With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, more and more couples are choosing travel to material gifts, and whether you’re planning a quick city getaway or a romantic beach holiday, these are the mistakes you should avoid making.
Do Not Choose Paris
Known as the city of love, Paris is probably the number one most visited city during this time of the year, however, it is also not the best choice.
While the city is beautiful with all its art and history, the weather in February can be a little tricky, and if rain and cold weren’t enough, it is also guaranteed to be full of tourists – even more than usual – travelling to the French capital to celebrate love.
Choose Marseille Instead
If France is your destination of choice, try Marseille or Colmar Instead of Paris.
Marseille features all the beauty and romance of France while still offering a mild Mediterranean climate, perfect for romantic walks hand to hand or hikes in the nature, ideally in a Provençal lavender field.
And what’s better than promising your other half eternal love on a promenade by the beach, looking over the bright blue colours of Côte d’Azur?
Or Colmar
On the other hand, Colmar, which sits at the opposite side of the country, right near its border with Germany, offers a typical fairy tale experience. This place is so fascinating and unique that it even served as inspiration for Disney´s animated series Beauty and the beast.
Do Not Choose Venice
If you’re considering going to Venice for Valentine’s Day, you might want to think again.
Not only is Venice extremely popular among local and international tourists on the day of lovers, it is also preparing for the imminent carnival, which means the city will be chaotic and incredibly expensive – and it will also likely rain.
Choose Verona Instead
Instead, you should visit Verona. Not too far away from Venice, this stunning UNESCO World Heritage city is known for its remarkably preserved 1st-century Roman Arena (famous for opera), charming medieval streets, and romantic, picturesque views along the Adige River. It also served as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
Still to this day, you can visit the 14th-century house and take pictures on the famous balcony, where the unfortunate couple revealed their love for each other.
Near the famous balcony, is also located the historic Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House), where couples traditionally attach engraved padlocks with their names to the metal gates in the courtyard – as a symbol of eternal love.
Do Not Choose Cancun
Cancun is another popular destination around this time of the year, but as the party capital of Mexico, it’s also full of party hungry crowds looking for fiesta.
Choose Tulum Instead
A great Mexican option is the nearby town of Tulum, with its gorgeous white sand beaches and turquoise waters, much quieter pace of life, and even its very own Mayan ruins – populated mostly by huge iguanas roaming free across the site.
Do Not Choose Bali
Bali is often considered a cheap alternative to the Maldives, but there is one big downside at this time of the year, the weather. November to May is monsoon season in Bali, so rain, wind, and storms are never off the charts.
Choose Andaman Instead
Just a short flight away, you can experience secluded luxury at a reasonable price in Andaman. This archipelago of islands located in the Bengal Bag and belonging to India is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and lush coral reef beaming with all sorts of sea life.
Geographically closer to Thailand than India, this place enjoys perfect weather conditions at this time of the year, and resorts are available at a much lower price compared to other tropical destinations in the area.
Or Vietman
Vietnam is another great alternative to Bali. February is perfectly dry and warm making the country a perfect choice for beach lovers.
And if you’re an adventure seeker, look no further! You can take a three day wild scooter ride to Ha Giang Loop, an overnight boat in Ha Long Bay, a coconut boat in Hoi An, or even just hike through the jungle along the Mekong river.
Not only is this country warm and beautiful, it is also incredibly cheap, offering a range of hotel, transports and activities options for every pocket.
