INSPIRATION • February 2018
Six golden rules for booking a romantic break
Stop! In the name of love. To ensure that next getaway with your beloved comes up roses, read on. Newly-wed travel bloggers Amy and Nathan Hartle share their top tips, from snagging upgrades to planning out-of-the-box activities
Consider your destination
Of course, the first thing we think about is always the destination. For some couples, a romantic holiday means a remote tropical island with sandy beaches, but we’re often drawn to the mountains, or to walkable cities. Which backdrop would most appeal to your partner?
Stay local
So much of Europe is incredibly romantic. This Valentine’s Day, you can embrace the cold or escape to sunnier climes. We love the idea of the Kakslauttanen glass igloos in Finland (above), or, for more temperate destinations, Barcelona, Lisbon or the Amalfi Coast are all beautifully romantic options.
Get adventurous
It’s wonderful to have romantic dinners or go for long walks on the beach, but being bold with your activities can make things much more memorable. If you’re heading to a snowy destination, why not consider a dog-sledding experience? In a seaside locale, snorkelling or water sports are fun options. Learning a skill together will also bring you closer – for gastronomes, cooking classes are a hit. Make cheese in the Swiss Alps, paella in Spain, or try your hand at homemade pasta in Italy.
Snag an upgrade
Being a member of an airline or hotel loyalty programme can be a great way to make the most of perks. Build your status and you’ll be first in line to receive special benefits. Never be shy about letting hotel staff know you’re celebrating a special occasion, and don’t be afraid to ask as there are often better rooms available or extra touches to which the hotel will gladly treat you.
Surprise your partner
If you’re planning a surprise holiday, tell your partner you’ve arranged somewhere totally bland or off-grid, or better yet, a visit to family. That way, they know a trip is on the cards and will be prepared to pack. It’s only at the airport that they’ll discover they have a ticket to somewhere amazing.
Manage expectations
While you should of course expect to have a fantastic romantic break with your partner, too many couples embark on trips expecting bliss and smooth sailing the whole time. Keep your expectations realistic. What’s important on your holiday is not the destination or the activities, but that you spend quality time together. Keep this in mind and if you remember to laugh, you’ll be guaranteed a great time no matter what.
For ideas and to book your next romantic holiday, visit ba.com
This article has been tagged Opinion, Travel Tips