is that there’s nothing to do but relax and unwind. It is just all about baking in the glorious dry heat by the water, spa experiences, and drinking too much. And the Chateau at Lake La Quinta is the perfect Oasis in the middle of the desert. The lovely property has stunning lake views and will make you feel like you’ve stepped out of all the hustle and bustle of your normal lives. Right now, the boutique is offering a “L’Amour” experience designed exclusively for couples. The romantic experience includes two 60-minute massages, a chilled bottle of Champagne, breakfast in bed for two, and views of Lake La Quinta from every suite.
Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve — Krabi, Thailand
Well, this is obviously PARADISE. Phulay Bay boasts an infinity pool, candle light yoga, a sunset cruise, island-hopping excursions, jungle treks, dedicated 24-hour butler service and spa treatments for two in The Spa. Also, I read on trip advisor that there’s a baby elephant at Happy Hour. Am I sure it’s okay to trot out a baby elephant for our delight at happy hour? No, I feel that might be exploitative and to be honest, I would like to know a little more about the baby elephant and the conditions in which it lives.
But at the same time. OH MY GOD. I can feed a baby elephant bananas while I sip on a martini. I DIE.
The Lodhi — New Delhi, India
This hotel looks awesome. There are rooms with private heated plunge pools. You cannot get more romantic than a private plunge pool. And the Lodhi is offering an assortment of romantic amenities for Valentine’s Day including a welcome sparkling wine cocktail, breakfast for two anytime anywhere, chocolates and flowers in-suite, complimentary transfers within the city, 30-percent off to use for spa, salon, recreation or laundry services (Ah the simple romance of having someone else do your laundry), early check-in/late check-out and a complimentary wash at the salon.
Clean hair for your hotel sex, god that sounds fancy.
A South American Sweetheart Adventure by Scott Dunn
If you really want to impress the love of your life (or an enemy that you inexplicably are treating to the trip of a lifetime) then you should definitely take Scott Dunn’s journey for two in Argentina and Chile — showcasing the extraordinary wonders of Patagonia, the majestic lakes and wildlife of Torres del Paine National Park and the world-famous Perito Moreno glacier.
The itinerary also includes horse-riding with gauchos, sailing, hiking and kayaking during the 12 day trip. I want to become friends with every llama in South America and based on this photo, I feel like this is the trip to do so.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach — Laguna Beach, CA
Apparently, ranches are the height of romance, and this hotel is no exception. Tucked into a canyon, this idyllic resort looks lovely. Like the perfect place for a romantic weekend away. And throughout February, couples who book a stay will receive resort credit of up to $100, a complimentary champagne toast or after-dinner cocktail at Harvest restaurant, 15% savings on a 60-minute couples massage with a pre-treatment gift and 20% off golf instruction for two and special course rates.
Guests who book over the holiday will enjoy a special Valentine’s Day three-course dinner menu. You just have to use the promotion code: FEBROMANCE. Which I cannot help but read as “Bromance” which I assume The Ranch at Laguna Beach heartily supports.
