Destination weddings, honeymoons and romantic travel are increasingly becoming more popular in the travel industry. Romantic tourism is fast becoming a lucrative industry and travelers are reaping the benefits. Consider these romantic travel statistics from the Travel Industry Association (2007):
- More than 42 million Americans have traveled in the past year to attend a wedding, go on a honeymoon, or celebrate an anniversary. In other words, 20 percent of all U.S. adults booked romantic-related travel plans in the past year.
- Baby-boomers take the lead in romantic travel and 41 percent of romance travelers are ages 35-54. One-third (33%) of these travelers are Generation X and Y travelers between the ages of 18 and 34.
- The majority of romance-related travelers are married (67 percent) and 38 percent of these travelers have an annual household incomes of $50,000 or more.
Whether you’re taking a first trip as a couple or you’re renewing your wedding vows, take romance to the next level by booking a romantic vacation. Need some inspiration? We’ve come up with some romantic travel ideas to help light the flame.
Romantic Vacations on a Budget
Romantic tourism is big business, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Depending on what time of year you travel it’s possible to plan a cheap romantic vacation.
New York, San Francisco and Las Vegas are great city destinations for your romantic getaway. Opt for a night of dancing and dining in Las Vegas, or purchase half-price tickets to a Broadway show in New York City. San Francisco boasts great walking tours and one of the best Chinatown’s in the country.
Need a beach getaway? Plan a long weekend in Florida or in the Bahamas. Cheap flights to Florida and the Bahamas are easy to come by on the east coast, and there is plenty to do once you’re there. Relax on the beach before dining alongside the waterfront.
Want a mountain view? Plan a trip to Colorado and hole up in one of the various resorts or bed and breakfasts. Vacations in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, promote peace and quiet, and the view of Camelback Mountain in Arizona is breathtaking.
Luxury Destinations
Some say love don’t cost a thing – others agree money is no object when it comes to the one you love. For a truly luxurious romantic getaway, consider one of the following destinations:
- Paris: The Eiffel Tower, the River Seine, need we say more?
- London: The best theater and intimate dining make this city a must-see romantic destination.
- Prague: The Gothic architecture provides an awe-inspiring backdrop to your romantic vacation.
For a truly secluded getaway, book romantic vacations to Fiji, St. Lucia or Seychelles. Private bungalows, butlers and beaches abound at these luxurious beach destinations. It might take a while to get there, but the experience will be ever-lasting.
If the countryside is your cup of tea, take a cue from the master of romance William Shakespeare and plan a romantic vacation in Stratford-Upon-Avon. If vineyards and meadows are more to your liking, plan a tour of wine country in Bordeaux, France.
Dare to be Different
Who said romantic vacations had to include candlelit dinners and fine wine? Show your betrothed your creative side by booking one of these unique romantic vacations.
Treat your taste buds to a chocolate tour through Belgium or Switzerland. Travelers tip: Chocolate is known as an aphrodisiac, so set aside some alone time for you and your loved one.
Book bike rides during flower festivals such as "Tulips and Windmills" in the Netherlands, or tour the magnificent flower gardens in Austria.
To really ignite a fire between you and your sweetheart, start out cold – ice cold. Ice hotels, like those found in Sweden and Iceland, give new meaning to the romantic vacation. Lovers find body heat and extra blankets the core necessities on this trip.
