Couples Connection

Romantic Holiday Getaways

Fall in love on a holiday trip - without falling into debt

By Chellee Unruh

Making the decision to go on a holiday getaway with your honey is easy, but choosing a destination that is romantic yet budget friendly can be a challenge. Whether it be by train, plane or automobile, we have compiled a list of getaways that are reasonably priced and offer an array of accommodations and activities to do with your partner. From escaping frigid temps to frolicking in the sun - to embracing the cold, this list offers holiday getaway ideas that will appeal to a wide variety of couples.

Nashville, TN seems to be the new popular place to go for those living in the Midwest because it brims with excellent food, music and entertainment. You can let the sparks fly when you lead your partner on the dance floor at one of the many musical venues. It is an affordable trip that is easy to do in a weekend or an extended weekend. Flights are generally reasonable, but if you are not into flying, it’s only a 14 hour drive which can easily be done in one day when there are two drivers.

Omaha, NE is a hop skip and a jump away from Sioux Falls and has generous offerings when it comes to shopping, food and entertainment. Spending time in The Old Market is a must if you choose Omaha as your destination. Located downtown, The Old Market offers an abundance of restaurants, art galleries and upscale shopping. This intimate area of downtown definitely exudes romantic vibes. Shopping on your wish list? There are several shopping centers and an outlet mall in Gretna, NE which is just outside of Omaha. Omaha also has several venues for music and theatre if a show is in your getaway dream.

Duluth, MN will likely become an annual holiday tradition once you experience it. Nestled in the Northern Region of Minnesota the landscape is simply breathtaking. Duluth celebrates the beginning of each holiday season with a nighttime parade through downtown the Friday before Thanksgiving. The Christmas City Express

starts at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum and entertains patrons with a reading of the Christmas City Express story followed by a chorus of carolers. After the show, you will board the train for a 30-minute ride up to Lake Superior. While in Duluth you can cuddle in the warm glow of Victorian mansions that are beautifully decorated for the holidays or take in other events that range from comedy reviews and ballet to holiday fairs filled with locally handmade gifts.

Sanibel Island, FL is a secluded yet popular destination making it the perfect place to spend a romantic holiday away. The island has more rental properties than hotels and resorts, so finding affordable accommodations is quite attainable. Sanibel is close to Fort Myers (RSW) airport which hosts several direct flights from Sioux Falls making travel efficient and relatively quick. The vibe on the Island is laid back and beckons its’ visitors to a multitude of restaurants and shops. The beaches of Sanibel are teaming with seashells; it’s what this Island is known for! You can join in practicing the “Sanibel Stoop” which is local lingo for searching for shells.

Sedona, AZ is a marvelous getaway for outdoorsy couples who like to hike. Red Rock State Park is a very popular destination which offers several hiking loops to choose from. If peace and tranquility is more your style, you can stay at one of the many resorts offering spa services. It is a warm and wonderful place to escape some of the harsh winter days in South Dakota. And it is only a short drive from Phoenix which has direct flight connections.

Puerto Rico One major benefit of this island destination is that you don’t need a passport to enjoy the romantic seas and shores of the Caribbean. There are numerous beach front or beach adjacent resorts with countless amenities to choose from. Equally abundant are the dining options. You and your partner can take in the stunning natural wonders which will elicit romantic feelings while experiencing the beauty that Puerto Rico has to offer. While this vacation will likely be on the higher end of the budget the memories you make will surely make this a holiday to remember. n

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