Romantic holiday destinations

When you’re busy juggling careers, schedules and family responsibilities, there is often little time left for you and that someone special in your life. It’s important to take time out and make time for your relationship, even if you have been married for 20 years. Put the spark back into your love life on a romantic trip for just the two of you. It will do wonders for you both, and help rekindle the romance.

1) Aruba, Caribbean

Known for being a great honeymoon spot, with long stretches of white sandy beaches and perfect weather almost all-year-round, Aruba in the southern Caribbean Sea is the quintessential romantic getaway.

The beaches in the south coast are somewhat protected from the trade winds, so the water is calm, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. This north side of the island gets the full force of the trade winds so the water can be choppy, but it makes for great kite-surfing and windsurfing.

Many of the resorts are couples-only, rent your own accommodation for guaranteed seclusion.

2) Prague, Czech Republic

If you’re looking for the ideal place to declare your love, look no further than the Charles Bridge in Prague. Scores of couples fix a padlock to the bridge, then throw the key away to signify the solidity of their love.

With some of the most stunning architecture in Europe, Prague’s medieval and Baroque buildings are incredibly well preserved, and only lend to the romance of the city.

Take a cruise along the Vlatva to get great views of the Old Town, or enjoy a night of decadence in a private box at the Prage State Opera, one of the most beautifully gilded opera houses in the world.

3) Dartmoor, UK

It may not be an obvious choice, but there is something moody and exceedingly romantic about the wild countryside of Dartmoor.

This region has ancient forests, craggy granite peaks, and vast, rolling moors that stretch for miles. In the spring, wildflowers abound, while in the autumn the hills are carpeted in purple heather. Even winter can be romantic, with a brisk walk across the moors followed by a quiet dinner beside a crackling fire.

4) Maldives, Indian Ocean

Luxury thatched huts sitting on stilts over brilliant turquoise waters is the iconic holiday many people seek when they’re checking out romantic getaways. And it’s easy to see why, who wouldn’t want direct access to the Indian Ocean from their bedroom?

Snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities are plentiful with over three thousand coral reefs to explore. At the end of the day, take a sunset cruise, a stroll on the shore or enjoy a candlelit dinner under the stars.

5. Kyoto, Japan

What could be more romantic than wandering hand-in-hand under cherry blossoms in full bloom? Kyoto in April is positively bedecked in pretty pink flowers, and it’s a sight that even Japanese residents make time to see.

There are thousands of cherry blossoms across Kyoto, so it would be hard to miss them. Take it all in on a leisurely stroll with your sweetheart on Philosopher’s Walk, a path running alongside the canal between Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji.

Any time of year is a good time to visit Kyoto if you can’t make it for the cherry bloom. There are two thousand shrines and temples here, including the Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its 5,000 orange gates, and the 8th century Kiyomiz-dera, where legend says if you walk the path with your eyes closed you are guaranteed success in love.