Travel

Published on May 26th, 2012 | by Charu Suri

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Top Five Romantic Destinations in the U.S.

They say that Virginia is for lovers, and the large number of couples that visit and revisit different parts of the state at various times in their courtship or partnership, leaves no doubt that this is indeed the case. Virginia is home to two of the top five and most notable idyllic destinations for a romantic break in the US.

A sunrise on Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Those in search of romance can do no better that travel to the resort city of Virginia Beach in the Hampton Roads. Poised at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, a vacation here is a memorable experience: there are miles of sandy beaches, parks, museums, excellent shopping and super hotels.

The U.S. Virgin Islands

This is a charming tropical paradise with many different things to do in a variety of attractive locations, depending entirely on your personal preferences. The delightful National Park at St. John is free and couples can camp on the beach there. In fact, there are lots of lovely beaches from which to choose at St. John and also at St. Thomas – where there is also plenty of entertaining nightlife and some great entertainment. For couples that prefer walking hand in hand around the museums and places of interest, St. Croix holds many unexpected delights including the fascinating Cruzan Rum Distillery.

Kauai, Hawaii

A beguiling vista of mountains, beaches, cliffs and rainforests awaits couples in Kauai. Private villas and secluded beaches add to the romantic atmosphere, and couples keen on swimming, kayaking, hiking or horseback riding on the beach can enjoy the great outdoors. There are also coastal gardens and parks – ideal for picnics and sentimental reminiscences.

Alexandria, Virginia

Just six miles to the south of Washington D.C., the Old Town is the historic center of Alexandria, and among the well-preserved architecture from colonial times there is a charming collection of restaurants, boutiques, theaters and antique shops – a perfect environment for a peaceful, romantic vacation. As the capital is so close, there area also opportunities for trips to the many sights and memorials in the city, and for a more upbeat nightlife if desirable.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

The artistic and cultural center of Santa Fe is undoubtedly Canyon Road, where art galleries and artisan workshops proliferate. These are housed in quaint adobe buildings sporting floral decorations in many brilliant colors. The buildings are steeped in history and also house specialist restaurants offering top-class cuisine. There are museums and palaces to see, as well as churches and cathedrals, ideal for romantic wanderings.

Adding to the romance

Look out for special events to make a vacation even more romantic, depending on the location. For example, take a tall ships or late night dancing cruise in Norfolk, Virginia; or choose one of the many Virginia beach hotels that specialize in pampering couples. Plan a romantic, candlelit dinner at an intimate restaurant – either at the seafront or deep within a tropical forest. Above all, use a romantic vacation to take the time to renew relationships and take them to a deeper, more meaningful level.

Tags: Hampton roads, Romantic Vacations, Top Five Romantic Destinations in the U.S., Virginia Beach

About the Author

Charu Suri