A romantic getaway looks different for everyone. Some envision a cozy log cabin with a fireplace in the mountains, while others prefer to stroll hand in hand down quaint historic streets.
I’ve been lucky enough to travel to over 50 countries and have had some pretty memorable experiences with my husband during our travels. However, I’ve found that some destinations just lend themselves better to romance than others.
Whether it’s the larger-than-life sunsets, the standout food, or the picturesque settings, these are five of the most romantic places I’ve been to so far.
We truly experienced La Dolce Vita on Italy’s Amalfi Coast.
When we were in our early 20s, my husband and I visited Italy’s Amalfi Coast. To this day, it’s still one of the most romantic places I’ve ever been.
The highlight for me was sitting on the back of a scooter while my husband drove us along the coast to Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.
We stopped for lunch in Amalfi, ate a ginormous slice of pizza with a shot of limoncello, and then walked hand in hand through the scenic streets.
It really did feel like we were living the good life — or La Dolce Vita, as the Italians would say.
Santorini, Greece, is a picturesque spot for dancing and soaking up the sun.
The postcard-perfect volcanic island of Santorini, Greece, captured our hearts when we visited in 2013. With its white-washed buildings overlooking the cobalt-blue Mediterranean Sea, it’s an incredible spot to connect with someone special.
Every afternoon, my husband and I sat and watched the sunset together in Oia before dancing late into the night alongside other young lovers.
We also enjoyed taking in the views and soaking up the sunshine on the black-sand beaches. It was pure magic.
Italy earns another spot on my list because of how romantic Florence is.
When it comes to romance, the Italians do it better than anyone, which is why the country gets a second mention on my list.
Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is hard to beat when it comes to making memorable romantic moments.
Some highlights of my trip with my husband included strolling through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, checking out the Renaissance art, stealing each other’s gelato, and sharing a smooch on the Ponte Vecchio arch bridge.
For those looking for romance in a big city, Rio de Janeiro is the perfect spot.
Rio de Janeiro is a great place for those who like vacationing in a big city but still want a romantic vibe. With its tropical climate, vibrant music scene, and pristine beaches, it’s a great spot for couples to kick back with a caipirinha or three.
We were lucky enough to be in Rio for the 2012 Carnival, a festival held every year before Lent. Often referred to as “The Greatest Show on Earth,” we loved every minute of the celebrations and electric atmosphere.
After a night of dancing, we enjoyed soaking up the sun on Ipanema Beach.
Daydream Island, Australia, is a place worthy of its name.
Located in the gorgeous Whitsunday region in Queensland, Australia, Daydream Island lives up to its name.
One of the highlights is the island’s resort, which is home to the Living Reef, an outdoor coral lagoon featuring sea life from the Great Barrier Reef.
For adventure seekers, there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving.
However, it’s also just as easy to relax on Daydream Island. We visited on our honeymoon in 2015 and spent most of our time reading books by the pool and eating fresh seafood.
The post I’ve been to over 50 countries. Here are 5 of my favorite destinations for a romantic getaway. appeared first on Business Insider.
