Paris France
City of Light
No city in the world has influenced art, fashion, culture, design and gastronomy like Paris - and add to that its reputation as one of the most beautiful and romantic places in the world, and it’s no wonder it ranks as the top destination for many people. When it comes to fashion and food, nobody does it like the Parisians, and if the locals have a reputation for being a little aloof, maybe it’s because they have every reason to be.
Walking in the shadows of classic 17th-century architecture, sipping a café latte at a sidewalk café, cruising the Seine - you don’t have to do anything in Paris if you don’t want to. Sure, there are some of the world’s most influential museums and monuments all over the city, and the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower are two of the must-do things in Paris, but this is a place best experienced at street level with a glass of Pernod in hand.
Most romantic room
The Bernstein Suite, Hôtel de Crillon: Situated on the fifth floor of this historic hotel, this suite was named for the famous composer - who was a frequent visitor - and has been featured in many films. Luxury aside, the main drawcard is the exceptional view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower, particularly from its two, large terraces. (10 place de la Concorde, 0011 33 1 44 71 15 00, www.crillon.com)
Accommodation under $300
Grand Hôtel De L’Univers: A beautiful old townhouse-style hotel, conveniently located in the trendy Saint-Germain-des-Prés. (6 rue Grégoire-de-Tours, 0011 33 1 43 29 37 00, www.hotel-paris-univers.com)
Do It
Cruising the River Seine: Everyone does the trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower, but one of the best ways to experience the city’s cultural and architectural landmarks is a cruise down the Seine - le Pont Neuf, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower itself can all be seen from the river. Several operators depart from le Pont Neuf and the Eiffel Tower. Bateaux Les Vedettes du Pont-Neuf. Tel: 0011 33 1 46 33 98 38 or visit www.vedettesdupontneuf.com/english/
Udaipur India
The City of Lakes
With grand white palaces set on azure lakes and surrounded by mountains, Udaipur has inspired writers, artists and poets for centuries. Udaipur’s landscape could have been conceived by movie producers looking to capture a surreal taste of the history and grandeur of Rajasthan’s royalty.
It’s actually been the real backdrop to several movies including the James Bond flick Octopussy, and it’s no wonder it revels in the title the “Venice of the East”.
For lovers of sunsets, this is one of the best places in the world - bright orange and red hues cast dazzling reflections off the lakes, and the palaces and forts literally change colours as the sun drops.
The Lake Palace, on Jag Niwas Island in the middle of Pichola Lake, is perhaps the romantic symbol of Udaipur. It rises out of the water like an elegant fantasy in white marble.
Built in 1743 as a summer royal palace, it’s now a five-star hotel and wandering its maze of hallways and courtyards means a walk in the footsteps of Indian royalty.
Most romantic room
The Sajjan Niwas Suite at the Taj Lake Palace Hotel: This is one of the world’s most beautiful and romantic hotels. Of all its elegant accommodations, however, this suite is rated as the most romantic. It has gilded Arabian Nights arches, frescoed walls and ceilings, white marbled floors covered in Persian carpets, and views of the lake to die for. (Lake Pichola, 0011 91 294 252 8800, www.tajhotels.com)
Accommodation under $300
Jagat Niwas Palace: A boutique budget-conscious hotel steeped in 17th-century romantic Udaipur elegance - and perched on the shores of Lake Pichola with views to match. (23-25 Lal Ghat, 0011 91 294 242 0133, www.jagatniwaspalace.com)
Do It
The Gallery Restaurant at the Fateh Prakash Palace Hotel: It’s been dubbed the “most romantic restaurant in the world”, and while that claim will surely generate debate, it does have an extravagantly beautiful view of Lake Pichola and the Lake Palace itself. The City Palace, Udaipur. Tel: 0011 91 294 252 8016.
Bath United Kingdom
Roman Holiday
Set in stunning English countryside, Bath is a unique city of elegance, beauty and historical significance and it’s no surprise it’s been listed as a World Heritage site.
With well-preserved Roman baths dating back almost 2,000 years, a magnificent ensemble of Georgian architecture, stately hotels and inns, and some of the finest restaurants in the country, Bath is an alluring small city.
Perhaps the most photographed example of its distinct architecture is the Royal Crescent - a semicircular collection of elegant buildings, among them some hotels and restaurants that capture a bygone era.
Local laws prohibit any signs on the buildings, and the only telltale sign of what’s going on are the smart sports cars that pull up and porters rushing out to greet them.
Obviously, the city was named for its natural thermal spring baths which were first discovered by the Romans around 60 AD. When the Romans left 400 years later, the city and their baths fell into disrepair until the Middle Ages when further baths were discovered and built by English nobility.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the well-to-do came here to take in the waters, and though that era has long gone, Bath remains Britain’s best preserved historical city.
Most romantic room
The Duke of York Suite at the Royal Crescent Hotel: This suite is lit by four Palladian windows that offer sweeping views of the famous Royal Crescent lawn. Steeped in historical romance, its elaborate design is marked by an impressive plasterwork ceiling, which interweaves ribbons, musical instruments and mythical birds. (16 Royal Crescent, 0011-44 1225 823 333, www.royalcrescent.co.uk
Accommodation under $300
The Windsor Hotel: An intimate, refined, Townhouse Hotel occupying a fine example of Georgian architecture in the heart of the town centre. (69 Great Pulteney Street, 0011 44 1225 422 100, www.bathwindsorhotel.com)
Do It
Roman Baths: Right in the heart of the World Heritage site this is Britain’s only hot spring. The Romans built a magnificent temple and bathing complex that still flows with natural hot water. The extensive ruins and treasures from the spring are beautifully preserved and presented using the best of modern interpretation. Abbey Church Yard, Bath BA1 1LZ, Tel: 0011 (44) 1225-477 785; visit www.romanbaths.co.uk
Venice Italy
The Canal City
It may be the victim of its own hype, and the resulting commercialism, but Venice remains one of the most enchanting cities in the world - especially if you’re prepared to strike out and do a bit of exploring.
True, the city is literally sinking and is overrun with tourists in the height of its summer, but once you see the main sights like Basilica di San Marco and the Rialto Bridge, it’s time to discover the “old Venice”.
Venice is very walkable thanks to the absence of cars and can be covered in a few hours comfortably, and it’s the back alleys away from the tourist attractions where the charming and traditional artisans shops and cafés can be found.
Because it’s set on a canal and made up of several islands, travelling by water is a great way to see what all the fuss is about - the vaporetti, or water buses are an inexpensive alternative to water taxis.
Most romantic room
The Dogaressa Suite at the Hotel Cipriani: To describe this suite as ‘a room with a view’ is doing it a major disservice. Opened only last year, it’s located right opposite Piazza San Marco, and the world-famous square appears through its four, gothic windows. It’s also decorated with romance in mind, boasting original Coromandel screens, antique Chinese lamps and Fortuny and Rubelli fabrics. (Giudecca 10, 0011 39 41 520 7744, www.hotelcipriani.com)
Accommodation under $300
Ca’ del Nobile: Once the home of a noble Venetian family, now a boutique hotel only steps away from Piazza San Marco. (San Marco 987, 0011 39 41 528 3473, www.cadelnobile.com)
Do It
If you’ve ever seen a couple riding a gondola and felt a touch of cynicism - don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. Having O Sole Mio sung by a tenor as the sun sets along the Grand Canal is one of those experiences which lasts forever. The gondoliers operate along most waterways, and make sure you negotiate a price before you set off.
Las Vegas USA
Lust in the Dust
It’s a scenario which plays out every night along “the Strip”: you win big, collect your payout and head for the exit only to find there isn’t really one. Instead it’s more roulette tables, blackjack games, and drinks waitresses with names like “Trixie” doing the rounds.
Las Vegas is many things to many different people, but it’s universally accepted as one of the most brash and gaudy cities in the world - and a hell of a lot of fun.
Set in the middle of the Nevada Desert, Vegas epitomises American excess and it’s no wonder it’s been dubbed Sin City.
The casinos that line “the Strip” give Las Vegas its reputation - massive man-made gambling mazes built on the money handed over by the unlucky, and the unskilled, punters.
Built with excess in mind, and with names like the Paris, New York, New York, the Luxor, the Excalibur, and the Flamingo, the attention to detail in recreating a fantasy-land is as awesome as it is hilarious.
It’s glittering neon, recreated city scapes and outrageous tropical gardens and wildlife - and Vegas makes absolutely no excuses for any of it.
Most romantic room
The Chairman’s Suite at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino: Towering above the famous Las Vegas strip in one of the city’s most glamorous hotels, this suite is the ultimate sanctuary away from the frenetic Vegas pace. Space, exclusivity, a fabulous wet bar, and views to-die-for are but a few of its many charms. (3600 Las Vegas Boulevard South, 0011 1 702 693 7444, www.bellagio.com).
Accommodation under $300
Paris Las Vegas: Modelled after the famous Hôtel de Ville, this grand hotel has over 2,900 rooms and a laundry list of facilities and on-site attractions. (3655 Las Vegas Boulevard South, 0011 1 702 946 7000, www.parislasvegas.com)
Do It
Mix Lounge If the neon lights and pokies get a bit much, head to the Mix Lounge inside THEhotel at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. On the 64th level with floor-to-ceiling windows, it offers 360 degree views of The Strip and the Vegas Valley - make sure you get here for sunset over the Mojave Desert. 3950 S. Las Vegas Blvd. Tel 0011 1 (702) 632-7777 or visit www.vegas.com/nightclubs/mix/
Sydney Australia
The Harbour City
Like no other city, Sydney represents an iconic view of Australia to the outside world. It’s the gateway to Down Under and is perched confidently on the edge of one of the most beautiful harbours in the world.
It’s one big tourist cliché gone mad - the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo, Bondi Beach and Circular Quay all combine to assault the senses and confirm this as one of the most popular destinations in the world.
Comparisons with other cities are pointless. Its architectural and natural landmarks punctuate a brash and modern Pacific outpost, and it seems to have an effect on people at ground level.
Cozy cafés, innovative cosmopolitan restaurants, lively bars, to-die-for surf beaches, national parks and wildlife - it all conspires to give the impression that in this city, you definitely work to live and not the other way around.
Romantic settings abound, from a picnic in the Domain with lorikeets and cockatoos wheeling overhead, to cocktails in the shadows of the Opera House or a Champagne plane ride along the stunning northern beaches to Palm Beach.
Sydney is one of the world’s biggest outdoor playgrounds, and even lifelong locals never tire of all it has to offer.
Most romantic room
The Australia Suite at the Intercontinental Hotel: Located on the 29th floor, this suite has everything - space, elegance, style and even a grand piano. But a major draw is the open air-terrace with a dining area, from which visitors can savour panoramic views of Sydney Harbour including the Opera House. (Corner of Bridge and Phillip Streets, 02 9253 9000, www.sydney.intercontinental.com)
Accommodation under $300
Victoria Court Hotel: An historic, private bed and breakfast providing an oasis from the bustle of the city, yet close to all of Sydney’s major attractions. (122 Victoria Street, Potts Point, 02 9357 3200, www.victoriacourt.com.au)
Do It
Bridge Climb: It’s become the “in thing” to do in Sydney, and for good reason. The three-and-a-half hour experience includes two hours on the Harbour Bridge and the reward is a 360 degree view of the city and harbour itself. Tel: (02) 8274 7777 or visit www.bridgeclimb.com.
Prague Czech Republic
City Of 1000 Spires
Very few cities in the world can match the sheer architectural charm of Prague, but there’s more to this ancient city than perfectly preserved medieval and historical buildings. Wandering the city streets, a common scene is impromptu performances on a cobbled corner or in a warm café, and poetry readings on a medieval bridge. The “old” Prague is what draws most visitors into the Czech capital - at every turn there’s a monument to the past with superbly preserved architecture which dates back almost 700 years.
But Prague’s buzzing nightlife and restaurant scene confirm the cultural revolution taking place on its streets.
Progressive rock, jazz and dance clubs (of the electronic variety) now proliferate as young Czechs embrace aspects of western culture - but always with their own unique skew.
Prague’s emergence as a lively cultural destination is set against a mesmerising backdrop of golden church spires which gleam in the sun, and some of the most awe-inspiring architecture in the world.
It gets likened to Paris a lot, but the cold hard truth is that for all the grandeur of the French capital, it lacks the welcoming charm and sheer beauty of the Czech capital.
Most romantic room
Castle View Suite, Four Seasons Hotel Prague: These spacious and elegant one-bedroom suites make the most of the hotel’s imposing location on the banks of the Vltava River. Most have floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the river, and the landmark Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. (Veleslavinova 2a/1098, 0011 420 221 427 000, www.fourseasons.com/prague)
Accommodation under $300
Hotel Biskupsky Dum: An affordable, renaissance-style boutique hotel, also known as the Bishop’s House, located in the historical town centre. (Drazickeho namesti 6/62, 0011 420 257 532 320, www.hotelbishopshouse.com)
Do it
Walking Prague Castle: It’s the largest medieval castle complex in Europe, and it dominates the city skyline. The only way to truly experience this magnificent complex of palaces, churches and gardens is to spend a day walking through history, literally. They have a changing of the guard every hour at Prague Castle Gate, and the midday ceremony includes a fanfare and banner exchange.
Kyoto Japan
Captivating Kyoto
Packed with impressive sights and natural beauty, Kyoto is one of the world’s most culturally impressive cities and it creates an imagery which has inspired authors and film makers.
Most people have an image of Japan as an idealised feudal country of teahouses and temples, castles and bamboo forests, sliding rice paper screens and raked gravel gardens.
Arriving in ultra-modern Tokyo may spoil that romantic notion a little, but a two and a half hour Shinkansen, or “bullet train”, ride to Kyoto is a rite of passage that 40 million visitors undertake each year.
The former imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto has no less than 17 World Heritage sights and it’s no wonder it was the romantic setting for the film adaptation of Arthur Golden’s bestseller Memoirs of a Geisha.
Kyoto is one of the few Japanese cities to escape bombardment during the Second World War. It’s a place where the old continues to enthral amidst the new, where a thousand-year old Shinto shrine stands untouched between a Hello Kitty shop and a Pachinko parlour.
Most romantic room
The Royal Suite at the Kyoto Royal Hotel and Spa: After a day exploring some of Japan’s most beautiful ancient national treasures, this luxurious suite is the perfect haven for lovers. (Sanjo-Agaru, Kawaramachi, Nakagyo-ku, 0011 81 75 223 1234, www.ishinhotels.com/kyoto-royal/en/index.html)
Accommodation under $300
Sun Hotel Kyoto: Small and one of the best of its class, with a location which can’t be beaten. (Sanjo-Sagaru, Kawaramachi, Nakagyo-ku, 0011 81 75 241 3351)
Do it
Of all of Kyoto’s many historic sites, a visit to the World Heritage-listed temple of Kiyomizu-dera for sunset is a must. Tucked into the low mountains on the eastern side of the city, the panoramic views of Kyoto and the surrounding wooded countryside from the main platform are simply breathtaking. If the scenery doesn’t grab you, you can opt to drink from the therapeutic waters of the Otowa-no-taki waterfall, or pay a visit to the Jishu Shrine, where the god of love and good marriage is believed to reside. (Higashiyama-ku Kiyomizu, admission 300 Yen)
Quebec City Canada
The Old Capital
Glistening Quebec City stands sentinel over one of North America’s great rivers, the St Lawrence, and on the cobbled streets people celebrate living in this great city with an infectious exuberance.
Exploring La Vieille Capitale, or the Old Capital as it’s known, is like stepping into a fairytale.
Imagine the scene - 17th century stone houses, Gothic spires spiking the skyline, and centuries-old horse drawn carriages clip-clopping along its narrow, cobblestone streets. A compact city, it’s also a walker’s dream.
There’s a photo op on almost every corner, and if the architecture doesn’t give it away, the aroma of baguettes and fresh coffee from sidewalk cafes is confirmation of the Gallic soul of Quebec City.
It’s arguably North America’s most beautiful city and towering regally over Quebec City is one of the world’s most recognisable hotels - Le Château Frontenac which revels in its 19th century grandeur and commands sweeping views of the St Lawrence River.
Once the cradle of New France, this is where French kings sent pioneers to establish a North American dominion.
Now the seat of government for the province of Quebec, debate continues over its future within Canada - but politics aside, the local people take great pride in the culture and history of the region and are happy to share their city’s “hidden gems” with visitors.
Most romantic room
The Van Horne Suite at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: Stepping inside this elegant suite is like stepping back into another era. Named for Sir William Cornelius Van Horne, the driving force behind the construction of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, it fuses opulence with fairytale ambience, and has a commanding view from every room. (1 rue des Carrieres, 0011 1 418 692 1751, www.fairmont.com/frontenac)
Accommodation under $300
Le Clos Saint Louis: French-accented, traditional romance meets state-of-the-art facilities in the heart of Old Quebec City. (6 West 32nd Street, 0011 1 212 643 7100, www.applecorehotels.com)
Do it
Horse-drawn carriage ride: Some of the caléches, or carriages, are more than a hundred years old and lovingly restored, and there’s no better way to be transported back in time in this truly romantic city. Most of the drivers are bilingual and operate from near the St Louis Gate in the Upper Town.
New York USA
Romancing the Big Apple
It’s a scene which is repeated hundreds and possibly thousands of times every day: couples strolling arm in arm through Central Park in the shadow of the world’s most recognisable skyline.
New York City, despite all its bluster and attitude, is one of the most romantic places in the world with a mind-blowing array of experiences for couples to indulge in. From a rowing boat ride on a lake in Central Park to fine French dining, to an embrace at the top of the Empire State Building - New York has an electrifying effect on the senses.
Everything seems to revolve around Manhattan - a long sliver of an island which cuts the Hudson River on one side and East River on the other - and its street-level craziness is as fun as it is overwhelming.
Most romantic room
The Oriental Suite at the Mandarin Oriental: Atop the 52nd floor of the Time Warner Building, this elegant suite commands uninterrupted views over Central Park and the Midtown skyline, even from its luxury spa. A mixture of Chinese and New York influences, it features separate living room, dining room, study and a deluxe kitchen. 80 Columbus Circle at 60th Street, 0011 1 212 805 8800, www.mandarinoriental.com/newyork
Accommodation under $300
Red Roof Inn Manhattan: An award winning budget hotel close to the Empire State Building and Madison Square Garden. (6 West 32nd Street, 0011 1 212 643 7100, www.applecorehotels.com)
Do it
Ice skating at the Rockefeller Center: Since it first opened on Christmas Day in 1936, this has become a New York institution - skating under a night sky with the Manhattan skyline lit up. It’s open between October and March and is easier than it looks! Rockefeller Center 5th Ave, between 49th and 50th Tel: 0011 1 212 332 7654 or visit www.therinkatrockcenter.com
