We love celebrating Valentine's Day with chocolate and fresh flowers as much as the next guy, but the truth is, a week later, they're gone. Here's another idea: spend the day planning a romantic getaway.
You can do the planning secretly and make it a surprise (we can help you out and promise to not breathe a word), or have some fun working on it together. Here are a few tips to help you and your sweetheart plan a vacation that serves up plenty of romance and enjoyment. And you can still do the flowers and chocolate thing, too.
Set Aside Some Time
Maybe it's over coffee in the morning or a special Valentine's meal, but try to spend some uninterrupted time where your ideas can flow freely. Ask yourselves two questions:
First, what was your favorite vacation ever and what did you love about it? Second, what type of vacation have you always dreamed of taking?
Where in the World?
Then do some destination-dreaming. Write down five places you've always wanted to visit. Which ones would be perfect to discover together? Try to be specific in this step. Rather than “a beach, ” maybe it's “a beach in the Greek Isles.” Compare notes to see what places you may have in common.
If you don’t have any mutual destinations, think about why you are drawn to each place that you each wrote down and look for other commonalities that you could enjoy. For example, are they rich with history, great foodie places, or simply sunny and warm? Work backwards from the commonalities and, if you need some inspiration, head to our Travel Inspiration page.
Now, where did I put that?
Before you start making plans, make sure your passport is up-to-date. Did you know that many countries will not allow you to enter if your passport expires within six months after travel? If it's time renew, here's some helpful information to get you started.
Those passport pictures can also be great inspiration for memories, stories, and laughter that will help put you in that vacation frame of mind.
Start Your Wanderlist
Do you have a place to keep notes, links, and ideas? Most of us have an informal travel wishlist going, often in our heads. Decide on a digital platform to collect your thoughts so you have a way to retrieve those flashes of inspiration. Virtuoso Wanderlist is a fun, engaging tool that allows users to collect and share travel ideas with friends and family. It's loaded with inspiration and simple to use.
Just Do It!
Once you’ve decided on your dream vacation, start planning - the sooner the better. Some practical considerations: how long do you want your trip to be? Will you fly, drive, or travel by rail? What are the things you absolutely must do while you're there? How much will you budget for this vacation? Then, contact your Travel Advisor to get the ball rolling.
Pop that Cork
Hooray! Your vacation is booked and now it's time to celebrate. Crack open that bottle of champagne and toast to your accomplishment. By next Valentine's Day, you'll have wonderful memories to look back on and can start planning the next one!
If you need some help planning a perfect romantic getaway or second honeymoon, we're here to help with questions, ideas, and suggestions. Contact us here to get started.
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