1. Paris, Ile-de-France, France
From its picturesque bridges to its outdoor cafes, no other city says romance like Paris. Stroll along the river Seine, picnic amid the flowers of the 61-acre Luxembourg Garden or toast the sunset from atop Montmartre as the City of Light sparkles below. Paris - c'est magnifique!
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Family Fun
Paris
The City of Lights shines bright for kids of all ages. Living up to every pre-trip fantasy, Paris has a constellation of starring sights from the atmospheric Notre Dame to the elegant Eiffel Tower to thrilling Parc Asterix, DisneyLand Paris and the wonders of the Louvre. Prepare to be dazzled.
History & Culture
Paris
History is as easy to come by in Paris as fresh croissants. Just strolling along the Seine is a walk through the ages. But don't miss Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sacre Coeur basilica, Pere-Lachaise Cemetery, the once-bohemian cafes of Montparnasse, the Louvre and Orsay museums and, of course, the Eiffel Tower.
Shopping
Paris
The world capital of Haute Couture, Paris is a shopper's dream. Legendary addresses like Avenue Montaigne and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore tempt the glitterati. Ancient flea markets perch at the city's hems, offering chaotic atmosphere and fascinating treasures, plus a peek into the real personality of Paris.
2. Puerto Vallarta, Pacific Coast, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta has the ideal setting for a luscious romantic escape. Banderas Bay, the site of Elizabeth Taylor's and Richard Burton's big romance, offers fabulous beaches, some of the country's best restaurants, proximity to Old Mexico and boat rides to the charming fishing village of Boca de Tomatlan.
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Beaches & Sun
Puerto Vallarta
On the second-largest natural bay on the continent, Puerto Vallarta has miles and miles of world-class beaches. The coastline is dotted with quiet coves and spectacular islands, and the water caters to all sorts of beach activities, from sunbathing to snorkeling to windsurfing.
Shopping
Puerto Vallarta
Thanks to the steady stream of cruise ship passengers passing through its harbor, Puerto Vallarta is geared toward the shopper, with virtually anything Mexican-made being readily available. The marina boardwalk, its nearby market, and the surrounding streets are full of shopping opportunities.
Family Fun
Puerto Vallarta
All the right ingredients for a fabulous family getaway are on offer in, Puerto Vallarta; wonderful weather, beautiful beaches, great resorts and welcoming people. Perched between the ocean and the jungle, PV offers all the sports and activities of a perfect Pacific playground.
3. Venice, Veneto, Italy
With its stunning architecture and mysterious passageways, Venice is the perfect hideaway for lovers. Glide down one of its many canals in a gondola, dine by candlelight on northern Italian dishes, and take a moonlit stroll through Piazza San Marco. Romance is guaranteed.
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History & Culture
Venice
Once one of Italy's famous and powerful city-states, Venice is one of Europe's most beautiful and historic cities. Get lost amid ancient canals and alleyways. Explore majestic Doge's Palace, the architectural flourishes of St. Mark's Basilica, the picturesque Piazza San Marco and the Naval Museum.
4. Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, United States
Honolulu is the perfect base for enjoying everything Hawaii has to offer. Stroll or sunbathe on white-and beaches, climb a volcanic crater, surf the best waves, hold hands and watch the sun dip below the horizon or enjoy romantic candlelit dining and live entertainment.
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History & Culture
Honolulu
History lovers will find much more to Honolulu than the beaches at Waikiki. Visitors should not miss Pearl Harbor and the accompanying USS Arizona Memorial. Those interested in the story of the islands will enjoy the displays of Polynesian artifacts at the Bishop Museum.
Family Fun
Honolulu
Honolulu has more than history and tropical beaches. The entire family can delight in the astounding views from the short hike to Diamond Head crater, splash about in any of the water parks, investigate Hawaiian marine life in nature reserves and aquariums and indulge wonder in the many kid-friendly museums.
5. Aruba, Caribbean
Aruba offers a delightful mix of daytime activities, nightlife and world-class dining to attract couples to its scenic shores. Indulge yourselves in romantic sunset walks on warm, sandy beaches and private coves, or explore the natural beauty or cultural attractions that make Aruba a popular honeymoon destination.
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Casinos
Aruba
Aruba has a good hand to play, with fine powder sand beaches, amazing surfing and big-name casinos. High-rise hotels house such casinos as Allegro Aruba Beach, Aruba Concorde and the vast 8,000-square-foot Alhambra Bazaar, where Caribbean Stud Poker is the big draw.
Family Fun
Aruba
Clear waters and great weather are merely two of Aruba's draws. A smorgasbord of activities, from snorkeling to banana boating, entertains families above and below the waves, while jeep safari and quadracer tours are offered inland. A glimpse of the island's personality and past can be viewed at the Aruba Panorama.
Beaches & Sun
Aruba
Spectacular for water sports or just sitting on the sand and admiring the tides, Aruba's beaches are truly special. Swimmers and sunbathers will enjoy the calm waters and white sand at Palm Beach, while water-skiers and surfers love the surf at Eagle Beach.
6. Sharm El Sheikh, South Sinai, Red Sea and Sinai, Egypt
The dramatic coastline of Na'ama Bay on the tip of the Sinai Peninsula makes a stunning backdrop for a romantic escape. Enticing Sharm el Sheikh is crammed with activities perfect for two, whether you prefer peaceful beach interludes and luxurious resorts or hot nightlife, thrilling dives and camel trekking.
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Beaches & Sun
Sharm El Sheikh
Beckoning alluringly from the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, the clear, calm waters and dramatic reefs around Sharm el Sheikh offer spectacular snorkeling and scuba diving. Ras Mohammed National Park contains sensational Red Sea dive sites, considered some of the best in the world.
7. New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
New Orleans' distinct sensual soundtrack plays as you explore the atmospheric streets of the French Quarter and beyond. Jazz, zydeco and blues waft out of bars and juke joints, the clip of hoofs resounds as carriages trot past and the murmur of couples' voices rises from hidden courtyard cafes.
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History & Culture
New Orleans
Claimed, bought and sold by the French, Spanish, Haitians and Americans, the resulting melange of cultural identities give the Crescent City its distinct flavors. New Orleans' irrepressible spirit can best be experienced during February's exuberant Mardi Gras celebrations, festivals and Cajun, Zydeco and jazz music.
8. Carmel, Monterey Peninsula, California, United States
Sandy beaches and dramatic ocean surf attract romantics to Carmel. Between Pebbles Beach and Big Sur, Carmel has an abundance of beaches, parks and the beautiful Carmel Mission and Museum. The area is amply stocked with romantic guesthouses and inns.
9. Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Flamboyant and glitzy, Las Vegas is an adult playground with singing gondoliers, rooftop roller coasters and all-night entertainment. Couples can take their chances at the slot machines or in one of the city's wedding chapels, or just relax in a luxurious spa or resort.
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Casinos
Las Vegas
The neon-lit casinos on The Strip, the gaming heart of Las Vegas, just keep getting more opulent as they replicate Euro landmarks, add thrill rides and celebrity chef-driven restaurants, and incorporate new Cirque du Soleil shows. Gamblers who prefer vintage Sin City head downtown to Fremont Street.
10. Playa del Carmen, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
On the beautiful Mexican Riviera, Playa del Carmen is a place where you can spoil each other with an indulgent romantic getaway. Strolls or sunbathe on its alabaster-white beaches, swim or dive in sparkling clear waters, explore ancient Maya ruins and enjoy quiet sunsets together.
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Beaches & Sun
Playa del Carmen
Bring your sunglasses and cool clothes to Playa del Carmen, where the hot sun lights up the white-sand beaches. This is heaven for beach-loving kids and those who enjoy swimming or just lounging under the sun.
Family Fun
Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen, on the Mexican Caribbean, is home to sandy beaches, Mayan archaeological sites and child-centered theme parks. Kids and adults enjoy clambering through Discovery Jungle Park's authentic rope bridges and exploring Xcaret's underground rivers, butterfly
11. Cancun, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
Blessed with a bounty of beaches, youthful, exuberant Cancun offers options for those seeking all sorts of romantic vacations. The resort city manages to boast both an energetic pulse and a laid-back ambience, with both party beaches and sands suitable for people preferring solitude and some time alone.
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Beaches & Sun
Cancun
Cancun calls with its stunning aqua-blue waters and white-sand beaches. Despite its reputation as a spring-break paradise, anyone will find plenty to do here, too. Explore ancient Mayan ruins, the Xel-Ha waterpark and the thrilling Interactive Aquarium, or just enjoy beautiful beaches.
Family Fun
Cancun
Cancun is one of Mexico's most famous destinations, and despite its reputation as a spring-break paradise, families will find plenty to do here, too. Explore ancient Mayan ruins, the Xel-Ha waterpark and the thrilling Interactive Aquarium, or just enjoy beautiful beaches.
12. Miami Beach, Florida, United States
Miami Beach makes an utterly irresistible destination for those with romance on their vacation itinerary. Fabulous famed beaches, celebrity-owned eateries, alfresco dining, legendary bars, star spotting and spectacular shopping offer inspiring opportunities to indulge with loved ones.
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Shopping
Miami Beach
The epicenter of cool has all the shopping options a fashionista could ever want. The Collins Avenue Fashion District boasts designer labels from Armani to Versace. Ocean Drive caters to the younger, funkier beautiful people, while Lincoln Road draws the artistic crowd to its galleries and boutiques.
Beaches & Sun
Miami Beach
At the shore in Miami Beach, visitors can swim, surf and jet ski in the warm and crystal-clear Atlantic waters. You can also nap on the white sands, work on a tan or simply watch the beautiful people, especially at South Beach, a favorite of models and celebrities.
13. Bora Bora, Society Islands, French Polynesia
Considered by many to be the ultimate honeymoon destination, tropical Bora Bora cannot help being one of the most romantic spots in the world. Glide over the clear-blue waters in a glass-bottom boat, share a midnight dinner on the beach with someone special and fall captive to this magical Polynesian island.
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Beaches & Sun
Bora Bora
Although a fairly small island, Bora Bora offers visitors a multitude of activities. Go on a 4x4 safari, sunbathe and swim on white sandy beaches, dive in a natural underwater park among fish and corals, experience thrilling shark feedings or circle the turquoise lagoon by boat.
14. Maui, Hawaii, United States
The second largest Hawaiian Island, Maui is a tropical paradise. Explore the volcanic zenith of Haleakala, drive the curvy Road to Hana or just cool off at the black-sand beaches of Wai'anapanapa State Park. Stunning sunsets lure you into romantic evenings of beach strolls and candlelit dinners.
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Family Fun
Maui
Whether on beautiful island beaches or volcanic craters, families will have a hot time enjoying all that Maui has to offer by foot, bike, car, helicopter or submarine. Kids will especially enjoy a Trilogy trip to Lanai, exploring Haleakala crater and visiting Maui Ocean Center's Turtle Lagoon and Hammerhead Harbor.
Beaches & Sun
Maui
Tropical trade winds cool Maui's thirty miles of glorious black, white and red sand beaches. With a constellation of splendid sandy spots ranging from secluded secrets to bustling beaches with restaurants and board hire, Maui has a beach to suit beachcombers, surfers, picnickers and swimmers.
15. Cozumel, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
The delicious ocean backdrop of Cozumel makes for a perfect romantic rendezvous for two. This Mexican Caribbean playground surrounded by coral reefs boasts golden beaches, turquoise waters, Mayan ruins, duty-free shopping and colorful festivals. Punta Celerain lighthouse is a beautiful spot for special moments.
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Beaches & Sun
Cozumel
Going to the seashore at Cozumel is fascinating because of the island's diverse beach offerings. Although it has its fair share of typically beautiful white-sand beaches, it also boasts a number of rocky beaches that are not great for sunbathing or swimming but are ideal for snorkeling.
16. Buenos Aires, Capital Federal District, Argentina
The birthplace of the sensual tango is an incredibly romantic city to sashay to. Atmospheric old neighborhoods present captivating corners and enticing restaurants to linger in. Restaurants and nightlife options are appealingly priced, making it even easier to enjoy any number of romantic meals out.
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Shopping
Buenos Aires
Latin America's shopping capital offers exciting experiences along its grand, wide boulevards. Galleria Pacifico and Patio Bullrich are upmarket malls, crammed with Argentine fashions. You'll find fabulous shoes, bags and other items for appealing prices throughout the city, known for its leather goods.
History & Culture
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires' European heritage is evident in its architecture, boulevards and parks. Recoleta Cemetery is the final resting place of many of the city's tycoons and presidents, as well as still-beloved first lady Eva Peron. Cafe Tortoni, the city's oldest bar, will transport you back to 1858, and the spectacular Teatro Colon impresses just as it did in 1908.
17. Charleston, South Carolina, United States
Romantic restaurants, elegant inns and a pervading ambiance of old glamour entice those with romance on their minds to visit charming, historic Charleston. Cobblestone streets and stately squares make for enchanting ambles and carriage tours can carry the two of you through the city's atmospheric alleys.
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History & Culture
Charleston
The picturesque streets of Charleston charm visitors with 19th-century architecture and scenery. Historic sights abound: the old gardens at Middleton Place, Drayton Hall, many other historic houses and plantations and Fort Sumter National Monument, the very spot where the American Civil War began.
18. Kauai, Hawaii, United States
Kauai, known as the Garden Island, has everything you can imagine in a tropical paradise: lush rain forests, long sandy beaches lined with swaying palm trees and warm sea breezes. You can find many activities where the emphasis is on the just the two of you for a romantic getaway treat.
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Beaches & Sun
Kauai
With about 50 miles of beaches, Kauai has plenty of shoreline to explore. Swimming is great just about anywhere, but most people prefer the beaches on the north and south coasts, where the white sands stretch on and on and surfers refine their craft.
Family Fun
Kauai
The least developed of Hawaii's major islands, Kauai offers big fun to young families. Take a boat ride to Fern Grotto, explore the Children's Discovery Museum or go wild at the Makalani Playground and Lydgate Beach Park, wandering a labyrinth, snorkeling or swimming in pools safe enough for your littlest ones.
19. Jmaika
Looking for a destination where the two of you can tempt each other without the distractions of tours, tourist traps and too many other travelers? Couples can enjoy long stretches of beautiful beaches and waterfalls, joyous rhythms of reggae and the natural beauty of a tropical island.
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Family Fun
Jamaica
Whether petting crocodiles, feeding hummingbirds or bobbing down the Rio Grande on a bamboo raft as calypso bands play bankside, families can have a wonderfully wild time in laid-back Jamaica. Adventurous souls can hike by waterfalls and coffee plantations, clamber up Dunn's River Falls, or splash and sun on glistening beaches.
History & Culture
Jamaica
Island heritage overflows in Jamaica, from the former seaside banana capital of Port Antonio to reggae legend Bob Marley's former Kingston home. Even natural attractions come with cool history: The age of stalagmite-filled Green Grotto Cave at Runaway Bay is estimated at 500,000 years.
Beaches & Sun
Jamaica
Blessed with miles of stunning natural coastline, Jamaica is a paradise for beach-lovers. Among the island's best offerings are Negril's Seven Mile Beach--rife with great snorkeling and diving, Treasure Beach on the South Coast and Doctor's Cave Beach in Montego Bay, which has sand that looks like sugar.
20. Nice, French Riviera - Cote d'Azur, Provence, France
With its cosmopolitan Riviera air, fabulously fashionable stores and restaurants and azure Mediterranean backdrop, Nice is the perfect location for love. Cours Saleya flower market and the inspiring Matisse Museum add color to romantic rambles round the city, and the plethora of marinas, galleries and Roman ruins add further interest.
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Beaches & Sun
Nice
Although some of Nice's beaches are owned privately by hotels and resorts, there is also a good offering of public beaches. No need to worry about getting sand in your hair--there is no sand on these beaches, only pebbles. Nice's seaside is just another taste of France's diversity.
21. Puerto Rico, Caribbean
Steeped in Spanish tradition, Puerto Rico offers more than beautiful beaches, spectacular views and clear waters. You can wander trails leading to dramatic waterfalls, shop along the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan and even try your luck at one of the island's elegant casinos.
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Beaches & Sun
Puerto Rico
Blessed with crystal-clear waters and gorgeous white or golden sands, Puerto Rican beaches have a lot to offer. Swimming is great at Luquillo Beach and Playa de Ponce, Playa Higuero is perfect for windsurfing and the breathtaking scenery and vegetation is everywhere.
Casinos
Puerto Rico
The chances of a good gambling trip to Puerto Rico are high, as elegant, atmospheric casinos abound. Considered the most enjoyable gaming destination in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico has hotel and resort casinos across the island, from old San Juan to Dorado and Mayaguez.
Family Fun
Puerto Rico
Rich with history, Puerto Rico offers countless sightseeing and learning opportunities for the entire family. Visit El Faro--a 316-acre ecological reserve, shop Fortaleza Street, tour the Mayaguez Zoo or visit the largest radio telescope in the world at the Aricebo Observatory.
22. Palm Springs, California, United States
The mountains shimmering in the desert haze, the lush green golf courses and the delicate misting machines cooling loungers by the pools make Palm Springs a splendid choice for a relaxed romantic vacation. Classic mid-century-modern hotels mingle with funky motels, intimate guesthouses and a stellar selection of restaurants, bars and clubs.
23Savannah, Georgia, United States
Sometimes sultry, sometimes genteel, sometimes a little shady, Savannah's southern charms are alluring. The elegant city's plethora of historic bed and breakfasts offer intimate bases for a romantic trip. Many are situated in the gracious historic district, inspiration for "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."
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History & Culture
Savannah
Visitors to Savannah will not find any dearth of history; some of the city's best attractions are historic homes and final resting places. These include the Owens-Thomas House, the Bonaventure Cemetery and the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts.
24. San Jose Del Cabo, Los Cabos, Baja California, Mexico
Laid-back colonial gem San Jose Del Cabo, is picture postcard perfect. This gorgeous getaway, with its palm-lined lagoons on the hem of the ocean, is full of the magic of Old Baja, where secret courtyards and unhurried days are full of intrigue and romance. Fine hotels abound, including the elegant, world-renowned Palmilla.
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Beaches & Sun
San Jose Del Cabo
Situated on Mexico's left coast, San Jose del Cabo delivers a delicious taste of the Pacific. Go snorkeling at El Estero, the renowned estuary where exotic marine life and vegetation await, or take a dip in the pools and soak up the sun on the shore at Playa Hotelera.
25. Budapest, Hungary
Buda and Pest, the two distinct halves of the Hungarian capital, cling tightly together on either side of the river Danube. The atmospheric, narrow streets of the Paris of the East are perfect for strolling, and Margaret Island, the heart of the Danube, makes for a charming, romantic excursion.
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History & Culture
Budapest
Fascinating for its transition after the fall of the Soviet Union and its colorful past prior to that, Budapest has plenty of history. Visit the ghosts of communism at Heroes' Square and Statue Park, and see what Hungary was like before at the Opera House, National Museum, Buda Castle and ubiquitous baths.
Spa
Budapest
Over 15 million gallons of water bubble into Budapest's 118 springs and boreholes daily. The city of spas offers an astounding array of baths, from the sparkling Gellert Baths to the vast 1913 neo-Baroque Szechenyi Spa to Rudas Spa, a dramatic 16th-century Turkish pool with original Ottoman architecture.
26. St. Maarten/St. Martin, Caribbean
A spicy marriage of European and Caribbean cultures, St. Maarten/St. Martin boasts lavish elegance and secluded beaches on the cosmopolitan French side and a bustling center in Dutch-hued St. Maarten. Zouk, calypso, reggae and jazz soundtrack thrilling romantic dining experiences at some of the region's best restaurants.
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Casinos
St. Maarten/St. Martin
A glittering constellation of casinos is scattered across the vibrant Dutch side of St. Maarten. Some are Vegas-style, themed casinos, such as underwater-themed Atlantis and the Ancient Rome-inspired Coliseum. There's no shortage of hot entertainment options to add to the excitement.
Family Fun
St. Maarten/St. Martin
The island of Saint Maarten/Saint Martin offers twice the international flavor of a single vacation. Swim in the calm, clear waters of Le Gallion or Pinel Island beaches, hike through rain forest-like landscapes at Loterie Farm, or chase fluttering, colorful creatures at the Butterfly Farm.
Shopping
St. Maarten/St. Martin
Dutch on the south and French on the north, St. Maarten/St. Martin is an entirely duty-free island, rendering it a playground for shoppers. Jewelry, high-end clothing and local and European crafts are especially popular. In St. Maarten, Philipsburg is the main shopping town; in St. Martin, it's Marigot.
Beaches & Sun
St. Maarten/St. Martin
There is no shortage of beautiful shoreline on St. Martin, which boasts some 37 beaches. What sets these apart from other Caribbean beaches is their breathtaking environs--visitors will not only be stunned by the white sand and gorgeous water but also by caves, cliffs, palm trees and rock formations.
27. Bali, Indonesia
A romantic paradise awaits you on the Indonesian island of Bali. From inviting beaches, terraced rice-fields and lush green highlands to a spiritual Hindu culture and village traditions that have remained unchanged over the centuries, not to mention fabulous resort hotels - this is a mystical experience to last a lifetime.
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Beaches & Sun
Bali
With some of the best waves in the world and reliably great weather, Bali is a surfing paradise. Beach lovers can take their pick from a wide array of choices from crowded to deserted, with white sand or black.
History & Culture
Bali
Inhabited since prehistoric times, an influx of Indians in the 1st century gave the island its predominantly Hindi culture. Bali's exotic and distinct Indian-influenced culture can be experienced during dance performances, near daily festivals or by visiting its horde of centuries old temples.
Adventure
Bali
Take in the lush, volcanically active landscape of Bali while whitewater rafting on the Ayung and Unda rivers. Or get the heart pumping off-shore with an ocean-rafting sightseeing and snorkeling tour in boats that reach 44 miles per hour. Surfers hit the island's western side for big-time swells.
28. Acapulco, Pacific Coast, Mexico
With its magnificent bay, stately mountains, sun-soaked beaches and vibrant nightlife, Acapulco has been a top romantic destination for many decades. Lovers who choose this dazzling tropical resort on the Pacific Coast of Mexico follow in the footsteps of JFK and Jackie, Liz Taylor and countless other icons of glamour and stardom.
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Beaches & Sun
Acapulco
Acapulco's wild nightlife is matched by its wild beaches--the waters can be wavy and dangerous, but that also makes them great for surfing. However, there are lots of places with calmer waters where swimming is safe and fun, especially Caleta Beach, a favorite among families.
29. Barbados, Caribbean
Romance is in the air on this lush West Indian island in the Caribbean. Your getaway to Barbados can include a lazy day on the beach, afternoon tea-British style, listening to the pulsating sounds of reggae or calypso, sipping rum and chilling out under a star-studded Bajan sky.
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Beaches & Sun
Barbados
Turquoise waters, fine and soft sands and picturesque rows of palm trees make the beaches of Barbados a true pleasure. Stick to the south and southwest coasts for calm waters and good swimming; for a surfing thrill, don't miss the massive, competition-caliber waves off the south and east coasts.
History & Culture
Barbados
Jacobean and Georgian buildings built from pink and white coral, Gothic churches and pirate castles with ornate ceilings dot the Barbados landscape. Two of the must-see buildings are stately St. Nicholas Abbey in St. Peter and the sugar plantation Drax Hall in St. George, both dating to the 1650s.
30. Shanghai, China
It may come as a surprise that bustling, energetic Shanghai presents any number of romantic diversions. The leafy streets of the charming French Concession on the west bank are a delight to stroll. Traditional Chinese gardens offer peaceful escapes and the waterfront Bund is a thrill to explore.
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History & Culture
Shanghai
Shanghai's Pudong district looms on the Huangpu's east bank, a soaring, futuristic marvel of a modern city. On the west bank, atmospheric Puxi boasts sights such as the waterfront Bund, with its colonial buildings, and the French Concession, with its bustling, leafy streets and lovely Art Deco architecture.
31. Mazatlan, Pacific Coast, Mexico
If you are looking for casual elegance in a romantic setting, check out Mazatlan in Western Mexico. The resort town, on a peninsula that juts into the Pacific Ocean, is framed by the majestic Sierra Madre mountains and offers golden beaches, fresh seafood and natural beauty.
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Beaches & Sun
Mazatlan
With one of the longest stretches of beach in Mexico, it's no wonder Mazatlan can offer such an enviable variety of beach experiences. Surfers can find big waves, sunbathers can relax on secluded swaths of golden sand and everyone can party or dine at casual palapa restaurants and bars.
32. St. Lucia, Caribbean
Lovers adore the intriguing island of St. Lucia, with its intoxicating melee of beaches and activities. Sparkling waters contrast with palm-fringed beaches, elegant former plantation homes thrill with the aromas of spicy flavors of cooking and waterfalls tumble through forest rich with rare parrots and magnificent flashes of color.
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Beaches & Sun
St. Lucia
Most St. Lucian hotels are right on the island's best attraction--its beautiful beaches. Visitors will find sands that vary from white to gold in color, waters that range from calm and placid to rough and dangerous and locales that can be crowded and lively or peaceful and romantic.
33. Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, Caribbean
Coves and candlelight dinners attract romantics to cosmopolitan Grand Cayman. Sands stretch for miles, world-class restaurants serve sumptuous dishes, and Caribbean breezes lightly ripple across the island. It's a paradise both above and below water, as those who don snorkeling equipment will soon discover.
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Beaches & Sun
Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman is known as a scuba diving paradise with more than 130 dive sites surrounding the island, including its most famous one, Stingray City. Deep-sea fishermen enjoy the island's "national sport," and the coral reefs can be explored in many ways. The island also contains one of the Caribbean's best strands of sand, 7 Mile Beach.
Family Fun
Grand Cayman
Everyone is a kid again in Grand Cayman. Ride a submarine, visit Stingray City on a glass bottom boat, walk the plank or join a sword fight on The Jolly Roger replica, or enjoy the safety of snorkeling and the experience of scuba diving when you snuba.
34. Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda, Caribbean
Behind a nearly unbroken coral reef, Antigua basks in balmy Caribbean breezes. With 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, secluded romantic strolls under the palm fronds are guaranteed. Shirley Heights offers breathtaking views out over English Harbour.
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Beaches & Sun
Antigua
With as many beaches as there are days in the year, Antigua and Barbuda make quite a splash. The northwest coast jostles with beach resorts, while harder to find, secluded spots dot the south and southwest coasts. Amazing pink and white sand beaches confetti the family-popular southeast coast.
Family Fun
Antigua
From the world-famous beaches of St. John's to the megaliths of Greencastle Hill, Antigua offers families both adventure and relaxation. Swim in clear waters, build sand castles and explore ancient geological formations, petroglyphs, nature trails and plantation ruins.
History & Culture
Antigua
In the capital, St. John's, the baroque towers of an 1845 cathedral dominate the skyline; an 18th-century courthouse holds a museum of island artifacts. Antigua's historical district unfolds around English Harbour, the world's only Georgian dockyard, and Shirley Heights, a colonial observation post.
35. Turks and Caicos, Caribbean
Just over an hour's flight from Miami, the Turks and Caicos Islands boast idyllic tropical beaches and turquoise tides. World-class spas offer opulent treatments and mouthwatering dishes with tropical twists. The islands are perfect for romantic strolls along deserted cays on starry nights.
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Beaches & Sun
Turks and Caicos
Known for its amazing coral reefs and fascinating wildlife, Turks and Caicos is the ideal destination for the avid scuba diver or birdwatcher. The island's crystal-clear waters will also not disappoint those who enjoy snorkeling, surfing and swimming, and visitors will find plenty to do ashore, from sunbathing to shopping.
Family Fun
Turks and Caicos
A small archipelago of adventure and relaxation awaits your family at Turks and Caicos. Go whale-watching, take a glass bottom boat to see iguanas running on the beaches of Little Water Cay, visit the popular Caicos Conch Farm or cool off in calm and shallow Sapodilla Bay.
36. Anguilla, Caribbean
Beauty and tranquility are the hallmarks of this unspoiled island paradise in the Caribbean. In Anguilla your blissful days on the soft white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise water are capped only by the gourmet meals you'll enjoy at the finest restaurants to be found in the region.
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Beaches & Sun
Anguilla
Surrounded by turquoise waters, Anguilla offer a tranquil retreat of more than 30 beaches, seven marine parks and numerous diving sites where you can explore shipwrecks, caves and marine life. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, the beaches warm and the water dazzling at this Caribbean getaway.
37. Corfu, Ionian Islands, Greece
Start a love affair with the most popular Ionian island. Basking off the Albanian coast, captivating Corfu is a beguiling place for romance. The passionate island is dotted with villages of whitewashed houses, Byzantine churches and Venetian fortresses. Corfu town offers exciting nightlife in its charming, cobbled streets.
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History & Culture
Corfu
From the Peloponnesian War to World War II, Corfu has been in the middle of military conflicts since ancient times. Walk in the village of Kassiopi where great emperors have set foot, see art and artifacts at the archaeological and art museums and explore the fort of Paleo Frourio.
Beaches & Sun
Corfu
Villages of whitewashed houses, Byzantine churches, Venetian fortresses and vibrant nightlife lure visitors from the resorts and beaches of the most popular Ionian island. Ermones beach attracts many from Corfu town, while picturesque Paleokastritsa, 17 miles Northwest, is definitely worth the drive.
38. St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, Caribbean
St. John teems with romantic restaurants and perfect settings for tender moments. Lovers lounge on stunning Cinnamon Bay beach, kick flippers through the coral of Trunk Bay, amble through Annaberg Sugar Plantation and indulge in the delectable cuisine on offer in Cruz Bay.
39. Bermuda, Caribbean
The scents of hibiscus and oleander fill the air, balmy Trade Winds blow, secluded pink-sand beaches surround hidden coves, and candles twinkle during intimate dinners on this island made for couples. Horse-drawn carriages, stunning sunsets and moonlit strolls complete Bermuda's romantic ambience.
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Family Fun
Bermuda
The real Bermuda triangle comprises pink beaches, inspiring marine life and family fun. Even on rainy days, kids love the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo and its 140,000-gallon replica of a living coral reef, as well as the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute's shipwrecks, artifacts and shark cage.
Beaches & Sun
Bermuda
Most famous for their pink sands, Bermuda's beaches are so good for swimming and water sports that most visitors will find that the Bermudan waters match the brilliance of its shores. Take a dip in the tranquil waters at Elbow Beach or try snorkeling at Warwick Long Bay.
Shopping
Bermuda
Bermuda's best shopping is in the City of Hamilton, the capital, where Front Street is the main buyer's drag. Fine British and Irish clothing and tableware are among the better finds, with prices cheaper than in their homelands due to Bermuda's lack of sales tax. St. George also boasts some good shops.
40. Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Kinki, Japan
Regardless of season, it's hard not to succumb to romance as you wander Kyoto's atmospheric streets, gazing at the glimmering Kinkaju Pavilion and its lotus ponds and feasting at restaurants over the River Kamo. Glimpse a geisha disappearing down a narrow alley in Old Kyoto as lanterns bob in traditional house doorways.
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History & Culture
Kyoto
Kyoto was spared from WWII air raids and atomic bombing on account of its outstanding beauty. Only Rome has more designated World Heritage Sites than the former Japanese capital. Old Kyoto's alleys of traditional narrow houses, known as "houses for eels", fill historic geisha quarter Gion Corner.
41. Mykonos, Cyclades, Greece
Mykonos teems with tourists in the summer, but travel in the spring or fall to this most popular Greek island in the Aegean Sea and find your romantic paradise. Watch the sunsets from under the windmills on the hill, or have an intimate dinner at a fine restaurant tucked away in a backstreet.
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Beaches & Sun
Mykonos
Famous for its golden sandy beaches and its crystalline waters, Mykonos offers something for every type of beach-goer. The populated south beaches are perfect for partying, while the secluded north beaches offer quiet and relaxation. Enjoy a wide variety of activities from skiing, jet-skiing and windsurfing to horseback riding and parasailing.
42. Margarita Island, Coastal Islands, Venezuela
Once a pirate hideaway, this relatively undiscovered Venezuelan island in the Caribbean is now an ideal lover's retreat. Sunny practically all year-round, Margarita Island offers secluded beaches, exotic vegetation, spectacular sunsets from La Galera fortress and peace and tranquility under a tropical sky.
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Beaches & Sun
Margarita Island
Tropical Margarita Island is Venezuela's main Caribbean resort, with a few dozen white-sand beaches leading into turquoise waters. Nearby Los Roques archipelago is a pristine coral atoll that offers unparalleled scuba diving.
43. Rhodes, Dodecanese, Greece
Enjoy a truly romantic idyll in the sunny Greek island of Rhodes, which is steeped in ancient history. Soak up the rays, marvel at the unique Valley of the Butterflies, wander through cobblestoned streets or relax at a friendly local taverna in this pearl of the Aegean Sea.
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Beaches & Sun
Rhodes
Crystalline waters, golden sand and the blessing of the sun god Helios make Rhodes a spectacular island for sun-worshippers 300 days a year. Pack plenty of reading material for a lazy holiday, or explore the countless treasures left from centuries of invaders.
History & Culture
Rhodes
Conquered, re-conquered and perennially fought over since its beginning more than 3,000 years ago, the Rhodes teems with ancient history and modern culture. Attractions include the ancient acropolis, the medieval city's streets and walkways and the site where the famous Colossus reputedly once stood.
44. Manzanillo, Pacific Coast, Mexico
Golden sands, mouthwatering tropical fruits, swaying palms and the sounds of salsa spell romance in the Mexican Pacific Coast resort town of Manzanillo. You can find unspoiled beaches and private bliss, and if fishing is your fancy, remember they also call this place the Sailfish capital of the world.
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Beaches & Sun
Manzanillo
Manzanillo remains as beautiful as when it was "discovered" by the jet set in the 1970s, but its beaches are now largely deserted. Sport fishers will be in heaven, and the International Sailfish Tournament takes place twice a year. Underwater visibility is high, making snorkeling and scuba diving memorable.
45. Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is a thrillingly romantic destination. Olive groves etch hillsides among beautiful towns bristling with centuries-old towers such as Fiesole and San Gimignano. A captivating array of churches, intriguing winding streets, the 1345 bridge Ponte Vecchio and the Italian's love of life make Florence deliciously romantic.
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Spa
Tuscany
Etruscans set the pace at Tuscany's bubbling waters, and the Romans splashed in their wake, heating up the fortunes of spa town Bagni San Filippo. Those suffering from degenerative arthritis and rheumatism plunge into the restorative waters amid olive groves and vines in nearby Bagno Vignoni's thermal baths.
46. Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
Attracting visitors from all parts of the world, Majorca is a dreamy island destination in the Mediterranean Sea, just off the south-east coast of Spain. There's something for every taste - beaches and coves, a spectacular mountain range, romantic fishing villages and a rustic countryside dotted with almond and olive groves.
47. Cannes, French Riviera - Cote d'Azur, Provence, France
You might feel like Hollywood royalty as you promenade along La Croisette, but mind the media frenzy that engulfs Cannes in May during the famous film festival. Many of the world-class hotels in this delightful Mediterranean town on the French Riviera offer romantic vacation packages that combine glamour with seclusion.
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Beaches & Sun
Cannes
The crowning glory of the French Riviera, Cannes is the place to be seen on the beach even when it's not film festival time. Inviting sands and 300 days of sunshine a year make sunbathing a popular sport, and you can even rent a yacht for a week if you're really out to impress.
48. Capri, Campania, Italy
It doesn't get much more romantic than the magical isle of Capri. While the surreal Blue Lagoon is the main attraction, other delightfully romantic spots to dawdle in include the Arco Naturale, used as a water shrine by the Romans, the lush Augustus Gardens and the remains of Villa Jovis.
49. Key West, Florida Keys, Florida, United States
overs stroll hand-in-hand through the quaint town of Key West and saunter barefoot along its beaches and cays. Palm-lined streets are home to gingerbread mansions, sidewalk cafes and fabulous bars, and gourmet delights grace menus in world-class restaurants.
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Beaches & Sun
Key West
Key West's beaches are at once diverse and similar. Each one has a unique flavor, and some cater more to water sports than others. Almost all are perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling, and they are, without exception, beautiful.
50. Sanibel Island, Florida, United States
The wedding wonderland of Sanibel Island lures lovers to its 15 miles of beautiful beaches. Shore strolls and embraces by the lighthouse, as the sun is setting, fill balmy days, while the island's melting pot of restaurants provide memorable menus for romantics.
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Beaches & Sun
Sanibel Island
Saunter on the shell-speckled sands of tropical barrier island, Sanibel, on Florida's Gulf coast. Quiet, secluded White Beach, with its scurrying sandpipers, offers a respite from the holidaymaking hordes elsewhere, while Turner Beach lures those with their sights on shells or the day’s catch.
Family Fun
Sanibel Island
Fans of seashell-collecting will rejoice on the beaches of Sanibel Island, where it's possible to find specimens worthy of the local Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. Rent bikes and explore the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
51. Santa Barbara, California, United States
Pamper yourself and someone special in Santa Barbara. Give yourselves over to the care of luxurious spas, take a day trip though California's "other" wine country, taste the pleasures of world-class dining by candlelight or treat yourself to unique shopping experiences.
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Beaches & Sun
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara's beaches have palm trees, wide shores, world-class surfing and annual beach volleyball tournaments--what's not to love? Families should fire up a grill at Leadbetter Beach, swimmers should take a dip in East Beach's calm waters and couples should share a view of the sunset at Butterfly Beach.
Family Fun
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara's picturesque coast and architecture make a fun backdrop for your family's vacation. Parents and kids enjoy riding the 3.2-mile bike path on bicycles or quadracycles, examining native marine life at the Sea Center, or just exploring the beaches and parks along Cabrillo Boulevard.
52. Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, England, United Kingdom
Charming villages and rolling hills create the backdrop for a romantic getaway in the Cotswolds, England's peaceful cottage country. Designated "Romantic Roads" suggest driving tours that tempt lovers to explore back roads and take in lovely valleys, fascinating towns and captivating villages en route.
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History & Culture
Cotswolds
The gentle, rolling Cotswolds have a rich history. Fields turn up 6000-year-old arrowheads, and the Romans marked out many roads. Historical Jacobean estates, such as Chastleton House, abound in the affluent rural area. Pubs, antique shops and historic gardens round out the satisfyingly English picture.
