Planning a Romantic Holiday
Planning a romantic holiday does not simply involve hopping on a flight to Paris, France. On the contrary, whilst Paris deserves its place as the most romantic city on Earth ñ although the Italian city of Venice would likely contest this point ñ there are a host of other destinations throughout the world in which lovers can enjoy a romantic getaway. Moreover, the traditional tourist spots are not always the best for an intimate break, so it is important that the destination chosen can provide a little privacy alongside the usual offerings of rest and relaxation. Furthermore, the less mainstream the destination is, the more spontaneous it will appear to be - and, as many people appreciate, spontaneity is the cornerstone of keeping a romance alive.
Arguably one of the Caribbean's best-kept secrets - in large part thanks to the USA's invasion in the early 1980's -
Grenada is about as good as it gets in terms of atypical romantic holidays. Indeed, Grenada has long been a forgotten island whose features are marked by spectacular waterfalls, unblemished waters, blue skies and delightful beaches. However, it is now amongst the world's best romantic travel destinations after the Laluna Resort was opened, which offers a collection of exquisite cottages that are ideal for lovers who want a little privacy in paradise.
A traditional US holiday will invariably involve a visit to
New York,
California,
Las Vegas or
Miami, which are the "happening" places in the country. For romantic getaways, however, loved-up tourists should look at something a little more low-key. In this respect, a trip to Whidbey Island in Washington is ideal. With modern accommodation available in the area, a 1937 movie house and various coastal retreats, Whidbey Island offers a pleasant and relaxing holiday that even boasts whale-spotting during spring!
However, if star-crossed lovers prefer something a little more exotic,
Bora Bora is the place to be. This beautiful Pacific Ocean island is located some 140 miles to the northwest of Papeete and is quite literally the very definition of paradise. Visitors can enjoy stays at the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort, which, whilst not exactly empty, is also rarely overcrowded. Furthermore, lovers can enjoy the clear water lagoon, the inactive volcano peaks and the delightful tropical surroundings for what is the ultimate exotic getaway for couples.
Nevertheless, if spontaneity is to be taken to the extreme, the more adventurous of couples would take immense pleasure in a trip to
San Camp, Botswana. Whilst a trip to Africa is perhaps not everybody's idea of the perfect romantic holiday, Botswana is a truly beautiful country that offers fantastic safari opportunities. What could be more romantic than spending steamy nights under the stars and experiencing jaw-dropping adventures during the day that may involve watching zebras and cheetahs roaming the floodplains?
Obviously, the answer to that is Honolulu in
Hawaii. This visually stunning island is matched only by the quality of its warm, unbroken sunshine. Mauna Kea is the island`s highest peak (4,205 metres) and provides excellent views across the Pacific Ocean, whilst couples can enjoy a stay in the Royal Hawaiian, which has recently been given a $100 million makeover and features a restaurant that is perfect for enjoying sunset meals.
Finally, relatively
cheap holidays can make excellent romantic getaways. Indeed, a trip to
Fez in Morocco offers an exquisite taste of a romantic bygone age on a shoestring. Whilst perhaps not as cheap as somewhere like Prague, Fez is ideal for young couples and restaurants such as the Riad Ibn Battouta will not bust the bank.
Labels: myTravels
Ireland: A Little Bit of Heaven
by Jack Hennessey, Salem, MA
When was the last time you really enjoyed a vacation? When did you get out and wander around and see places or things you only heard about? When was the last time you dined on local cuisine and consumed regional beverages, listened to rollicking cultural music or visited a medieval castle? If you cannot remember then it is time for you to travel to Ireland.
Ireland is the country where you are treated like a family and friend. Whether it is short trip, long vacation or family reunion your time in Ireland will be an enriching, enjoyable experience. Ireland has so much to offer for vacationers. History is everywhere you go in Ireland. Its in the place names, the standing stones, the ancient forts and castles dotted throughout the landscape. The countryside is breathtaking in its beauty. The rugged coastlines with outstanding ocean views are magnificent. My favorite vistas were the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Peninsula and Springhill Beach in Sligo.
Historic castles are found throughout the country. Some are for viewing and others are available for romantic getaways or special vacations. Stay at an Irish Castle. My wife and I loved the Ballynahinch Castle which is about 20 miles North of the city of Galway. The castle had luxurious rooms, outstanding cuisine and it was located on a back road near a picturesque lake. We were and you, too, deserve to be treated like royalty. This enjoyable, romantic experience will stay with you forever.
Different than a historic castle but just as much fun is a stay in a traditional bed and breakfast or farmhouse. Ireland has the best bed and breakfasts and farmhouses in the entire world. At a bed and breakfast home you will become acquainted with people that will make your vacation in Ireland truly memorable. You will learn about Irish Folklore, consume Irish teas. soda bread and jams. This is in addition to the clean rooms and outstanding full Irish breakfasts. Staying at an Irish Bed and Breakfast is truly a pleasant cultural experience.
Sport lovers will feel like they are in heaven when they visit Ireland. Ireland has some of the world's finest golf courses, rivers to fish and horses to ride. Also, do not forget the horse races in Dublin, yachting on the Shannon River. exciting soccer games and Irish Hurling. At the end of your travel day, enjoy a smooth tasting Guinness and sandwich in one of the many great Irish Pubs.
Looking for Irish entertainment? You can find it in the clubs and halls of the villages, towns and cities of Ireland. The Irish love to socialize, play their musical instruments, step dance and sing the new and old Irish folk music. You can also be sure that they will invite you to join in their song and dance fests.
April through October are the best months for traveling in Ireland. The weather is sunny and drier.The days are longer, flowers are in bloom and the grass is greener.My preferred way to view Ireland is to rent a car and drive around the country. A two week self drive vacation would give you enough time to view and enjoy most of Ireland. Driving through Ireland you will be overwhelmed by the by the numerous scenic vistas and beautiful countryside. The country roads in Ireland are narrow and sometimes scary to drive. It is not unusual to get lost after taking a wrong turn. Yet the beauty of a Irish road vacation is getting lost and getting help in a small village.
Traveling through Ireland You will also have many opportunities to interact with the local population. The Irish speak English but unlike American, British or Indian English the sound of their brogue has a musical sound that is pleasing to your ears. Engage yourself in friendly conversations with the Irish and you will hear stories about the local culture, folklore, myths, history and the best places to dine and find entertainment. Upon completion of your conversation, realization will hit you that this cultural conversation was one of the reasons you traveled to Ireland.
As you can tell I could go on and on about vacations in Ireland. Rather than doing that I would recommend that you travel to this beautiful country on your next vacation. If you do that I am sure that you will return home with a smile on your face and a fondness for the memories you created in the Emerald Isle.
Labels: myTravels
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