Whether you’ve just found love or are celebrating a lifetime of it, we got your back for this month of romance. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, we talk to the world leaders in the luxury wedding business from around the world who will be joining the most anticipated event on the destination wedding industry calendar, the DWP Congress to reveal the most gloriously romantic vacations this season. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for weddings, honeymoons, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day or other amorous special occasions, these experts with a keen eye on the trending locations, reveal five of the dreamiest hotspots—from secluded beaches to exotic jungles to luxurious spas—which are perfect for a passionate escape.
Sebastian Centner, Founder of Entertainment and DWP 2018 Speaker
Most Romantic Place In The World: Cape Town
Why: Cape Town has been swooning visitors from around the world for decades. The Mother City with her splendid natural beauty, trendy eateries, intimate bars and scenic vineyards is chock-a-block with great options for a memorable romantic rendezvous, whether it’s a first date or a 50th anniversary.
Insider Recommendation: While Galileo open air cinemas are dotted all around Cape Town, and run almost every day of the week, a special Valentine’s Day screening will be held at Nooitgedacht Wine Estate. This venue has become one of the most popular ways to spend a romantic night out in Cape Town. February is almost always perfect and Nooitgedacht are pulling out all the stops for romantic visitors.
Ali Bakhtiar, Luxury Wedding Planner at Ali Bakhtiar Designs LLC and DWp 2018 Speaker
Most Romantic Place In The World: South Of France
Why: You could be a first timer or you could be a loyal vacationer in the South of France, you will always be hypnotized and enchanted by the the turquoise waters along the French Riviera or the lavender fields of Provence. You could go yachting all day and dance all night in St Tropez or walk along the ochre-hued Provençal villages, there isn’t a bit of the glamorous region that doesn’t embody quintessential French style and sophistication.
Insider Recommendation: With each turn on every street in the region, you’ll come across hotels and resorts that give their own opulent spin to hospitality. The playground for rich and famous never runs short of Michellin star restaurants or hard-to-book exclusive wine tastings. The La Bastide de Gordes in particular, combines old world charm, elegance, comfort and luxury in a refined yet relaxed style, with unparalleled and memorable views over the fabled Luberon Valley and mountains.
Jove Meyer, Founder and Creative Director at Jove Meyer Events and 2018 DWP Speaker
Most Romantic Place In The World: Hawaii
Why: Think of Hawaii and the image of surfers by golden sand beaches and waterfront parties washes all over you. But there is more to the Polynesian archipelago than luaus and cocktails. From lush green forests, majestic waterfall plunges over rugged cliffs, and world class hotels in the volcanic islands are enough to make you fall in love with Hawaii.
Insider Recommendation: The Garden Isle of Kauai is the oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian Island chain, graced with dramatic, natural beauty. Explore the trails of Kokee State Park or take time to relax in one of the many beautiful gardens such as Limahuli Garden to truly immerse in the local Aloha spirit. If you’re looking for a luxe getaway, then the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina should be on top of your wish list. The resort rests in a 10-acre nature preserve called Lanikuhonua which translates to “where heaven meets earth”. Once a retreat for the islands’ royalty, the resort also houses a restaurant from the James Beard Award-winner and Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina.
Otto De Jager, Founder and Planner at Otto De Jager Events and 2018 DWP Speaker
Most Romantic Place In The World: Venice
Why: Do we even need to explain? The Italian city has long been the object of much affection and enchantment for newlyweds and lovers around the world. Spend your days strolling hand-in-hand with your loved one alongside serene canals and marvellous renaissance architecture or go museum-hopping in the Dorsoduro District, to soak up the historic sights and orchestral sounds at Piazza San Marco, Venice never ceases to fascinate.
Insider Recommendation: The 15th-century Gritti Palace has one of the most enviable views of the Grand Canal, looking across to the magnificent Salute church, and has equally sumptuous interiors to match. With priceless antiques and frescoes, and even more precious luxury suites, it is an experience you need to live to believe. If a romantic gondola ride is too cliched for your taste, make sure you visit the ancient opera house and watch the world renowned ballet with your partner.
Roberto Cohen, Founder of Roberto Cohen Events and 2018 DWP Speaker
Most Romantic Place In The World: Loire Valley
Why: Straight out of a Disney fairytale, the picturesque Loire Valley is studded with storybook villages, time-burnished towns, and the famous châteaux de la Loire. These postcard staples, like Chenonceau and Chambord are strung like a strand of pearls across a serene countryside. More than the stunning facades, the rich style and gastronomical offerings of the small town have made it a playground for royalty and aristocrats for centuries.
Insider Recommendation: Loire Valley produces some fine wines in France, not far behind Bordeaux and Burgandy. There are countless opportunities for wine tasting at vineyards across the region. The Maisons des Vins de Loire in Nantes, Angers, Saumur and Tours are worth a visit for oenophile couples. Also be sure to stay at one of the many breathtaking chateaux ranging in age from the 13th to 18th century. Be sure to book a romantic night or three, in one of the magical accommodations. We love the Château of Blois in the middle of the town which has been frequently remodelled and fitted with cutting edge amenities. Also, don’t miss the famous sound and light show which attracts many visitors.
