Fair Verona is where we lay our scene. February 14th is an important day in this Italian city, for it is the setting for history’s most enduring love story - Romeo and Juliet. Here are a few romantic things to see and do when visiting Verona for Valentine’s:
Verona in love - a series of romantic events in the city, including ‘Romeo and Juliet’ tours and restaurants offering candle-lit dinners.
Verona Arena - an ancient Roman amphitheatre.
Relais Il Sogno di Giulietta - luxury boutique hotel located near Juliet’s balcony.
Giardino Giusti - a romantic Renaissance garden.
Osteria tour - restaurants perfect for a lazy lunch.
Shop till you drop - shop Gucci, Roberto Cavalli and the funky Fiorucci boutique - to name just a few!
Wine tasting - vineyards around the city produce some of the country’s best wines.
Sunset strolls - Verona’s historic city centre is beautifully preserved, and there are many great sunset views.
Romantic dinner - try one of the city’s many Michelin-starred restaurants, or the 150-year-old Locanda Castelvecchio.
Party time - try Studio 90 (vicolo del Giasto 90) that has a dance club downstairs.
Sydney, NSW (PRWEB) January 22, 2008 — Set the mood for love this Valentine’s Day with HotelsCombined’s list of the 10 most romantic hotels in Europe. Carefully selected and across a number of locations, these hotels aim to cater to a variety of tastes. The hotels were selected for attributes such as their scenic setting, décor and design, hospitality, sense of place, romantic atmosphere and visitor reviews.
Hotel Splendido
Portofino, Italy
For the glamorous jet-setters
An ancient villa perched above a hilltop and set amongst tropical gardens, this luxury villa has sweeping views of Portofino’s spectacular bay. Chic and magnificent, everything about this hideaway encapsulates romance: grape-vined terraces, oversized beds, private balconies overlooking castles and the sea, piano bars for dancing and a winding garden path of olive trees that leads to the sea. Live la dolce vita with an Aperitif on La Terrazza as the sun sets over the Italian Riviera.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Splendido_Hotel_Potofino_Vetta.htm
Domaine des Hauts de Loire
Onzain, France
For the Traditionalist
Classic French châteaux set on a sprawling estate of hundred-year old oak trees and swan-filled lakes creates a high romance quotient. This ivy covered castle is just outside the village of Onzain and a few hours from the bright lights of Paris. Spacious and elegant, the rooms are furnished with a mix of antiques and modern luxuries. Indulge in hâute French cuisine and the region’s fine wines at the hotel’s Michelin starred restaurant or take a romantic hot air balloon ride of the chateau-dotted Loire Valley. This is majestic French countryside meets opulent lodging.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Domaine_des_Hauts_de_Loire_Hotel_Onzain.htm
Macdonald Gisborough Hall
Gisborough, England
For countryside enthusiasts
Stunning Gisborough Hall is a deluxe Victorian manor surrounded by parkland. Extensive landscaped gardens and bedrooms look out over the Cleveland Hills and into the distant woodlands. Dating back to the mid 19th century, the manor is a blend of original features and modern facilities. Each of the rooms and suites have been individually decorated to retain their old charm and features. Comfortable furnishings create a homely-feel whilst four poster beds bring sexy back with a Victorian twist … Explore the scenic English countryside and dine at the hotel’s restaurant Tocketts, acclaimed as one of the finest dining experiences in England’s North East.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Macdonald_Gisborough_Hall_Hotel_North_Yorkshire.htm
Hotel Imperial
Vienna, Austria
For music lovers and princesses
The ex-residence of the Prince of Württemberg, this 19th century palace now the Hotel Imperial oozes Viennese grandeur fit for royalty. The Imperial has indeed accommodated royalty with Queen Elizabeth II and celebrity couple Brangelina former guests. Rooms are elegantly decorated with antiques and rich fabrics, period artworks, crystal chandeliers and balconettes with views of the Ringstrasse and the downtown area. Take in the rich musical history Vienna has to offer by going to an Opera or walk in the footsteps of Amadeus and Debussy with a tour of the city. http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Imperial_Hotel_Vienna.htm
Royal Crescent Hotel, Bath
For Jane Austen fans
Bath, a Roman Spa town and the backdrop for many of Jane Austen’s romance novels, is impossibly romantic. The Royal Crescent Hotel is situated on Royal Crescent the “street of streets”, an imposing sight with its amazing houses and manicured lawns. The Royal Crescent depicts a Georgian fantasy with 18th century antiques, four poster beds, marble baths and oil paintings. Take a dip in The Bath House, a stroll in the gardens or a meal at Pimpernel’s. http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Royal_Crescent_Hotel_Bath.htm
Liberty Hotel, Prague
For a Bohemian dream
The luxurious Liberty Hotel is in the heart of the historical centre and at the lower end of famous Wenceslas Square. The Liberty is a thoughtful and sophisticated reconstruction of a 19th century Art Nouveau palace. Spacious rooms and suites, hand crafted antique furniture and chandeliers create a romantic atmosphere whilst modern amenities provide homely comforts. A walk to Charles Bridge at night allows you to appreciate breathtaking views of both sides of the city.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Liberty_Hotel_Prague.htm
Seven One Seven Hotel, Amsterdam
For art-appreciators and quiet romantics
Reminiscent of a scene from a Dutch masterpiece, this intimate guest house looks over Amsterdam’s most beautiful canal, the Prinsengracht. Situated in Spiegelkwartier the city’s Antique district, the area is characterized by beautiful old Dutch houses dating back to the 16th century. An impressive oak staircase leads to a number of personally themed suites Picasso, Schubert and Tolkien to name a few, which are furnished with a mix of period furniture and modern decor. Couples can enjoy breakfast in bed, in-room massages and spa treatments. Other quiet pleasures include al fresco dining in the peaceful courtyard and relaxing with cheese and wine by the fireplace. Museums and the nightlife of Leidseplein and Rembradntplein are also closeby.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Seven_One_Seven_Hotel_Amsterdam.htm
Hotel Astoria, St Petersburg, Russia
For history fans
The Hotel Astoria at St Isaac’s Square is at the heart of the vibrant city centre. The Astoria strikes a perfect balance of the traditional with the contemporary. Modern amenities mix with traditional decor, parquet floors and white marble bathrooms. Go back in time with a troika ride through the czar’s palaces or a visit to the Hermitage Museum, just a stone’s throw away. A three-night Valentine’s package includes a champagne and caviar breakfast, candle-lit dinner on the special night, a city tour and a Russian massage.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Astoria_Rocco_Forte_Hotel_St_Petersburg_Russia.htm
Hotel Sezz
Paris, France
For romance in-style
Hip and sexy, the Sezz Hotel is for modern-day romantics. Deceptively glamorous, the classic façade provides no hint of the stylish space inside. Described as futuristic boudoir chic this hotel sets a high standard for style, comfort and romance. Couples can enjoy each others company in oversized tubs that fit two, drinks at the Sezz’s Veuve Clicquot Champagne bar or extra pampering with hammams and massages.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Sezz_Hotel_Paris.htm
Glin Castle
County Limerick, Ireland
For a fairytale setting
A historic castle replete with turrets and towers, Glin Castle is an image straight from a fairytale. On the banks of the River Shannon, this secluded mansion is surrounded by formal gardens and woodland ideal for lazy strolls or a game of croquet. The picturesque beaches and ruins of counties Limerick and Clare are close by as is the 100 year old O’Shaughnessy’s Pub, perfect for a traditional pub meal.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Castle_Hotel_Glin.htm
To book a stay at one of these romantic retreats or search for more romantic hotels for Valentine’s Day, please go to www.hotelscombined.com. Search by destination or by hotel name and compare rates from multiple accommodation providers to find the lowest price for your dream hideaway.
(PRWEB) January 18, 2008 — For Valentine’s Day, HotelsCombined.com picks ten of the world’s most romantic retreats in stunning locations from secluded beaches to classically romantic cityscapes, cities of the exotic Orient to tropical havens. The list can be used to treat a loved one to a plush stay or help to inspire the romantic within you.
Top 10 Romantic Hotels
* Jade Mountain Resort
Soufriere, Saint Lucia
For nature-lovers
In a truly romantic and magical setting overlooking St Lucia’s Piton Mountains, the Jade Mountain can be described as ”a resort within a resort”. The Jade is designed to blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings, creating a new level of sophistication and luxury in hotels. Each bedroom, living area and private pool merge together to create what can be described as a floating stage that connects with views of the island’s twin World Heritage Pitons and the Caribbean sea. Enjoy dining under the stars on your very own balcony or a swim in your private pool at dusk surrounded by gently flickering candles.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Jade_Mountain_Resort_Soufriere.htm
* Elbow Beach Hotel
Hamilton, Bermuda
For sun and sea lovers
Located in Hamilton and composed of 235 suites and 104 cottages, this nearly century old grand dame stretches across pink-sandy beach and the turquoise sea of the Atlantic. For the most privacy, book a cottage especially the secluded “Bird of Paradise” which fronts the beach. Book a spa treatment for two as soon as you check in to enjoy the world renowned Asian-style treatments of this hotel group.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Elbow_Beach_Hotel_Hamilton_Bermuda.htm
* Pucic Palace Hotel
Dubrovnik, Croatia
For culture-lovers
Mix romance with culture in beautiful Dubrovnik, an old town which juts out into the deep emerald waters of the Adriatic. The Pucic Palace, the city’s newest hotel is an impeccably restored 18th century villa, and the only one within the walls of the Old City. The top choice for style and service in Dubrovnik, this palazzo is both comfortable and well-designed. High beamed ceilings, parquet floors, European antiques, Italian mosaic bathrooms and 24hr room service create a deluxe experience, making it almost impossible to leave your room. If you do venture out, make sure you enjoy romantic strolls through the cobblestoned streets of the medieval city or charter out the hotel’s yacht to enjoy a picnic for two out at sea.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Pucic_Palace_Hotel_Dubrovnik.htm
http://www.pucicpalace.com
* Thalassa Boutique Hotel Paphos
Cyprus, Turkey
For history fans
Poised above a cliff top not far from the mythological birthplace of Aphrodite “the Goddess of Love”, the Thalassa is well set for romance. Each of the 58 rooms overlook the azure sea and the 1250 B.C ruins of the first Mycenaean settlement on Cyprus. A dedicated butler for every room allows you to fully enjoy your romantic getaway. Serene and contemporary rooms boast polished-wood floors, lush suede sofas and chairs, artesian furniture, marble bathrooms all mixed in with modern comforts. Thalassa’s innovative Anagenisis Spa offers ancient Byzantine, Greek, and Roman therapies for couples and the hotel comes with its own private beach perfect for moonlight picnics, walks and soulful star-gazing.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Thalassa_Boutique_Hotel_Paphos.htm
* The Chedi
Muscat, Oman
For an Arabian fantasy
On the Gulf of Oman, The Chedi sits amongst 16th century hill-top fortresses and overlooks the Indian Ocean and rugged mountains of Muscat. Seductive and beautiful, The Chedi is like a scene from The Arabian Nights. Soak in the authentic sights and tastes of the Middle East in Muscat, and at night feel the powerful aphrodisiac of local frankincense permeate the air. Coolly stylish, The Chedi is refinement at its best and at the same time understated elegance.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/The_Chedi_Spa_Hotel_Muscat.htm
* Amanjena Hotel
Marrakech, Morocco
For the self-indulgent
Designed to conform harmoniously to its surroundings, Amanjena bears a distinct Moorish influence that stays true to the Islamic architecture of Marrakech. Pavilions with domed ceilings and king-sized platform beds, bathrooms in green Moroccan marble with deep soaking tubs create an air of decadence. Each pavilion has a private courtyard complete with gazebo and fountain. Try a “Maison” for ultimate privacy which comes with a private pool, fireplaces, guest bedrooms and around-the-clock butler service. Famous celeb couples Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, Victoria and David Beckham, Sienna Miller and Jude Law have all sought out the Amanjena as their exotic hideaway.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Amanjena_Hotel_Marrakesh.htm
http://www.amanresorts.com/home.aspx?id=292
* Bauer Hotel
Venice, Italy
For an Italian romance
Step out into Renaissance Italy in Venice, home to Italy’s most famous romancer - Casanova. Surrounded by the canals of Venice, and located in the pulse of the city centre near Piazza San Marco, the Bauer offers deluxe Italian-style romance. The hotels plush suites, velvet furniture and brocade upholstery perfectly captures the sense of time and place. Take in the sights of the city with a truly romantic gondola ride and loose yourself in the alleyways to discover wonderful Venetian cuisine and treats.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Bauer_Hotel_Venice.htm
* Aleenta Spa & Resort
Phang Nga, Thailand
For the easy-going
Aleenta Spa and Resort stretches along the coast of the Andaman Sea, on pristine, white sandy Natai Beach. Nurture your relationship with warm sea breezes, sand, sea and relaxation. All living spaces are designed to capture as much of the natural surroundings as possible with ceiling-to-wall windows framing the exotic landscape. Sit back and watch the sun set from the comfort of your own lounge or rejuvenate with luxury spa treatments for two.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Aleenta_Spa_Resort_Phang_Nga.htm
* Library Hotel
New York City, United States
For art and literature fans
Designed to feel more like a private club than a hotel, the Library hotel will make you feel like you are in a world of your own. Each of the 60 rooms are elegantly adorned with a collection of art and books categorized according to the Dewey Decimal system by subject. The collections encompass a wide-range of areas - Literature, Arts, Math, Science and History. The effect is good looking, home-like guestrooms and appealing public spaces including a rooftop bar for a romantic drink under the stars. Not surprisingly the “Erotic Literature” room is the most popular whilst the “Love” room has a terrace. Guests are invited to enjoy a continental breakfast each morning and nightly wine and cheese for free.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Library_Hotel_New_York.htm
* Villa Maria Hotel
Ravello, Italy
For quiet-lovers
Ravello is one of the most famed towns of the Amalfi Coast. Perched high above the hustle and bustle of the seaside, Ravello offers peace and quiet. The tranquil coastal town has inspired many great romantic works including Wagner’s opera Parsifal and D.H Lawrence’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover. Charming Villa Maria offers its guests the romantic atmosphere of enchanting Ravello. Situated in the heart of the historic old town centre, the Villa provides a wonderful escape for intimacy and privacy. The Villa has preserved the character of an ancient patrician residence but offers comfortable living spaces. It is elegantly furnished with period antiques and possesses a breathtaking panorama of the Amalfi Coast.
For more information and rates, visit:
http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Villa_Maria_Hotel_Ravello.htm
To book a stay at one of these romantic hideaways or search for other romantic retreats for Valentine’s Day, please go to www.hotelscombined.com. Search by destination or by hotel name to see all the available deals at a glance and then compare rates from multiple accommodation providers to find the lowest rate for your dream getaway.
BOTHELL, Wash., Dec. 19 /PRNewswire/ — Forget the flowers, chocolates, and jewelry this February. Take a lesson in romance from the birthplace of passion and make this year’s Valentine’s Day celebration one that you’ll remember forever. Air France Holidays is offering specially priced Valentine’s Day packages to Paris, Nice, Rome and Barcelona that are sure to inspire excitement in every relationship.
“These packages were created in some of the most romantic destinations in the world,” stated Martin Froggatt, Air France Holidays Vice President of Operations. “Air France Holidays will take care of all the trip planning details. You and your special someone will be able to simply enjoy the time together surrounded by all the passion that Europe is famous for.”
Air France Holidays’ Valentine’s travel packages are priced from $799 and include roundtrip airfare on Air France, 3-night hotel accommodations, half-day city tour, continental breakfast daily, hotel taxes and surcharges, and airline fuel surcharges. Prices do not include airport taxes and fees.
For more information about the Valentine’s travel packages and to make a reservation, please visit http://www.airfranceholidays.com or call a reservations specialist at 800-237-2623 (6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT Monday - Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Saturday and Sunday).
When traveling with Air France Holidays you can expect the very best. Our travel experts are trained to assist in every detail from the start of the booking process through the completion of the travel experience. Air France Holidays’ commitment to excellence has been recognized by the French Government Tourist Office in 2005, 2006, and 2007 as the recipient of their “Tour Operator of the Year” award.
About Air France Holidays:
Air France Holidays is the tour division of Air France, a private label vacation program operated by Europe Express First Choice since 2004. Air France Holidays offers exciting air-inclusive vacations to France, Tahiti, as well as popular cities in Europe and other international destinations. Customized itineraries, group vacations, and special interest activities provide flexibility and added trip personalization. Travelers can travel with Air France Holidays from 125 U.S. cities through code-share agreement with SkyTeam partners Delta, Continental and Northwest.
NEW YORK, Sept. 26 /PRNewswire/ — The Empire State Building and Conde Nast Bridal Media’s Brides.com announce today the call for entries to couples around the world to exchange their vows and say, “I do” atop the famed Empire State Building with the exclusive planning, fashion and beauty help of Brides.com. Romance will soar to new heights as 14 couples will be selected to celebrate Valentine’s Day by marrying or renewing their vows at the Empire State Building.
To be selected, couples should visit www.brides.com/esb or www.esbnyc.com to submit their personal love stories, photos and reasons for wanting their special day to be held at the Empire State Building. Winners will be selected based upon the originality and distinctiveness of their submissions and their connections to America’s favorite building. The call for entry begins today and goes until October 31. Couples will be chosen and notified by November 19.
This year marks the first year couples from around the world can officially enter online to be chosen as one of the lucky 14 couples who will be given the wedding of their dreams at the most romantic place on the most romantic day in 2008. Weddings on Valentine’s Day have been a tradition at the Empire State Building since 1994. Since the first couples got hitched, there have been close to 200 weddings in the building. And, last year, couples came from as far as Germany, as well as Great Britain, New York, Texas, Florida, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and New Jersey to share their special day with the Empire State.
Brides.com Editor in Chief Theresa DiMasi said, “Brides.com is thrilled to partner again with the Empire State Building for its Valentine’s Day Wedding Event for 2008. We can’t wait to see the number of submissions we get on Brides.com and where they come from all around the world. This truly is a global event.”
Brides.com editors will lend their bridal expertise to the event, styling the “wedding chapel” in the Empire State Building and helping each of the 14 couples look their best for the big moment. The day will begin at 7 a.m. and conclude in the mid-afternoon with each couple being wed in a unique half-hour ceremony. Following their sky-high nuptials, brides and grooms will enjoy a champagne toast and receive a Brides.com gift bag valued at $500.
Brides.com was the first partner ever for the Empire State Building’s Valentine’s Day Wedding Event in 2007, and the day was officially proclaimed “Empire State Building and Brides.com Day” in New York City by Mayor Bloomberg.
Brides.com, “Your #1 Source for Wedding Ideas,” is the premier destination website within Conde Nast Bridal Media. Brides.com’s dedicated editorial team creates original content, develops interactive tools, cultivates an engaged community and provides an array of beautiful imagery and videos to inspire the bride throughout her wedding planning process. Content is also aggregated from the three national magazines-Brides, Modern Bride, Elegant Bride-and 16 local magazines.
Soaring 1454 feet above Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building is the “World’s Most Famous Office Building.” With new investments in infrastructure, public areas and amenities, the Empire State Building has attracted first-rate tenants in a diverse array of industries from around the world. The skyscraper’s robust broadcasting technology supports all major television and FM radio stations in the New York metropolitan market. The Empire State Building was recently named “America’s Favorite Architecture” in a poll conducted by the American Institute of Architects.
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