I'm a firm believer that you can make a romantic getaway out of almost any vacation if given the opportunity. But certain locations seem destined for romance. Here are few options that are fantastic for couple who want to explore other cultures together.
Belize
In our quest for escapes to destinations such as St. Barths and Turks & Caicos, Belize is often overlooked. But this small country that's part of the isthmus connecting North and South America has a lot to offer - especially in the way of cultural exploration. The Maya developed Belize circa 1500 BCE, and they established a number of settlements - building astounding pyramids, stone cities, and elaborate cave systems in the jungle. While visiting Belize you can explore the ancient ruins of Xunantunich in the Cayo district, you can venture into the rainforest and scale pyramids for amazing views, and go deep into caving systems like the Rio Frio - seeing fresh water pools, stalactite formations, and waterfalls along the way. (The Mayan built the largest caving system in Central America in this area). Once you've had your fill of the jungle you can head to the coast for relaxation on their soft white sand beaches - along with water sports and snorkeling in the crystal blue water. Belize is home to the world's second largest barrier reef. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 the 185 miles of the country's coastline provide the perfect opportunity to see over 500 species of fish. No matter which areas of Belize you explore - you're going to be immersed in the culture of this beautiful island.
Curaçao
Curaçao is one of the A-B-C islands, an autonomous country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, together with its sister islands of Aruba and Bonaire. It's located in the Southern Caribbean sea, and it has a long and varied cultural history which has led it to now be home to people of Afro-Caribbean, Dutch, French, Latin American, Asian, and Jewish descent. The official languages of Curaçao are Dutch, Papiamentu, and English, but Papiamentu, a Creole blend of African, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, French, English, and Arawak Indian is what you'll hear most often hear on the island. In the heart of Curacao you'll find the vibrant city of Willemstad. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, the capital of Curaçao is famous for colonial architecture, restaurants, and museums that celebrate the city's wide variety of cultural heritage. The city is divided into two historic districts divided by St. Anna Bay. Punda is on one side - made up of rows of narrow streets laid out in a clear organized manner. Here you can explore the eclectic shops and museums, and history of the people of Curaçao - the history of the oldest surviving synagogue in continuous use in the Americas. On the other side you'll find Otrobanda - which is laid out in an almost haphazard maze-like fashion, and is where you'll see the residential areas of the city.
ATV and Buggy tours are great ways to get around the island as you explore the the amazing local restaurants, museums, shops. When you're ready for some time in the water you can swim with dolphins in the bay, snorkel, and go fishing. No matter how you choose to spend your time you'll be inspired by the energy of the island.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Scotland is full of destinations with gorgeous vistas, but this island, located on the West Coast of Scotland, is simply magical. Known for its rugged coastline, quaint fishing villages, medieval castles, and all-around stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye is well worth a romantic getaway. You'll hear Gaelic during your stay as a third of the residents speak it, and if you're interested in the history of the language make a quick stop at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture. Possibly the most famous history of the isle is the history of the Scottish Clans who ruled for centuries. Climb the craggy rocks to the steep ruins of the 14th century Dunscaith Castle, where the Clan MacDonald was based. Much of the actual castle has fallen into the sea, and the foundation has been overgrown by grass and moss, but as you climb amongst the ruins you'll hear the waves crashing against the shores of Loch Eishort, and imagine what it was like for the MacDonalds to stand their ground in what was once an impressive stronghold. Visit Denvegan Castle, the home of the clan MacLeod, and see mementos of over 800 years of history as well as the Fairy Flag - said to hold magical powers. When you're ready to explore the outdoors visit the village of Carbost in Glenbrittle at the base of the Cuillin mountains. Take the quick 1.5 mile walk up the winding gravel path through heather and peat moss to the spectacular Fairy Pools - rock pools of crystal clear water fed by a series of waterfalls created by tributaries of the River Brittle that run down from the Cuillin into the glen. You'll know what inspires Scottish folklore. No matter what you do - the backdrop of winding roads with peaks and valleys of castles and ruins lie in the distance, and you'll feel immersed in the magic of Scottish culture.
La Rioja, Spain (Wine Country)
La Rioja might not hold the top spot on your "Visit Spain" list, but this beautiful wine region on the Iberian Peninsula in North-Central Spain, characterized by its vineyard covered hills and medieval villages, has so much to offer. It's a comparatively remote region (when you compare it to a trip to Barcelona for example), but you can reach it easily from Bilbao Airport (it's an hour and a half drive from there), or tack it on to a visit to Madrid - rent a car and drive the 200 miles (you'll see gorgeous scenery along the way) - that way you'll have a car with you to explore the villages and towns. This region is known primarily for its wine production, and it has over 500 vineyards and wineries to visit. However, the food crawls in Logroño, a primary city in the area are a can't-miss aspect of the region as well. The Tapas here is outstanding - with bars often focusing on one ingredient each. This means you have to hang out in the streets, and experience the nightlife as you go from bar to bar to taste as many offerings as you can. La Rioja is also the birthplace of the Spanish language - the first place that Spanish words were written down in the Yuso Monastery in the 11th century - now a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is also where Gonzalo de Berceo, the first known Spanish poet, wrote his verses. You can see the Cathedral of Santo Domingo de la Calzada - a Roman Catholic Church with an altar sculpted between 1537-1540 - as well as other ancient religious architecture. Spend a few days visiting all of these amazing sites, but also take time to explore the incredible nature of the area. The region is also home to the Sierra de Cebollera Nature Reserve, a 23,640-hectare of mountains and forests, as well as the the hot springs of the UNESCO designated Arnedillo Biosphere Reserve. Take time to relax in the hot springs - the pools are open year round and all night long.
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