There’s something about arguing with your hubby while navigating the tumultuously windy backroads of Maui through a tropical forest – or clinging to each other at 3 a.m. during a downpour that rumbles like freight train on the tin roof of the cottage you’re staying in – that just spells the word “R-O-M-A-N-C-E.” I mean, it’s said that you never get to know someone better than when you travel together. What better way to kick off the most romantic month of the year than with a trip made for two? 2016 is the year to put it to the test, or perhaps re-spark that languishing LTR.
Inspired by the wintry weather, which is making its presence felt even here in the Sunshine State, we’ve got love and warmer temps on the brain.
Whether it’s time for a honeymoon or a rendezvous for you and your Valentine, here are four lovely stops for your love story this year.
Palm Springs, California
The allure of romance in Palm Springs has attracted the gays, grays and Hollywood celebs for decades. This southern California desert town has played as the backdrop for Rock Hudson’s closeted romances, Elvis’ Honeymoon House and even the infamous affair between Marilyn Monroe and JFK. Check in at the Hacienda at Warm Sands (thehacienda.com), an intimate, gay-owned bed-and-breakfast with a stunning view of the San Jacinto Mountains towering over the resort’s pool. Order catered lunch while you lounge naked poolside or venture Downtown Palm Springs to the restaurant and shop-lined Palm Canyon Drive for a night on the town. The city is a mecca of mid-century-modern architecture and design, too, for the museum buffs. Top it all off with a ride up the mountainside on the Palm Springs Tramway for a kiss at the snow-covered peak.
Maui, Hawaii
The once-in-a-lifetime dream escape is on the eastern side of Hawaii’s Valley Isle. Fly in to Maui’s Kahului airport and rent a car for a scenic drive on the road to Hana. The twisting road begs for travelers to stop and marvel at any number of sights along the way, be it Wailua Falls, the Seven Sacred Pools at ‘Ohe’o or Black Sand Beach. Once you reach the destination hotel – Travaasa Hana (travaasa.com/hana) – you’ll experience the true meaning of “Aloha” staying in one of the resort’s charming Sea Ranch cottages. The adventure continues with coastal horseback riding (across oceanfront property owned by the big “O,” Oprah herself), biking down Maui country roads, traditional hula dancing lessons or simply soaking in your own private jacuzzi overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Bonus: Make for a little extra sexy time with the resort’s no-distraction rule – no TVs, radios, internet or alarm clocks here.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Without a doubt, the sexiest spot for same-sex couples south of the border is Puerto Vallarta. Stay at Costa Sur Resort & Spa (costasurpuertovallarta.com), tucked between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the shimmering waters of Banderas Bay, and you can set the mood with your suite’s ocean view and all the necessary modern amenities, only with a Mexican twist. It’s just a short cab ride away from Playa de Los Muertos, PV’s beautiful gay beach, and ZonaRomantica, the city’s gayborhood, which is chock-full of gay nightlife, shops and cozy sidewalk cafés where you can easily snag a table for two to indulge in authentic Mexican and international cuisine. You won’t know if it’s the hormones or humidity that will have you melting to your knees.
Cape Coral, Florida
Alas, there’s no need to hop on a plane for a romantic getaway. Right in Florida’s backyard is a host of off-the-beaten-path destinations just ripe for romance. Westin Cape Coral (westincapecoral.com) is one, welcoming gay and lesbian couples with a getaway package that invites you to relax in an oversized suite, partake in water activities at the hotel’s backdoor (like paddle boarding or kayaking), or just simply enjoy a romantic dinner for two on the marina followed by a sunset cruise on the (you might spy some dolphins getting it on, too). If it’s a night of dancing you crave, the handful of bars and clubs in Fort Myers are a short drive away. Sanibel and Captiva Islands are also at your feet, a world-renowned spot for beachcombers to search for seashells and powdery sand beaches for catching rays. There are plenty of spots along the way to escape for an intimate moment or a seaside meal (try the Orange Cake at the Bubble Room—it will be the second best sinfully delicious thing on the trip).
Where will Valentine’s Day find you and your sweetie this year? Tell us in the comments!
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