Anniversary Vacation Ideas | Anniversary Guides by My Romantic Travel
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.

Dubai_night

If you’re spending this Valentine’s Day in Dubai and want to plan a memorable date that isn’t the typical dinner, then you’re in luck. The city has several intriguing activities and attractions that make for the perfect date, some of which you’ll find below.

Retro Roller Skating

Roller_Skates
Image by Manel.torralba via Wikimedia commons

If you and your partner love a good throwback, head to Dubai’s RollDXB, a roller skating venue that follows a 1980s theme. The vibrant atmosphere and music all add to the moment and are sure to make this outing a memorable date night during your luxury stay in Dubai.

A Cosy Cinema Night

Enjoying a night at the cinema is no novel concept but Cinema Akhil in Dubai will be worth your time, especially if you’re staying in nearby hotels like Paramount Hotel Midtown. Showcasing various international films, the cinema’s cosy atmosphere is perfect for a romantic night out for couples who love artistic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf

You can also add an element of playfulness to your date by enjoying a one-of-a-kind golfing session at the 3D Blacklight Minigolf Dubai. Once you enter this mesmerising course, you’ll be surrounded by walls of brightly painted murals that glow in the dark as you try to navigate the golf course.

An Escape Room Challenge

Testing your teamwork skills in an escape room can be a fun way to spend your date night. Dubai has multiple escape room venues where you can work together like the power couple you are to solve various puzzles and clues.

Skyline_over_the_Hong_Kong

Hong Kong, a city known for its dazzling skyline and vibrant culture, offers couples the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and romance. From serene nature spots to luxurious city experiences, this enchanting destination provides countless opportunities to create unforgettable memories with your partner.

Sunset at Victoria Harbour

Hongkong Harbour
Image by momo via wikimedia Commons

Begin your romantic journey with a sunset stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade which is located about 20 to 25 minutes away from hotels such as Dorsett Wanchai. As the city’s iconic skyline lights up, take a Star Ferry ride across Victoria Harbour to enjoy breathtaking views of Hong Kong Island. The mesmerizing Symphony of Lights show adds an extra touch of magic to the evening.

A Scenic Tram Ride to The Peak

The Peak is a must-visit destination for couples. Take the historic Peak Tram to the summit and marvel at the panoramic views of the city below. Share quiet moments on a nature walk along the Peak Circle Trail, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning vistas.

Luxurious Dining Experiences

Hong Kong is renowned for its world-class dining, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy rooftop cafés. Treat your partner to a romantic dinner at a sky-high venue like aqua, where exceptional cuisine meets stunning views of the city’s skyline.

A Day on Lantau Island

Escape the city’s hustle and spend a day on Lantau Island. Visit the serene Tian Tan Buddha and enjoy a cable car ride with your loved one. For a touch of adventure, hike through picturesque trails or relax on the pristine beaches of Silvermine Bay before returning to the sublime comforts of your hotel in Wan Chai.

Romantic Night Markets

End your day by exploring Hong Kong’s lively night markets. The Temple Street Night Market offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can browse unique souvenirs and savour local street food. Sharing a bowl of wonton noodles under the twinkling city lights makes for a cosy and romantic finale!

marrakech

Love Awaits in Every Corner

Marrakech, the jewel of Morocco, is a city where romance thrives amidst vibrant souks and lush gardens. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary, or just a special escape, this enchanting destination offers many experiences that will ignite your passion. Here’s your ultimate romantic getaway guide to Marrakech:

Stroll Through the Majorelle Garden

Begin your journey at the Majorelle Garden, a tranquil oasis filled with exotic plants and stunning cobalt blue buildings. Hand in hand, explore the winding pathways and find a quiet spot to share a moment of serenity.

Sunset at the Koutoubia Mosque

Mosque
Image by Hans Hansen from Pixabay

Witness the breathtaking sunset near the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech. The sky transforms into a palette of oranges and pinks as you soak in the beauty of this historic landmark.

Candlelit Dinner in the Medina

Indulge in a romantic dinner at one of the charming riads in the Medina. Enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine, surrounded by flickering candlelight, lush decor, and the soothing sounds of local musicians.

Dream Wedding Venues

If you’re considering tying the knot, Marrakech boasts some of the most magical Morocco wedding venues. For a one-of-a-kind celebration, contact the event planners at properties like La Maison Arabe Marrakech by Cenizaro, where every detail is tailored to create unforgettable memories.

Experience a Traditional Hammam

Relax together in a traditional Moroccan hammam. Enjoy a luxurious couples’ spa treatment that includes exfoliation, massages, and aromatic oils, leaving you both rejuvenated and deeply connected.

Celebrate your love and create unforgettable memories with a romantic anniversary getaway in Oman. From breathtaking landscapes to cultural experiences, here are four romantic things to do during your stay:

Destination Couple Photoshoot:

Capture your love against the stunning backdrop of Oman’s natural beauty with a destination couple photoshoot. Whether it’s the majestic mountains of Jebel Akhdar, the pristine beaches of Musandam, or the picturesque forts of Nizwa, Oman offers countless scenic spots for a romantic photoshoot. Professional photographers can help you immortalize your love story in breathtaking photographs that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Stay at a Resort on the Coast:

Indulge in luxury and relaxation with a stay at Oman beach resorts. Wake up to panoramic views of the azure Arabian Sea, stroll hand in hand along the sandy shores, and enjoy romantic dinners under the stars. Many coastal resorts like Al Baleed Resort Salalah offer spa treatments, and gourmet dining experiences, providing the perfect setting for a romantic anniversary celebration.

Image via Al Baleed Resort Salalah

Discover the Desert:

Embark on a desert adventure and explore Oman’s vast and enchanting landscapes. From the towering dunes of the Wahiba Sands to the rugged beauty of the Empty Quarter, the Omani desert offers a romantic backdrop for an unforgettable anniversary getaway. Experience the thrill of dune bashing, enjoy a sunset camel ride, and spend a magical night under the starlit desert sky, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Enjoy Shows at the Royal Opera House:

Experience the magic of the performing arts at the Royal Opera House Muscat. Treat your partner to an unforgettable evening of music, dance, and theatre in one of the most prestigious cultural venues in the Middle East. From classical concerts and ballet performances to opera productions and theatrical shows, the Royal Opera House offers a diverse program of world-class entertainment, providing a memorable and romantic experience for your anniversary getaway.

In the enchanting realm of the Maldives, where turquoise waters caress powdery shores, immerse yourself in the pinnacle of romantic bliss through beachfront dining. Creating a sublime culinary experience against the backdrop of the Maldivian sunset is an art. Here’s your guide to orchestrating an unforgettable evening of love.

1. Selecting the Perfect Location

Choose a remote stretch of white sand with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. The setting, whether beneath a canopy of stars or in the warm glow of sunset, sets the tone for an intimate and unique eating experience.

2. Planning the Culinary Delights

Collaborate with culinary experts at your resort to create a menu that tantalises the palate while complementing the romantic atmosphere. Consider eating freshly caught fish, luscious meats, and exotic fruits that have been professionally prepared to your preference. For a really immersive dining experience, embrace local flavours and delicacies.

3. Setting the Mood with Ambiance

With carefully designed decor and lighting, transform the chosen seaside location into a romantic retreat. Candles, fairy lights, and the soft glow of lanterns may all give a wonderful touch. Consider establishing a flower pathway leading to your dining location, producing a trail of petals that adds to the romantic ambiance.

4. Personalising the Experience

Personalise the event to reflect your unique love story to elevate the evening. Include important components like favourite songs, customised menus, or even a surprise aspect such as a fire dance performance. These personal touches will create treasured memories that will last long after the waves have washed away the sand imprints. As you revel in the serenity of your beachside dining in the Maldives, consider staying at and embracing the unparalleled luxury of Huvafen Fushi Maldives.

Romantic Beach

If you are looking for the perfect getaway to share with that special someone on a love-filled honeymoon, the Maldives is the place to go; here’s a quick guide to help you plan such a romantic rendezvous!

Honeymoon
Honeymoon | Image by Rayyu Maldives via Unsplash

Stay at an Adults-Only Island

While private resorts are each on separate islands, you can stay at one that’s exclusively for adults, especially couples, adding to the seclusion and privacy. An ideal option to consider is OBLU SELECT Lobigili where you can opt for the unique accommodation choice of an overwater villa built over a tranquil lagoon; with features like an infinity pool, deep bathtub, overwater deck and hammock and steps leading to the waters below for a swim anytime you choose, it provides the ideal hideaway for romance.

Indulge in Spa Healing

After what may have been a hectic wedding, newlyweds will no doubt be looking to enjoy some much-deserved relaxation on their honeymoon. Thus, when searching for the best island in Maldives for couples, choose one that has a spa exclusively for adults with double treatment rooms. You and your partner can look forward to embarking on a holistic wellness journey together and indulge in rejuvenating therapies for couples with various massages, body scrubs, bath rituals, facials and more.

Enjoy Private Dining

Part of the joys of a honeymoon on a resort island is that you can enjoy private dining in Maldives at enchanting backdrops. A popular option would be a dinner set up on a secluded beach area where you will be served exquisite dishes amidst the serenades of the sea and a star-filled sky. Some properties will also offer picnics or meals at sandbanks or deserted islands that come with sublime serenity. For something different, stay at a resort that has an underwater restaurant for fine dining beneath the waves!

Experience Romantic Activities

Those on their honeymoon can look to try some of the signature experiences on offer for couples that will make their getaway more unforgettable.  Amongst the most popular options is to go on a private sunset cruise on a traditional boat called a dhoni, while some resorts even offer such excursions on full moon nights which add to the magic. Certain properties will also arrange private movie screenings on the beach as well as offer a romantic photoshoot that let couples capture their honeymoon in paradise.

Maldives Wedding

Be it a wedding or a renewal of vows, Maldives offers the perfect destination for couples and here are some reasons why it’s ideal for a new chapter of love.

Honeymoon
Honeymoon | Image by Roberto Nickson via Unsplash

Private Island Resorts

The chance to celebrate your special day on a private island is not to be missed and is offered by resorts here the likes of OBLU SELECT Lobigili which has one just for couples! The best thing is, that such properties will take care of all the planning as well as decorating the venue and setting up the ceremony; afterwards, you can look to stay at an overwater pool villa which adds to the romance.

Idyllic Settings

When you opt to have a wedding or renewal of vows at the best resorts in Maldives for couples, you will get the chance to choose from diverse enchanting settings. Of course, a beach with a decorated area and an aisle of sand beside the Indian Ocean during sunset is a popular choice. For something different, some resorts will offer to host the ceremony on a heart-shaped sandbank offering the ultimate seclusion!

Memorable Ceremonies

It’s not just the settings that are distinctive but the ceremonies too. Some resorts will offer a dedicated ceremony master who will ensure things run smoothly; aspects like a wedding cake-cutting ceremony, a bottle of Champagne to celebrate the occasion, local snacks, and a renewal of vows certificate can be offered too. Properties may even provide a specially curated wedding gift hamper as well!

Unique Honeymoons

After the ceremony, couples can look forward to unforgettable honeymoons; you can savour an intimate candlelit dinner on the beach, while some resorts will additionally offer a romantic photoshoot and a special “floating breakfast” in the pool of a villa! Other highlights can include spa rituals for couples, sunset or full moon private cruises and movie nights on the beach under the stars.

Maldives

For the ultimate honeymoon destination, couples will be hard-pressed to find a finer destination than the Maldives and here are some compelling reasons why!

Good morning from your favourite honeymoon island destination in the middle of Indian ocean,
Good morning from your favourite honeymoon island destination in the middle of Indian ocean, | Image by Ibrahim Asad’s PHotograp via flickr

Private Island Getaways

Amongst the unique allures here is the chance to stay at a resort on its own private island that offers sublime seclusion and serenity. Such properties feature beach villas, though newlyweds should look to alternatively try an overwater villa for a unique and intimate experience. Ideal options include OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi which as one of the best Maldives all-inclusive resorts also offers a package with dining delights, unlimited drinks, selected non-motorised water sports and more.

Romantic Dining

Staying at an island resort means that couples can look forward to plenty of opportunities for romantic meals together with dinners on the beach under star-studded skies being a popular choice. Of course, certain properties take dining for couples literally to new depths in a good way; this can be experienced at some resorts that feature an underwater restaurant where you can dine amidst views of coral and marine life!

Spa Healing

After all the rushing about for the wedding, the honeymoon is the perfect period for couples to just take time off to relax and feel rejuvenated which also sets the mood for romance! Resort spas in Maldives offer the ideal setting with treatment rooms for couples so you and your partner can embark on a wellness journey together. Amongst the highlights would be signature local healing rituals such as a Maldivian sand bundle massage and a coconut shell massage.

Enchanting Cruises

One of the best things to do on a Maldives honeymoon is to set off on romantic cruises. The most popular option would be a sunset cruise on a traditional boat called a dhoni, providing the perfect vantage point to witness the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in mesmerising hues. For something different, stay at a resort that also offers a private full moon cruise where you can take in a magical sight at night amidst the serenades of the sea.