Inspiration • February 2015
Romantic weekends to make your friends jealous
Instead of jostling for space with other loved-up couples on a Valentine’s city break, why not arrive a few days early, take in the romantic atmosphere, then escape town to enjoy the really breathtaking spots – without the crowds. British Airways crew and fellow Executive Club members share their top tips for a romantic getaway
Catskills, US
Where to go
The bucolic Catskill Mountains, an hour’s drive from New York City, for undulating mountains, gentle hikes to waterfalls, sightings of black bears and farm stands selling blueberry pie.
Says who?
Caroline Titmuss, British Airways Vice-President PR, Americas
How to get there
Rent a car. Executive Club members can choose from Avis locations around New York City.
Where to stay
Rent a secluded cabin in the woods or head for one of the great campsites.
Best place to kiss
With limited mobile phone service, there’s all the more reason to reach for your loved one instead of your iPhone.
Wachau Valley, Austria
Where to go
The picturesque Wachau Valley in Austria has beautiful landscapes, graceful architecture and delicious white wines. And it’s only an hour’s drive from Vienna.
Says who?
Martin Muchitsch, Silver Executive cardholder
What to do
Head to the riverside town of Melk, home to an impressive abbey. Walk around the pretty village of Spitz then visit the Hirtzberger winery. Afterwards, take a stroll on the cobblestone streets of medieval Durnstein.
Where to stay
The Steigenberger Hotel in Krems. Relax in its rooftop spa before heading in to town for dinner.
Best place to kiss
With quaint little squares and small cobbled streets, you’re spoilt for choice.
Cirencester, UK
Where to go
Bath may be beautiful, but the unspoilt market town of Cirencester is equally as charming. Visit for shopping, pub lunches and visits to Gothic churches, then journey into the Cotswolds.
Says who?
Penelope Walker, BA Senior First Officer, 777 fleet
What to do
Enjoy the buzz of Cirencester’s cafe society. Walk beside the River Eye between the picturesque villages of Lower and Upper Slaughter, then picnic at Bourton-on-the-Water and enjoy the area’s country pubs and restaurants.
Where to stay
The 17th-century Fleece Inn, in central Cirencester. Out of town, the 12-bed Rectory Hotel in Crudwell or Calcot Manor.
Best place to kiss
In front of a roaring fire in an old country pub.
Al Ain, UAE
Where to go
Escape the bustle of Dubai with a trip to Al Ain – known as the Garden City. Visit the 4,000-year-old tombs before cooling off at a mineral spring or one of the many oases in the city.
Says who?
Arnaud Cart,
Customer Service Executive, Dubai
How to get there
Rent a convertible cabriolet in Dubai and enjoy a romantic drive through the red sands.
What to do
Drive to the viewing point at the 1,340-metre-high Jebel Hafeet mountain to watch the sunset. Hungry? Visit the Eden Rock Terrace at the Mercure Grand hotel, 915 metres up the mountain.
Where to stay
The luxurious Mercure Grand offers rooms with a view.
This article has been tagged Adventure, Destination