Solo travel’s all very well, but there are certain places that are just so special they’re worth saving to share with someone else. From sunset strolls along pristine beaches to thrilling adventures with your best friend, here are our recommendations for ten trips to take with your significant other.
Udaipur, India
Dubbed India’s most romantic city by 19th century British administrator James Tod, Udaipur’s not shaken that enviable reputation in the intervening years. Referred to as the Venice of the East, it’s not hard to find the perfect spot to reconnect with your other half against a backdrop of marble palaces reflected in the water of its lakes.
Santorini, Greece
Sharing a marvelous sunset with someone special is the quintessential couples travel experience. They don’t get much better than Santorini in the Cyclades group of islands. Find a spot overlooking the famous caldera, raise a toast with a chilled glass of wine and watch the sun drop slowly into the horizon.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Of all the dances, the Argentine tango is the sultriest. If you want to see goosebumps on the back of your loved one’s neck, there’s no better place to take lessons than in Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires. Eschew the big tourist shows and find a corner bar with a lock in for a more intimate experience.
Masai Mara, Kenya
The thrill of a safari is best shared – and for maximum wow factor, time a visit to East Africa to coincide with the Great Migration. Wildebeest and zebra gather in huge herds for the perilous journey across the savannah, dodging predatory lions and the hippo-infested waters of the Mara River.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Breathtaking Victoria Falls straddles the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. If you’re looking for a special place to stay with your significant other, there are plenty of luxury options. The Victoria Falls Hotel, located on the Zim side, has history character in spades. Built in 1904, it’s attracted the rich, famous and distinguished throughout its long history. Stroll down the private path to the Falls and pretend it’s your own backyard.
London, England
Forget Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and St Paul’s Cathedral. Twosomes will delight in the British capital if they visit in autumn and winter. Kick fallen leaves on romantic walks through its Royal parks, stroll along the banks of the Thames and rummage for quirky antiques in Portobello Market. Round off your day in front of a roaring fire in one of the capital’s cozy pubs.
Queenstown, New Zealand
The couple that plays together, stays together, so where better to spend your vacation than New Zealand’s adventure sports capital? In winter, grab yourself some skis and bash the pistes of Treble Cone and Cardrona. When the temperatures rise, get the adrenaline racing with bubble soccer, whitewater rafting and the highest bungy jump in the country.
Tromso, Norway
Located a short way north of the Arctic Circle, Tromso days stretch forever during the summer in the Land of the Midnight Sun. By contrast, in midwinter, the sun doesn’t manage to struggle above the horizon, but the dark skies are perfect for hunting the Aurora Borealis. Book a reindeer sleigh ride or dog sledding experience to get you out of town for the best chance of seeing those elusive, magical Northern Lights.
La Digue, Seychelles
To find your own private corner of paradise, head for the Indian Ocean. Private resorts abound, but you can do romance and style on an Average Joe budget on the sleepy island of La Digue. Hire a bicycle and set off on two wheels for Anse Source d’Argent at dawn; at this early hour you’re likely to have the world’s most beautiful beach to yourselves.
Venice, Italy
The ultimate trip to take with your significant other has to be Italy, and it doesn’t get any better than Venice. Tick off the Grand Canal and Doges Palace, schedule in that gondola ride and drink your Bellinis in Harry’s Bar. But then wander into Venice’s back alleys and residential canals to get lost together. It will feel so good you might never come home.
