When you're in the mood for love...
If you like Pina Coladas, getting caught in the rain and making love at midnight, it's time to plan a romantic getaway. Whether you're looking for a new lover (or want to rediscover your current lover), nothing beats hunkering in down in a place without kids, to-do lists or your boss. The room service is a sweet bonus!
These resorts, courtesy travel-savvy GoGirlfriends, are big on pampering and live up to their marketing promises. But this is only Part 1 - our girlfriends have lots more to share!
Get your bags packed - it's vacation time!
Inn Above the Tide
As interior designer on HGTV's Small Space, Big Style,Inn Above the Tide Libby Langdon is a mover and a shaker in everything she does. It didn't surprise me that she picked a sanctuary close to the beautiful, bustling city of San Francisco - but far enough away to provide respite and repose.
"My motto is "trust movement" - probably because I'm always on the go," said Libby. "I can't wait to spend some special time there with loved ones, stunning waterviews and yummy food and wine."
Libby, do us a favor and crack open a bottle of Napa Valley wine and let us know how it tastes alongside that view.
If you go...
Visit Inn Above the Tide online or see what Trip Advisor reviewers have to say. Reservations and information: 800-893-8433.
Toa Toa House
Beth Gettys Hill knows when it's time for some R & RToa Toa House, Tortola from her busy furniture store, her haven better be far enough away for her to disconnect mind, body and soul. Tortola (a British Virgin Island) fits the bill. What's more, Toa Toa House is the ideal spot, whether she wants to relax on a deck chair and watch the waves come in or explore the island.
The villa has 4 bedrooms and a common kitchen and living area, making it ideal for a girlfriend getaway or family gathering. Or you can rent the whole house for you and your lover and sleep in a different bed each night.
"What makes it so remarkable is the owner's attention to detail," said Beth. "She arranges to have you picked up at the airport by a driver with a van. And then a car is delivered to the house so you don't have to navigate on your own the first day. That's a big plus because Toa Toa is at the top of a mountain and the roads are tricky. She also arranges grocery (and liquor!) deliveries, scuba diving or whatever activities you want."
If you go...
Visit Toa Toa House online. Reservations and information: 800-832-2302.
Anse Chastanet
I've been hunting for an off-the-beaten-path resort on St. Lucia - love the island, but I can do without the tourist-packed beaches and the commercialized cruise ship port. When Penny Schneck offered up Anse Chastanet, I couldn't resist. Anse Chastenet is close enough to fine dining and organized activities, but far enough away that you can pretend you're the only tourist on the island.
"The accommodations are separate villas either right on the beach or built into the mountain with beautiful views," said Penny. "No TV, no air conditioning but who needs that? Rooms are beautiful and first class and the food is gourmet. Your own "black" beach with views of the peaks, and the best diving on the island are right at your door."
Oh, and the spa looks divine. I personally would like to try the Anpagal treatment - two therapists giving me a massage at the same time - that does sound like, uh, nirvana...
If you go...
Visit Anse Chastanet online or read what the 375 Trip Advisor reviewers have to say (hint: this place is well loved). Reservations and information, shoot them an email.
Manoir du Dragon
I met Stéphanie Castelain on Twitter a couple of years ago and instantly knew we shared a positive, energetic attitude for exploring our world. I've never visited Belgium, but when I do, Manoir du Dragon is at the top of my list.
Stéphanie has been a semi-regular visitor here for more than 10 years and loves that it remains a family run business focused 100% on guest satisfaction. She first discovered the hotel while on a vacation with her son. She had booked into a nearby hotel but when she arrived, she realized it was not a place she wanted to stay. She called to the Manoir du Dragon and asked if they had a room available.
"When we arrived, the lady opened us all the rooms so my son and I could choose the one we preferred," said Stéphanie. "In the morning we were provided with pancakes, wafles, bread, jam, honey, ham, cheese,Manoir du Dragon fruits, tea, coffee, juices... and my son could go in the breakfast room in his pajamas...."
There is no restaurant in the hotel, but a breakfast buffet is served daily. In-room massages are available and it's next to an 18 hole golf course.
If you go...
Visit Manoir du Dragon online or read what Trip Advisor reviewers have to say (hint: this place is well loved). Reservations and information:+32 (50) 63 05 09
Got a hidden gem you're itching to share with the world? Share your faves with us by dropping a comment here or connect with us on Twitter or Facebook.
Comments
For any of your readers that
It is so great to be able to
Nothing like a fall getaway
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