Planning a Romantic Weekend Getaway

Finding time to be together as a couple can be hard to do. Work & family obligations consume a lot of time for most people, and after a long day it's not easy to be romantic! A romantic weekend away may be just what you need. It can help couples to get away from daily stresses and relax in each other's company. Here's how to go about planning a special weekend away (because as romantic as it sounds to be "whisked away" on a spontaneous trip, life just doesn't work that way... at least not for most people!).

Un-romantic it may be, but making plans for house care, child care, even pet care is necessary if you don't want to be worrying while you're away. Ask family or even a good friend if they would be willing to watch your home for a few days while you're off on your romantic weekend getaway.

(maybe you and a friend could "trade" house-sitting for each other when the other's away traveling)

Children and pets are another concern. It's possible to bring them with you - but you have to consider whether they would be so much distraction that your "romantic weekend" would turn into "just another weekend" of the usual responsibilities. The goal of the weekend is to enjoy a little romance with your spouse! Some couples find it enough to get away from home and into a romantic setting, and having the kids or pets around doesn't detract from their enjoyment. Other couples might consider asking someone to watch the kids or the pets. Ultimately only you can decide whether you want to bring them along or head off on your own.

A weekend doesn't give you much time, so make the most of it! Pick a destination that's within a few hours travel time, whether you're traveling by car or by air.

The advantage of traveling by car is flexibility. You can stop anywhere you like - scenic spots, interesting-looking shops, a fun little roadside cafe - anything that catches your eye. Road travel is also much more affordable.

Flying to your destination means you have more choice where to go in a short weekend. It's not necessarily faster, though, since you have to content with line-ups at the airport, waiting for luggage, renting a car, and so on. It's also more expensive than driving.

Choosing a Destination

Romance means different things to different people. It doesn't have to mean candlelit dinners and walks on the beach... it can also mean returning to a favourite or memorable spot, or doing something fun together that you used to do in your early days as a couple. For example, you could visit the city where you first met, or go back to the theme park where you used to hang out.

Think about what types of places you'd like to visit as a couple. Do you like the romance of the big city? Large cities offer conveniences and amenities and plenty to do and see. There are sure to be a large variety of dining options, hotels, attractions and shops to kep the two of you busy for the weekend.

Maybe you're more into seclusion and privacy. Then head for the countryside and a romantic bed & breakfast or a country inn, or perhaps a cottage tucked into the woods or beside the water. Pack in your groceries and prepare your own picnics... or stock up on gourmet goodies before you leave the city, then enjoy them in the privacy of your romantic hideaway.

The accommodation you choose for your romantic weekend getaway helps to set the mood. Of course, you should work within your budget, but don't try to go too cheap - set a budget and then go for the best lodging you can find within that budget.

• Romantic hotels and resorts are a good choice for couples who like the amenities and conveniences they can offer. Many have room service, on-site dining, pools, spa services, and many other luxuries. They will often be able to offer you special "romance packages" or will help put one together for you. They can also help you arrange activities around town.
• Bed & breakfasts and country inns have a more intimate ambience due to their smaller size. Many couples love the more personal atmosphere and service... plus there's often a big, sumptuous breakfast to enjoy too! Your hosts can also help suggest things to see and do around town, and some will put together a special package for you if you let them know what you're looking for.
• Private cottages or cabins are for couples who want to hide away together, with no one else around. They're usually self-catering which means you bring your own groceries and supplies. You have privacy and seclusion, and many cottages and cabins are in beautiful natural settings by the waterfront or in the woods. Great for an intimate weekend away.

• Try something new.Go for a horseback ride or a romantic carriage ride through town. Splurge and take a helicopter trip and have a picnic lunch looking out at the vast mountain scenery. Go for a quiet canoe trip on the lake. Walk through town and investigate the tiny, off-the-beaten-track bakeries and cafes. Pack a gourmet midnight picnic. Just do something together that you'll both enjoy!
• Try something old. In the "good ol' days" you probably had favourite things you liked to do together. Maybe it was cuddling up with a romantic movie and a pile of munchies. Or maybe you used to stroll around town, window-shopping. Whatever it is you used to like to do, you could try it again and relive good memories.
• Make a romantic dinner together. Fancy or casual, it doesn't matter, so long as it's stuff you both enjoy. Or surprise your sweetheart by making dinner for him or her.
• Stay inside and do nothing. Curl up by the fireplace and just enjoy each other's company.