Alternative Valentine’s Day Breaks - It’s Not All About Paris
This Valentines Day, why not leave the maddening crowds and overpriced restaurants of popular Paris and New York behind, and choose somewhere a little different to whisk away your loved one…
Marrakech - Discover A New World
Be transported by the sensual romanticism of Marrakech. A city of winding streets filled with the heady scent of spices, the ancient mysticism of snake charmers, and the beguiling trance of belly dancers. The old town of Marrakech, known as the Medina, is lined with market souks selling Moroccan treasures. Take a romantic horse and carriage, ‘caleche’, through the maze of stalls, or simply lose yourselves in time as you wander on foot. At night the main square of the Medina, Djemaa el-Fna, comes alive with a mesmerizing act of jugglers, storytellers, acrobats and musicians. Grab some mouthwatering Moroccan food from the open-air food stalls lining the square, take a seat under the stars, and watch the show.
Away from the bustle of the Medina, relax in one of Marrakech’s many luxury spa hotels. Unwind in the Turkish baths at the five-star Albatros Garden Hotel, before retreating to your room with a view of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains.Marrakech can be reached in less than four hours and with February temperatures at a pleasant 20C, makes it a temptingly exotic Valentines getaway.
Brighton - For A Taste Of Traditional Seaside Romance
What could be more romantic than huddling on Brighton seafront sharing fish and chips? For a quirky and very British Valentines break, head to this cultural gem on the south coast.Wander the famous Brighton Lanes by day for a romantic gift from one of the many independent boutiques. Stop for a coffee at a small cafe tucked down a twisting alleyway and watch the world go by.As the sun goes down, take a romantic sky voyage on the Brighton Ferris Wheel. Be whisked to your private capsule via the VIP entrance, and sip champagne as the skyline sights of Brighton and Hove are laid out before you.
Afterwards, take a moonlight stroll along Brighton promenade and take your pick from the multi-cultural dining experiences on offer. Or, for truly British romantics, head to Brighton Pier and the famous Palm Court Fish restaurant for the nation’s favourite: seaside fish and chips.If the February weather leaves you sheltering indoors, spend an evening at the Duke of York’s Picturehouse. Grade II listed, this is Britain’s oldest cinema, and the grown-up choice to relive those teenage cinema date moments. Sit back in the comfy seating, wine in hand, and enjoy an independent, cult or classic movie.
Slovenia - Experience Some Adventure On Your Valentine's Break
Those romantics looking for more to their Valentines break than shops and restaurants should make Slovenia their getaway destination. Bordered by the Alps of Italy and Austria to the north, and the Mediterranean and Croatia to the south, Slovenia holds a breathtaking view wherever you turn. Over half this small country is blanketed by forest, making it one of the greenest countries in the world, ideal for active couples.Hike around the lake in the picturesque town of Bled, and marvel at the mountain backdrop. Take a romantic picnic to eat lakeside, not forgetting to include Bled’s speciality the ‘Kremna Kezina’, a cream cake. The tiny island in the centre of Lake Bled can be reached by gondola, a romantic day trip.Valentines Day falls in the Slovenian ski season, and there is a certain romanticism to skiing down a mountainside together under crisp February skies. The town of Bovec in the Soča Valley is home to some of the best alpine views in Slovenia, and sits at the base of Mt Kanin, Slovenia’s highest ski resort. Adventure companies here offer cross-country skiing, and sledding trips.
For a break from activity head to Slovenia’s charming capital Ljubljana. Hand in hand take a pleasurable stroll through the city’s picturesque old town, taking frequent breaks in the bustling street cafes and peaceful museums and galleries.
Whether you choose the rich culture of Marrakesh, the Britishness of Brighton, or the natural wonder of Slovenia, you are sure to have an unforgettable, and unique, Valentines break.
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