Ten Hotels For Romance

If, like us, you’re exceedingly receptive to messages sent by the world’s chocolatiers, jewelers and greeting-card makers, then you’re probably finding yourself in the mood for a romantic getaway right around the middle of February. You’ve got a choice to make: be a cynic about it (and spend this dubious holiday alone with your sense of self-satisfaction) or accept the truth that a romantic weekend, whatever the reason, is never something to pass up. Here are ten great suggestions (along with a few deals, of course):

NERI HOTEL
Barcelona

In the heart of Barcelona’s labyrinthine gothic quarter, set in an 18th-century palace, is the Neri Hotel. Don’t worry if church architecture isn’t exactly your turn-on. All the rooms are decidedly contemporary, offering a sleek and luxurious setting for your siesta.

HOTEL DANIEL
Paris

For the classic Parisian rendezvous. After a long day of art-gazing and infinitely flaky pastries, you can put your feet up at this townhouse hotel. And if you’re feeling like it’s just not possible to get enough of the city, there’s the fifth-floor Daniel suite, which looks onto the Eiffel Tower.

THE CARLYLE
New York City

For all things nightlife, from gastropubs to ping-pong clubs, downtown Manhattan is where it’s at. But uptown, things are different. The landmark Carlyle Hotel is synonymous with the neighborhood’s old-world classicism. It’s a chance to slip on your loafers, enjoy a drink at Bemelman’s, and be civilized.

ALBERGO VILLA MARTA
Tuscany

Up in the hills of Tuscany… need we even write anything more? With exquisite food, a famously charming staff and all of Tuscany practically within arm’s reach, Albergo Villa Marta is ideal for your Italian tryst. There’s even an onsite chapel, should the mood strike for an impromptu wedding.
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LES SUITES ORIENT
Shanghai

While Shanghai may not be the first city to come to mind as a backdrop for a romantic idyll, Les Suites Orient stands to change that. The Art Deco–inspired hotel is perfectly perched on the Bund, offering exquisite views, serenity-inducing interiors and bend-over-backwards service to all visitors who come its way.
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LA MAMOUNIA
Marrakech

Marrakech’s La Mamounia is without a doubt one of the world’s most legendarily lavish hotels. So, when it was closed for a three-year renovation, A-listers around the world were boo-hooing into their silken hankies. But now it’s open and as splendiferous as ever. From the sweeping carved arches to the tiniest tassels, everything about this place is infused with romance. And did we mention twenty manicured acres of gardens? Hand-holding is encouraged.
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LIME WOOD HOTEL
Hampshire, England

Though geography might indicate otherwise, Lime Wood is a world away from London’s bustle. Perhaps it feels that way because of its storied interiors — it was built in the 13th century as a hunting lodge — or its remote setting, on the edge of the New Forest. While there’s plenty to do outside, there’s a chance you’ll be seduced to stay in by the in-room fireplaces and soaking tubs.
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CASASANDRA
Mayan Riviera

A safe distance from the crowds of Cancún, just off the Yucatán Peninsula is the blessedly tranquil Isla Holbox, home of CasaSandra. During the day, you can soak up the unpretentious island vibe from the comforts of your own grass-roofed palapa. And then with the dozens and dozens of luminarias that dot the property at night, this place goes from romantic to downright poetic.
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BARDESSONO
Napa Valley, California

Nobody does romance like the Italians. But if you can’t make the connection to Fiumicino this season, consider California. Just squint your eyes, and Napa is Tuscany. The new Bardessono needs little explanations as to its sexiness — the enormous wine collection certainly doesn’t hurt — and if you’ve got a virtue fetish, it earns extra points for its LEED Platinum certification.
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PARROT CAY AND COMO SHAMBHALA RETREAT
Turks And Caicos Islands

Unless your travel companion is named Wilson, since when has being marooned on your own private island ever been a bad thing? At Parrot Cay, you’ll have acres upon acres of pristine beach and virginal coral reefs all to yourself, and you can leave the hunting and gathering to someone else.
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