Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to bring a little luxury into your life, especially if the winter weather’s left you in need of some sunshine therapy. Many people swear by anything from historic cities like Florence to a log cabin in the Scottish Highlands as the ideal romantic holiday, but when it comes to indulgence in far-away lands, these three destinations are sure to create a spark.
Thailand
Romantic escapes barely come exotic than Thailand, with its intoxicating mixture of spiritual sites, gorgeous island idylls and the wild country of the north-lands. Standards of accommodation are high, with exclusive resorts in places like Khaoyai National Park where you can dine on a hilltop, surrounded by mist-drenched mountains or rent a secluded sea-front bungalow on the quieter coast of Krabi.
It’s also one of the best places in the world to grab a spa treatment for two, with the renowned Thai hospitality and healing massage among the mangroves or looking out over the Andaman Sea. Seductive in every sense, the Kingdom of Thailand is fast-becoming a favourite destination for couples.
St. Lucia
If you fancy a classic island retreat, head for the Caribbean and a world of luxury you can rarely find anywhere else. Romantic holidays are best sought away from popular destinations like Barbados and Jamaica; try the island of St. Lucia and find the true meaning of seclusion.
Peace and quiet in locations like Anse Chastanet comes complete with incredible lakeside and even volcanic views of the famous Pitons, so it’s possible to do nothing at all and still feel privileged. If you must indulge in activities, take a catamaran out on the waves at sunset, snorkel the beautiful lagoons or explore the jungle in search of waterfalls and rare wildlife.
Egypt
Floating down the River Nile at dusk, stopping at natural hot springs and sweeping ancient ruins; holidays to Egypt have the whole romantic package sewn up. Begin your journey through the Nile Valley in the magnificent city of Luxor and travel to the Nubian paradise of Aswan, pausing to tread in the footsteps of royalty in the Valley of the Kings or the temples at Edfu and Esna.
River cruises are a great way to shape your romantic break just the way you like it, with all the cultural interest and sight-seeing you need. If the healing waters of Aswan’s spa resorts don’t tempt you at your final destination, try the Botanical Garden at Kitchener’s Island and marvel at your very own oasis in the desert.
These locations are spectacular whatever time of year you visit, but you can always make a romantic holiday more so with a little effort. Organise treats from fresh flowers to body treatments and make every dinner special, whether it’s the location or the sinking sun beside you.
If you’re looking for the ultimate relationship tonic, luxurious holidays can really inspire you to spoil each other in a hundred different ways and find your perfect escape.
