LOVE is in the air!
When it comes to planning a romantic holiday, the world is literally your oyster so choosing the perfect destination is important. In a world where everyone wants the perfect Instagram to post we can sometime lose sight of the true beauty of the world around us.
2024 is the year for adventure and could be the start of your LOVE story so whether you are booking your honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or simply looking to spend time with your loved one the choice is endless and there are so many captivating romantic places around the world that can make your trip truly unforgettable. From breathtaking landscapes to cultural wonders, let's explore some of the most romantic holiday destinations that will sweep you off your feet.
PARIS – FRANCE
Known as the City of Love and possibly the most known city for romance. Paris exudes romance with its charming streets, iconic landmarks, and world-class cuisine. Take a stroll along the Seine River, visit the Eiffel Tower, and explore the charming neighbourhoods like Montmartre. Indulge in a candlelit dinner at a candlelit bistro and enjoy delicious pastries at a local patisserie. Paris is a timeless destination that will make you fall in love all over again. There are plenty of direct flights from Glasgow or Edinburgh.
SANTORINI - GREECE
Known for its stunning sunsets and whitewashed buildings perched on cliffs, Santorini is a dreamy destination for couples and guaranteed to capture that perfect Instagram picture. The island's picturesque villages, such as Oia and Fira, offer breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the caldera, explore the charming streets hand in hand, or relax on the black sand beaches. Santorini's unique beauty and romantic ambiance make it a top choice for couples seeking romance in a stunning destination. We finally have direct flights from Edinburgh but are always full so you need to plan in advance.
BORA BORA – FRENCH POLYNESIA
For those seeking a tropical paradise, Bora Bora is the ultimate romantic getaway. This idyllic island in the South Pacific is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, overwater bungalows, and vibrant coral reefs. Spend your days snorkelling, swimming with sharks and rays, or simply relaxing on the pristine beaches. Bora Bora offers seclusion and luxury, making it an ideal destination for couples looking to escape the world and create lasting memories. That being said it is not the easiest of destinations to get to but WOW it is so worth it and truly a trip of a lifetime. Flights would be indirect and most likely to be via London and Los Angeles.
VENICE – ITALY
Venice, with its many canals, gondolas, and historic architecture, the Italian city that oozes romance. Take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, explore the narrow streets, and visit iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge. Lose yourselves in the maze-like alleys and discover hidden gems, such as charming cafes and local artisan shops. Venice's unique charm and timeless beauty make it a perfect destination for couples seeking a romantic escape and with DIRECT flights from Scotland an easy choice.
MALDIVES
The Maldives is a tropical paradise that offers seclusion, luxury, and natural beauty. I was lucky enough to spend a holiday there in 2023 and truly was just as the brochure looks. With its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and luxurious resorts, it's no wonder that this archipelago is a popular choice for honeymooners. Stay in an overwater villa, indulge in spa treatments, and enjoy candlelit dinners under the stars. The Maldives is a true paradise for couples looking to unwind and reconnect in a breathtaking setting. It truly is paradise and connecting with ocean makes you forget the outside world. Choosing the right island is important and there is so much choice. Flights would be indirect, and the easy option is to fly from Glasgow to Dubai and then to Male and many couples opting for 2 centre trip with a stopover in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
NEW YORK – USA
My list would not be complete without sharing my favourite city NEW YORK with its iconic skyline and vibrant energy. Take a romantic stroll through Central Park and enjoy a picnic (seasonal) there are lots of fabulous neighbourhoods like Greenwich Village and SoHo with many hidden gems of cafes and unique boutiques. Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Hudson River, a Broadway show or visit one of the many fabulous roof top bars. Why not take a trip to Coney Island and enjoy the fairground ? The city has many iconic landmarks that are linked to some of the best love stories like "An Affair to Remember," "West Side Story," and "Breakfast at Tiffany’s" to name a few. There are direct flights from Edinburgh although flights are readily available via London, Iceland or Dublin from Glasgow.
A Checklist to consider when booking.
- Time of Year – choosing the right season as you don’t want to be in your beach paradise in the monsoon season although that is a good time to get a deal and it generally doesn’t rain all day so worth checking out.
- Determine your budget and think about spending money too not just the cost of the initial trip so you can enjoy everything the destination has to offer.
- What’s important – beach, city, culture, dining. Make a wish list of what is important to you.
If you are booking a trip like these for your honeymoon or anniversary, then please remember to tell your travel agent so they can let the hotel know as most hotels will offer honeymoon and anniversary benefits and will make you stay extra special.
In conclusion, the world is filled with so romantic holiday destinations that can make your trip with your loved one truly special. Whether you prefer a tropical beach paradise, a city immersed in history or a cultural immersion, there is literally somewhere for everyone depending on budget and time of year. The breathtaking sunsets of Santorini to the charming streets of Paris, these enchanting places offer the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.
So what are you waiting for ?
