You’ve missed the bus, haven’t you? You waited too long to decide where you wanted to go with your partner on Valentine’s Day and now it’s impossible to get a visa and a good deal. It’s time to salvage the situation. Pronto!
Since we have all been there, we’re not going to give you grief about it. Instead, we’ve scouted the best romantic destinations close to home where you won’t need a visa or too much planning. And to top it, we’ve also found unmissable hotel packages for couples. All you have to do now is pick one of these tempting deals, book your tickets, pack, and fly away.
1. Thailand
Delicious food, warm people, buzzing cities, and beautiful beaches—Thailand has much to recommend itself to travellers. But when you’re looking for romance, your best bet would be the glittering coastline that’s dotted with lush jungles and quaint villages. The visa-on-arrival for Indians and inexpensive tickets are two important factors to sway you in the country’s favour.
Where to stay: Discover the pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and hot springs of Krabi at Centra by Centara Phu Pano Resort Krabi. You can laze at the pool all day or enjoy a cuppa in your private balcony and take in the view of the greens around you. Looking for an adventure? Go biking around the countryside, or take your partner snorkelling.
And now the sweet deal: The hotel has a last-minute offer with up to 35% off on stay, especially for couples who needed this extra time to plan their trip. We did the math for you and figured that a two-night stay in the Centra Superior room would cost you Rs 14,081 (plus taxes) for two nights, with breakfast.
2. Jordan
It won’t be a typical holiday for you and your partner. Intrepid travellers come to Jordan to discover the archaeological marvels of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; watch the sunset from the ancient Roman Theatre in Amman; camp in the Wadi Rum to get acquainted with the rough desert landscape. This Valentine’s Day, skip the rest and head straight to the mineral-rich Dead Sea (the lowest point on Earth), where you can relax and rejuvenate with your partner.
Where to stay: Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea is situated on the northern shores of the Dead Sea. Experience the Jordanian life at this resort that recreates a traditional village in a lush garden. Here, you can relax in a rustic seaview room, float in the healing waters, and get a therapeutic massage with your partner. The Romantic Retreat package includes overnight stay, a floral arrangement on arrival, daily breakfast, and late check-out for just Rs 8,877 per night.
3. Cambodia
Are you both culturally inclined? You must go on a discovery of this Southeast Asian country that’s a lovely mix of ancient temples, traditional customs, and charming architecture. The grand 12th-century Angkor Wat is one of the most significant places in the country and it has to be on your itinerary if you’re going on a culture trail. Plus: You can get a visa in just three business days!
Where to stay: The new J7 Hotel in Siem Reap has an excellent location: it’s just 15 minutes from the hallmark temple site and walkable distance from Royal Residence and Royal Gardens. We are also impressed with its stylish rooms and suites, five dining and lounging options, and the wellness spa and the outdoor pool.
Book the J7 All In Love package that includes airport transfers, daily breakfast, a bottle of wine, a special dinner, a 60-minute couple’s massage, and 10% discount on food and beverage. Minimum three nights’ stay required; prices start at Rs 10,914 per night for two.
4. Mauritius
A tranquil island in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is blessed with sunshine all year round. You will be awed with the dramatic scenery—turquoise waters, rising mountains, and flourishing greenery. The island is known for its biodiversity, and you can spot rare birds and dolphins, whales, and sharks here. Another upside to being so close to the ocean? Fresh seafood in a variety of cuisines.
Where to stay: Holiday Inn Mauritius Mon Tresor is a great value hotel close to the airport with a restaurant and a bar, an outdoor pool, a fitness centre, and a spa. Park yourself here as you explore the island—dive in the waters, have romantic walks on the beach, and shop for traditional souvenirs. The best available rate for the Valentine’s Day Week for rooms are Rs 8,358 upwards.
5. Indonesia
Now you know why there are so many mushy photographs on your social media feed of Bali: honeymooners are flocking the city because there’s no visa required to enter the country. The paddy fields of Ubud, the party scene in Kuta, hip restaurants in Seminyak, and water sports in Nusa Dua are enough to win us over. Besides, the country also has the bustling city of Jakarta and the cultural hub of Yogyakarta that attract wide-eyed travellers.
Where to stay: Been to Bali already? While it’s a great option for couples, there are only a handful of spots where you can be alone with your beloved, away from the prying eyes of tourists. So, we’re offering an alternative: its relatively peaceful neighbour Lombok.
Your host here can be The Chandi Boutique Resort & Spa. Nestled in a coconut grove, the resort goes a long way in ensuring that you connect with nature, with a semi-open bathroom with tropical showers and a private balcony facing the ocean. The resort has a three-days-and-two nights package that includes accommodation in ocean-view or garden-view villa, aromatherapy massage, daily breakfast, and round-trip transfers. Prices start at Rs 9,020 for two nights.
If all else fails, you can always celebrate with us! In February, the month of LOVE, POPxo Love Fest brings together all the lovely girls with their plus ones to enjoy a day full of fun activities, food, music and lots to shop! It is the perfect day for you to kick-start your Valentine’s Day celebrations. Enjoy a fun-filled day indulging in retail therapy, fun zones, food, contests, music, lit up romantic ambience and more…
Book yourself a free spot here and we’ll see you on 11th February at One Golden Mile from 12-8pm.
