Venice

Venice is touristy and expensive, there's no question about it. However, the city is sure to spark your imagination and romantic streak as you lose yourself in its history and secrets. If budget is important go during off-peak times when you'll be more likely to find a hotel deal. You could splash out and stay at one of the top hotels like the Cipriani, Danieli or Molini Stucky where you'll experience Venetian luxury and pampering. Gondola rides are pricey, but unforgettable and not to be missed, so pack a picnic and bottle of Prosecco and let the city work its magic as you glide beneath the Rialto Bridge. Be sure to take a vaporetto (water bus) to visit the nearby islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello.

Many people are choosing to cross the pond for their romantic getaways while the exchange rate is still favourable. The U.S. undoubtedly offers tremendous diversity and a choice of romantic locations, such as:

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, or Sin City, may not be everyone's idea of a romantic getaway - but for many it's all their fantasies rolled into one desert oasis. Love it or hate it, Las Vegas will amaze you. There's so much to see and do that you may not even think about romance. So, take in some of the first class shows, explore the casinos, and let the desert's heat ignite your passion. If you get really carried away look out for one of the neon Wedding Chapel signs. Romantic - or tacky - you decide! No doubt there'll be plenty of divorce lawyers on hand. If you can't decide between Venice or Las Vegas, then go to Vegas and stay at the Venetian hotel. You'll get a taste of Venice 'Vegas-style' complete with a gondola ride and singing gondolier - with less damage to your wallet!

Aspen

The lovely old mining town of Aspen, Colorado is a fine place for lovers - in winter or summer. It will be pricey, especially during ski season, but even if you don't ski you can enjoy the apr's ski activities. You're likely to rub

shoulders with the rich and famous as you wander the pretty streets and browse the art galleries and boutiques. If Aspen is beyond your budget you could stay 'down Valley' at the lovely old western town of Glenwood Springs. Don't miss the natural hot springs pool and the Yampah Vapour Caves.

Manhattan Island, New York

New York - the Big Apple - can be a surprisingly romantic city. Native New Yorkers may laugh at such a notion, but Europeans experiencing it for the first time will likely find the buzz of the place very exciting. It's particularly romantic at Christmas when the Rockefeller Center is alive with ice-skaters beneath the enormous Christmas tree. What could be more romantic than a stroll through Central Park or along 5th Avenue?

Paris

Paris is also known as La Ville-Lumi're (the City of Lights). The city has earned a reputation over the centuries for being 'the' romantic destination for lovers. Is it still that way? Opinions vary greatly these days, but if you've never been to Paris you must go at least once and find out for yourself! When it comes to food, drink and romance, the French do it well.

Nice, France

Sophisticated and glamorous Nice is located on the French Riviera or 'Cote d'Azur'. The weather is usually good and the beaches are lovely - though some are a bit pebbly. If you visit during February-March you're sure to catch some of their Carnival festivities. Take a cosy stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, with the sparkling Mediterranean on one side and the beauty of the mountains and city on the other. As a bonus, Monaco and Cannes are both within easy reach for day trips.

The Amalfi Coast? Bahamas... Caribbean islands?Hawaii?Tahiti? The dreamy list could go on. Hopefully, this snapshot of a few locations has whet your travel buds! Wherever your heart eventually leads you, don't forget to take care of the boring and essential matters well before you go. Check that your passport, visas and travel insurance are all current and take care of any necessary vaccinations. Once those annoying chores are out of the way your mind can concentrate on the romantic delights awaiting you!