As a luxury travel advisor, I recently attended a major conference in August that offered fresh perspectives on romantic travel. From connecting with partners to learning about unique experiences for couples, I came away with practical ideas for planning meaningful getaways. If you’re considering a romantic trip focused on connection, comfort, and memorable moments, these destinations are well worth exploring.
Greece: Cinematic Beauty and Timeless Charm
There’s a reason Greece is synonymous with romance. The landscapes feel like they’re straight out of a movie, the food is a celebration for the senses, and history is alive in every cobblestone street. It’s a place that perfectly blends the thrill of discovery with the ease of pure indulgence.
Our partners in Greece, Original Senses, have a fantastic tip: while summer is popular, it’s also hot and crowded. Consider a trip in the shoulder season for a more intimate experience. They also recommend adding Paros to your itinerary. This gem is often overlooked for its famous neighbors, Santorini and Mykonos, but that’s its superpower! Paros feels more authentic and less staged, yet it’s every bit as dreamy. Imagine lazy afternoons on tucked-away beaches, followed by lingering dinners in bougainvillea-draped tavernas in the main town of Parikia.
The fishing village of Naoussa is pure magic for couples, with its harbor-side cocktail bars and lantern-lit lanes perfect for late-night strolls. And with Original Senses’ private fleet of speedboats, you can island-hop in style, perhaps taking a day trip to the quieter Antiparos for that “private island for two” feeling.
7132 Hotel, Switzerland: Alpine Serenity
Imagine waking up wrapped in cashmere, watching the Swiss Alps glow in the morning light from your window. Tucked into the quiet Vals valley, the 7132 Hotel is where romance is refined to an art form. The real showstopper here is the thermal baths, designed by the world-renowned architect Peter Zumthor. Slipping into the naturally heated mineral waters is an otherworldly experience, especially if you reserve private access for just the two of you. Everything here, from the sleek, light-filled suites to the Michelin-starred dining, is designed to foster connection.
Bora Bora: The Overwater Paradise
When you picture the ultimate romantic escape, chances are it looks a lot like French Polynesia. Located just a bit farther than Hawaii from the West Coast, Bora Bora offers an escape that feels a world away. This is the home of the iconic overwater bungalow, where you can wake up to the sight of a turquoise lagoon right below your feet.
Days here are spent snorkeling, enjoying private picnics on secluded motus (islets), and simply reconnecting with each other. The brand-new Westin in Bora Bora is elevating the experience with stunning overwater villas, a beautiful lagoon, and multiple dining options. It’s the perfect setting to slow down and savor every moment together.
Sedona, Arizona: Red Rock Romance
In Sedona, romance is woven into the landscape itself. It’s found in the quiet moments, the sound of a babbling creek, and the feeling of being completely removed from the everyday hustle. L’Auberge de Sedona captures this spirit perfectly.
Tucked beneath a canopy of sycamore trees, this boutique resort feels like a hidden love letter to nature. Private cottages with wood-burning fireplaces invite you to get cozy, while outdoor cedar showers let you feel fully immersed in the landscape. Dining at Cress on Oak Creek is an enchanting experience, with candlelit tables set right beside the water. It’s an ambiance that makes conversation flow and time seem to stand still.
Carmel Valley, California: Vineyard Dreams
There’s a special kind of romance that thrives in wine country—the pace is slower, the sunsets are richer, and luxury feels effortless. Bernardus Lodge & Spa in Carmel Valley is a masterclass in this feeling. Set on 28 acres of vineyards and lavender fields, this resort is both sophisticated and deeply personal.
Rooms feature fireplaces and oversized soaking tubs, with patios designed for lingering over a glass of wine as the valley glows in the evening light. The spa is a sanctuary for couples, using herbs and botanicals from the region in its treatments. A meal at Lucia, the resort’s signature restaurant, completes the experience with elegant California cuisine perfectly paired with Bernardus wines.
Panama & Costa Rica: A Tale of Two Paradises
Why choose one paradise when you can have two? The Nayara resorts offer two distinct but equally romantic experiences that can be combined into one incredible vacation.
First, imagine waking up in an overwater villa at Nayara Bocas del Toro in Panama. This private island resort is a playground of turquoise water, plunge pools, and endless ocean views. You can snorkel right from your deck or simply sway in a hammock as the sun sets. It’s an exotic and secluded escape.
Then, journey to the Arenal rainforest in Costa Rica, where Nayara Springs offers an entirely different kind of romance. Here, each private villa is nestled in lush greenery and features its own plunge pool fed by natural hot springs. The air is alive with the sounds of the rainforest. It’s an earthy, immersive experience that connects you deeply to the raw beauty of nature.
I left the conference buzzing with ideas and excitement for what these destinations can offer. Each one provides a unique backdrop for connection and creating lifelong memories.
With the holidays approaching, life is about to get busy. That’s why now is the perfect time to lock in your Valentine’s Day plans. Let’s start planning an unforgettable romantic getaway for you and your special someone!
