Romance Ja nu ar y april 22014 01 4
Travel
8
Magazine
Wine & Romance: An Undeniable Pairing Destination Spotlight: Costa Rica for Couples
Bed&Breakfast Inns For A Canadian Getaway
Contents 3
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6-7
From The Publisher
Wine & Romance: An Undeniable Pairing
Destination Spotlight: Costa Rica for Couples
8-9
10-11
12-15
How to look Glamorous on Your Next Beach Vacation
Netanya Trimboli from Hostelling International USA
Enjoy a Romantic Getaway on the Newest 2014 Cruise Ships
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19
8 Bed&Breakfast Inns For A Canadian Getaway
Romance at Home With Filet Diane and a Great Bottle of Wine!
From The Publisher
Photo courtesy of Costa Diadema
D
o you and your sweetie need a break from large workloads, hectic schedules, and children? A romantic getaway may be the perfect option. If you and your partner are searching for your next romantic adventure, you may want to examine the possibility of taking a cruise. A romantic getaway is for building romantic memories that last a lifetime and choosing the perfect cruise destination ensures the ideal vacation together.
When it comes to romantic getaways, there are many who don’t even consider a cruise ship as an option. However, there are others who literally live for cruises. These couples are likely to take two or more cruises each year. Whether you’ve been on a cruise ship before or not, it is possible for you and your partner to have a romantic cruise ship getaway. A mid sea voyage in a luxurious cabin with every basic comfort you need, several restaurants providing an unending feast and top notch entertainment are a few reasons to love a cruise. When you add visits to beautiful islands with white sands, clear blue waters, history and culture – this is a practical option to being marooned on a deserted island with the one you love. In this issue we feature several new cruise ships that are launching for the first time this year. Some of these ships have amazing features never experienced before at sea. Contact your travel agent early for the best deals. Eight Bed and Breakfast Inns in Canada are also showcased. Many of these inns put you right in the heart of majestic mountains, interesting wildlife and a variety of things couples can do together in the great outdoors. Also in this issue is the perfect pairing of wine and romance. There are some unique wineries that are the perfect place to pop the cork on a bottle of good wine and share it with that special someone. And don’t miss our wine and dinner recipe for a romantic dinner for two. Add some music and candlelight and make it an unforgettable evening.
Donna Beasley, The Romance Lady Romance Travel Magazine 3
Wine & Romance:
An Undeniable Pairing By Dusty Fox
4 Romance Travel Magazine
If one libation spoke the language of love, there’s no doubt it would be wine. Its versatility makes a glass of wine enjoyable in nearly any environment, no matter how casual or formal the situation. Much to the delight of couples around the world, regardless of the circumstances, there’s a certain sense of romanticism in the air when two people in love have a good bottle of wine to share. Fortunately, there are fantastic wineries from coast to coast, so no matter where you live, chances are that you’re within easy driving distance of a great winery. If you have the luxury of living near any of these noteworthy wineries, be sure to pay a visit this summer and rekindle that romantic spirit between you and your partner. Domaine Carneros in Napa, California There are seemingly countless vineyards to visit in California’s famed Napa Valley, but Domaine Carneros most certainly shines as one of the most romantic. Wines are available in flights, by the glass, or by the bottle, and the menu includes delicious options, such as cheese plates, charcuterie, caviar, and smoked salmon. Make it truly special by organizing a Connoisseur’s Tasting, which is offered in your own private room at the Chateau. The most special of occasions will call for a reservation in the Sparkling Suite, which gives you and your partner an exclusive balcony overlooking the vineyards, a private tasting, and a keepsake bottle of wine. For an opportunity to savor the flavors of your visit for many months to come, consider a winemaking class in which you’ll learn all about the process and produce your own sparkling wine, 24 bottles of which will be delivered to your home eight weeks later.
Fox Fire Farms in Ignacio, Colorado A wine tasting is just part of the experience at this lovely 1,100acre organic farm where animals like sheep and goats roam the land. Enjoy an assortment of cheeses, bruschetta, olives, or artichoke dip with your wines, or opt for the chocolate-dipped strawberries if you and your partner prefer sweet treats. Visit during one of their Dinner on the Farm events and you’ll be treated to a 5-course dinner that features locally grown food paired with their signature wines.
Mount Pleasant Winery in Branson, Missouri Make your wine tasting experience more hands-on by signing up for a dessert wine bottling clinic or class at this celebrated winery, which has been around for more than 150 years. Missouri winemaking dates back nearly 200 years to when German settlers arrived in the area and planted the first grape vines, which gives this area the honor of being the oldest wine region in the country. Mount Pleasant has a desirable spot on top of a bluff that overlooks the Missouri River Valley, which means you’ll enjoy incredible views while tasting your way through a superb wine offering.
Parducci Wine Cellars in Mendocino, California If you and your partner pride yourselves on your environmentally friendly style of living, you’ll love the way things are done at Parducci Wine Cellars. They were the first carbon neutral
winery in the U.S. and incorporate a number of green practices into their daily operations. Chickens and sheep keep the grass trimmed and the land fertile, and an innovative water recycling and filtration system minimizes waste of precious natural resources. Furthermore, Parducci is located in what may be the country’s greenest wine region, where about a third of the wineries grow certified organic grapes. Go winery hopping here and you’ll find a whole slew of earth-friendly varieties to stock up your collection back home.
The Winery at La Grange in Haymarket, Virginia This historical converted home will transport you back in time, especially after the scenic drive you’ll take through the woods to arrive here. Built in the late 1700s, the impressive property has been restored to its original glory and boasts a number of tucked away spots where you and your partner can enjoy some time to yourselves. There’s an inviting lounge area on the second floor, a lovely cellar space, and, of course, an elegant tasting room where you can learn all about not only the winery’s history, but the state’s role in American winemaking as well.
Wolffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack, New York You’ll find regal elegance in every aspect of this meticulously maintained vineyard on New York’s Long Island. Enjoy a tableserved wine tasting surrounded by Old World decor featuring exposed beams and stained glass detailing, or grab a seat with your sweetie out on the terrace where you’ll admire the views and tranquility of the property. If you schedule a tour in advance, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the state-of-theart production facilities. Be sure to check out their event schedule before planning your visit and you may get to participate in a wine education event or enjoy a candlelit concert along with your tasting. You’ll find regal elegance in every aspect of this meticulously maintained vineyard on New York’s Long Island. Enjoy a tableserved wine tasting surrounded by Old World decor featuring exposed beams and stained glass detailing, or grab a seat with your sweetie out on the terrace where you’ll admire the views and tranquility of the property. If you schedule a tour in advance, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the state-of-theart production facilities. Be sure to check out their event schedule before planning your visit and you may get to participate in a wine education event or enjoy a candlelit concert along with your tasting. Romance Travel Magazine 5
Destination Spotlight: Costa Rica for Couples
Since the 1990s, Costa Rica has seen steady growth as Central America’s leading tourist destination. Yet despite its popularity, visitors still have their pick of many locations where the crowds are small or even nonexistent. Whether you like the hustle and bustle of a busy tourism scene or prefer a peaceful, remote retreat, Costa Rica is abound with places that fit both descriptions. By Dusty Fox 6 Romance Travel Magazine
colored waters at their most mesmerizing just under a 100-foot waterfall where visitors gather and swim. Sleep in the treetops. If you’re looking for a truly one-of-a-kind adventure, you’ll want to check out Upventures tree climbing tours in Costa Rica. Whether you want to climb in the middle of the rainforest, enjoy ocean views from above the canopy, or rest alongside a troop of howler monkeys high above the ground, they’ll make your treetop dreams come true. Every tour is private, which means it will be just you and your sweetie on the journey. For the ultimate experience, join them for tree camping and the two of you will spend an unforgettable night sleeping at the top of a tree. Spot turtles laying their eggs.
On paper, Costa Rica makes for a great tourism destination because of its stable government, strong economy, and overall sense of safety. There has been no active military in more than 60 years, and the government invests heavily in strong public healthcare and education systems instead. While there are many things that make Costa Rica so attractive, it’s the natural beauty that wins over most visitors within minutes of their arrival. Activities are focused on nature, and whether you choose to relax in natural volcanic hot springs or work up a sweat while climbing a tree, you’ll agree that Costa Rica’s natural beauty is truly something to admire. If you’re looking for a special place to get away with your partner, Costa Rica should most definitely be at the top of your list of destinations to consider. Airfare is affordable, it’s a short distance from the U.S., and you’ll have your choice of dozens, or even hundreds, of memorable experiences. Here are a handful of sure-to-please activities you’ll want to include on your itinerary for an unforgettable Costa Rican getaway: Walk through the cloud forest. The Monteverde Cloud Forest is a magical place up in the mountains, where the air is cooler and somehow things move at a slower pace. As you walk by ancient trees and mysterious plants, with hummingbirds and other wildlife abuzz all around you, you’ll feel like you’ve been transplanted to another world. Surprisingly, it’s only a short drive from Costa Rica’s leading international airport, making it easy to get here and quickly leave any worries or stress behind.
Tortuguero, which loosely translates to “Turtle Place” in English, is a charming Costa Rican town located on the northern Caribbean coast. It is known as an important turtle nesting area and receives visits from all four species of turtles present in Costa Rica. Schedule a night tour for you and your partner to go out and look for a nesting turtle or for a hatching. Because they are sensitive to light, only the moon will guide your way. Adding to the allure of the place, visitors arrive by boat and there are no roads or vehicles anywhere in the area. Soak in natural hot springs. A visit to Costa Rica’s Arenal area might include hiking up a dormant volcano, zip lining through the rain forest, going horseback riding, or a number of other fun activities. There’s one indulgence that you and your partner simply cannot miss if you’re in the area, and that is soaking in natural hot springs at the foot of Arenal Volcano. Tabacon Hot Springs is one of the area’s most prestigious resorts, with more than 20 pools of varying temperatures sprinkled throughout a lush and unequivocally romantic setting. Lie on the beach. Luckily, if your idea of a great trip involves lying on the beach in a picture-perfect setting, you’ve got your pick of lots of places for just that in Costa Rica. Try visiting Cahuita National Park on the southern Caribbean coast and you’ll swear you’re seeing something straight from the pages of a travel brochure. A dreamy combination of crystal clear water, white sand, and palm trees swaying overhead ensures you’ll get lots of R&R. Wildlife lovers won’t have to look hard to find some playful white-faced capuchin monkeys, a slow-moving sloth, or a toucan in the trees that line the beach.
Swim under a brightly colored waterfall. Volcan Tenorio National Park is just one of the many areas protected from development in Costa Rica. In fact, some 25% of the country is set aside as national parks and reserves. What makes Volcan Tenorio so special is the vibrantly blue Rio Celeste river which runs through the park. It is a true natural phenomenon, with the stunning aquamarine and turquoise Romance Travel Magazine 7
K O O L O T HOW N O S U O R O H C GLAM A E B T X E N R U S S YO E L N I N O I T A S C E T VA U N I M E V I F N THA New beachwear brand allows you to shop for beach outfits. Finding your beach style for a romantic getaway just got a lot easier. 8 Romance Travel Magazine
Love traveling to beach destinations but never know what to wear? You’re not alone. We all need help shopping for beachwear and matching accessories as there are so many options on the market. According to Ms. Ama Addae, the President of Beach Glam®, our desire to look fashionable on the beach in an effort to maintain our personal style causes us to shop around at various stores. This can be time consuming and often times we still never find the right items for a perfect beach outfit.
Many consumers often wish that someone would just tell them what to wear on their romantic beach vacation. Beach Glam® (www. beachglam.com), a NY-based beachwear brand does just that. Beach Glam® sells Preselected Beach Outfits, also known as Preselected Beachwear Bundles®, for the woman who wants to be guided on what to wear on her romantic getaway. The Founder and Head Designer of Beach Glam®, Ms. Ama Addae, has carefully curated beach outfits based on her extensive travels and eye for sophisticated beach style. You can now buy a Beachwear Bundle® in as little as five minutes. This is a great option for men who want to buy gifts for the woman in their life or for women with limited time to shop. Additionally, for women who want to buy products aligned with their personal style, Beach Glam® offers custom bundles where women can mix and match Beach Glam® products to create their own Beachwear Bundle®. This allows you to shop for all your beachwear at one place, yet still maintain your individuality. Beach Glam® sells its beachwear via 3 price ranges: $125, $185, and $250. All Beach Glam® purchases have free shipping and free returns and
the Beachwear Bundles® are all one size, which takes the guesswork out of which size will be the right fit. Beach Glam’s® focus is on incorporating travel with fashion, which is evident by the names of their Preselected Beachwear Bundles®. They are named after exotic locations, such as Bodrum and Curacao, to match their aesthetic. For romantic travel, Beach Glam® is the optimal choice for men buying glamorous beachwear as a gift or for women buying elegant beachwear for themselves.
Beach Glam® (www.beachglam.com) was founded to make shopping for beachwear easier and more fun for consumers by offering Preselected and Custom Beachwear Bundle®s. The company sells beachwear online throughout the year offering free shipping and free returns.
Romance Travel Magazine 9
Interview:
Netanya Trimboli from Hostelling International USA Photographer Gregory Bartning
I met Netanya Trimboli at the recent Women In Travel Summit in Chicago. I was sharing my fun experience staying at a hostel in Panama, when she mentioned she used a hostel for some of her wedding guests. I was intrigued, because I didn’t know you could book a hostel in that way. In this interview, she shares her experience both as an industry professional and fellow traveler. After college Netanya went backpacking around Europe and fell in love with travel. She majored in marketing and advertising and looked for ways to combine her career and her love for travel. That led to her doing marketing for the travel industry and eventually led Netanya to working for Hostelling International USA (HIUSA). By Donna Beasley 1. What is a Hostel? A hostel is shared space accommodations. In our locations we also have TV lounges, self-serve kitchens and patios. We are a non-profit organization. Our mission is to promote understanding of the world and its people through hostelling.
2. What work do you do for Hostelling International USA (HIUSA)?
Photos courtesy of Hostelling International USA
I’m the communications and PR Manager.
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3. How many Hostels are there in the USA and around the world? HI has 53 locations in the USA but we’re part of an international network of 4,000 hostels in 80 different countries. We are known for our high quality standards and those hostels in our network adhere to those standards.
4. Its not just college students staying at hostel. Have you noticed a variety of age groups? Our two primary guests are ages 18 – 30 and seniors. They love meeting people from around the world and the camaraderie they find.
Photos courtesy of Hostelling International USA
5. You recently got married in San Francisco. Where was your wedding and reception? We got married on Treasure Island at the Treasure Island event venue. It had stunning views of the San Francisco skyline. Just driving on to the island gives you that wow factor. Also, its removed from the heart of downtown so the rates were more reasonable.
6. What was the highlight of your special day? It was just great to have my family, friends, school mates, travel friends and colleagues all together in the same place. It was wonderful.
7. How did the hostel in San Francisco fit into your wedding plan? I knew all of my guests wouldn’t be able to afford the event hotel, so I arranged for a block of rooms at the Hostel in San Francisco. Several of my guests stayed there and shared what a great time they had. Most of them had never stayed in a hostel before and are now looking at staying at hostels in other places. They were surprised by the value.
8. So Hostels are open to groups? Absolutely. In fact Hostels in bigger cities host groups often and usually have a dedicated groups staff person. With smaller hostels you can actually rent out the entire space like for a family reunion. I recently rented the Harper Ferry Hostel for an event with my friends.
9. What makes San Francisco a great place for a destination wedding? There is so much to do for a variety of budget levels. You can stroll through Golden Gate Park, Dine on great food and shop at Fisherman’s wharf. Couples can take a sunset cruise. You can take a day and go to Sonoma or Napa Valley. There are so many options for your guests which gives them plenty of room to do their own thing.
10. Give me 3 advantages for staying at a hostel for couples? First, you would be surprised how many couples travel the world together for months at a time and stay at hostels. One of the advantages are all the different people you meet. Plus it gives you a more “live like the locals” experience than staying at a resort or big hotel. Many hostels also offer low cost tours on a daily basis. And, you can get restaurant and activity referrals from the innkeeper that the locals use, and not the recommendations a hotel concierge may be paid to give you.
11. Anything else you’d like to our readers to know? Hosteling is experienced based travel. People have a great sense of camaraderie. It’s easy to meet people even if you’re shy. One other thing about the Treasure Island venue, (which I highly recommend) is, I got married in March which is still considered winter and I was able to get the off season rate and save money. But the weather was 70 degrees. Treasure Island Venue
Romance Travel Magazine 11
Enjoy A Romantic Getaway On One of the Newest 2014 Cruise Ships
Photo courtesy of Norwegian Getaway 12 Romance Travel Magazine
I
s there anything more romantic than being on a cruise ship with your partner watching the sun rise above the water from your own private balcony? Is there anything better for a wedding ceremony or a honeymoon than taking a tour of some very exotic areas? Cruise ships that will launch their maiden voyages this year understand that couples, romance, exploration, and the soothing sounds of the ocean are a great way to begin a life together. That is why cruise ships cater to newlyweds and honeymooners. Below is a list of the hottest new ships making their debut in 2014. written by: Wshngstr Romance Travel Magazine 13
Pearl Mist If you want space to relax alone with your significant other then perhaps you should consider joining the maiden voyage of the Pearl Mist from Pearl Sea Cruises. Its maiden voyage will be on June 28, 2014 for an 11 night sailing cruise. On this beautiful ship couples can journey, explore and relax together at some of the most popular destinations along the Eastern United States. Stops along the way include places like Martha’s Vineyard, Shelburn, and Halifax. Couples can also look forward to adventure shore tours that include cycling and kayaking. While on board the Pearl Mist, you and your partner can relax in oversized, gracefully appointed staterooms, each with private a balcony. Your room includes every imaginable comfort including TVs, internet and very large restrooms. Your stateroom will be up to 580 square feet in size so that you two can enjoy days together alone if you want to and never feel crowded. Thanks to a butler service you will never have to leave unless you want to step out onto your own private balcony and feel the wind upon your face. If you do decide to join the outer festivities and mingle with other couples, you will enjoy guided tours, music, food and fun. Boarding this ship is a great way to start your life together if you are planning a honeymoon near this amazing ship’s first voyages.
Regal Princess In June, 2014 the Regal Princess will launch its maiden voyage proving that the Royal Princess line of cruise ships still understand how to make a cruise memorable and exciting for everyone on board. It is on this newest addition though, you will find several eye-catching features including, Seawalk, a top-deck, glass bottom walkway that juts out 28 feet over the side of the ship. The Regal Princess also has one of the most beautiful golden atriums I’ve ever seen. It was expanded to become the social hub of the ship. It includes casual dining, Piazza Entertainment, bars and more. Live entertainment and broadcast events are held in the theaters. Enjoy first-run movies with your partner outside under the stars and overlooking the pool area with complimentary popcorn. Plus there are lounges, pools, spas and more things than you could imagine experiencing on a cruise ship. This ship will comfortably carry up to 3,600 passengers but you and your lover can choose to avoid all the other passengers and stay comfortably inside your staterooms. If you choose to get married on board or once you reach your destination, you will get the true princess experience with a bridal makeover that will make you more beautiful for your special day. If you are already married, you can simply enjoy each other’s company at a private dinner for two in your room or in the dining rooms. You also have the option to enjoy The Sanctuary where only adults are allowed to go. Imagine indulging with your partner and relaxing while someone massages your worries away at the Lotus Spa.
of the most spectacular ships around when it launches the Quantum of the Seas in the Fall/2014. It is amazing not only because of its aweinspiring size but the multitude of activities available to everyone who climbs on board. This ship offers its guests a million experiences not offered on other cruises. Have you ever wanted to fly? You can catch a wave on the surf board or skydive in the ship’s simulators. The innovative Northstar capsule takes you 300 feet above the ship for a 360 degree view. Additional activities include a three story video wall, world class entertainment and my personal favorite, bumper cars and so much more. When you and your partner are alone in your spacious, luxurious, staterooms though is where the truly romantic side of things can take off. Each room has its own private area of the balcony so that lovers can enjoy each other as they quietly watch the sun rise and set while on board. Some rooms even have a private Jacuzzi inside so
Quantum of the Seas The Royal Caribbean cruise line has launched what is sure to be the one 14 Romance Travel Magazine
that you can relax and simply enjoy being together. The ship is open for bookings. Contact your travel agent.
Photo courtesy of Norwegian Getaway
Costa Diadema
Norwegian Getaway
TThe Costa Diadema is one of the largest Italian cruise ships. Diadema,
The newest ship to join the Caribbean is the Norwegian Getaway from Norwegian Cruises. Onboard entertainment includes two Broadway shows, a multi-story ropes course and the largest aqua park at sea with five full slides. There are water slides and other activities on board as well as other entertainment options to ensure that every guest has plenty to do while they are cruising the open waters.
which means “tiara” in Italian is being called the crown jewel of the Costa Cruises’ fleet. It will launch her maiden voyage in October, 2014. The ship will have 1,862 cabins, 130 will be in the wellness area near the Samsara Spa and 756 will have private balconies. The Samsara Spa has four decks with a gym, thalassotherapy room, sauna and solarium. Among the ship’s highlights: A new wine venue called Vinoteca, a beer house called Birreria, a Japanese Teppanyaki restaurant, a pizza eatery called Piazza Pizza and a gelateria. Future guests are anticipating her first cruise where couples can enjoy spacious cabins, dining in one of eleven restaurants or 15 bars, relaxing at the spa or sauna and loads of entertainment options to choose from. Costa Diadema has seven-night Mediterranean sailings with stops in Marseille, France; Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Civitavecchia (near Rome) and La Spezia, Italy.
The Illusionarium brings the fascinating world of illusion with world class magicians and supernatural special effects. Be sure to bring your dancing shoes because the Latin-inspired dance productions will make you want to salsa the night away. The Norwegian Getaway has a variety of state rooms, but the opulent suites of, The Haven are the ultimate luxury. This enclave within the ship, has its own small pool, lounge and restaurant for only the Haven’s guests. This is the perfect ship and the perfect area to celebrate your honeymoon or anniversary. They also have packages for Romantic Memories at Sea, whether you are just starting out a life together or you two have been a couple for 50 years. Romance Travel Magazine 15
Photo Coutesy of Baker Creek Inn
8
Bed & Breakfast Inns For A
Canadian Getaway
If you are planning a romantic getaway for two, there are a number of options you can choose from in regards to bed and breakfast inns that are found in Canada. Below you will find a list of top 8 romantic bed & breakfast inns in Canada for a variety of budget levels.
Banff Beaver Cabins – Banff, AB These cozy cabins are comfortably furnished and surrounded by the beauty of Mother Nature. The cabins are older and feature 6 fully furnished 1 & 2 bedroom suites and cabins. It comes with all the features that help you enjoy a great home away from home experience such as private washrooms and showers, microwave kitchenettes with fridges and coffee makers while some living rooms come with TVs and DVDs. Guests also enjoy continental breakfast and ice tea and cookies at check in. One of the best features is Tunnel Mountain is right outside your door. Couples take a morning hike and watch the sunrise. Or just enjoy the spectacular mountain views from the patio or gazebo. http://banffbandbcabins.com/
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Blue Diamond Mountain Bed and Breakfast – Brule, AB This is a beautiful establishment that overlooks Lake Brule and is nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains of Alberta. Couples can enjoy breath- taking views on all sides from their deck. Rooms have private entry, high vaulted ceilings, ensuite shower/bathroom, queen beds and numerous other amenities that make your stay worthwhile. Lakes and rivers are plentiful for swimming, fishing or boating. Good hiking trails and horseback riding are nearby. There is also an in-house gym and professional recording studio with affordable rates. http://bluediamondbb.com/
Photo courtesy of BBCanda.com
Riverview Bed and Breakfast - Chilliwack, B.C.
Lakeshore Inn – Cold Lake, AB
This beautiful B & B is located in the town of Chilliwack, nestled at the end of Fraser Valley. It is surrounded by endless mountains, crystal clear lakes and untamed wilderness. T he bedrooms are big, bright and comfy. They have large closets, HDTV and spectacular views. Couples can also kick-back and relax in the numerous quiet sitting areas, home theater rooms and enjoy a game of pool. The surrounding area has great golf courses, hiking trails, white water river rafting and several festivals.
Lakeshore Inn is found on the gorgeous shore of the Cold Lake one of the largest lakes that is located in Alberta. It offers a relaxed and romantic establishment where travelers and locals can have a good time in a European modern styled home. It is pets and smoke free environment. For a romantic getaway choose a room that has a whirlpool baths and a fireplace. Some rooms also have balconies where you can enjoy incredible views of the lake. The area is a premier boating and fishing destination. Sailboats shows are a popular attraction in the summer. The Spa is a great place for a relaxing massage or manicure.
www.riverviewchilliwack.com/
www.lakeshore-inn.com/
Aurum Lodge – Nordegg, AB This is an award winning and unique eco-tourism lodge that is located half way between Jasper and Banff. It is located in a serene and romantic environment surrounded by mountains and forests overlooking Abraham Lake. It is ideal for people who love the outdoors, nature enthusiasts and visitors who are looking for an environmentally responsible establishment in the region. There are five rooms in the lodge and a hearty breakfast is served each morning. Or if you prefer to do your own cooking and want more privacy and seclusion rent one of the cottages. There are numerous activities you can take part in here such as going on historic mint tours, horseback riding, hiking trails, fishing, rock climbing, kayaking and wildlife observation among many others. aurumlodge.com/english/english.htm
Romance Travel Magazine 17
Photo courtesy of BBCanda.com
Baker Creek Mountain Resort – Lake Louise, AB
Overland Mountain Lodge – Hinton, AB
Birds Of A Feather Oceanfront B & B – Victoria, BC
One of the most romantic Inns in Alberta, Baker Creek Mountain Resort. Accommodations at this resort provide authentic mountain lodging in log chalets and lodge suites with magnificent mountain views. The Jacuzzi suite also includes a fireplace. The Bistro Restaurant serves local and seasonal food. Open year round to create your own mountain adventure. Hiking, biking, cross-country and downhill skiing and water sports on the Lake. Ask about the intimate couple package and take time to re-connect with each other.
Overland Mountain Lodge is nestled at the edge of Jasper National Park and provides a spectacular view of the Rocky Mountains. They offer both mountain cabin and chalet accommodations. No telephones or TV so it’s a great getaway to unwind and unplug from a hectic week (providing of course, you turn off your cell phone.) Make dinner for two a special treat with gourmet dining at Stone Peak Restaurant and share a bottle of wine from their extensive wine list. Keep your camera handy on the drive to Overland Mountain Lodge for the spectacular scenery and glimpses of wildlife.
Located on an oceanfront lagoon, Birds of a Feather B & B has 5 spacious suites with cathedral ceilings. For a romantic getaway the honeymoon waterfront suite is ideal. It has a king-size bed, fireplace, kitchenette and an oceanfront balcony. The inn and surrounding area offers a number of activities couples
www.bakercreek.com/
www.overlandermountainlodge.com/
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can do together, such as kayaking, bicycling, canoeing, fishing, boating, walking trails, golfing, sailing and a wide array of water sports. http://www.birdsofafeather.ca/
Romance at Home With Filet Diane and a Great Bottle of Wine! By Jennifer Deisher
Grill or broil the steak to desired temperature. When the steak is almost ready, place butter in saute pan and begin cooking the mushrooms. Saute the mushrooms for approximately 3 minutes or until cooked but not browned. When the mushrooms are cooked, add the sauce into the pan with the mushrooms. To ensure sauce is not over-reduced, do not prepare the sauce too far in advance. If the sauce is too thick, add a little water to correct it. When the steak is ready, place it in the center of the plate. Pour the finished Filet Diane sauce over the steak and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
To Make The Demi Glaze Sauce
hens f Jason Hutc o sy e rt u o c Photo
Let’s be honest here, eating out is expensive and the economy has been in better shape! Why not create a romantic dinner for two? I honestly believe that you are capable of making a better than restaurant meal at home. Especially if you have a great wine to pair it with. Try this recipe for Filet Diane with Demi Glaze Sauce and enjoy the results it inspires in your “partner.” A sophisticated recipe and a sophisticated wine. B Cellars Blend 26 complements this rich, creamy Filet recipe. This pairing is a knock out! See below for Blend 26 details.
The Steak 10-ounce filet mignon 1/2 ounce unsalted butter 4 ounces mushrooms, sliced 3 ounces Filet Diane sauce 1 pinch fresh parsley, chopped
Demi Glaze Sauce 1 1/2 ounces clarified butter 4 tablespoons fresh garlic, finely chopped 4 ounces red cooking wine 4 ounces Cognac 2 3/4 cups demi-glaze (prepared) 2 teaspoons Grey Poupon mustard 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 2 teaspoons tomato paste 1 1/3 cups heavy cream
Place clarified butter in a small pan over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook until the garlic is soft, stirring frequently. Add red wine and cognac to the pan and increase the heat to medium. Reduce the mixture until the liquid is almost gone, approximately 6 minutes. Add demiglace, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste to the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer then add the cream. Bring the sauce back to a simmer and reduce for approximately 6 to 8 minutes. It should be ready as the steak is coming off the grill.
The Wine B Cellars Blend 26 - 2005 Blend 26 Reserve Cabernet Napa Valley’s most prestigious vineyardsToKalon, Georges III & Stagecoach delivers a Cabernet haute mélange of Reserve quality. This voluminous wine shows layers of black cherry, blackberry and a touch of barrel vanillin and espresso bean on the nose. The palate is rich and muscular with dark fruits, wild currant and cassis. The finish is long and elegant exuding the sophistication of a carefully crafted wine. B Cellars Winery: http://www.bcellars.com Romance Travel Magazine 19
New Travel Guide The Romance Lady’s Travel Guide to the 50 Sexiest Destinations to Woo Your Lover
If you’re looking for an unforgettable, dare I say incredible location for a romantic getaway, honeymoon, destination wedding, place to propose or vow renewal -then the The Romance Lady’s Travel Guide to the 50 Sexiest Destinations to Woo Your Lover is the best place to start your search.
“No matter how you define a sexy, romatic getaway, I’ve turned up the heat and the fun so you can “woo” and “wow” your lover in one of these heart-racing destinations. Choose one to indulge your fantasy.” Donna Beasley The Romance Lady
The The Romance Lady’s Travel Guide to the 50 Sexiest Destinations to Woo Your Lover highlights some incredible Hotels, Bed and Breakfast Inns and luxury resorts from all over the world. They are ripe for a romantic escape a deux. Each was selected for their unique ambience, quality of service, ideal location, outstanding facilities and beautiful surroundings. Many of them you won’t find in a traditional travel guidebook for they are off the beaten path; but thats part of what makes them so special. Indulge your romantic getaway fantasies with your private pool in St. Lucia, snuggle in your threehouse love nest in Bali or stargaze through your dome in Chili. Just remember to hang out the “Do not Disturb” sign.
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Romance Travel Magazine Donna Beasley Publisher/Editor Freida Curry Co-Publisher Marcela Dragan Graphic Design Writers Dusty Fox Jennifer Deisher Renee Carter Washgstar Cover Photo Fotolia: Gennadiy Poznyakow
“I was afraid of love, I thought love took time, like a fine wine aging in the cellar. I was wrong. Love is there from the moment you see that person, embrace it let it grow, follow your heart, not your mind� Author Unknown