We all have our own ideas on romantic resorts and places. On a list of ten we might have five that would be unanimous and the other five could be highly subjective and personal.
We asked David (DK) at Chic for his thoughts as he has travelled extensively and, despite getting a bit long in the tooth, he still has his romantic side.
Here are DK’s Top Ten Romantic Chic Locations, in no particular order:
Santorini, Greece
Instant romance from the minute you arrive. Amazing views, especially from those hotels perched high above the Caldera. I really like both Mystique and Canaves hotels for their easy walking access into Oia, which is probably the most photographed village in the entire region.
Saint Lucia – Viceroy Sugar Beach Resort
The southern part of Saint Lucia is the most scenic and nowhere is this emphasised more than the setting of Sugar Beach, literally right between the majestic Piton Mountains. Lush tropical vegetation leading down to a soft sand beach. Inviting water contrasts, with some of the best diving and snorkelling. Romantic hill -side villas, mostly with their own plunge pools.
Jebal Akhdar, Oman
The highest point in Oman, dramatic views from every angle and just over 2 hours from the airport and the beach resorts. Eco adventures, romantic cliff side dining. Two incredible hotels, The boutique style Alila and the more contemporary Anantara. Both combine easily with our beach hotels in Muscat. Whilst talking about Oman, another idea would be the romantic and secluded Zighy Bay by Siz Senses, located in the Arabic fjords at Musandam, accessed via Dubai.
Ubud, Bali
Bali is another place where the romantic juices start to flow from the time you arrive at the temple style airport. Ubud is picture book Bali, lush green & tropical, rice fields, ducks and fast flowing rivers. Misty mornings where the colours and shadows seem to change every minute, and once in a lifetime dining locations. So many hotel choices but I particularly like Uma, with it’s easy walk to the village, and both Samaya and Kayumanis for their all pool villa style and riverside locations.
The Maldives
Aquatic escapism par excellence. Over 1000 coral islands spread of 26 ring shaped atolls. Of the 1,000 islands, only just over a 100 have been allowed for tourist development, usually with a one resort per island concept. Some of the most stylish and innovative hotels anywhere in the world. So much choice, but for romance I particularly likes Soneva Fushi,the original no shoes – no news resort. Then you have Ozen by Atmosphere and the Per Aquum Niyama, with its extensive dining options.
Inle lake, Myanmar (Burma)
Another place where the romance kicks in instantly. In my view an absolute must on any tour of Myanmar, staying at least 3 nights. Most of the small hotels are hidden away in the lakeside rushes, and although you can arrive by road, try the real impact of the boat arrival. Again, many hotel options, but the rustic thatched roofed Villa Inle or the more contemporary Sanctum Inle Resort are two of our favourites.
Amalfi Coast – Italy
Ok this is where DK had to ask Marie-Helene at Chic for her suggestions, as she visited the area in October 2016 and seems to have been smiling ever since! Romance and Amalfi seem to be obvious bedfellows. The place just oozes style, hushed whispers, al fresco dining and amazing views. Our two suggested hotels are the wonderful Monastero Santa Rosa and the equally impressive Santa Caterina.
Krabi and Koh Lanta – Thailand
Dramatic limestone islands on the horizon, superb beaches and a dense tropical backdrop. Our choice in Krabi would be the boutique and highly personalised Tubkaak, located about 20 minutes drive away from the lively Ao Nang resort area. On the island of Koh Lanta, just 90 minutes drive and speedboat ride south of Krabi, you have some of the best beaches. Small villages rather than towns and total seclusion. Our suggested hotels would be The Layana or the larger Pimalai, where we particularly like the elevated private pool villas.
Casares, Estepona – Southern Spain
The Finca Cortesin hotel, a classic hacienda styled luxury retreat. Located just 10 minutes drive inland from the sandy beaches of the Costa Del Sol, but this is a very different world. Immaculate style with superb suites and villas. They have an acclaimed spa and if you want to play around a little more, a championship golf course! Wonderful – a perfect easily accessed luxurious retreat, just 3 hours from London.
Langkawi, Malaysia
Our choice here has to be The Datai. Instant WOW! from the time you enter the lobby. Dense prehistoric forest on three sides leading down to a mile of golden beachfront. The islands of Southern Thailand are easily visible. Spacious rooms and suites, individual jungle villas, and then on the beachfront a further selection of incredible villas, each with their own pool. (Make it soon, the hotel will close in July for 18 months for some extensive and expensive TLC enhancements).
Top Ten Romantic Chic Locations
As mentioned in our opening, some of our Top Ten Romantic Chic Locations are sure to meet your agreement, whilst others might not be known or considered.
Let us know if there is anything you think we should be adding to this list. Get in touch.
