Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia. Pexels/Rachel Claire
The world is your oyster. It’s a familiar saying encouraging us to see the beauty all around. And while it isn’t exactly a metaphor for travel—it can be. Destinations and experiences are valuable pearls, readily found. The opportunity is endless.
“It’s 4 1/2 hours to drive to the North Shore and 4 1/2 hours to fly to Jamaica,” says Anne Allen, owner and lead travel designer of I Know Places (IKP) Travel. “Consider that, and you realize just how small the world can be.”
But why travel? The reasons are as diverse as the potential destinations. And while family trips, babymoons and birthdays are all great reasons to explore, there’s something special about traveling for romance. We connected with the team at IKP Travel to learn more about their favorite destinations for couples of all ages and life stages.
For a diverse landscape: Republic of Croatia
Croatia is located on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe and lies on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. The country is a more affordable alternative to popular Mediterranean destinations. With its jaw-dropping beauty and epic mountains, Croatia has drawn increased visitors in the last two decades—even more so since the release of Game of Thrones. Minceta Tower, Diocletian’s Palace and the city of Šibenik are series stars. And don’t miss Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. “It’s beautiful. You see pictures, and you’re like, ‘Oh, that can’t be real.’ But it is,” Allen says.
For history lovers and foodies: Italy
Over the past decade, Italy has become one of the top travel destinations in the world—and for good reason. For those charmed by the love story in Roman Holiday, the reality in historic Rome can be just as magical. A three-hour train ride north of Rome, Verona is a romantic destination off the beaten path. It was the setting for William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
Note: Jubilee 2025 is a pilgrimage for millions of Christians. It began at Christmas 2024 and ends at Epiphany 2026. Allen recommends booking your trip early and being flexible—especially if you plan to visit Rome.
For a luxury experience: Republic of Seychelles
Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands, is located southeast of mainland Africa in the Indian Ocean. “If you search Top 20 Beaches, somewhere between five and 10 will be there,” says Aaron Sidner, business development partner at IKP Travel. Search luxury honeymoons, and you’ll also find Seychelles on that list. (It hosted the current Prince and Princess of Wales for their honeymoon.)
With white sands and clear turquoise waters framed by towering granite, Anse Source D’Argent is said to be one of the most photographed beaches in the world. It’s a swimming and snorkeling paradise.
For culture and excursions: Fiji and New Zealand
Fiji is a great destination for couples looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. It consists of two main islands (Viti Levu and Vanua Levu) and about 300 smaller islands. Its beaches are incredibly picturesque, and the diving is world-class.
When asked why people visit Fiji, Sidner says, “The people. They’re incredibly welcoming. They want you there.”
Three air hours apart, many travelers combine a trip to Fiji with a stop in New Zealand. New Zealand draws many tourists with its unique landscape and fjords; Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are two of the most popular. The country is also a great place to enjoy a glass of wine—the region is known for its sauvignon blanc.
I Know Places Travel
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