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Galle,_Sri_Lanka

Tucked away along Sri Lanka’s sublime south coast, Galle, with its old-world charm, rich heritage and tropical allure, is the perfect destination for couples to explore. Here’s how to craft a magical visit to this part of the island that you will cherish forever.

Before You Get Started
First up, you need to find a great place to stay. A good option is a luxury beach resort in Kalutara which offers a more secluded coastal setting, complete with all the pampering you deserve. Consider properties like Anantara Kalutara Resort from where you can easily enjoy a day trip to Galle and return to blissful tranquillity.

Explore the Dutch Fort Together
Begin your Galle City tour by exploring the iconic Dutch Fort. Wander through quaint streets home to colonial warehouses and buildings some of which are now charming boutiques, restaurants and museums. Stop by the historic Dutch Reformed Church followed by some shopping for souvenirs, clothing, curios, gemstones or jewellery.

Spend Time at the Beach
Nothing spells romance like some time by the ocean when in Galle. For a lively vibe, head to Unawatuna Beach for sunbathing and a refreshing dip. If you prefer a quieter setting, Jungle Beach is your answer; after a short trek through the jungle, you will find a serene bay perfect for a peaceful swim. Don’t forget your camera for those dreamy couple selfies!

Unawatuna
Image by Bernard Gagnon via Wikimedia Commons

Walk Along the Ramparts at Sunset
There’s something magical about walking along Dutch Fort’s historic ramparts as the sun dips below the horizon. The view of the Indian Ocean stretching endlessly before you is pure poetry. It’s a moment to pause, take in the beauty around you (including your partner!), and watch a spellbinding sight across the horizon where the sea meets the sky.

Head Back for Romantic Dining
After a day of exploring, head back to your Kalutara resort. Pamper yourselves with a soothing couples’ massage, then savour a tailor-made beach dinner under the stars. With a personal chef crafting dishes to your liking, it’s the perfect way to end the day, reliving your Galle adventures and dreaming of what’s next!

Dubai

Dubai is a playground for couples who love taking pictures together that combine romance and adventure. Whether you are after Insta-worthy snaps or personal keepsakes, here are some of the most enchanting spots to capture your love story.

An Overwater Villa on Palm Jumeirah
Imagine you and your partner relaxing on the private terrace of an overwater villa on Palm Jumeirah, surrounded by endless blue horizons. Such unique experiences are on offer at properties like Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, which offer views that are pure magic, whether you are soaking in the tub or snapping a sunset selfie on the deck.

Private Beach Dinner
What better way to sweep your partner off their feet than with a romantic beach dinner in Dubai under the stars amidst the serenades of the sea? Look to stay at a resort in Palm Jumeirah that provides private beach dinners; this can include having comfy cushions laid out on the sand at sunset or a candlelit table on a secluded part of the shore with a glittering cityscape in the background.

Arabian Gulf Boat Cruise
Set sail to a horizon that is as infinite as your love on a private boat cruise in Dubai. Resorts on Palm Jumeirah offer such experiences, which are not to be missed; they can include everything from a private adventure on a Thai longtail boat to a charter cruise that is part of a bespoke sailing experience complete with awe-inspiring vistas for pictures and delectable cuisine.

Cruise
Image by Walter Lim via Wikimedia commons

Getting Out and About
Dubai is brimming with Insta-famous spots for couples. Stroll through the Dubai Miracle Garden, home to the iconic Heart Tunnel, or head to the Burj Khalifa for breathtaking views. Snap a few shots at the Dubai Fountain’s dazzling evening show or plan a desert safari with an early morning hot air balloon ride… it’s the kind of experience that looks as good on camera as it feels in real life!

Abu_Dhabi_-_panoramio

Looking to sweep your partner off their feet while on a holiday? Abu Dhabi is the perfect playground for romance for couples in search of such an intimate escape. Whether you are celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply your love story, this is how to plan a dream escape here.

Stay at an Adults-only Beach Resort
Start your getaway by booking a luxury adults-only beach resort in Ghantoot, halfway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. An ideal option to consider is Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat where Greek-island vibes meet Arabian elegance. Unwind in luxurious sea-view rooms, dine in style, enjoy a VIP cinema experience and have a butler service on hand 24/7. It’s no wonder couples return to such resorts to host their beach wedding!

Experience Holistic Wellness
When looking for the best hotels in Abu Dhabi for couples, ensure it has a luxury spa. Some wellness rituals will be tailor-made for couples and can feature a ‘golden’ touch for extra indulgence; this can include a gold sugar scrub that leaves your skin glowing, a massage with gold particle-infused oil and a facial using colloidal gold to leave your skin radiant. It’s pure pampering perfection!

Enjoy Private Dining
For a truly intimate experience, opt for private dining in Abu Dhabi by the shoreline with the soothing sound of waves in the background. Some resorts will set up a candlelit table for two on the beach with a personal butler catering to your every whim. Choose from Mediterranean or Middle Eastern cuisine or customise your dishes for a bespoke culinary journey. Romance is definitely on the menu here!

Private dinning
Image by Ciousmagz via Wikimedia Commons

Engage in Enriching Activities
Add some creativity to your trip with activities like an Arabic perfume workshop, where you can create a signature fragrance to take home as a cherished keepsake. Certain resorts will also let you join a mixology class which will be fun to try. For some adventure, couples can head out to the Arabian Gulf on a double glass kayak, try stand-up paddleboarding or enjoy some snorkelling to spot marine wonders.

Imagine saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, the sound of gentle waves, and the warm glow of the sunset on idyllic shores. Well, such a dream celebration of your love can become a reality on the tropical Thai island of Koh Samui, and here’s how to get started!

Find the Ideal Hotel
First off, choose a hotel by the sea, ideally located at places like Chaweng Beach. Consider a property such as Avani Chaweng Samui Hotel & Beach Club, which also offers personal wedding planners to ensure every detail is flawless. You even have the option to book the entire hotel for a private celebration with loved ones. Plus, you are perfectly placed to kick-start your honeymoon right after you tie the knot!

Decide on the Venue and Décor
A secluded stretch of beach is the quintessential choice when choosing Koh Samui wedding venues at your hotel. The ideal property will also provide gorgeous tropical flowers, floral arches, and a petal-strewn path to make your ceremony picture-perfect. Add in flexible function spaces, a high-quality sound system, and a customised menu, and you have got all the makings of an unforgettable celebration.

Sunny_Beach_Weddings
Image by Sunny Beach Weddings via Wikimedia Commons

Check Wedding Packages
Take advantage of wedding packages in Koh Samui offered by hotels. Apart from the venue and décor, added features can include hairstyling, makeup, and bouquet for the bride; a corsage for the groom; an English-speaking celebrant; and even a honeymoon suite with romantic touches. Some packages also feature Champagne and a wedding cake to help create the special day you always dreamed of.

Partying in Style
Don’t forget to add some fun pre- and post-wedding parties to the mix! Stay at a hotel that offers access to a beach club, a perfect venue to host bachelor and bachelorette parties, as well as a lively reception. You can look forward to poolside cocktails, a choice of Thai or Western buffets, and international DJs spinning tracks as you and your guests dance the night away under the stars.