When it comes to romance, what tugs at your clients’ heart strings? Do they envision sunset strolls? One-of-a-kind intimate dining experiences? Secluded settings with beautiful views? Luxurious spa services they wouldn’t normally indulge in at home? Destinations that feel new and exciting?
For couples who have “been there done that” when it comes to the destinations that show up on typical “most romantic” lists, it might be time to go back to the drawing board and share unique destinations and travel experiences that get them dreaming of their next vacation together.
Romance can happen anywhere, like in one of these hidden gem romantic destinations.
Scottsdale, Arizona
While the lure of hitting the links draws tourists to this Arizona city, if you look beyond the greens of Scottsdale, you’ll find romance in some surprising spots. Try greeting the day together as the sun rises over the Sonoran Desert, taking in stunning views while floating in the basket of a hot air balloon. Prefer to keep two feet on the ground? Stroll the Desert Botanical Garden’s 55 acres, wander Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West to see the rotating displays of art and artifacts from the region, or spend the day relaxing in one of the city’s luxurious spas. (Joya Spa at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa Montelucia is a standout!) Purchase a Scottsdale Wine Trail Passport to enjoy tastings across a variety of wineries in Old Town Scottsdale, treat yourself to a five-star meal at Café Monarch, and end your day with a taste of Italy at That’s Amore Gelato.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Berkshires are beautiful year round, but really shine in the fall and winter months with a variety of romantic seasonal activities. In the fall, start the day watching the sun rise after a hike to Monument Mountain, enjoy the colorful foliage from the trail, then pay a visit to one of the area’s apple orchards. Sip cider at Berkshire Cider Project or a glass of wine at Balderdash Cellars, and wind down with a romantic dinner at one of The Berkshires’ top romantic restaurants according to voters on BerkshiresWeek.com – Café Adam or Frankie’s. In the winter, ice skate at Notchview or cross-country ski or snowshoe at Maple Corner Farm before attending a performance at the Colonial Theatre.
Monterey, California
The dramatic landscape of California’s central coast, with its rugged cliffs and sweeping views of the Pacific, provides the perfect backdrop for romance and ocean lovers alike. Create a playlist of your favorite tunes and head out for a daytrip along the famed Seventeen Mile Drive, passing famed mansions and golf courses while stopping to check out Bird Rock Beach, Pescadero Point, The Lone Cypress, and other iconic spots. Walk or bike the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail to look for harbor seals, otters, sea lions, birds, and the occasional whale. Once you have worked up an appetite, slow down for the evening with a dinner reservation at Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point for panoramic views and California cuisine, or head to Mission Ranch Hotel & Restaurant for gorgeous outdoor dining amidst the meadows and the mountains.
Lyon, France
While Paris often tops many “most romantic” travel lists, lovebirds shouldn’t discount the city of Lyon, nestled where the Rhône meets the Saône to the southeast of The City of Lights. Take a funicular to the top of Fourvière Hill at sunset to see the city from a bird’s eye view. Pack a picnic and find a quiet corner of Parc de la Tête d’Or to dine together before strolling the surrounding zoo and gardens. When you’re ready for a rest, find a bench and snuggle up on the banks of the Rhône or Saône Rivers and watch the boats cruise by. Foodies will appreciate the fun of a food tour, wine tasting tour, or getting hands-on in a pastry making class taught by a professional chef.
Moorea, French Polynesia
Tahiti might be the most well-known island, and Bora Bora might be the most dreamed about, but quieter Moorea often steals travelers’ hearts when they visit. Less touristy and more affordable than lavish Bora Bora, Moorea beckons with its white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and dramatic mountain peaks. This is the prime destination for booking an overwater bungalow to enjoy after a day spent hiking, boating, or snorkeling. The quiet, friendly vibe of the island feels more authentic than other popular areas of French Polynesia.
Strasbourg, France
Imagine strolling the streets of a Disney movie-esque village on a lovely spring day, inhaling the enticing aromas wafting from the bakeries, gazing at the colorful, storybook buildings, and hearing the gentle hum of the tour boats gliding by. This is just part of the quiet magic of Strasbourg. La Petite France, the historic center of the city, is perfectly romantic for wandering the afternoon away. Fast forward to the Christmas season, and the entire village becomes a magical display of lights that illuminates the oldest Christmas market in the world, dating back four centuries! For Valentine’s Day, the city celebrates Strasbourg Mon Amor, ten days of concerts, dining events, readings, and special city walks designed to enchant anyone celebrating love. Strasbourg is truly charming all year long, so choose the season that feels most romantic to you.
Quebec City, Canada
This 400-year-old city oozes European charm with its historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and city walls lining its perimeter. The snow and cold of winter further add to its magic – imagine snowy strolls, ice skating together at Place D’Youville, and warming up while eating a leisurely meal in an intimate candlelit restaurant. Petit Champlain, the oldest shopping street in the city, feels like a fairytale dream and is fun for boutique browsing and ducking into a pub for a drink. Need to take a break from the chill? The beautiful Strøm Spa Nordique along the banks of the St. Lawrence River touts North America’s largest float bath (and it’s surrounded by candles!) and provides a variety of other services like Finnish saunas, relaxation areas with fireplaces, and indulgent massages. For a truly unique wintry experience, hang onto your sweetheart as you glide down the toboggan slide at Dufferin Terrace next to the iconic Château Frontenac. (Afterwards, reward your bravery with a croissant and a hot cocoa from Au 1884, the café near the base of the slide.)
No matter the season, hidden gem destinations and their unique experiences await your clients who have romance in mind. Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box when you discuss their travel options. KHM Travel Group Agents can visit the Marketing Hub for a wide variety of romance resources to help you run your travel business and promote romance travel to your clients.
