Romance Travel Magazine, your romantic getaway guide by Romance Travel Magazine

Romance JA NU AR Y JUNE/JULY 22014 01 4

Travel

10 Top

Magazine

Destination Spotlight: Marseille, France How I Planned My Surprise Picnic For Two

Romantic Things To Do in Oahu, HI

Contents 3

4-6

From the Publisher

Top 10 Romantic Things To Do in Oahu, HI

Summer Weekend Getaways in Georgia

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10-11

12-13

Destination Spotlight: Marseille, France

Five of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Romantic Restaurants

How I Planned my Surprise Picnic for Two

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16-18

20-21

Best Dive Spot

10 Awesome Reasons to Visit Romania

Dating in the Digital Age

From the Publisher Big Change: We’re making a big change at Romance Travel Magazine by moving to publishing on a bi-monthly schedule. We are starting with this June/July issue. All current subscribers will get their full 12 issues subscription with no additional cost.

Big News: Romance Travel Magazine is now available worldwide for both Android and Apple devices. In addition to being available in the Apple’s iTunes store, the publication is now available in Google Play on the Magzter Digital Newsstand. Our new bi-monthly publishing schedule will allow us to be much more efficient with our writing and production staff as we continue to grow our subscriber base.

Big Offer: Refer a friend and during the months of June and July 2014, anyone who signs up at our website for a free issue will also get a free 12 issues subscription as well. www.RomanceTravelMagazine.com

Big Editorial: In this issue our destination spotlight is on Marseilles, the second largest city in France after Paris. Discover why this coastal city is attracting a hip, sophisticated crowd and may be the perfect choice for a romantic getaway. Romania may not immediately make your bucket list of travel destinations. But maybe the article on 10 Amazing Reasons to Visit Romania will inspire you to go. Or maybe the article on 10 Romantic Things To Do in Ohau, you’ll want to add to your bucket list. Many families travel throughout the summer. The article, Summer Weekend Getaways in Georgia offers some great ideas that work for couples only or the whole family. The article How I Planned my Surprise Picnic for Two is a thoughtful and fun way to get a guy to share some quality time at a picnic.

Big Wish: Have a fun and safe summer. And, give the gift of romance whenever you can. Donna Beasley, The Romance Lady Romance Travel Magazine 3

10ToRomantic Do Oahu, HI

Top

Things

By Brittany Soares

Photos courtesy of Brittany Soares

1. Tantalus Drive

2. Waimea Beach

Many native Hawaiians have taken a date up this beautiful, windy road to the peak of Mount Tantalus. Along the way is a tropical rain forest filled with unique trees like ginger, mountain apple, bamboo, and eucalyptus. Alongside the road, you can admire the khaki flowers that bloom naturally and have a nice sweet smell. Plus, there’s no way to miss the dozens of views of Oahu on this drive. Near the summit you’ll hit Puu Ualakaa State Park, where you can look down on the lights of all of Oahu, including Diamond Head, Moana Valley, and Pearl Harbor. If you want to wow your lover with the natural Hawaiian beauty, this drive will give you the perfect amount of alone time with a lovely backdrop of scenery.

This unusual beach is in a cove and during winter, there are giant waves to surf and in the summer it’s completely calm waters with sail boats anchored. There’s a giant rock near the shore that you two can climb up and jump off. There are some picnic areas, and it’s not congested with hotels, so you two can enjoy some alone time, as long as you try to avoid the summer days that can get a little crowded. It’s a beautiful beach to propose at sunset.

There’s always the option to get down on one knee at the top of the summit as your woman’s breath is already being taken away from the views. It would make for an unforgettable moment. 4 Romance Travel Magazine

4. Waikiki Beach Waikiki is usually the tourist center, so it can get highly congested. However, for free on Friday nights at 7:45pm, dozens of colorful fireworks will light up the sky from the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort. It’s a very short 5-minute show, but it still has good variety for a hotel fireworks show. Surprise your lover with a picnic dinner and don’t tell them about the fireworks. The best spots are along the western end of Waikiki Beach or at Magic Island.

5. Halona Blowhole From the Academy award-winning film From Here To Eternity, the beach cove

3. Sunset Beach, North Shore The North Shore is the most untouched place on the island, and Sunset Beach is no exception. It is a picture-perfect North Shore beach, with huge waves in the winter and clean white sand, but it’s never a truly good time to go swimming because of the strong current. The sunsets are extremely beautiful in Hawaii because of how clear the sky can be and there’s no smog in sight. The view is unobstructed, so watch out for the green flash, which is an optical phenomenon. The moment that the sun goes down below the horizon, you’ll see a bright green spot if you pay close attention and don’t blink. here is a romantic spot to get some private time and watch the unique blowhole and the waves crash on the shore. This little hidden gem is a nice spot to visit, but check to see when high tide is so you can have a better chance of seeing the water spray up through an opening on the lava rock. It’s very rocky, so it’s better to just hang out on the sand and cuddle up to watch the scenery.

6. The Kahala Hotel and Resort This hotel is located about 10-15 minutes from Waikiki, and has an isolated beach right outside its doorsteps. Celebrity couples such as Liz Taylor and Richard Burton honeymooned here to get some space away from the paparazzi, which says a lot about its intimate and private Romance Travel Magazine 5

Poivre. Many say the Chateabriand is to die for.

8. Chev Mavro You can also have your wedding anniversary here, where you can have a 3, 4, or 6 course meal. The service is excellent and the food is delicious and plentiful (albeit expensive) with the option to do wine pairings as well. They also offer a vegetarian and vegan menu for those who have dietary preferences. If you want to propose at a restaurant, this is a great spot to do so. They will work with you and make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.

setting. The resort offers side-by-side massages, a lagoon filled with dolphins, and the “Kissing Point,” which is a pretty island stretch on the water to share a sweet moment with your loved one. You have large rooms and enormous bathrooms, but the dining can get to be expensive (dinners at $50 and up). However, there are 4 incredible restaurants, including one of Oahu’s best, and a swim with the dolphins’ experience. While the surrounding area does not have much to offer, there is no need to venture out of the resort itself anyway because this hotel has everything you will need to have an unforgettable Oahu stay.

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7. Michel’s Restaurant Plan your wedding anniversary at Michel’s, which is a French fine dining restaurant located on the calmer section of Waikiki beach at the Colony Surf Hotel. It’s known as the most romantic restaurant in the world, and plenty of people agree. The food is excellent, the service is warm and welcoming, and there is no such thing as a bad view, especially coming around sunset. Some appetizers are Michel’s Lobster Bisque and Helix Escargots Bourgogne, and some entrees are Island Seafood Cioppino and Prime New York Steak Au

9. The Oceanarium Restaurant At the Pacific Beach Hotel in Waikiki, this unique restaurant is a cool experience and can be a great place to propose. There is a 3-story aquarium filled with sea creatures. A diver goes into the aquarium several times a day to feed the fish. You can request a tank side table and have the diver take a sign into the water with your proposal written on it.

10. Maunawili Falls Maunawili Falls is near the University of Hawaii and offers an incredible hiking trail that can get super fun and slippery very fast because of the mud after a rainfall in the tropical valley. The hike is a good 1.5 miles long, and it has plenty of fantastic tropical scenery all throughout. As one of the best hikes on the island, couples can hike in privacy through this jungle only with the occasional crossing of ways with other hikers. You can look out at the lush green treetops and large green hills, and at the end you and your lover will be rewarded with a 150-foot waterfall that you can (and should) jump off of and wade around in the cool water below. It’s normally not totally secluded at the falls but it’s a fun and adventurous date to go on with relentless stunning views.

Summer Weekend Getaways in Georgia By Cindy Bolton If you are looking for a wonderful place to take your special someone for a romantic getaway, you are in luck. The beautiful state of Georgia has an abundance of opportunities to fulfill your desires. Whether you are looking for a quiet mountain retreat, a horseback ride along the beach, or just want to enjoy a beautiful garden there is something for everyone. Some of the top getaway spots in Georgia include: Barnsley Resort 597 Barnsley Gardens Rd Adairsville, GA 30103 770-773-7480 Located 60 miles north of Atlanta in the town of Adairsville, the Barnsley Resort is situated on 3,300 acres of lush plantation land in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. After a peaceful night in your private cottage spend the day riding one of their horses through beautiful meadows and along mountain trails to enjoy a quiet picnic. Upon your return, visit the state of the art spa for a couples spa treatments complete with a lave shell massage and hand, foot and scalp treatments for the two of you. Finish your day with a romantic, private meal served either in your room or under the stars. This meal includes 4 courses and a private butler to ensure you have a romantic and relaxing evening. Chateau Elan Winery and Resort 100 Tour de France Braselton, GA 30517 678-425-0900 This slice of paradise is the perfect romantic getaway for the wine connoisseur. With its 3,500 acres of grapes and full production winery, you are sure to find the perfect wine to make your experience amazing. Located just 40 miles north of Atlanta you will find the Chateau a combination of French provincial and southern charm and hospitality. During your stay in one of their spacious and elegant guest rooms spend an afternoon with a couple’s spa experience. Enjoy 3 hours with just you and your loved one. You will be treated to ultimate comfort in your private suite which features a two person

rain shower, an intimate dining area, and side by side deluxe spa treatment beds. After your romantic spa day choose from one of six dining options, from Southern, All-American, Mediterranean, Classic French, Irish and even healthy spa cuisine. There is something for everyone. Azalea Inn and Garden 217 East Huntingdon St Savannah, GA 31401 912-236-6080 Enjoy time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life at this Victorian Romanesque Mansion Bed and Breakfast. Located near Forsyth Park, the central park in Savannah, this Inn is in the perfect location for those who enjoy exploring art galleries, historical locations and the beauty of Savannah in general. While you are in Savannah take a garden tour to see the other side of not only Savannah but historic Georgia as well. Take along a picnic lunch to enjoy under one of the many magnolia trees to take in not only the beauty but the fragrance of the many flowers that seem to always be in bloom. Hamilton Turner Inn 330 Abercorn St Savannah, GA 31401 912-233-1833 If you’re looking for something more intimate check out Hamilton Turner Inn close to Lafayette Square. With only 17 guest rooms you are treated to a hearty breakfast, sweet snacks in the afternoon, an evening glass of wine with hors d’oeuvres in the parlor. To make your romantic getaway even more special, book the Romance Package which includes 3 days and 2 nights, chilled champagne and a bouquet of roses waiting for you in your suite upon arrival, a dinner voucher and a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Savannah. You can also order a romantic gift basket. The Premier Romance For All Seasons: includes one dozen roses, a bottle of champagne, 2 etched Hamilton-Turner Inn champagne flutes, one box of chocolate truffles, and a decorative keepsake box.

Destination Spotlight:

Marseille, France

By Dusty Fox

When it comes to planning a dream vacation to France, many couples set their sights on the country’s most famous city–Paris. And while the charming “City of Light” will win over any pair of traveling lovers, there’s so much more to be discovered as you venture outside the capital. Marseille is a port city in southern France, situated just on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. It boasts a hip, multi-cultural scene that feels both young and old at the same time thanks to a beautifully historic setting. It’s the kind of atmosphere that’s charged with energy, making Marseille the perfect destination for couples looking to explore and connect in a faraway place. Adding to its charm, Marseille is the type of place where you can show up with no plans and somehow craft the perfect getaway day by day. If you and your partner prefer a more organized approach, be sure to consider these ideas for your itinerary. 8 Romance Travel Magazine

Self-Guided

Tour

Panier Neighborhood

a bus downtown, while those looking for a touch of luxury can charter a boat to bring them directly from Marseilles. No matter

Admire the old-world charm of Marseille as you stroll through the centrally located Le Panier

how you arrive, be sure to bring a picnic lunch and libations to make the outing extra special for you and your sweetie. And don’t forget your swim suits!

neighborhood. You may work up a bit of a sweat as you maneuver the steep, sloping

Romantic Dinner for Two

streets, but fortunately you’ll

It wouldn’t be difficult for the food in Marseille to end up

find plenty of fuel in the

being one of the highlights of your trip, so be sure you plan

cafes, chocolate shops, and

on at least one night out at one of the area’s many upscale

bakeries along the way. Be

restaurants. Some of the most in-demand tables are at intimate

sure to visit the beautiful

locations where the chef personally prepares and serves the

Centre de la Vieille Charité,

food–not to mention denies guests who dare show up without a

which has served as a home

reservation. The unassuming fishing village of Vallon de Auffes,

for the poor, an asylum, and

located within walking distance of downtown, is home to a

a soldiers’ home, among

handful of exquisite restaurants many tourists miss.

other

things.

houses

two small museums that showcase

archeological

treasures

from

Mediterranean,

the mask

collections from Africa, and much more.

A Day at Vieux-Port The “Old Port” is considered by many to be the heart and soul of Marseille. No visitor can miss the opportunity to spend a day here, admiring art installations, visiting tourist shops, and people-watching while sipping a cup of coffee. If your partner loves fishing, go early in the day to see the fishermen unloading

Electric

Bike

Tour

Through the City

their bounty or try to arrange an excursion out to sea. Snuggle up close with your sweetie as you enjoy a nighttime ride on the Ferris wheel and take in great views of the city and sea.

Let a guide show you the way as you and your sweetie visit some of

Action-Packed Itinerary

Marseille’s most famous

If you and your partner are the type of couple who like to be

attractions,

including

on the go and make the most of every minute, you’ll want

Napoleon’s Palace and

to purchase the Marseille City Pass. Choose from a one- or

Notre-Dame de la Garde. An electric bike ensures

two-day pass, which gives unlimited access to a public

you won’t have to work too hard as you pass through a mix

transportation network, a ferry ride and guide of the famed

of local neighborhoods and must-see tourist destinations. A

Château d’If, admission to 14 area museums, and lots more.

longer tour includes a ride along the coastal John F. Kennedy

End your busy excursion on a sweet note with a free biscuit-

Highway, which offers fantastic views to the Mediterranean

tasting at Marseille’s oldest bakery!

Sea. Cruisin’ Along the Coast Cliffside Hiking in Calanque de Sugiton

Feel the wind in your hair as you drive the curve-hugging

One of Marseille’s main attractions is a stunning series of coves

seaside roads that run along the Marseille coastline. Take your

and inlets that lines the coast. The Calanque de Sugiton is a

time to stop at the picturesque villages, sample local cuisine,

perennial favorite–and with good reason. Visitors can enjoy

and discover hidden spots where the two of you can unwind

the views from up above, but the real treat is conquering the

and relax. Sailing is a popular hobby in Marseille, so you

rocky hike down to the shore and arriving at the inviting,

may catch a glimpse of a regatta or match race while out and

crystalline waters below. Adventurous types will want to catch

about. Romance Travel Magazine 9

Five of America’s Most Romantic Restaurants With summer upon us, there’s no better time to surprise your sweetheart with an unplanned evening out at a world-class restaurant. Whether you’re tucked away in a secluded corner or are seated out under the stars, a special meal is the perfect way to celebrate your love and rekindle the romance in your relationship. These winning restaurants all earn rave reviews and are considered among the most romantic in the country. By Dusty Fox The Driskill Grill in Austin, Texas Locally sourced produce and game are at the heart of the everchanging menu at The Driskill Grill. This legendary restaurant opened its doors in 1929 and has won countless accolades and awards in the 7+ decades since, including the prestigious AAA Four-Diamond ranking. An extensive wine list ensures you and your sweetheart can choose the perfect pairing as each of the courses is served, or you can just sit back and let the sommelier make your selections.

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Shadowbrook Restaurant in Capitola-bythe-Sea, California Shadowbook has been considered one of Southern California’s most romantic restaurants for more than 60 years and continues to provide its visitors with an impeccable experience today. Located along the lovely Soquel Creek, tables and private booths are spread throughout the impressive property. In a setting as beautiful as this, you can rest assured there’s not a bad seat in the house. The magic starts the moment you arrive, with guests parking up above and riding a small cable car down a hill to the entrance. Alternatively, walk through the beautifully landscaped gardens and you’ll descend through a regal wooden staircase to the main dining area. With thousands of twinkling lights, a fireplace, and other custom lighting to set the mood, you and your sweetie will just love settling in for an evening of great food and live music in this cozy atmosphere.

Red Fish Grill in Miami, Florida Located in the historic Matheson Hammock Park, Red Fish Grill boasts a prime location right on the water. It is one of the area’s few restaurants from which guests can directly access the beach, so be sure to plan on a moonlit walk on the shore after your meal. With light-wrapped palm trees, relaxing music, and a cool ocean breeze, you and your partner are sure to love the casual, yet upscale feel. Seafood is the main attraction with the chef serving salmon, mahi-mahi, and other favorites alongside flavorful sides like lemon orzo, yucca chips, and ginger rice.

RM Champagne Salon in Chicago, Illinois Though it just opened in late 2012, the RM Champagne Salon almost instantly earned a reputation for excellence thanks to its unique atmosphere, huge selection of exotic wines and Champagnes, and always-delicious food. An eclectic tasting menu makes this the perfect place to wine and dine your

sweetheart all night long. Sip on Champagne, sample an assortment of cheeses, and don’t even think about missing the 18-piece dessert sampler. Before you know it you’ll lose track of time as you nibble and giggle your way late into the night. What better way to spend the evening with your partner?

Zenkichi in Brooklyn, New York This modern Japanese brasserie is outfitted with individual booths that are completely enclosed by curtains, giving you and your sweetie a heightened level of privacy unlike traditional restaurants. When you’re ready for service, simply press the buzzer and your server will arrive within moments. If you’re a local, you can make sampling new meals at Zenkichi a regular event since they change their menu every 5 weeks. Their small plates are perfect for sharing and each can be paired with a homemade sake, elevating every visit into a truly memorable experience.

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How I Planned my Surprise Picnic for Two

My guy’s birthday was coming up soon and I’d been dreaming of a romantic picnic with him. He is very tough to coax to come along on a picnic due to the fact that he enjoys active day trips. It was not easy for me to think of what would work, so I made a list of all the things he enjoys and how I could incorporate a surprise for him that included a picnic basket. I would probably need to hide the basket by offering to drive to the destination and packing all the goodies in a cooler instead of a wicker basket. I usually have a beach blanket and other beach paraphernalia in my car due to the number of times I’m often caught impulsively going to the beach these days. Living in Delaware it’s very easy to find activities for guys. So my list started out with boating (we don’t own a boat, but we could rent one), fishing, he adores beach ”surf fishing”, 12 Romance Travel Magazine

but it’s something we do too often to be a surprise. A long country drive to one of the historic spots of Delaware or even Maryland would be nice but perhaps not active enough. Then I stumbled upon a ”Kayak Tour”. We don’t own a kayak, but we have been thinking of that investment. Living near the water we could go almost anytime that is convenient. Perhaps the kayak tour is just what the birthday boy would enjoy, it starts at 9:00am in the morning and runs for 3 hours. Not only would this give him time to learn about kayaking, it also will be great for incorporating a romantic picnic afterwards...for lunch! The kayak tour that I decided upon was run by the Lewes Historical Society. The tour includes the kayak rental and was within my budget for a birthday gift with an added picnic surprise! How exciting this new activity and sportsman hobby

of the surprise was on. We walked over to my car and as I flipped open the back hood of my Honda Element I asked him if he would help me with something in the back. He came over behind me and inside was a cooler, an oversized picnic basket filled with linens, napkins and silverware. As I turned around he had a huge smile on his face and I felt he was ready for this. The spot that I selected was in a nearby park. The season wasn’t in full swing yet so we were bound to find a quiet place in the park that was ours and ours alone. As we drove to our romantic spot, we held hands and at the stop lights exchanged deep kisses. Everything was perfect. As we drove around the park, it was quiet, and we were able to find a soft grassy spot that was remote but shaded by large overgrown trees. As my guy took a short walk, I spread out the beach blanket and setup for the picnic. In my bag of tricks I brought along a candle, bug spray, and well….protection. I had packed ice and small glasses. I poured us both Lemoncello (imported Lemon Liqueur). I took out the French baguette that had been cut into slices as well as the soft cheese that I know my guy adores. When he returned, he was amazed. I told him to relax and to just enjoy. My job was to spread the soft cheese on the slices and place it to his lips. He was amazed at the planning and the items that I had brought just for us. After feeding him large, sweet strawberries, cut pineapple, and grapes, he leaned towards me with a kiss tasting of fruity goodness. I responded. We were assured of privacy and we kissed and made love as if it were our first time. When we were satisfied and relaxed, I then read to him some poetry from Emily Dickinson: My river runs to thee, Blue sea, wilt thou welcome me? My river awaits reply. Oh! Sea, look graciously.

By Susan Parker Rosen for the future will be. After booking the tour and letting my guy know that I had something special planned. I assured him that he would enjoy it, because it would include an activity, history, and the water. Success—he was intrigued. The date arrived and the weather was going to be perfect, one worry down! So we headed out to meet with the entire group that was going on the tour that morning. The tour was exciting, my guy enjoyed every minute, and we both seemed to think that we had found ourselves a new sport, kayaking! A little about the tour, we were taken to areas of, Delaware history, shipwrecks and such. The trip down the canal was my favorite and then we also headed out along the Atlantic shore. It was great seeing my guy smile. The birthday surprise was perfect so far. As we finished our tour, I knew I had my guy in the mood for some relaxation and ready for something to nosh. Part two

I’ll fetch thee brooks. From spotted nooks. Say, sea, Take Me! After partaking in more fruit, bread, and cheese and enjoying each other, we laid back on the blanket and looked at the sky. We listened to birds sing and talked about our day, laughed, and discussed shipwrecks. It was time for some dessert: Some gourmet chocolates and fresh iced water. Salt air and each other. Life is sweeter than the candy. Your kisses always meet my fancy. Ok, so I’m not Emily, but my guy loved his poem, written on a small handmade card. Signed: ”Your Picnic Romance” We took pictures of ”our spot” and headed home. Success, I thought to myself! Susan Parker Rosen is a freelance writer and the author of The Bastard Child Romance Travel Magazine 13

Best Dive Spots

Being at one with nature is an incredible feeling. Floating weightlessly in the deep surrounded by sea life and the magnificent colors that abound is an experience that few have in life. If you love diving and want to see the very best of the best, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve come to the right place. This article will outline the top 5 dive sites in the world. Whether you are interested in shipwrecks or tropical fish, you will find a place of interest on this list. By Lisa Wood

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Romance Travel Magazine 14

1. Belize - Known for the topical fish that congregate

near the barrier reef, Belize is one of the top dive sites in the world. With visibility of up to 100 feet, divers are treated to visual delights at all levels. From shore diving to dropping in from a boat in the deep sea, beginners and experts will get an eyeful in Belize. Advanced divers can dive in the Great Blue Hole, a sinkhole created in the last ice age. There divers will see multi-colored stalactites and stalagmites and submerged caves.

board is cargo like train cars, weaponry, and armored vehicles which were all en route to Alexandria from Glasgow.

4. Cancun, Mexico – The water is clear and warm.

As you swim along in Manchones Reef you’ll happen upon a cluster of 60 statues under the sea. They form an artificial reef and are an interesting addition to the underwater world.

5. Thailand – The visibility is simply exquisite. Tropical fish abound and coral of every color is plentiful.

2. Kailua Kona, Hawaii - Because of the lights

placed on the bottom of the ocean some years ago there is a large outcropping of plankton. Where plankton is so are manta rays. Diving there will allow you a unique view of these massive yet docile creatures.

3. Red Sea, Egypt – This location was made popular because of ill-fated, SS Thistelgorm, which was hit with a German missile and sank in 1941. Still intact on

Diving and seeing the world that exists underwater is one of the best treats you can give yourself. I’ll never forget when my husband and I went diving for the first time in Cabo San Lucas and encountered a puffer fish and a curious sea lion. It is exhilarating to be a part of nature, to truly be a part of the world. These are memory makers for us. Take a dive in one of the world’s most intriguing sites and make new memories of your own. Romance Travel Magazine 15

AWESOME REASONS to VISIT ROMANIA

From time to time, we all get tired of traveling to the same old destinations that everyone and their dog seems to favor. I mean, there is only so much one could take from the legendary romance of Paris, culture of Rome, exuberance of Barcelona and so on. There are occasions when we get that tingling feeling of adventure that make some travelers leap into the unknown and discover new and authentic places. Such a destination is Romania and there are countless reasons why you should think of visiting. By Silviu-Florin S 1. Fall in love with the Carpathian Mountains While the rest of Europe is paved with highways and factories, Romania remains mainly rural, and the Carpathians are maybe the last true wild destination in Europe. Hundreds of remote hiking routes, scenic drives, imposing peaks, and the ultimate bio-diversity awaits for those who are truly looking to find a natural heaven where they can fall in love. 16 Romance Travel Magazine

2. Feel the romantic side of Bucharest Bucharest might be called many names, even Little Paris during its glory times, but today it is a strange mix of turn of the century streets, commercial mayhem, busy traffic, and some great museums. But Bucharest can also be a romantic destination, with intimate cafes, or teahouses like Infinitea (http://www.infinitea.ro/) or boutique hotels especially aimed at couples looking for a special atmosphere, like the Cismigiu Hotel (http://www.hotelcismigiu.ro/en/).

3. Step back in time in the villages of Transylvania

5. Explore the amazing architecture of Sibiu

If you ever feel lost in the concrete glass, and jungle of big cities, there is no better place to escape than the charming villages of Transylvania, and Prince Charles of Great Britain can certainly approve. Travelers usually feel like theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re taking a time machine back to the 18th century when visiting these villages.

If there is a city in Transylvania and even Romania that anyone should visit, it is Sibiu, a true cultural capital of Europe, with a wealth of historical and architectural landmarks, as well as an enchanting timeless character. What could be better than having a romantic dinner in Old Sibiu Wine Cellar (http:// www.sibiulvechi.ro/en/info-tur-virtual-in-restaurantul-sibiulvechi.html)

4. Discover the grace of the orthodox monasteries

6. Find the intimate charm of the Danube Delta

Adorning all the regions and areas of Romania, the beautiful orthodox monasteries are a testament to the strong belief of the people. Beyond this, they are also great historical and architectural attractions, worthy of visiting. And if you are into the whole experience, you can also stay in an authentic monastery like Putna (http://www.romanianmonasteries.org/ bucovina/putna).

Have you ever dreamed about watching an unbelievable sunset in an idyllic setting with your loved one? Well, search no further, as the Danube Delta of Romania is viewed as a natural heaven, with quiet canals and one of the richest, bio-diversities in Europe. Imagine silently floating in an old wooden boat and taking in the awesome landscape.

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7. The meaning of eternal love at Draculaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Castle While not actually the castle of Dracula, maybe just some far connections, the Bran Castle is located in the beautiful mountains close to the city of Brasov, and beyond the legends of the vampires, is truly an astonishing sight and a marvel of medieval engineering. There are plenty of welcoming guesthouses nearby and a lot of sights to discover in the hills and mountains of central Romania.

8. The joy of life at the unique Happy Cemetery While one might not consider visiting a cemetery during a joyful holiday, the Happy Cemetery of Sapanta in northern Romania is a different thing altogether. The locals had the great idea of crafting colorful crosses for those that left them, and also decorating them with fables and anecdotes, caricatures and riddles, all about the life or character of the departed.

9. The medieval treasures of Sighisoara A small town in central Transylvania, Sighisoara is a little medieval citadel that was built by Saxon settlers centuries ago. While it still looks amazing, with old towers and multi-story wooden houses rising on a small hill, the true charm of this place comes from the fact that life continues its natural course, with people still living much like they did a hundred years ago.

10. Find true love in Romania While this might not be obvious, Romanian people are extremely welcoming and friendly to foreigners. On top of all these, Romanians are also attractive people, at least we think so... 18 Romance Travel Magazine

Wow Your Date With This Yummy Peach Cobbler Recipe

Video courtesy of

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Dating in the Digital Age

I have a friend who protested she didn’t like the “small talk” required in early dating and wanted to go straight to a relationship. You can go online, research your prospective date, and learn everything you need to know about him, right? Wrong. This is one process that you can’t cut short. Period. It takes time to get to know someone, and while texting, ‘friending’, and ‘liking’ online may give you insight, there is no substitute for face-to-face. By Nancy Travers

Be Authentic

Don’t Accept Less

So first, understand that to date successfully your self-esteem must be intact. If you don’t like yourself, how do you expect someone else to like you? If you are so insecure that you alter yourself to please your date, then your date will not find out who the real you is until it’s too late. Back in ancient days, teen magazines used to dish endless advice about changing your own interests to match his. Learn the rules of football. Try to like beer. It was all about pushing yourself into a pretzel to please him. This is simply not good for your own sense of self-worth, and not good for an authentic relationship.

Yes, the old standard of men asking women out is passé, but don’t let this devolve into hanging out or hooking up. You deserve better. It doesn’t mean he has to spend a fortune on a fancy meal. But it does mean you should plan to do something together that you both enjoy. Share an experience. Go to the art museum. Hike in the mountains. Just don’t accept less than an actual date. If he can’t live up to your standards while dating, it will only deteriorate later on in your relationship.

This doesn’t mean you should abandon any sense of compromise, or interest in another’s pursuits. But it does mean you need to be your genuine self, and not be worried about what your date will think. After all, if he doesn’t like your genuine self, then it’s time to move on. You will not have wasted a lot of time presenting a faux image of yourself only to find, when your real self comes forward, that you were not made for each other.

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Or maybe there won’t be a relationship. Dating is an exploration to see if there’s a possibility of a relationship. If, on your first date, you’ve already imagined the wedding and how he’ll look in a tux, you’ve just torpedoed the dating process. It doesn’t matter how loud your biological clock is ticking. Put it away for now. You can’t depend on having good judgment when you’re driven to get married.

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Show Restraint Maybe this is not your strong suit, but now is the time to slow down. Calm down. Take it easy. Getting to know someone takes

wasn’t true then and it isn’t true now. Sex should be a joyous occasion for both of you. Get to know each other physically, but only when the time is right.

time and effort. Do not rush the relationship. If it continues, you will meet his friends, see his apartment, get to know his family. All in due time. Likewise with sex. Make it an event to look forward to, not something that’s automatic and inevitable. Back in the heyday of hippies and the advent of the Pill, women sometimes felt they were obligated to have sex without much preamble. But it

Nancy Travers is an Orange County Counseling professional. If you need safe, effective counseling services, please get in touch. You can reach her here: http://www.nancyscounselingcorner.com/contact-us.

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Donna Beasley Publisher/Editor Freida Curry Co-Publisher Marcella Dragan Graphic Design Writers Dusty Fox Brittany Soares Cindy Bolton Silviu-Florin S Lisa Wood Nancy Travers Susan Parker Rosen cover photo: biker3-Fotolia.com

“Travel is like love, mostly because it’s a heightened state of awareness, in which we are mindful, receptive, undimmed by familiarity and ready to be transformed. That is why the best trips, like the best love affairs, never really end.” Pico Iyer