Romantic Getaways
With so many beautiful destinations, hotels, amenities, and activities, it is hard to narrow down a search and pick a location for a short and romantic getaway! I often ask myself what am I looking for? What do I want to do or not do? How much effort will it take to get there? Is it worth it? Will I really enjoy the location? And why do I wanna go there, vs other locations? To help me narrow my search and pick the location, I do lots of research—but that’s just ME! I research everything. Always!!
To begin, I hashtag places! I wanna see what people are sharing, what they are doing and where they are going. Is it a place that I’d like to visit? And will it meet my needs for THAT particular trip? I browse through several images, google the location, and read reviews. I look for the unfiltered unprofessional images and then I dive in. With romanticism in mind, I focus on relaxing sceneries, sleeping quarters, the menu, and hotels (or private rentals) that are off the beaten path—a haven where we can detach and truly enjoy the site and each other’s company (assuming, I am traveling with a guy LOL). I like places that are secluded and cater to like “couples” – they can be old or young, but with the same desire in mind! I love undiscovered places! It’s exciting! And if it’s a location that meets all my expectations, I won’t stop talking about it haha!
There are so many romantic getaways, from cruises, local retreats, a short drive across the border, or a flight away. Depending on your style, I encourage you to try something different, each time! If you and your partner don’t mind a drive, love nature, and want to stay in the US, I suggest you give Sedona a try. Sedona is surrounded by red rock canyons and offers many hiking trails, art galleries, picnic sites, scenic drives, beautiful creeks, top-rated restaurants, boutique shops, and hot air balloon rides, among many other activities. I recommend that you stay near downtown, walk around in the evenings when temperatures cool down, and book some the cool excursions. You and your honey will surely enjoy this sweet town.
If you love wine and want a great culinary experience, I recommend that you and your lover take a trip right across the border and visit the Valle de Guadalupe region, which is located less than two hours south of the TJ/US border. It is Mexico’s mini “Napa Valley” and it is full of quaint, luxurious, unique, and inexpensive hotels/private rentals. In contrast to the beachy and popular zones in Mexico, Valle is laid back and still somewhat undiscovered! If you wanna get away for the weekend, and not deal with the touristy party crowds, head down to this country region, enjoy a few glasses of wine, book a couple’s massage, indulge in some world-class dining, and shop local artisan shops for homemade gifts.
If wine and long drives are not your scene, but you still want total seclusion, then I suggest you pay Joshua Tree a little visit! This rugged desert charm boasts with campgrounds at the National Park, and is also full of natural beauty artists, musicians, and western-looking cafes. The area is filled with FREE art scenes, sculptures, interesting outdoor museums, and super cute Airbnb rentals! You can hike, roast marshmallows, soak in your hot tub under the millions of stars, and even see the milky way on a clear night! I suggest you book an airstream, a bubble, a remodeled container, a glass house, or a yurt, pack your amenities, bring your fave drinks, enjoy a homecooked meal, and just breathe!! Your nearest neighbor could be a half a mile away!!! If you go during the summer, stay hydrated! If you go in the winter, dress in layers!
If you are like Me, and just love the water and will travel a long distance just to layout in a tropical setting, then I recommend you visit Bacalar!! It is a small town nestled on the south end of Mexico, near Belize. It is stunning and, in my opinion, one the most beautiful lagoons in the entire world. It is also named one of Mexico’s Pueblo Magico destinations (Magical towns)! It is a great place to relax and rejuvenate, to swim freely, to enjoy some tasty seafood, and to explore some wildlife! If you like rustic places, and want simplicity, book a hotel right on the lagoon! So, grab your partner, jump on your Kayak and paddleboard away! I guarantee that you will love it!!
When booking, and I generally stray away from all-inclusive resorts! Please allow me to explain WHY all-inclusive options are not for me, or my thing!! I don’t like to travel to distant places to hang out at the hotel, all day, every day! I like to get out, explore, sight-see, and tour the location as much as possible, and by booking an all-inclusive, it would tie me down to the resort. Unless you plan to stay at the resort, eat, drink, and only participate in their activities throughout your entire stay, do not book and spend unnecessary money on an all-inclusive. If you don’t plan to step out, then go ahead, book your all-inclusive package, and indulge!! So, pack your bags, drag your sweetheart and travel somewhere romantic this Valentine’s Day!