ROAM-ANCE: Out of the Ordinary Escapes with Naya Traveler
Still trying to come up with plans for your significant other this Valentine’s Day that’s not like those in years’ past? Well, if you’re one who has trouble thinking out of the box, yet still want to totally wow your Bae, consider leaving plans for Sweetheart’s Day to Naya Traveler’s experts.
Naya Traveler can craft unique experiences far beyond the well-trodden romance resort path. Discover Naya Traveler’s “Roam”-ance Journeys, a different and refreshing take on couples’ travel to unchartered destinations including Cambodia, Myanmar, Kashmir and Ladakh, Peru, Argentina, Uruguay and more. Each curated trip is fully tailor-made. Here are a few favorites selected by Millennium Magazine:
Morocco’s Enchanting Southern Route
Journey with Naya Traveler through Morocco’s lesser-known southern route, passing through some of the most remote towns and villages of the country such as Tata, Guelmim, and Assa. Staying at private properties along the way, spend a week on a fully serviced, exhilarating road trip that will introduce you to Morocco’s secret essence – one that is seldom described in the guidebooks. Couples check into the ultimate romantic oasis, Dar Ahlam, and continue for an exhilarating few nights in Marrakesh. They’ll experience the romance of an ultimate Moroccan Hamam experience, explore the winding alleys of the Medina, and hear enchanting stories from the Jmaa el Fnaa fortune-tellers. Itineraries include accommodations at beautiful private homes (La Maison des Arganiers, La Maison de L’Oasis, La Maison Rouge), a private luxury nomadic camp in the Sahara Desert, two nights at Dar Ahlam in the Skoura Valley and two nights at Villa des Orangers in Marrakesh. From $1200USD per person per day, based on two people in double occupancy. For information, visit www.nayatraveler or info@nayatraveler.com.
Rio de Janeiro & Trancoso
Sensuality comes to life naturally in Brazil— it’s said that anything done as a pair in Rio inevitably becomes a romantic affair. Guests spend mornings roaming the colorful streets of Santa Teresa, exploring in Parque Lage or soaking up the sun at Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. Evenings call for sexy samba dancing on the Selaron steps or a sophisticated nightcap at the legendary Copacabana Palace. Guests will also sneak away to a private bohemian paradise in Trancoso, in 500-year-old brightly colored casitas with white-washed shutters, beautifully restored by Wilbert Das along with local artisans using traditional techniques and reclaimed materials. A few nights at the Uxua Casa & Spa offers seclusion and five-star treatments at a nature-filled romantic retreat nestled in the heights of an uber-chic treehouse or a casita on the steps of the sandy Bahia beach. Itineraries include accommodations at Chez Georges for two nights in Rio de Janeiro and four nights at UXUA Casa & Spa in Trancoso. From $900USD per person per day, based on two people in double occupancy. For information, visit www.nayatraveler or info@nayatraveler.com.
Eternal Love in Rome with Bettoja Hotels
Rome is one of the most romantic destinations in the world – and the resting place of Saint Valentine! The Eternal City earned its name because of the belief that no matter what happened, Rome would always persevere…a fantastic metaphor for love. Bettoja Hotels offers the RomEntic Rome package for February and beyond since love lasts longer than just Valentine’s Day. Choose from Hotel Mediterraneo, Hotel Massimo D’Azeglio or Hotel Atlantico – all within walking distance from the Colosseum, Opera House, Forum, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. The package includes a two-night minimum stay, a candlelight three-course dinner for two at Hotel Mediterraneo’s Roof Garden Restaurant and Bar (with amazing views of Rome), a bottle of Italian Prosecco in room at arrival, exclusive breakfast at Roof Garden and a professional photoshoot. From €277 per person, per night. For more information, visit www.bettojahotels.it or booking@bettojahotels.it.
Love and Wellness at ADLER Spa Resort THERMAE
The extraordinary ADLER Spa Resort THERMAE is set in the middle of Tuscany’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. The “Be My Valentine” package is available from February 6th – 28th, and includes a romantic couples massage, champagne in room, and a breakfast and afternoon buffet prepared by ADLER’s Tuscan chef. Guests have access to ADLER’s Thermal Baths and Spa, which includes 5 saunas and many thermal pools, guided hikes, Nordic Walking, mountain bike or e-bike tours with the resort’s local guides. Couples can also utilize the innovative “Val d’Orcia Outdoor” App for easy, safe navigation through unspoiled nature nearby. Mountain bikes and e-bike rentals are free, and guests have access to ADLER Fit, a daily yoga and fitness program. From 744 € per person for stays Sunday through Wednesday (inquire about rates for other dates in February). For information, visit https://www.adler-resorts.com/
Better than a Box of Chocolates: Calabash Cove Resort and Spa
One of the most popular all-inclusive, adults-only boutique hotels in Saint Lucia, Calabash Cove Resort and Spa offers seclusion, beauty, and mesmerizing views. With old Caribbean charm, 26 villas are accompanied by the Windsong restaurant, lively C-Bar, and the peaceful Ti Spa. Ti Spa offers special Valentine’s spa packages – with treatments including the Chocolate Decadence Body Polish ($100USD pp), with a chocolate full body scrub; a Couples Moonlight Escape ($300USD), combining a hot stone and Swedish Massage, a chocolate peppermint foot scrub and champagne and chocolates under the moonlight; and the Couples Massage Lessons ($100USD), where lovebirds learn how to pamper each other with techniques to help reduce tension and stress. The all-inclusive concept includes a Valentine’s Day dinner, with highlights including a grilled half spiny lobster, five-spiced foie gras with papaya chutney, and escovitched shark with sweet potato chips and edible moringa flowers. For more information, visit www.calabashcove.com or info@calabashcove.com.
Design, Culture and Romance in San Miguel de Allende: Casa Delphine
San Miguel de Allende is a magical town filled with culture, art, history, and architecture, and Casa Delphine is the perfect setting to explore. Located on a quiet cobblestone street, the thoughtfully curated five-suite boutique hotel is offering a special Valentine’s Day package perfect for fashionistas, gourmands, and others. With a two night stay, enjoy an in-room couples massage, complimentary prosecco, and flowers upon arrival along with a $100USD gift certificate towards dinner at Fatima 7. From $850USD. Guests can add on a glam squad and professional two-hour photoshoot ($325USD), or a morning hot air balloon ride ($280USD). For information, visit www.casadelphine.com or reservas@casadelphine.com.
Serenity on Saint Barths: Les Ilets de la Plage
Rediscover and find romance at Les Ilets de la Plage, a low-key beachfront boutique resort with just 12 villas on Saint Barths. The best value on the island, family owned Les Ilets de la Plage has been a well-kept secret for years, combining the privacy and serenity of a villa with a hotel concierge service. The concierge can arrange a perfect romantic getaway including a private sunset cruise, an in-villa couples’ massage, or a romantic dinner for two at one of the restaurants overlooking the Gustavia port. Pricing upon request. For more information, visit www.lesilets.com or info@lesilets.com.