THE MOST ROMANTIC GETAWAYS BY THE WATER
We continue in Rhodes, one of the leading lights of the Dodecanese and another island ideal for a romantic trip to Greece. We start, as every holiday to Rhodes should, with a walking tour of the medieval old town. Imagine strolling amongst castles and lamp-lit cobbled alleyways, where you half-expect a knight to come riding by on horseback. And there can be no more romantic view on Rhodes than at Lindos, especially from the acropolis. Just below is Agios Pavlos, a beach that’s perfect for couples with relaxing cocktails or a bite looking up at the citadel Looking for privacy? There are boat tours to out-of-the-way swimming spots but if you want to control your destiny, hire a boat and skipper. Highlight beaches include Kallithea, sandy Tsambika and Agathi and the intriguingly named Anthony Quinn beach.
Capri, Italy
Italians have a reputation for being passionate lovers and with this much natural beauty for inspiration, it’s not hard to see why. This island, just off of Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast, is a veritable Mediterranean fantasy. Stroll hand-in-hand along the beach admiring Easter egg coloured houses and fishing boats, the scent of lemon trees wafting softly around you, a chilled bottle of the island’s famous limoncello tucked away for an impromptu sunset aperitivo. Perhaps a take an afternoon jaunt out to the world-renowned Blue Grotto where the sunlight turns the placid waters an otherworldly electric blue.
Turks and Caicos
Private types, rejoice; you don’t have to worry about showing off too much PDA here. Even at the height of the season, Turks and Caicos’ wide, sugar-sanded beaches make it incredibly easy to find a secluded section of shore to pretend is your own private beach. Or, for the full “I own an island” effect, claim a spot for you and your special someone at one of the local ultra-private resorts like the opulent Amanyara on Providenciales or Como on Parrot Cay where celebs like Donna Karan tuck away their vacation houses.
Going to a museum can make for a great date, but going to a museum underwater? Unforgettable. Home to Musa, an underwater statuary museum designed to help protect the local reef and increase habitats for the native marine life, Isla Mujeres makes for a truly unique art lovers’ experience. Of course, it’s not all diving among impressive works of sculpture. Isla Mujeres, a short ferry ride from Cancun, also boasts the same beautiful sand, crystalline waters, and unmatched seafood as its busier neighbour, minus the drunken spring break crowd.
Palawan, Philippines
Trailblazing couples, prepare yourself for some of the bluest water around; seriously, fans of this Filipino island swear that the ocean views here put the Caribbean Sea to shame. Often noted as one of the most beautiful islands in the world to visit, Palawan remains, inexplicably, under the radar – meaning you’ll definitely be the first in your circle of friends to get to brag about traversing the island’s famed underground river or to snuggle up under the awe-inspiring sunsets and whale-spot from one of the white sand beaches of El Nido.
Kauai, Hawaii
If Kauai looks like something out of a movie, there’s a reason – the island has served as the backdrop for dozens upon dozens of movies and TV shows making it the perfect setting for your own private love story. Adventure lovers will find plenty to do exploring the island’s towering sea cliffs, sweeping canyons, and athletic hiking trails but if your idea of romance involves more lounging on cinnamon beaches and snapping perfect kiss photos in front of the 83 foot Wailua Falls waterfall, you’ll be equally thrilled.