Romantic Getaway Vacation

When planning your romantic getaway vacation, recognize that part of the romance can be the creativity and excitement of exploring a new place with that special someone. Here are three examples of places that offer a more romantically intimate and private experience, and may be even more rewarding than, say, a vacation to Vegas.

Utah’s Homestead Resort is nestled in quaint and beautiful Heber Valley. The resort’s 154 rooms provide a mixed style of the modern, with nostalgia for the early 1900’s. Within forty-five minutes of tourist hot spots Park City and Sundance, the Homestead experience offers something for everyone: a luxurious 18-hole golf course, scuba diving and swimming in the famous 90 degree mineral water crater, ice and fly-fishing, world-renowned downhill and cross-country skiing, horseback riding, spas, river rafting, snowmobiling, gourmet restaurants, outlet shopping, and boating (not to mention a historic railroad through beautiful Provo canyon, tennis, biking, winter sleigh rides, hot air ballooning, professional theaters, hiking, Timpanogos caves, and Wasatch Mountain State and Uinta National Parks). The Homestead either offers, or is in close proximity to all of that, while still maintaining that intimate, secluded feeling you are looking for. For more information call (800) 327-7220 or visit http://www.homesteadresort.com).
The Cook Islands is the place if you want something more intriguing than the stereotypical Hawaii island vacation. This cluster of fifteen islands is found in the very heart of the South Pacific. The beautiful and friendly Polynesian people of this area (population 14,000) provide an example of a unique culture and language all their own. Explore Polynesian handicrafts, including unique Cook-Island tivaevae quilts, wall hangings, jewelry, handbags, hats, and artifacts made from the beautiful tapa flower.
Its capital, Rarotonga, receives approximately 70,000 visitors a year, but the Cooks are largely unspoiled by tourism. They offer a rare opportunity for people from the cities of the world to experience a different type of vacation, one without tourist traps and giant hotels. With less pampering comes the untouched, empty beaches and a sanctuary of peace away from everything. Surrounded by a gorgeous view of deep blue waters, beautiful coral, narrow lagoons, and a cool ocean breeze, you’ll find yourself exploring, talking, and completely relaxed.

Scotland is rich with history and culture. Ancient castles with Celtic names like Duntulm, Dumbarton, Huntingtower, Doune, and Eilean Donan dot the landscape. With a few in ruins, other castles are still intact and some are even inhabited. Many are situated overlooking the ocean, atop high cliffs—gorgeous and hauntingly beautiful.
You will find that all of Scotland is rich in heritage and lore. Consider a visit to Stirling Castle, for example. It is believed to have been the site of King Arthur’s Camelot. (Mary Queen of Scots also spent much of her childhood in these walls). You will also find yourself in Scotland’s highlands, isles, and towns-- and if the fog is not too thick, you will see rainbows everywhere.
Glasgow Cathedral, built in the thirteenth century, is found in a city brimming with culture and entertainment, and yes…even shopping.
Lodging in Scotland includes incredible options, and is sure to accommodate your romantic style. For a spectacular view, try Mar Hall, a gothic mansion built in the nineteenth century (visit www.marhall.com). For a cozier setting, stay at Portree, located on the Isle of Skye—an old hunting lodge (…roaring fire included). (visit www.cuillinhills.demon.co.uk). Huntingtower Lodge provides culture, with all the comforts of home. This four-star hotel definitely caters to an American taste with a lot of fancy extras, including internet access (visit www.huntingtower.co.uk).

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Writer and author for RV Travel Central.