Romantic getaways for couples
Why, where, and how to make the best of them

By Pierre Coda

You must have heard of a million reasons why you need to get away for a romantic trip.  These are all good reasons.  However, among all the reasons that I have found convincing enough for a romantic getaway, the one that appeals to me the most is the opportunity for physical intimacy in a new setting.  Let me explain.

Being in one place and doing the same things every single day can make life (in general) dull and boring but it can make life in the bedroom disgusting.  Human beings, particularly women, attach a lot of importance to environment, mood, and ambience when it comes to intimacy.  So if you visit a place with the sole purpose of being together without any distractions in a surrounding that gets the hormones flowing, you will notice the difference.

How to pick a destination for a romantic getaway?

• Privacy is key here so you want to be in place that attracts couples.  Stay away from hotels and resorts that attract college students on their breaks or the corporate types attending a conference on "enterprise risk management".

• While it is your personal preference what destination you like, pick a place that does not have many tourist attractions.  Why?  You will be tempted to do all the touristic stuff (because you will feel guilty that you went to New York City but did not go to the Rockefeller Center or Times Square).  It is nice to get out of the room and go to the town to walk around, check out some shops/museums/galleries/restaurants/whatever, but it is much better if that pressure is not there.  Some of the places that we like our Maine, Colonial Williamsburg, Smokeys, Potosi Hot Springs, Pocono Mountains, Amelia Island, and of course, Sandals Resorts. 

• Do your research on the room type, layout, bed, bathroom, sauna/gym/swimming pool facilities.  Check out the websites of the hotels/resorts and look for pictures.  My suggestion is that stay away from those hotels/resorts that do not have pictures because even though you could call to find out you will only hear the sales pitch rather than being able to visualize what the place looks like.

How to prepare for the getaway?

• Make it special so pack a nice set of outfits depending on the destination.  You might want to bring your swimsuit in case you want to go to the beach or to the pool.  If you plan to go to the gym, get that outfit ready.  And both men and women need to bring some lingerie for those exciting moments.  Also include romantic sets for couples that typically include aromatherapy candles, toys, music, feathers, and anything else that fits into your lifestyle.  (Related:  How to buy swimwear)

• If you plan on being in a destination spa/resort, again check what spa services are available by visiting their website.  Pick the services you like and book them ahead of time.  That way you will have no disappointments when you arrive and want to get a shiatsu massage at the spa.

How to get the best out of a romantic getaway?

• Manage your expectations.  You are going there to spend quality, romantic time with your loved one; so do not worry too much if you miss the tourist destinations or meals at famous restaurants or if the weather does not allow you to go the beach.

• Take it easy.  Wake up when your eyes open and go to sleep when you feel like it.  Do not even put pressure on yourself or on your partner that because you are on a romantic getaway, you must be intimate more frequently.  Just go with the flow.

• Keep sensitive topics for another time.  Money, children, family disputes, problems at work, etc. should be avoided.  And so should other things that can upset you; for example, dissatisfaction over quality of room or food or service or if you get a ticket.

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