This week, here are some suggestions for things couples can put onto their ‘bucket list’ for 2013. Hot spots to visit and something to suit all budgets… again they are in no particular order!
1) Europe – there are so many perfect places to visit as a couple, Paris (famed as the city of love), Venice (although anywhere in Italy fits the bill!), Prague, Athens to name a very small few. Europe offers it all, a perfect combination of sightseeing, amazing food and wine, theatre and romance galore.
2) Huka Lodge, New Zealand. This iconic retreat is gorgeous, five star luxury situated on the Waikato River, near to Taupo on the North Island of New Zealand. It is a perfect spot to access all the well known New Zealand activities including golf, fishing, Spa, hikes, jet boating, white water rafting and hunting. Nearby is the fantastic wine region of Hawks Bay and the food is delectable.
3) California Route 1, USA. A terrific driving holiday that takes in the Pacific Coastline of California. Start in Los Angeles and then slowly journey through the suburbs of Marina Del Rey, Venice Beach and Santa Monica before heading north to Malibu, Ventura County, Santa Barbara, Pismo Beach, Carmel, Monterey and Santa Cruz. There are some great spots to stay for a couple of days to enjoy the spectacular scenery and beautiful villages. World renowned golf courses are scattered throughout this area and if you have time you can also head a little inland and take in Yosemite National Park and Napa Valley wine region. Finish in San Francisco, and enjoy all this great city has to offer. A fantastic holiday!
4) Hayman Island. Situated in the magnificent Whitsundays, Hayman Island is beautiful and the perfect island for a couple’s retreat. A fantastic resort which offers seclusion and privacy, stunning accommodation, fine-dining and a true haven to take time out and relax. And when you’ve had enough of lying by the pool, enjoy a trip on the Great Barrier Reef or take a picnic and spend a day at Whitehaven Beach…. This trip ticks all the boxes.
5) Hunter Valley (NSW) or Barossa Valley (SA). Both of these locations are easily accessible and offer a fabulous ‘food and wine’ experience. Think quaint guesthouses, elegant wineries, villages to explore, fresh produce and a culinary/farm style adventure. Perfect for a long weekend away – go on, spoil yourselves.
6) Fabulous Fiji. A week at the Sofitel Resort & Spa on Denarau Island could be just what the Doctor ordered. Rest, relaxation, cocktails by the pool, massage in the spa… need I go on? An ideal break to unwind and chillax.
7) The Greek Islands. Probably a no-brainer and needs no selling on my part I’m sure, as who hasn’t dreamt of sunsets whilst sipping a glass of crisp wine, overlooking the magnificent ocean in Santorini?
8) Hua Hin, Thailand. Home to the famous ‘Chiva Som’ (Health Retreat for the rich and famous), Hua Hin is a two hour drive from Bangkok and home to a string of spa resorts and health retreats. Away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, these resorts offer tranquility, luxury and pampering… and at a range of price tags to suit your budget. My favourite is The Evason, Six Senses (I’m not really a lettuce and carrot person) and I highly recommend. Your retreat is the main focus of your holiday but it’s always good to nip out to do a spot of shopping and sightseeing.
9) Vietnam. Refer back to my previous blog on Vietnam for a detailed suggested itinerary of what to see and do – a ten day trip is ideal for couples and you will see a fantastic country. Not as commercial as mainstream Asia with lots of sights to see, beach locations to enjoy, fabulous fresh food and cheap shopping. A great adventure for couples at a relaxed pace.
10) The Maldives. These tiny, idyllic and secluded islands offer the perfect escape. Perfect for diving, surfing and every water sport imaginable, there are islands to suit all budgets. From Australia you usually fly in via Singapore or Kuala Lumpur so it’s good to stop over for a couple of days on your return home to add on another dimension to your trip.
So have I whet your appetite yet? Time to start your planning your ideal trip with your special someone!