49 bhgrecollection.com | 48 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 While you can undoubtedly hop a flight to Europe or the Caribbean for romance, don’t rule out the epic adventures you and your significant other can enjoy in the United States. There are plenty of options for bonding on weekend drives to spectacular places or longer encounters lasting an entire week or month. And, you don't have to wait for an anniversary or a special occasion. Your relationship is special, so take some time to consider when and how you can make your romantic travel dream a reality. Make a point to set aside some dates on your calendar to focus on letting your love flourish. We found eight cities that offer everything couples might want: stunning scenery, amazing restaurants, a vibrant culture, and gorgeous hotels. SEDONA, AZ Sedona captivates with its striking terrain, charming shops, and brilliant night sky. Couples visiting this romantic U.S. city can enjoy hiking, wine tasting, and stargazing, among many other memorable activities. Looking for an especially serene and scenic point of interest to explore together? Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which sits perched in the red rocks of beautiful Sonoma or slip away to one of the city's world-class spas. MIAMI, FL Miami is an ideal spot for romance for couples who don’t want to run out of things to do together. Beautiful beaches, chic cafes, incredible architecture, and lively music create a vibe that should energize even the most stagnant relationship. Where should you stay for a romantic trip in Miami? Center yourself near South Beach, where lively nightclubs and music bring a one-of-a-kind energy to date nights or remove yourself from the bustle of the city center and relax in Coconut Grove. Don’t miss an opportunity to explore one of the most incredible U.S. cities as a team. NASHVILLE, TN You don’t have to love country music to find romance in Nashville, but it helps if you do. All couples can surely appreciate the unique gems in this city like the Botanical Garden and Museum of Art. But for a true Nashville experience and ultra-romantic getaway, you’ll want to live the life of a cowboy or cowgirl in love and cuddle next to each other for a show at the famous Ryman Auditorium. The Grand Ole Opry is also a fun spot to visit as a couple, and of course it’s fun to check out all the bars on Broadway with a special someone. NEW ORLEANS, LA While wild street parties and voodoo dolls aren’t romantic, smooth jazz and intimate courtyards are, and New Orleans has these romantic offerings and much more. The historic city made famous by Bourbon Street and the French Quarter is overflowing with cozy corners and sensual sounds that will bring you and your significant other closer together. When visiting New Orleans as a couple, set aside plenty of time to discover this destination’s rich history and iconic buildings, among other unique features. CHARLESTON, SC Charleston has a wonderful restaurant scene, with many unique settings for romantic meals and intimate date nights over drinks. Couples visiting this U.S. city can take leisurely walks down cobbled streets lined with colorful historic homes and trek along miles of sandy seashore or through a lush park. KAILUA-KONA, HI Tucked into the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, Kailua-Kona is a charming town where you and your loved one can spend moment after moment on pristine beaches and golf courses, in eclectic shops and restaurants, and more. This romantic locale features picture-perfect white sand shores, ideal for picture taking and sunbathing, and it allows couples to enjoy fun activities together like snorkeling and wildlife watching. ASPEN, CO Cozying up to a warm fire, taking a hotair balloon ride, and relaxing in a 5-star luxury hotel like the St. Regis are just some of the romantic things to do in Aspen. Of course, this city is known for its skiing and snowboarding, too. So, whether you and your partner want to spend quality downtime together or get active as a couple, you’ll find that this U.S. destination offers it all. ST. AUGUSTINE, FL Not all couples think about Florida first when trying to decide where to go for a romantic vacation. But this state surprises with its abundance of destinations that foster loving encounters, such as the cute and picturesque St. Augustine. Downtown St. Augustine has hundreds of years of history to uncover, along with many excellent waterfront eateries and bars to linger in. For an extra-romantic trip to St. Augustine, visit during December and stroll through the Night of Lights, when nearly three million white lights adorn the city’s buildings. TRAVEL
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