Spend some quality time with your loved one in these three world-class locations that deliver waves of romantic inspiration.

By Paul Oswell | January 4, 2024

Do you want to impress that special someone in your life? Maybe there’s an anniversary or a birthday coming up, or perhaps you want to pop the question and ask them to spend the rest of their life with you. No matter the occasion, it’s always the perfect time to celebrate your love, and these destinations are brimming with romantic possibilities:

The City of Love

Paris is one of the most evocative destinations for couples in love — from the extravagant architecture and world-famous landmarks to the glorious food and wine. It’s a city that has inspired artists, writers and filmmakers for generations. You can’t help but fall in love here.

Take romance to new heights with one of the Eiffel Tower’s Champagne packages and toast your special someone surrounded by one of Europe’s most iconic views. Then stroll the historic streets of Montmartre and visit the Museum of Romantic Life before stopping by Les Deux Magots brasserie for an intimate and classic French lunch. The city lights up as night falls, making it the perfect time for a scenic river cruise along the Seine.

Love is alive and well at nearby Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace. Located adjacent to the regal palace of Versailles and its gardens, the hotel’s romantic credentials are top tier, especially with its romantic getaway package for couples. The offering includes a decadent room service breakfast (which can also be enjoyed at the chic La Véranda restaurant); a chilled bottle of rosé Champagne with strawberries; access to the plush Guerlain Spa facilities, including the sauna, hammam and gorgeous glass-roofed swimming pool; and a bouquet of fresh roses to top it all off.

The concierge at Waldorf Astoria Versailles can also arrange intimate wine tastings, sensory perfume experiences and exclusive events at the palace of Versailles. Whatever you choose, you’re only steps away from one of the most breathtaking locations in France, which goes a long way in setting the mood for romance.

Pristine Punta de Mita

Natural beauty can set the stage for a love-filled getaway, and few places are more stunning than Mexico’s Punta de Mita and the surrounding Nayarit region, where you’ll find gorgeous golden beaches framed by picturesque mountains.

Head out onto the sparkling ocean on a private catamaran sailing for two, including stops for snorkeling, sunbathing or an intimate picnic. You may even see humpback whales during migration season from December to March. Romantic walks along the coastline don’t come any better than those around the exclusive stretch of beach at Conrad Punta de Mita.

Whether you’re honeymooning or simply taking a couple’s vacation, you can enjoy the benefits of the personalized concierge services and experiences available for guests in select suites. They can arrange for a hot bath to be drawn in your spacious bathtub using carefully selected scented oils or a couple’s massage on your suite’s private patio. Take a post-massage plunge in your private pool, all while enjoying a delightful Champagne service or floating breakfast.

Adventurous couples can also enjoy a private boat ride, and snorkel around Hidden Beach in the nearby Marietas Islands before a sunset cruise with bubbles and canapes. Back at the resort, indulge in a tasting of mezcal, tequila and sotol before retreating to a secluded mangrove for a private, chef-curated dinner. End the night under the stars with a romantic beachfront bonfire.

Stunning Santa Monica

If upscale boutiques, designer labels and gourmet dinners are your love language, then the A-list paradise of Santa Monica, California should be on your travel wish list. Connect with your love against the backdrop of a spectacular coastline, a cutting-edge culinary scene and the endless selection of glamorous retail temptations along Wilshire Boulevard.

Santa Monica has some of the world’s most desirable restaurants, and you can indulge your epicurean tendencies with truly memorable meals for two. Chef Josiah Citrin’s two Michelin-starred dining room, Mélisse, is always a great choice, with its intimate 14-seat setting. Don’t overlook its one Michelin-starred neighbor Citrin, where modern Californian cuisine shines and many dishes are embellished with decadent truffle or caviar.

If you’re looking for a designer outfit for date night or a souvenir statement piece for your home, Santa Monica is replete with retail options. Santa Monica Place features an array of sophisticated boutiques and high-end designer stores like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. and Aesop or take advantage of personal shoppers and stylists at upscale department stores like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom.

Maintain the romantic ambience and reconnect at Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts. The hotel’s beach butler can set up an intimate daybed for an afternoon spent relaxing together. Add a picnic on the beach or even a full oceanside dining experience to really make the moment special. Forge new memories together by having the concierge arrange a coastal horseback riding tour, a private visit to the beautiful Getty Villa or a couple’s massage in your suite. For a truly exclusive experience that lovebirds won’t soon forget, embark on a helicopter tour soaring over the California coastline.

Wherever your travels take you, there’s nothing more special than making shared memories with your significant other — whether it’s over a ten-course tasting menu or gazing upon an unforgettable sunset. Refuel the romance in your life and take off on an inspiring new adventure.

Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guide books/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.