One & Only Ocean Club,
Photo Courtesy of One & Only Resorts
Whisk your honey away for a sultry Valentine’s Day this year. After all, it’s a holiday weekend, so you get even more time to woo and be pampered. But even if you can’t get away specifically for Cupid’s favorite day, don’t worry. These wonderful spots aren’t going anywhere and are perfect for couples any time of the year.
One & Only Ocean Club, Bahamas
Despite the clichéd walks on the beach and sunset dinners in the sand, you can’t deny romance is a breeze when you’re on a beautiful island. Add a sleek seaside hotel with food curated by the famed Jean-Georges Vongerichten into the mix, and you have the perfect getaway. At the dazzling Ocean Club, you can book a couples massage in a secluded cabana not too far from the water, or take your sweetheart on an adventurous snorkeling, sailing, diving and windsurfing tour around the island. After, break from the sea and sand to wander the stunning gardens, a highlight that mimics parts of Versailles and includes a 12th-century Augustinian cloister and terraced steps. After that magical experience, make your way back to the beach where, naturally, you can arrange to have a private meal served right on the Atlantic and cap off your vacation just right.
Ancient Cedars Spa, Photo Courtesy of Wickaninnish Inn Tofino
Wickaninnish Inn Tofino, Canada
Doesn’t a couples massage overlooking the Pacific, while surrounded by wild forest, just scream intimacy? But similarly romantic situations can unfold all over this Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star property. Aside from the Four-Star spa services, though, the quaint property has everything else you might need to celebrate your love in style. Each of the 12 suites comes with a soaker tub, fireplace and an individual balcony overlooking Chesterman Beach. No, you won’t be doing much sunbathing on this vacation, but cuddling up with a glass of Moët and an in-room breakfast from The Pointe Restaurant (just two of the many treats in the West Coast Romance package) while an awe-inspiring storm rages outside sure sounds plenty lovely to us. And don’t worry, the place is equipped for any gale; in fact, nature is part of the hotel’s charm.
The Grand, Uruguay
Why go to some overpopulated region of the globe when you can take advantage of the road less traveled? And if you’re worried that making such a call means being without beautiful surroundings, fret not. This rings especially true if you venture down to Uruguay and book a stay at newly opened The Grand in Punta de Este, a stylish area lovingly called The Hamptons of South America. The Grand lies right on Brava Beach, and features a stunning spa equipped with Roman baths, a Scottish shower and sauna. Most rooms face the ocean, so you can order room service and stare off into the roaring sea. Later, take a dip in said water or, if weather hinders, dive into the heated 45-foot indoor swimming pool and relax before heading out to dance the night away just minutes from the hotel.
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, Photo Courtesy of Christopher Cypert
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
Even when there is no snow falling, Tahoe is still one of the most picturesque places to be. Of course, having your darling on your arm only adds to the enchantment. It doesn’t hurt that this particular Four-Star resort does refinement and luxury better than almost any other property around, too. Promotions like Rekindle Romance only heighten our infatuation with the property these days. Beyond overnight accommodations, you get a 50-minute couples massage from the Four-Star spa, a $100 resort credit and a 2 p.m. checkout. With all the extra time, you can enjoy the numerous slopes for skiers and snowboarders, gourmet s’mores from the resort’s marshmologist and hot cocktails alfresco on the resort’s heated terrace. Finally, when you all are ready to turn in for the night, crank up the in-room fireplace and let the heat of the flames set the amorous mood.
The Brown, Tel Aviv
Between the great food, energetic dancing, serene Mediterranean vistas and big-city culture, Tel Aviv proves an underrated option for savvy travelers looking for a romantic detour. Though travel warnings exist for Northern Israel, Tel Aviv, the country’s second-biggest city, is as safe as any other global metropolis. For a comfortable stay in the heart of it all, The Brown boutique hotel is the place to check in. Each of its deluxe rooms has plenty of space and a unique, almost masculine style that exudes warmth and strength. Start off your stay with a glass of bubbly, the perfect precursor to an afternoon cocktail at the indoor-outdoor rooftop bar. Or you could always head to the spa where you’ll find a superb package for two featuring duel massages, an intimate aromatic salt bath and glasses of cold, crisp cava. Use the hotel’s guest services to book a horseback riding adventure, schedule a wine-tasting tour in the surrounding areas or soar above the city in a helicopter. No matter what you decide to do, it’s an experience you and your loved one won’t forget in a passionate city often overlooked.
