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What to Pack for a Cruise

What to Pack for a Cruise: At Sea

Once upon a time, almost all cruise ships were pretty dressy, including some events calling for full formal wear. Now only a few upmarket ships still require a bit of fussing, but most of the mass-market ships, like those in the Royal Caribbean and Princess stables, are about as casual as you like. In any event, as long as you’re not out on deck, you’ll be in a comfortably air-conditioned space virtually all the time.

The first job of your cruise packing list is to determine just where on the formal-casual scale you want or have to be in, or if you want to prepare for both ends of the scale. Luckily, business casual attire (pantsuits, maxi dresses, khaki pants, and button-up shirts tend to fair just fine these days). And for those cruise lines that do have more formal nights, there are typically still buffet options for meals if you want to avoid fancier dress.

Then, decide how you want to play your wardrobe. I pack the minimum I’ll need to comply with the lowest degree of dressiness required. On the other hand, other couples I know are fully engaged with dress: The wife doesn’t want to be seen in the same outfit at dinner on any two different days, and the husband even packs his tux for the “Captain’s Dinner” event. But that’s not how everyone travels. Ultimately, it’s your call what’s most comfortable for you to wear on vacation, and therefore to pack.

In any case, layers will be your best friend. Moving between the air conditioned interior of the ship and the potentially much balmier surroundings can feel like packing for two totally different climates. Light shawls, thin cardigans, and linen pants all walk the line between warm and cool, and can be dressed up or down to fit your wardrobe strategy.

Beyond the basic daily wear, pack whatever special recreational wear and accessories you’ll need. Even if you never leave the ship, you will probably want swimwear, and possibly some other specialized clothing and equipment as well.

Where to Buy Formal Wear for a Cruise

While many may want to take advantage of the rare opportunity to dress up, few people have a closet full of formal attire at their disposal. Clothing rental services are an affordable way to get glam on the high seas without overspending or cluttering up your closet with an outfit you’ll only wear once. Rent the Runway offers one time rentals for special occasions and monthly subscriptions (cancel anytime) in 5, 10, and 20 item bundles for those who want to round out their cruise wardrobe.

For those looking to make a more permanent purchase, Suitshop has a large selection of sturdy suits that will last a lifetime and Nordstrom offers dresses at varying levels of formality, from beachy maxi-dresses to true formal options.

What to Pack for a Cruise: In Port

The situation here is obvious: You need to pack for the climate in your cruise destination—and, for most people, being active in each port. You’ll be walking around during shore excursions, and many call for specialized equipment. That means you need to pack comfortable walking shoes and clothing on your cruise, even if you won’t need them on the ship itself. Make sure you pack appropriately for any off-shore excursions.

As to how heavy/light to travel, the Caribbean is hot and steamy pretty much all the time, and the Mediterranean in summer can come close. But weather in other popular areas such as Alaska, New England, and inland European rivers is a bit more variable. Your best bet is to check the weather forecasts just before you pack for your cruise, and always be prepared for rain. For Europe and Bermuda, you should aim for more resort-casual clothing (fair warning: Golf courses in Bermuda have strict dress codes). Some other cruise itineraries that are more casual than the norm include Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, the Caribbean, and French Polynesia.

What to Pack for a Cruise: Everything Else

Beyond the perfect wardrobe, there are a few key items that will ensure your cruise vacation is nothing but smooth sailing. Add these items to your cruise packing checklist before you embark:

Day Trip Gear

When putting together a packing list for a cruise, think about what you’ll need for your planned activities. A daypack is a necessity for a spending a full day off the boat. Stock it with a reusable water bottle (collapsible for the ultimate space-saver), sun hats, sunblock, insect repellent, and anything else you’ll need to get through the day. Make sure to download the port city’s map so you can access it offline in the event you lose access to WiFi. Drop a pin in your ship’s docking location and set an alarm well ahead of your departure time to signal its time to head back to the ship.

Toiletries

Travelers sometimes forget that they don’t need to pack a full closet full of personal-care products and accessories in their travel toiletry kit. You can buy toothpaste, batteries, and tissues in most places around the world—and also on the cruise ship, albeit at stiff prices. Ships vary in what toiletries they offer onboard.

However there are a few things you don’t want to leave off your cruise checklist, like prescription medications, glasses or contact lenses, and any specialized skincare or hair products that you can’t live without. It’s also a good idea to have a few OTC medications handy from the start in case of seasickness or minor aches and pains from a long flight.

Unlike air travel, cruise ships don’t place an upper size limit on your liquid personal items, so unless you’re flying to your port of departure, your containers can exceed 3.4oz. 

Technology

The latest packing challenge is with gadgets. I, for one, would have withdrawal symptoms if I couldn’t get online every day, so I would select a cruise ship with the latest internet connectivity and pack my laptop. On the other hand, if you want to get away from it all, a cruise ship is the ideal place—and you don’t have to pack any devices, converters, and such. Don’t forget your camera, and a travel extension cord can also come in handy.

As mentioned above, any critical devices you can’t live without should come along in your suitcase, be it a laptop, tablet, or just your smartphone. In addition to any necessary chargers, make sure you have an international adapter that works with any port city on the itinerary.

In-Flight Essentials

When packing for your pre- and post-cruise flights, figure out what goes in your carry-on and what gets checked. If you’re big on collecting souvenirs and buying local handicrafts, leave room in your suitcase for what you bring home. You don’t want to get hit with paying for another checked bag or hauling both your regular carry-on and a shopping bag of loot on your flight home.

Cruises are all about relaxing, soaking up the sun on the ship’s deck and catching up on a good book or finally catching up on that podcast. Make sure you don’t use up the leisure activities you packed for the cruise while bored in the terminal or during the flight. Download multiple books on your e-reader or library app, some for the flight and some for the trip. If you prefer paperback, pick up an in-flight read at one of the terminal kiosks or see if your airport has a library loan program.

Important Documents

Make sure you have your passport, ID, credit cards, and any cash (USD and local currency) you plan to spend. Bring along photocopies of important documents and your cruise itinerary. Make sure to leave any vital documents you don’t need for an excursion locked up safely in your cabin.

Can I Do Laundry on a Cruise?

Do you need to pack for the full cruise, or can you have your clothes washed or dry cleaned during your sailing? Although most big ships provide some kind of service, the specific answer to that question varies wildly among different ships: Some charge for laundry the way hotels do, some set a fixed price for a laundry bag full, some sell laundry packages prior to sailing, and a few offer self-service washers and dryers.

But no matter how you do it, you’ll definitely pay more for doing laundry while cruising than you pay at home. In general, large ships offer more options than small ones, and 200-passenger river cruises may provide only limited services. Again, check what your cruise ship offers before you decide how much you need to pack. If you’re unsure what your cruise line offers or don’t want to pay the fee, pack some travel laundry detergent packets and a travel clothes line to wash light items like undergarments and t-shirts in your cabin sink. 

What Not to Pack for a Cruise

Like any form of travel, there are a few prohibited items. These include obvious candidates like firearms, fireworks, knives, and any illegal substances. But there are a few surprising items on the list as well. On Carnival Cruises, passengers are not allowed to bring along curtains or large radios and travel clothing steamers are banned from coming aboard any Royal Caribbean ship. Other common prohibited items include scissors, alcoholic beverages, meat, and fish. Make sure to check your specific cruise line’s list of restricted items.

It’s worth noting that cruise ships are governed under federal law, so all marijuana products, including medical marijuana, are generally prohibited onboard regardless of port of departure. Alcohol policies vary by ship (so do your research with your cruise line directly).

Cruise Packing Tips

Packing for any trip can be tricky, but packing for a vacation that is essentially three trips in one is a monumental task for even the most efficient traveler. Maximize your organization and luggage space with these cruise packing tips.

Bring Spare Clothes in Your Carry-On

Having a change of clothes and a few day-to-day necessities in your carry-on can also be a lifesaver in the case of lost or delayed luggage. If you find yourself with no idea where your bags are or waiting to have them shipped to your next port of call, you’ll be glad to have a few extra items on hand to hold you over. It’s also great for that stretch of time between boarding the ship and your luggage showing up in your cabin.

Get a Personal Item That Does Double Duty

Save packing space by bringing along a personal item for the flight that can double as a daypack for excursions. This Lite Daypack from Bellroy is minimalistic and functional while this option from Got Bag is even more compact and comes in four neutral colors.  A foldable wet bag is a great additional to any daypack—it can be used to organize small items on your pre-departure flight and to store your wet swimsuit on the way back to the ship after a day in port.

Take Advantage of Packing Cubes

Keep yourself extra organized by packing for your “sub-trips” in packing cubes. Designate one for your formal wear, one for your onboard resort wear, and one for anything you plan to wear in port. This keeps your wardrobe organized without having to unpack everything or dig through a upturned suitcase looking for that one shirt you just know you packed.

My most essential recommendation for what to bring on a cruise: Don’t get obsessive about it. Do your best and plan to cope with whatever problems you encounter along the way.

Where to Book a Cruise

When booking a cruise you have two options—booking directly with the cruise line on their site or hunting down the best deals through an online travel agency. Check out our round-up of the best site to book a cruise to find the best deals and easiest processes.

Download Our Cruise Packing List Before You Set Sail

Click on the below image to edit and download the SmarterTravel cruise packing list:

Book a Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

Need a place to stay the night before you set sail? Search SmarterTravel Hotels for great accommodations in your port of call.

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016 by SmarterTravel’s Ed Perkins. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post The Ultimate Cruise Packing List: What to Pack for a Cruise appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the United States

From tropical resorts with all-inclusive rates to rustic ranches, Victorian hotels, and mountain lodges, the all-inclusive resorts in the United States are as diverse as the landscape of the country itself. Below is a list of 25 U.S. resorts that either are fully inclusive or offer special packages and promotions that include many of the features associated with all-inclusive resorts.

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What is the Best All-Inclusive Resort in the U.S.? 

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Red Mountain Resort in St. George, Utah

While not wholly inclusive, Red Mountain Resort in St. George, Utah has many packages to choose from, including their Essential Retreat, which features accommodations, daily guided hikes, fitness classes, three healthy meals daily, healthy life classes and events, and personal discovery activities. The resort is dog-friendly, so you don’t have to leave your four-legged family members behind! 

Highlight: The fitness center at Red Mountain Resorts offers more than just exercise equipment. Guests can book sessions with the resort’s personal trainers for a private session or complete customized fitness plan. Private, one-on-one versions of any of the center’s fitness classes are also available.

Other Amenities: Healthy life classes, spa (voucher with Essential package), indoor/outdoor swimming pools, hiking, biking, whirlpools, Cybex equipment and cardiovascular center, pet-friendly, wellness training, nutritional guidance, Personal Discovery Providers, spiritual guides, spiral labyrinth, medicine wheel, meditation grotto, walking trails, kayaking, golf. 

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Tombstone Monument Guest Ranch in Tombstone, Arizona

With their Full Guest Ranch package, you will have everything included in your stay at Tombstone Monument Guest Ranch. Immerse yourself in the ranch life, from riding, shooting, archery, breakfast by campfire, and of course, visits to the old west’s famous Tombstone, just three miles away from the ranch. For a truly immersive experience, try their Working Ranch Package, which has 2 ½ – 6 hours of working ranch time, where you will check and move cattle, ride and fix fences, and check wells, cattle ponds and the dam. 

Highlight: If you’re looking to cut loose with a cowboy-inspired wedding, Tombstone Monument Ranch can accommodate up to 120 guests in their Big Red Barn. Smaller parties can book the Mine Shaft, suitable for up to 20 guests. Keeping with the all-inclusive spirit, the Ranch offers comprehensive services for your event from catering and entertainment to room reservations for party guests.

Other Amenities: Horseback riding, archery, UTV tours, evening entertainment, soft drinks, shuttle to Tombstone (upon request), wifi. 

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Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Just up the road from the main accommodations at Broadmoor is the Ranch at Emerald Valley, which promises “refined luxury with the rustic charm and inspiration of a wilderness enclave,” and is all-inclusive. Stay in a luxury cabin or at the lodge, and spend the day fly fishing, horseback riding, hiking, and enjoying five-star meals throughout your stay. 

Highlight: Get a taste of mountain life with the Elk Glade Cattle Drive, an experience that allows guests to try their hand at herding cattle on horseback. Never fear—the City Slicker Experience, as its aptly named, is guided by experienced Elk Glade wranglers and a large part of the day involves taking in the stunning Wyoming scenery.

Other Amenities: Fly fishing, morning coffee, horseback riding, archery, hiking, evening campfire and s’mores, buffet breakfast, canoeing, board games, mountain biking, hot tub, lawn games. 

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Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach, Florida

While not entirely all-inclusive, Don CeSar offers all-inclusive packages for booking. This is the hotel for a purely Floridian experience. Relax by the pool (complete with pool bar), on the beach, or at the spa, dine at one of the six restaurants and bars, or shop at one of the specialty shops. This resort is the perfect Florida beach vacation resort. 

Highlight: Spa Oceana and the nearby fitness center at Don Cesar lets guests get a total mind and body refresh. Keep up with your exercise routine at the 24-hour gym or drop by one of their fitness classes, free to guests. Then, soothe your sore muscles with a massage at the onsite spa. Afterwards, try a new look at the full-service salon.

Other Amenities: Pool, private beach, pet-friendly, water sport rentals.  

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Bungalows Key Largo, Florida

This adults-only all-inclusive resort in the Florida Keys is the ultimate romantic getaway. Each spacious bungalow includes a private verandah with a soaking tub, as well as a flat-screen smart TV and a comfy bed with a pillowtop mattress. Dine at one of six on-site restaurants, take a yoga class on the beach, or float out on the bay in a private tiki boat.

Featured Amenity: Bungalows Key Largo offers the full spectrum of watersports for guests to enjoy. The beachside tiki hut is stocked with complimentary paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkel gear that travelers can use at their leisure to explore the vibrant Floridian coast. Arrangements for a paddleboard or snorkeling tour can be made for for an additional fee.

Other Amenities: Bicycles for guest use, daily group yoga classes, multiple pools and Jacuzzis, and on-site spa (cost for treatments is additional).

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Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan

The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island in Michigan offers several all-inclusive packages when you stay at this historic hotel. At the Grand Hotel, you can stay in one of the many vibrantly decorated rooms, have afternoon tea, and enjoy dinner in the main dining room. Ice cream lovers will love Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor, which serves up treats made with Michigan-made Guernsey Farms Dairy ice cream. For a truly timeless experience, the Grand Hotel has a dress code after 6:30 pm—no jeans or shorts are allowed. 

Highlight: The Grand Hotel offers a variety of curated experiences guests can book in addition to their stay, like Meeting the Horses and Coachmen of the Grand Hotel, a Grand Hotel Gardens Tour, or Pickelball Play. For travelers just looking for a day trip, the hotel offers experiences for non-guests like a pass to Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor or a round of golf on The Jewel.

Other Amenities: Pool, golf, lawn games, nightly entertainment, biking, waterslide. 

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Twin Farms in Barnard, Vermont

Once owned by author Sinclair Lewis, Twin Farms is nestled in 300 glorious acres of woods, meadows and mountains, and is a unique all-inclusive experience. Accommodations include 10 cottages, 8 treehouses, the lodge, and the farmhouse. Each room has a fireplace, fully stocked fridge, and a selection of games, movies, music and puzzles. Book a spa treatment (at an additional cost) at the spa, or enjoy activities on the grounds. Enjoy a beverage at their newly renovated on-site restaurant, Twiggs.

Highlight: Visit Twin Farms during the winter for access to a world of complimentary snowsports on the resort’s sprawling grounds. In addition to nordic and alpine skiing, a stay here includes access to snowshoeing, sledding, fat-tire biking, ice fishing, and more. Equipment is provided by the hotel, so all you need to do is bundle up for a day of exploration.

Other Amenities: Japanese Furo, fitness center, six private ski trails, bee tour, swimming in Copper Pond, canoeing, paddle boarding and kayaking. 

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Vista Verde Guest Ranch in Clark, Colorado

At the Vista Verde Guest Ranch, guests can immerse themselves in a rustic life without giving up wonderful and indulgent luxuries. Providing people with an opportunity to unplug, this authentic ranch does not have phones, TVs, or internet in the guest rooms.

Highlight: The Kids’ and Teens’ program at the Vista Verde Guest Ranch make it the perfect vacation spot for adventurous families. Able to accomodate children from 3 to 17 years old, the program is separated by age group with appropriate activities for each level. Little kids will be entertained with horseback riding and scavenger hunts, while teens will stay engaged with an overnight camp and completing tasks around the ranch.

Other Amenities: Swimming pool, common lounge area with panoramic views, fitness center, and indoor riding arena.

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Woodloch Pines Resort in Hawley, Pennsylvania

This family-owned resort provides visitors with a warm and welcoming greeting as well as ample opportunities to have good, old-fashioned fun together. This resort is famous for its extensive activities program, which has a little something for everyone. Woodloch Pine Resort also boasts a championship golf course and a world-class spa.

Highlight: Good news for guests looking to tee off during their vacation. Woodloch Springs, part of Woodloch Pine Resort, has received numerous accolades as a top golf spot in the Poconos. This 18-hole course is semi-private and offers golf clinics where guests can improve their game and an indoor golf simulator during the off-season and bad weather.

Other Amenities: Indoor and outdoor swimming pools, rock climbing wall, kayaking, snow tubing, and nightly entertainment.

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Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts

Immerse yourself in wellness within the Berkshires with your stay at Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts. With a wide variety of classes, coaches, and treatments at your fingertips throughout your stay, it is almost guaranteed that you will leave feeling better than when you arrived. Choose your own schedule while there, or visit during one of their themed weekends like a yoga retreat, Dance Weekend, or breathwork. Canyon Ranch also has locations in Tucson, Woodside CA, Austin, TX, and Las Vegas. 

Highlight: Canyon Ranch offers curated camps and retreats oriented toward the health, wellness, and fitness goals of guests. Typically in the three to five night range, these camps center around themes like Cardiovascular Disease and How to Prevent It or Tennis Serve and Fitness. Think of it like an adult summer camp, except instead of bug bites and bunkbeds, you’ll be honing your fitness expertise in the lap of luxury.

Other Amenities: Hiking, yoga, tai chi, meditation, pilates, fitness classes, pool. 

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Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado

Enjoy the beauty of the mountains and the luxury of the hot springs when you stay at Dunton Hot Springs. Relax in the waters five different ways: in the 19th century bathhouse, at the actual source, in two pools, and inside the Well House Cabin. Have a truly unique stay in one of the cabins, some original to the gold rush in the late 1800s. 

Highlight: If an excursion to the American southwest sounds like a dream come true, but planning an actual itinerary sounds like a nightmare, Dunton Hot Springs has a solution. Through its Journeys service, Dunton offers to plan the ideal southwest road trip itinerary for interested travelers. Whether Dunton is your homebase or just a stop along the way, Journeys will guide you in the right direction.

Other Amenities: Snowshoeing, skiing, horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, rock climbing, rafting, archeological day tours to the desert, hot springs. 

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Lodge on Little St. Simons Island, Georgia

Those seeking peace, privacy, and natural beauty will feel right at home at the all-inclusive Lodge on Little Saint Simons Island resort. It offers more than 11,000 acres of space and more than seven miles of private beaches, yet only 32 people can stay at any given time. Personalized service in a charming setting makes this the perfect place for those looking to enjoy a slower pace.

Highlight: Get out into nature with the Lodge’s daily truck excursions. Led by experienced naturalists, these rides allow guests to see more of the expansive conservation land that surrounds the property. Take to the water for a self-guided kayak trip around the island or hop on a skimmer boat to see the island from its tidal creeks.

Other Amenities: Meals prepared by on-site chef, and boat transfers to and from the island.

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Miraval Austin, Texas

You’ll experience “Wellness with a Texas Twist” when you stay at Miraval Austin. Their unlimited package includes meals, a $175 daily resort credit, unlimited yoga, fitness, and if you book four nights, your fifth is free. Whether you are looking to relax, reconnect, find solace, or have an outdoor adventure, Miraval has something for every need. Mirival has locations in Massachusetts and Arizona.

Highlight: Miraval Austin offers a packed calendar of workshops, lectures, classes, hikes, and activities for guests to enjoy. Their resident specialists have expertise in areas from multimedia art and sound healing to bee keeping and astrology. Overwhelmed by the choices? Take their Set Your Intention quiz before arrival to help choose which experiences best fit your stay.  

Other Amenities: Hiking, yoga, meditation, challenge activities, climbing wall, complimentary airport shuttle, spa. 

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White Stallion Ranch in Tucson, Arizona

For a vacation that offers an authentic taste of western American culture, the White Stallion Ranch is the best place to stay. There’s no shortage of outdoor experiences to fill the time during your stay, including horseback riding, practicing on the shooting range, rock climbing, and archery. Offering all-inclusive packages for its guests, this hotel is often described as a blend between a dude ranch and a luxury resort.

Highlight: Every week, guests can enjoy the Ranch Rodeo. The demonstration includes barrel racing, roping, and a mounted honor guard featuring the national flags of each guest in attendance. The thrilling show comes with a side of education, as the presenters explain the history of rodeo and a play-by-play of each event.

Other Amenities: Heated pool and hot tub, recreation room, spa, nightly entertainment, and a movie theater.

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The Clement Palo Alto, California

Located near Stanford University, the Clement Palo Alto allows you to rejuvenate and relax in downtown Palo Alto. Your all-inclusive stay includes gratuities, alcoholic beverages, food and more. A unique feature of the Clement Palo Alto is their stocked 24-hour pantry in the kitchen, where guests are allowed to help themselves to snacks and drinks throughout their stay. Perfect for a getaway, or when visiting Stanford, every need will be met while staying at the Clement. 

Highlight: The highlight of this property is its prime location. Just a 9 minute walk to Stanford University, it’s a great option for parents looking for some luxury while visiting students out of state. It’s also just a 40 minute drive from the wine region in the Santa Cruz Mountains, a fact that guests can take full advantage of with the hotel’s Ridge Vineyard Package.

Other Amenities: Rooftop pool, fire pit, fitness center, valet parking, outdoor dining patio, stocked guest pantry in kitchen, overnight shoe shine service. 

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Skytop Lodge in Skytop, Pennsylvania

Nestled in the heart of the Poconos Mountains, the Skytop Lodge transports guests to an era gone by. Built in 1928, this historic lodge offers guests an atmospheric, luxury destination where they have access to the rugged outdoor terrain. On this 5,500-acre property, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Highlight: At the Adventure Center, guests can ski, bike, take on a treetop adventure course, practice archery, and more. The Center is open to the public, with advanced reservations required, so even travelers who just passing through can experience the adventure.

Other Amenities: Spa facilities, outdoor adventure activities, and culinary dining experiences.

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Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee

This pastoral family-owned farm estate invites guests from around the world to enjoy its intimate, luxurious accommodations set against a magnificent backdrop in the Great Smoky Mountains. While not a true all-inclusive (alcohol, in-room dining, retail purchases, and some activities are not included in the nightly rate), we couldn’t leave the 4,200-square-foot Blackberry Farm resort off the list. Consider it nearly all-inclusive.

Highlight: Known for its cuisine rooted in the heritage of the Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Farm shares its culinary passion with guests through daily cooking demonstrations and wine tasting events. For those who prefer beer, there’s the Blackberry Farm Brewery.

Other Amenities: Farm activities, carriage rides, outdoor activities, spa facilities, and historic rooms.

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Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa in Tucson, Arizona

Striking a balance between dramatic mountain views and restorative desert air, the Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa is the premier destination for a wellness vacation. Similarly to Miraval Austin, the Arizona location offers an Unlimited Package which includes a $175 resort credit, all meals, unlimited fitness, and more. Offering all-inclusive rates as well as a variety of rejuvenating spa services, this resort is ideal for adults who need to take some time for themselves.

Highlight: Put your adventure-seeking spirit to the test with the Challenge Course at Miraval Arizona. Walk a balance beam, zip-line, complete a ropes course, bungee jump, and more all while suspended high in the desert sky.

Other Amenities: Award-winning spa with expert services, such as body renewal rituals, hair care, skin care, and energy healing options.

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Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge, Alaska

The Alaskan setting is rustic but the luxury accommodations, gourmet dining, and personalized adventure packages are anything but at the all-inclusive Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge. With only five cabins situated in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness, you’ll rarely see more than a handful of people on the grounds at a given time. This gives guests plenty of time to connect with nature and staff ample opportunity to create a truly memorable and personalized experience.

Highlight: Kachemak Bay offers several wildlife excursions into the beautiful natural landscape of Alaska. Book a boat tour to see otters and seals or go birding to catch a glimpse of a puffin or bald eagle. A popular option option is the Bear Viewing day trip, where guests can see brown bears in their natural habitat while soaring overhead on a float plane.

Other Amenities: Gourmet dining, luxe accommodations in a pristine setting, and personalized guided nature experiences.

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Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, Florida

The Culinary Indulgence Package at Little Palm Island Resort & Spa in Little Torch Key, Florida includes all of your meals plus a $100 spa credit per person, per night. This adults-only, television and telephone free resort is the epitome of relaxation with a pool, beach, and spa at your disposal during your stay. 

Highlight: Elevate your romantic getaway with a private dinner, catered to your tastes and arranged at one of several stunning seaside spots throughout the property. Or, opt to watch the resort’s master chefs at work while enjoying a four-course meal with The Chef’s Table dining experience.

Other Amenities: Welcome cocktail, pool, beach, non-alcoholic beverages, fitness center, paddleboards, kayaks, Hobie cat, Boston Whalers, nightly turndown service. 

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Canyon Ranch Tucson, Arizona

Set in the Sonoran Desert, Canyon Ranch Tucson will challenge you both physically and mentally. Between rock climbing, mountain biking, hypnotherapy and meditation, there is something for you no matter what your journey is. Tucson is the first Canyon Ranch location in the country. Check out their other locations in Woodside, CA, Las Vegas, Lenox, MA, and Austin, TX. 

Highlight: Get ready to bring your athleticism to the next level. Canyon Ranch’s Vitality Studio invites guests to recharge with the latest in sports medicine and technology. From infra-red saunas and light therapy to neuro stimulation sessions, you can enjoy cutting edge treatments that keep your body performing at its peak.

Other Amenities: Rock climbing, hiking, tennis, meditation, yoga, and spa services. 

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The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, Montana

Located on an authentic 19th century homestead, you will live the true rancher life when you stay at the Ranch at Rock Creek. This all-inclusive dude ranch has everything you need for a real cowboy adventure: horseback riding, shooting, and even a saloon! Choose between the rustic barn, the cozy lodge, or one of the several glamping or luxury cabins on offer for your perfect stay.

Highlight: It wouldn’t be a ranch experience without horseback riding. Guided by expert wranglers, guests can explore the roughly 6,600 acres of natural beauty surrounding the property. The program offers full- and half-day trail rides and arena lessons, open to ages 4 and up at all skill levels.

Other Amenities: Unlimited premium beer, wine and spirits, as well as assorted beverages and snacks, fitness center, pool, hot tub, evening entertainment, skiing, hiking, wildlife viewing, sapphire mining, ride along with a rancher, geocaching, snowmobiling, ice fishing, ranch rodeo, and a ropes course. 

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Brooks Lake Lodge and Spa in Dubois, Wyoming

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Brooks Lake Lodge and Spa is luxury within seclusion. Located within the Rocky Mountains, it’s the perfect blend of peace and adventure. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find yourself immersed in excitement—whether it is snowmobiling, riding on a dog sled, skiing in the winter, or horseback riding and canoeing in the summer, you’ll be able to fully unwind at the lodge after your fun-filled day. 

Highlight: Commune with nature at the fully-stocked Casting Pond, where guests are welcome to fish at their convenience. At the end of a long day by the shore, don’t forget to check out the Cowboy Bar, another onsite watering hole that serves up classic western atmosphere and specialty beers.

Other Amenities: Dry sauna, fitness center, hot tub, tranquility room, horseback riding, fishing, hiking, canoeing, archery, hunting, ice fishing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling.

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Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, Texas

Reconnect with yourself as you calm your mind, body and spirit at Lake Austin Spa Resort. Your day will be filled with serenity mixed with fun. Several of their all-inclusive packages include a nightly voucher toward a spa treatment or personal instruction, so you can treat yourself to a facial or get a health and wellness assessment while at the resort. Create a daily schedule filled with talks with guest speakers, activities on the lake, yoga and much, much more. Added bonus? Your furriest family member can come, too, as Lake Austin Spa Resort is dog-friendly. 

Highlight: With an extensive menu of facials and massages alongside unique offerings like myofascial release and energy work, you could spend your whole trip without ever leaving the LakeHouse Spa. The luxe spa experiences available here aren’t limited just to guests—the hotel offers a variety of day spa packages that are open for public booking.

Other Amenities: Yoga, meditation, stand up paddle boards, pools, sauna, whirlpool, relaxation areas, swings, hammocks, fitness facilities, unlimited smoothies and juices, kayaks, hydro-bikes, sculling boats, water taxis. 

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Mohonk Mountain House in Paltz, New York

This “victorian castle resort” has been running since the late 1800s, and will not disappoint. Located just 90 miles north of New York City, it’s luxury and serenity for anyone looking for an escape. No matter what your idea of relaxation is, Mohonk Mountain House will accommodate you. From tennis, golf, and hiking, to meditation, yoga and spa treatments, you are sure to fill your soul with goodness during your stay. 

Highlight: History buffs will find their haven at Mohonk Mountain House, which offers five different guided tours of the historical house and grounds. See Victorian-era carriages at the Barn Museum or try out the hotel’s AR app that sends guests on a historical hunt for knowledge throughout the property. 

Other Amenities: Afternoon tea and cookies, hiking, yoga, meditation, fitness classes, indoor heated pool, guided hikes, lake activities, tomahawk throwing, rock scrambling, mountain biking, disc golf, archery, ice skating, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, and nightly entertainment. 

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FAQ

Do all-inclusive resorts in the US include alcohol?

Many offer welcome cocktails or champagne, but for the rest of your stay, you will have to pay for alcoholic beverages. Some resorts have special packages you can book that will include alcohol. The resorts that include alcohol no matter how you book are: 

• The Clement Palo Alto
• Sandpiper Bay Resort
• The Ranch at Rock Creek
• Bungalows Key Largo
• Dunton Hot Springs

Is everything included at an all-inclusive resort?

Almost everything. Most include at least two meals (typically breakfast and dinner), your room, and most activities. Alcoholic beverages and spa treatments are usually an extra fee, as are specialized activities. Be sure to check with the resort you are booking at to see what exactly is included in your package. 

Do you tip at an all inclusive resort?

Unless it is explicitly stated at the time of booking that tips are included, you should tip while staying at an all-inclusive resort, although it is not required. 

Does all-inclusive mean unlimited drinks?

As mentioned above, some US all-inclusive resorts do include alcoholic beverages, but most only include water, soda, tea and coffee. 

Is it wise to go to an all-inclusive resort?

For a lot of families and couples traveling, going to an all-inclusive resort is the best way to go, as that way, the trip is already paid for when you get there, and there are no surprises. It is easier to save for an all-inclusive stay since you know exactly what you will spend. 

Are all-inclusive resorts worth it? 

The short answer is yes, they are, if you are looking for a resort vacation. Having everything paid for, and all of your activities during your vacation in one place may be the perfect vacation for some people. The costs that can incur while you are on vacation are many, so knowing exactly what you are paying can be a relief to some, and make it well worth the money. 

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With stunning views, in-room jacuzzis, roaring fireplaces, and other amorous amenities, you may find yourself unable to leave the room for the entire stay—and that’s the point. Book one of these romantic hotels and get ready to hang up that Do Not Disturb sign. 

Chatham Bars Inn, Chatham, Massachusetts

Indulge in a couples’ spa day without ever leaving your hotel room by booking a Spa Suite at Chatham Bars Inn. Stocked with oversized hydrotherapy tubs, in-room private saunas, steam showers, and fireplaces, these adult-only suites make for the ultimate romantic getaway. 

Make a weekend out of it by booking the hotel’s spa retreat package, which includes two nights’ accommodations and a $600 credit for spa services. 

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Ritz Carlton New York, Central Park, New York, New York

After strolling hand in hand through Central Park, a room at the Ritz Carlton New York, Central Park provides a romantic respite just steps away. Occupying a prime park-front location, the views at the Ritz Carlton are so stunning that you’ll find it tough to tear yourself away from your room (fortunately, room service is available 24 hours a day.)

If you do make it out of the room, the hotel offers prepacked picnic lunches that are perfect for a romantic afternoon in Central Park. 

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Little Palm Island, Little Torch Key, Florida

You don’t have to leave the United States to escape to a private island resort—there’s one right here in the Florida Keys. With white sand beaches, private thatched-roof bungalows, and plenty of seclusion, you could be forgiven for mistaking Little Palm Island for the Maldives. 

Little Palm Island cultivates a highly romantic atmosphere by restricting guests to those aged 18 and above and keeping suites free of telephones and televisions. 

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Bishop’s Lodge, Sante Fe, New Mexico

Book one of the Kiva Suites at Bishop’s Lodge for a seductive Sante Fe vacation. Reserved for adults only, these spacious freestanding one-bedroom accommodations offer plenty of privacy. Take a dip in the private outdoor plunge pool by day and snuggle up by the outdoor fireplace and stargaze at night—this is one of the best romantic hotels in America for couples. 

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Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Maui, Hawaii

You won’t find a more romantic backdrop for a honeymoon, anniversary, babymoon, or couples’ trip than at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. This Maui jewel boasts unobstructed, 180-degree ocean views of three Hawaiian islands and mountains. 

The peaceful five-star property has just 72 suites spread out on its 15 acres of ocean-view land, guaranteeing privacy. The Zen-inspired landscaped grounds with lush tropical gardens and waterfalls feel a million miles away from hectic mega-resorts found elsewhere on the island. 

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The Weston, Weston, Vermont

For a quintessentially New England bed and breakfast experience, head to The Weston in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains. This charming inn has just five guest rooms and three suites between two newly renovated buildings. Inside each room, you’ll find hand-carved poster beds, Italian linens, antiques, and curated fine art that make for an unforgettable romantic stay. 

Make a dinner reservation at The Weston’s cozy on-site restaurant, The Left Bank, and pop a bottle of bubbly from the well-curated wine cellar to set the mood.

Cove Haven Resort, Lakeville, Pennsylvania

Whether you’re looking to spice things up by booking a hotel with a private jacuzzi, pool, or even a champagne-glass-shaped hot tub in the room, Cove Haven Resort in the Poconos has you covered.

This hotel is specifically designed for romance, with rooms featuring log-burning fireplaces, heart-shaped hot tubs, and more. If you’ve always dreamed of having your own private pool in your hotel room, book the Garden of Eden Apple suite, which has an indoor pool, dry sauna, fireplace, round bed, and whirlpool.

For something kitchier, book the Champagne Tower room, an infamous suite with a 7-foot tall Champagne-glass-shaped whirlpool. 

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The Peninsula Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 

Sheer luxury awaits at The Peninsula, widely regarded as one of the most romantic hotels in Chicago. Stay in bed a little longer with the hotel’s unique “Peninsula Time,” which allows guests to check in as early as 6 am and check out as late as 10 pm with no additional charge. 

No matter what time of year you visit the Windy City, be sure to leave time to take a dip in The Peninsula’s indoor half-Olympic size swimming pool, which has floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the Chicago skyline.

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The post The 8 Most Romantic Hotels in America appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Whether you’re looking to taste some authentic, buttery croissants, see some magnificent sculptures and paintings, relax in the well-maintained gardens, or tour the sights, this city simply has it all. From famous galleries and museums like the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay to the beautiful buildings of Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe ー, Paris stands out as an undeniably one-of-a-kind place. 

Lock Eyes with the Mona Lisa at The Louvre

The famous Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci is currently housed in the Louvre Museum. This popular work of art draws large crowds, so if you want an unobstructed look at this portrait, a great option could be to book tickets for a last-entry tour that allows you to skip the line. 

If you’re hoping to make the most of your visit to the Louvre, there are countless other priceless works of art and artifacts that are worth seeing. The museum boasts an impressive collection consisting of the famous Venus de Milo sculpture, Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, and Géricault’s The Raft of the Medusa paintings, among many others. 

Hotel recommendation:

 Hôtel Moliere: Spas, massages, facials, and saunas are all on offer at this high-end, 4-star hotel option. The boutique hotel has an elegant design, as well as spacious rooms. 

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Be Dazzled by the Eiffel Tower

Gustave Eiffel’s world-famous Eiffel Tower has essentially become synonymous with the city of Paris and is one of the most visited monuments in the world. However, seeing its photo on a postcard pales compared to witnessing its unique design in real life. You can climb the metal masterpiece from 9 AM until midnight, either going up to the second floor or straight to the top, using elevators or stairs. The prices vary depending on how far you wish to go up, how you want to go up, and your age. 

You can also visit one of the restaurants and bars on the different levels of the tower. Aside from the buffets found on the first two floors and the esplanade, there are establishments that offer incredible food, delicious drinks, and spectacular views, including Madame Brasserie by Thierry Marx, The Jules Vernes by Frédéric Anton (one MICHELIN star), and The Champagne Bar. 

Under the moonlight, the tower is illuminated by twinkling lights creating a magical, luminous display for onlookers. The 20,000 bulbs sparkle for five minutes every hour from dusk to 11:45 PM, giving you plenty of time and opportunities to enjoy the light show.

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Eiffel Kennedy: Staying near the Eiffel Tower often means that hotel prices will be much higher. However, this charming 3-star hotel will give you a comfortable, central stay without breaking the bank.  

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Admire Notre Dame

The famous cathedral has been at the center of multiple historical events, including the coronation of Napoleon as Emperor, and holds a special place in the heart of many Parisians. Tragically, whilst restoration work was being done in April 2019, the roof caught fire, causing significant damage to this beloved building. Nevertheless, most of the structure has stayed intact, and plans are to reopen it fully to the public in December 2024. 

It is still worth a visit, even if you plan to visit Paris before the official reopening date. Whilst the towers and treasuries are currently inaccessible to visitors, you can access the cathedral’s parvis and archaeological crypt. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Europe Saint Severin Paris: This 3-star hotel has rustic decor, a homely feel, and a lower price point than many hotels in the same area. It could also hardly be any closer to Notre Dame, making it a great location for those wanting to stay nearby.

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Stroll the Luxembourg Gardens

Walking through the Luxembourg Gardens provides a little bit of relief from the hustle and bustle of the city, giving you a chance to relax. Its charm draws both locals and tourists thanks to its calming atmosphere, exquisite flower beds, and manicured lawns. It is the perfect place to stretch your legs, enjoy family time or take someone on a romantic date. 

The gardens themselves are overlooked by the regal Luxembourg Palace and were inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence, which can be seen from the well-maintained areas and outdoor sculptures dotted around. There are also greenhouses, areas to play pétanque (a French sport similar to boules), and beehives. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Le Six: This 4-star hotel has a more modern vibe to it and some stellar reviews from other visitors. You can enjoy getting pampered in the spa, relaxing in the steam room, and getting a drink at the swanky bar. 

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Take a Seine River Boat Tour

While walking along the river is a wonderful way to soak up the sights and enjoy a relaxing stroll, booking a riverboat tour makes a trip to Paris even more enchanting. There are countless companies offering their services, but most will take you past the main landmarks of the city and give you scenic views, which you can enjoy in style. Some also offer meals and champagne, adding extra glamorous detail to your day. 

Booking a trip during the day allows you to see everything in broad daylight, but the city truly comes alive at night.  For the most dreamy experience, you can book a dinner cruise where you can treat your tastebuds to some delicious dishes while being serenaded by violinists and pianists.

Hotel recommendation:

Juliana Hotel Paris: Another 5-star option with unique decor that has been meticulously designed. It offers a spa, a fitness center, and individually decorated rooms, so no two are the same!

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Enjoy the Artwork at the Musée d’Orsay

The Louvre may be the more famous museum to visit, but the Musée d’Orsay should be just as high up on your bucket list! The building itself was converted from a Beaux-Arts style railway station, creating an interior that looks so original. However, the museum is more than just that, given that it houses a huge amount of masterpieces from mainly French artists and is renowned for having a rich collection of Impressionist art. It houses twenty-four of Van Gogh’s paintings (including the stunning Starry Night), eighty-six paintings by Monet, and fifty-six pieces by Cézanne. 

The museum is open every day, apart from Mondays, and offers a variety of guided tours, workshops, and changing exhibitions. If you’re lucky enough, you may even be able to attend a concert during the evening or at lunchtime in this house of culture. Make sure to check the website and book well in advance in order to avoid disappointment. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Montalembert: This 5-star option is located only an 8-minute walk away from the Musée d’Orsay. It offers spa services, babysitting for an extra charg, and ornately-decorated surroundings.

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Explore Montmartre

This bohemian area of Paris has historically captivated artists and creatives, creating an atmosphere that still inspires many to this day. The place is simply gorgeous, with its winding streets and cobbled surfaces, it feels distinctly like a quaint village. Here you can visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica on top of the Montmartre hill, either by walking up 197 steps or, if your legs are tired from all of the exploring, you can take the funicular. 

This isn’t the only thing that the village has to offer, though.  There is the Place du Tertre, where you can look at the wonderful paintings and drawings of local artists. Also, the Moulin Rouge is located here, along with the “I Love You” Wall (Le Mur des Je t’aime). This piece of art has “I love you” written all over jet-black rock in over 250 languages.

Hotel recommendation:  

Mercure Paris Montmartre Sacré Coeur: A reasonably-priced, 4-star hotel that is close to the Moulin Rouge, the metro, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. There is also a garden, fitness space, and terrace. 

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Experience the Atmosphere of The Latin Quarter

This area is one of the most ancient in the city, meaning that it is full of history and culture. The Pantheon can be found in The Latin Quarter, where honored men and women important to France are interred or commemorated, including the writers Victor Hugo and Emile Zola. 

Paris’ Natural History Museum is also located in this quarter, along with the attaching Jardin des Plantes, which is a botanical garden that is free to visit. The only thing you may have to pay for is entry to the zoo, where you can meet fascinating exotic animals. 

Aside from the endless exciting places to see, the atmosphere is second to none. There is a thriving jazz scene in this district, so you can’t miss out on going to one of the many jazz or cabaret clubs found here. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel d’Aubusson: Originally, this hotel was a 17th-century mansion and is the epitome of luxury. This 4-star hotel’s central location places you around many places of interest and welcomes you back with superb interior design and fantastic service after a long day of sightseeing.

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Do Retail Therapy at the Galeries Lafayette

This shopping mall is one of the most recognizable in the city thanks to its distinctively lavish interior design in the style of Art Nouveau. From an enormous glass dome to gilded features to illuminating lights, it is truly a breathtaking sight! If you’re a luxury fanatic, there are plenty of places to indulge and treat yourself to a designer souvenir. You can buy items from Dior, Chloé, Hermès, Chanel, Céline, and many more French and international fashion brands.

Once you’re feeling exhausted from carrying around all those shopping bags, there are lots of places to sit, enjoy a coffee or order a delicious meal. 

Hotel recommendation:  

Hôtel Excelsior Opéra: A 3-star hotel with a lot of character. All of the rooms are designed in a simple, contemporary style, with the comfort of their guests in mind. They also all have flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. 

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Visit the Arc De Triomphe

This commemorative monument dedicated to the victories of Napoleon’s army is globally recognized for its distinctive arch and elaborate sculptures and engravings. Those wishing to climb to the top will get a staggering view of one of the most beautiful streets in Paris: the Champs-Élysées, as well as the Eiffel Tower and The Louvre. The top is also accessible by elevator, making it an activity everyone can enjoy. Remember to book tickets in advance so that you can skip the queue and keep your itinerary for the rest of the day on track!

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel EKTA: A lovely 4-star hotel with 70s-inspired decor, only a stone’s throw away from the Arc de Triomphe. You’ll love the funky fabrics and electric artwork that the hotel has chosen.

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The post The 10 Best Things to Do in Paris, France appeared first on SmarterTravel.

With hundreds of miles of hiking trails, 93 state park properties, and plenty of lakes and beaches to explore, the Granite State is a paradise for outdoor adventurers. 

Follow this guide to plan the perfect New Hampshire summer weekend trip.

Friday

Northern New Hampshire is an easy drive from Boston—you can save your vacation time, leave after work on Friday, and arrive in time for dinner. 

Check into the Omni Mount Washington Resort, New Hampshire’s most iconic hotel. The sprawling, red-roofed property can be spotted from many viewpoints in the state. This historic resort was built in 1902 and has since undergone many renovations to make it the timelessly elegant property it is today. The most recent renovation expanded the hotel to add 69 modern rooms and suites in the Presidential Wing—book a room in this section to enjoy mountain views from your private outdoor space, oversized soaking tubs, and a brand-new feel.

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The Omni’s main dining room was recently updated as well. Reserve a table by the window in this elegant space (there is a dress code) for a special dinner. The dining room’s picture windows offer stunning sunset views over the mountains and surrounding forest while you eat. 

Saturday

Start your day off right with a buffet breakfast in the Omni’s main dining room, or, for lighter fare, take advantage of the Omni’s complimentary coffee service and pair a cup with a pastry (don’t miss the incredible cinnamon rolls) from the hotel’s Morsels cafe. 

New Hampshire is by far the best state in New England for hiking. Experience a classic New Hampshire 4,000-footer by tackling Mount Eisenhower. Part of the White Mountains’ famous Presidential Range, this moderately challenging trek will reward you with 360-degree views at the top. The 3.3-mile (one-way) Edmund’s Path trail is the most direct route to the summit.

By the time you’ve finished the hike, you’ll be ready for a hearty lunch. Refuel at Wicked Fresh Craft Burgers in North Conway. Get the milkshake (made with local milk) and the fries (topped with fresh herbs)—you’ve earned it.

Check into the Center Harbor Inn. Perched above a private sandy beach on Lake Winnipesaukee, this hotel puts you in the heart of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. Opt for a water-view room with a private balcony for a truly luxurious stay.

Head down to the hotel’s outdoor hot tub where you can soak your tired muscles while overlooking the water. 

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Walk across the street to Poggio’s Craft Kitchen & Taphouse for dinner, where chef Kaylon Sweet serves up an ever-changing menu based on fresh, local ingredients. If the weather’s nice, sit outside in the restaurant’s beautiful new biergaten space. 

Sunday

Stroll over to Gusto’s Italian Cafe for a leisurely Sunday morning breakfast. Grab a sandwich and coffee—and don’t forget to add in one of the homemade pastries involving Nutella—and bring your feast back for a picnic on Center Harbor Inn’s private beach.

After carboloading and caffeinating, rent a kayak from the hotel and paddle around Lake Winnipesaukee before checking out. 

Take a short drive to Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough, New Hampshire. Built as a private estate in 1913, this elaborate property once spanned an incredible 6,300 acres. Now, the mansion and grounds occupy 135 acres of prime real estate overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee. 

Tour the carefully-preserved 16-room Lucknow estate for a fascinating example of how the wealthy lived in the early 20th century before having lunch in the on-site restaurants (housed in the converted stables). 

Cap off your trip with a walk through Castle in the Cloud’s many scenic walking trails—the short (0.8 mile) Brook Walk trail takes you past seven beautiful waterfalls. 

Editor’s Note: The author of this story was hosted by Visit New Hampshire.

The post The Ultimate New Hampshire Summer Weekend Guide appeared first on SmarterTravel.

St. Dwynwen’s Day, Wales

Your girlfriend trembles with excitement as she carefully unwraps a small box. “Oh. You got me a … spoon?” Good luck trying to import this Welsh tradition to the United States—even if the spoon is intricately carved. (Hint: Steer clear of kitchen utensils as romantic gifts for women.) If you’ve got a Welsh partner, however, you’re in luck, as love spoons—utensils carefully carved with symbols holding great meaning—are a traditional gift for St. Dwynwen’s Day, celebrated January 25.

Obligations Chocolates, Japan

Give candy to people to let them know that you don’t love them. It’s really quite kind, if you think about it—they’ll get the message and be able to eat their feelings. Japan has it figured out, with a blatantly commercial version of Valentine’s Day, proudly started by a (genius) chocolate company. Though the tradition has started to see a decline in recent years, the usual practice goes like this: Women must give the men in their lives (including bosses, coworkers, friends, family members, etc.) chocolates. The chocolates come in two categories: “obligation chocolates” (for the men the women aren’t particularly interested in) and “prospective-winner chocolate.”

White Day, Japan

Feeling sorry for the women who did all the chocolate-themed giving in Japan on Valentine’s Day? Don’t worry. They reap a return on investment exactly one month later, on White Day (March 14). On this holiday, men give reciprocal gifts worth two to three times the value of the Valentine’s Day chocolates they received. Brilliantly, this campaign was started by the National Confectionery Industry Association when it was looking to offload marshmallows and white chocolate. (Although non-edible gifts such as jewelry and lingerie are now popular White Day presents as well.)

Dia dos Namorados, Brazil

Valentine’s Day is ignored in Brazil because it usually happens during the epic party season of Carnival. Instead, love is celebrated on June 12, during the Dia dos Namorados. Instead of St. Valentine, St. Anthony (the patron saint of marriage) is honored. Single women undertake a variety of rituals called simpatias designed to land them a match, such as writing down the names of prospective suitors on paper the night before Dia dos Namorados and then drawing one out of the pile at random on the holiday to decide which one to go for.

Une Loterie d’Amour, France

Honestly, we’re shocked that no one has revived this now-forbidden holiday as a reality show—it would make fantastic television. Officially banned by the French government for being too out of control, Une Loterie d’Amour used to be a “lottery for love.” Single men and women would enter houses that faced opposite each other and call the names of their chosen partners out of the windows until they paired off. If a man changed his mind about his match, he would abandon the house and leave the woman there to be matched with someone else. The poor women who got rejected or didn’t get a match at all would host a big bonfire at the end of the day, where they would toss in photos of scorned loves and curse men.

Diary Day, South Korea

“Here honey, I got you this diary as a present. It’s got our anniversary, my birthday, and all our special dates are conveniently written in it so you don’t forget again.” On January 14, a holiday known as Diary Day in South Korea, couples exchange planners in which they mark down their important dates for the year. Ah, passive-aggressive romance.

Jack Valentine, Norfolk, England

The British sense of humor is world-famous for being a little … dark. Not even Valentine’s Day is safe—at least, not in Norfolk, where Valentine’s Day is a much bigger deal than in the rest of the country. It’s traditionally celebrated by a mysterious figure (Old Father Valentine or Old Mother Valentine) who knocks at the door and scampers away, leaving behind gifts. Unfortunately, the holiday became an opportunity for pranksters. Cruel jokers would leave a giant wrapped present outside of the house of a single person … who would excitedly unwrap the gift only to find a mean note. Ouch.

Black Day, South Korea

We’ll end this list on a day for singles’ appreciation. On April 14, after watching happy couples exchange gifts on both Valentine’s Day and White Day, the unattached people of South Korea get together in solidarity. They dress in all black and eat jjajang myeon. This dish consists of noodles covered in black bean paste; it’s comfort food that often leaves teeth tinted a dark color.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2015. It has been updated with the latest information.

The post 8 of the Weirdest Romantic Traditions in the World appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Valentine’s Gifts for Travelers

Whether you’re looking for a fun gift for a friend or a romantic present for your significant other, you’ll find great inspiration on this list.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her

WAVES OF CLARIFY Pore Purifying Set

This trio of travel-sized beauty products will keep her skin moisturized and healthy while traveling in the winter months. Kit includes Herbivore Botanicals’ Pink Cloud Cleanser as well as a face mask and purifying cream.

Personalized Gift on Etsy

If you’re looking to give a thoughtful and custom gift this year, check out Etsy’s hundreds of handmade gift options for Valentine’s Day. With travel-related items like a custom memory box, a personalized map keepsake box, and a star map print, you’ll easily find something she’ll treasure. All you need is a specific date or place you want to remember.

Parachute Cloud Cotton Robe

Any traveler will love this super comfy bathrobe that packs light and will keep you warm … because not every hotel has a five-star bathrobe.

The Madewell Sydney Leather Tote

This is a stylish and practical bag for a traveler—its shape and handle are on-trend, and its medium size and two handle options make it great for urban adventures.

Allbirds Wool Runners

With spring on the horizon, a pair of Allbirds are the perfect gift for giving as a head start to the new season. From her favorite workout to a trot through the city, these lightweight, breathable sneaks will get her anywhere she needs to go.

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him

Snowe Classic Bathrobe and Candle Spa Set

Gift the gift of a plush hotel robe (and bonus soy wax blend candle) that he can enjoy at home. This one is midweight and made of 100 percent long-staple cotton, which does mean it shrinks, so size up accordingly.

Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling

If he’s an active traveler or day hiker, the Daylite Sling bag will be a great gift. The practical, lightweight, and slim bag is unisex and comes in different colors; read my full review, here.

Man Crates

Offering one of the most unique gifting experiences for men on the market, Man Crates has a variety of different box options. From this incredibly Personalized Barware Crate to a Pizza Grilling Kit, there’s truly something for any kind of guy.

Travelon Anti-Theft Backpack

If short, weekday business trips are the norm, then Travelon’s anti-theft backpack can be a useful gift. Easy to fit under most airplane seats, it’s roomy and practical with a padded laptop sleeve, easy-access front pocket, and anti-theft features.

Battery Case for iPhone

Here’s the perfect gift for the guy whose phone is always on low-power mode. With a charging case always attached, his phone will never die again.

Valentine’s Day Gifts for the Both of You

Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Instant Film Camera

Any traveler will love this fun, instant-print camera. It’s lightweight to pack and comes in a classic design. It even has features like a double exposure, a high-performance flash, and macro mode.

Umbra Hangit Photo Display

Hang your favorite vacation photos and memories with this DIY-inspired photo display. The kit comes with wire twine cords, wooden wall mounts, and clothespins to hang all your captured moments.

Wine and Cheese Picnic Set

For your partner who is like the wine to your cheese, get this Plush Picnic Set (bonus points for pre-packing the bag with a good bottle and a map to a picnic spot). The tote is insulated to keep things cold and comes with everything you need for a romantic afternoon: a wooden cheese board, cheese knife, corkscrew, bottle stopper, napkins, and shatterproof wine glasses.

Shutterfly Photo Book

Impress your S.O. (or friend) with a custom photo album of a memorable trip together. Shutterfly makes the process easy with travel templates to choose among; or, you can have Shutterfly design it for you.

Eatwith Gift Card

The online platform Eatwith offers unique dining experiences in cities around the world and sells gift cards for booking. It’s the perfect travel gift for someone if you’ve already booked a trip … or are trying to hint at planning a new one.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Tyler Schoeber contributed to this story. 

The post The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The Don Cesar

You’ll be treated like royalty at this majestic pink palace on the beach. Built in 1928, The Don Cesar is undeniably unique among Tampa beachfront hotels. Its glamour has brought in guests like F. Scott Fitzgerald and earned it roles on the silver screen in films like Once Upon a Time in America, starring Robert De Niro, and Forever Mine.

Rent a private cabana at the beach and get your drinks delivered directly there, or immerse yourself deep in the ocean at the AAA four-diamond Maritana Grille, which is decorated by large aquariums. With historical charm and modern luxuries, this is the place for those who like their beach hotels with a little personality.

Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, pools, private beach, Jacuzzis, fitness center, in-house bars, in-house restaurants, poolside bar, private cabanas, pool concierge, full-service spa, concierge services, complimentary cruiser bike, water sports rental, game room, kids day camp, special pet services, babysitting services, safe-deposit box, business center, retail and gift shop, and room service.

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Sheraton Sand Key Resort

This is the kind of resort you won’t ever need to leave if you don’t want to. Spend your vacation lounging on the beachfront pool deck while sipping signature cocktails from the Turtle Bar, or get some salt water in your hair at Clearwater Beach. If you want to get active, there’s not only a fitness center, but also tennis and beach tennis courts. Relax by getting a massage at the resort spa or by going shopping at the resort’s stores.

Hungry and looking for variety? The Sheraton Sand Key Resort offers numerous fine dining options that can provide a different taste for every meal.

Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, beachfront pool, beach access, fitness center, in-house bar, in-house restaurants, spa, shops, room service, and business center.

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The Inn at Little Harbor

Very popular with those looking for Tampa resorts, this hotel offers incredible amenities at reasonable prices. Escape the crowds at the private beach, bask in the sun at one of the three pools, or relax at the Jacuzzis.

Beach bums will appreciate eating and drinking poolside, and spending evenings with live music and beach cocktails. Thrill seekers can enjoy the basketball, beach volleyball, and tennis courts. Go fishing at the resort’s pier, or get into watersports like kayaking and jet skiing. If nothing else, attack the Sunset Grill’s chocolate fountain.

Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, three waterfront pools, two Jacuzzis, private beach, two fitness centers, in-house bar, in-house restaurants, spa, concierge services, airport shuttle, bike rental, basketball court, beach volleyball court, five tennis courts, safe-deposit box, and business center.

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Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

Enjoy a private strip of Clearwater Beach at Hilton Clearwater, as you get cocktails from the Tiki Bar situated right on the sand. Delight in fresh seafood and local cuisine without leaving the beach view for a single second, and pamper yourself at the full-service spa.

Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, pool, private beach, fitness center, in-house bars, in-house restaurants, spa, concierge services, bike rental, jet-skiing rental, water sports rental, paddle tennis table, playground, safe-deposit box, business center, shoe shine stand, gift shop, and room service.

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Sandpearl Resort

Luxury and comfort are the signature qualities of Sandpearl Resort. Spend your time at a cabana at the beach, at the zero-entry pool, or enjoying fine dining at Carreta on the Gulf, Clearwater Beach’s only 4-Diamond restaurant.

For more immersive experiences, join one of the resort’s enrichment programs, which include food and wine tastings, dolphin encounters, and tours of the resort’s art collection. At night, hear the sound of the waves crashing on the shore as you keep warm by the beachside fire pits.

Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, zero-entry pool, beach access, fitness center, in-house bars, beachside fire pits, in-house restaurants, poolside bar, private cabanas, full-service spa, concierge services, water sports rental, private boat slips, kids camp, in-room safe, shoe shine services, turn down services, 24-hour in-room dining, room service, and daily newspaper. 

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Winter the Dolphin’s Beach Club, Ascend Hotel Collection

If you’re thinking about skipping the beach resort because of the prohibitive prices, don’t overlook Winter the Dolphin’s Beach Club. This Ascend Hotel is located on the shores of Clearwater Beach. For a budget-friendly price, you can enjoy all the amenities of the best Tampa beach hotels, like a beachfront pool, a beach bar, and private balconies. 

Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, beachfront pool, beach access, sunroom, in-house bars, in-house IHOP, business center, balcony or patio in every room, in-room safe, and a flat-screen TV.

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Postcard Inn on the Beach

The cookie-cutter beach resort life isn’t for you? Go straight to Postcard Inn. This vintage boutique boasts uniqueness in experience and design. The lobby is decorated by modern bookshelves filled with books and board games for the guests, surfboards make part of the decor, and every single room is different from the others. With the oldest bar on St. Pete Beach, it’s also the place for a great party.

Amenities: Outdoor pool, beach access, fire pit, in-house bar, in-house restaurant, business center, bicycles, two gyms, sports facilities, and live entertainment on weekends.

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TradeWinds Island Grand Resort

A sizeable 20-acre resort that has everything you need and then some, TradeWinds makes it a point to ensure guests have more than enough of everything. From five pools to 11 restaurants to its very own private river, this resort does nothing small. All in all, it’s one of the Tampa beach hotels that offers guests the most experiences.

Amenities: Five heated pools, 11 restaurants, paddleboard rental, beach volleyball net, two tennis courts, two hot tubs, fitness center, full-service spa, kids’ club, 24-hour babysitting services, and free Wi-Fi.

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Shephard’s Beach Resort

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, this resort is not your scene. On the other hand, if what you want is to stay up until the sun comes out and then recharge at the beach, this is where you want to go. A hip young crowd keeps the Shephard’s Beach Resort vibrant, fueling the concerts held at the Tiki Bar, and flocking to the in-house nightclub, Wave, every night.

Amenities: Pool deck, beach access, beach bar, two-story club, in-house restaurant, water sports gear rental for jet skiing and kayak, parasailing, scooter, bicycle, mini coupe rental, boat tour, and free Wi-Fi.

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Thunderbird Beach Resort

A family-owned resort, the Thunderbird is committed to keeping alive the charm of its origins. Though the hotel offers all the modern amenities you could want, it does so without compromising its vintage ambiance that takes you straight into the 1950s beach party scene. Located in Treasure Island, the Thunderbird is a landmark that has amassed quite a following of loyal vacationers who come back year after year.

Amenities: Oversized pool, quiet pool, hot tub, complimentary WiFi, Tiki beach bar, live music, athletic club, in-house restaurant, beach access.

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Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

Spacious rooms and a spa make the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach the perfect beach hotel option in the Tampa area. When you are laying on the beach, you can treat yourself to a relaxing treatment at the spa, or take a complimentary yoga class. With plenty to do for kids including a kids club and kids pool, it’s a great option for families. 

Amenities: Pool, children’s pool, jacuzzi, kids club, poolside drink service, spa, Balconies, fitness center, kids activities, beach access, in-house restaurant.

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Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach

Whether it’s laying on the sand on the beach, lazing by the pool, or holding an event, Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach has you covered. The newest AAA 4 Diamond hotel on the gulf shore offers gorgeous a beachfront, a pool bar, and spectacular coastal views. Their Deluxe Intracoastal room features floor to ceiling waterfront views with a balcony for relaxing on. When taking a break from being poolside or at the beach, you can relax with a treatment at the spa. 

Amenities: Pool, spa, yoga, live music, poolside drink service, balconies, crafts, beach chairs, umbrellas, in-house restaurant. 

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Best Western Plus Yacht Harbor Inn

While technically not a beach hotel, the Best Western Plus Yacht Harbor Inn offers a unique stay as a boutique waterfront resort with access to the Gulf of Mexico. All rooms have a patio or balcony with views of St. Joseph’s Sound. 

Amenities: Cocktail lounge, heated outdoor pool, hot tub, complimentary full breakfast, fitness equipment, two on-site restaurants. 

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Bellwether Beach Resort

The spinning rooftop restaurant may be what intices you to stay at Bellweather Beach Resort, but there is plenty more the resort offers. Enjoy lunch or dinner on the beach in your complimentary cabana, connect your body and mind with morning yoga, and enjoy live music daily. You’ll enjoy stunning water views from your spacious room, and can choose from classic rooms, suites and even a penthouse. 

Amenities: On-site restaurant, beach chairs, cabanas, yoga, live entertainment

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Treasure Bay Resort and Marina

Explore the bay during your stay at Treasure Bay Resort and Marina. From water sports, fishing, a pool and a jacuzzi, adventure awaits! With over 80 rooms with private balconies and terraces, this “authentic florida” resort provides whatever you need for your beach stay. 

Amenities: Pool, jacuzzi, fitness center, bar

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Edge Hotel Clearwater

Voted Clearwater Beach’s #1 hotel by the Clearwater Beach Chamber of Commerce, Edge Hotel promises an unforgettable stay. Soak in the sunset from your private balcony, relax at one of two pools, or mosey over to the beach, which is a short walk away. 

Amenities: Two pools, fitness center, restaurant, continental breakfast, water rentals available, laundry services. 

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Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Bay

Did someone say pool with waterfall? Find your ultimate oasis at Clearwater Beach Marriot Suites on Sand Bay, whether enjoying the waterfall, relaxing in the whirlpool, or heading to the beach just steps away. Explore Clearwater Bay or the Gulf of Mexico via paddleboard or kayaking, or book a treatment at the spa. 

Amenities: Full breakfast included, on-site restaurant, fitness center, spa, hot tub, watercraft rentals, activities for kids, outdoor pool.

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Hotel Zamora

While Hotel Zamora has plenty that makes it an amazing hotel, its the 360 Rooftop Lounge that puts it over the top. You can enjoy the stunning views the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway as you sip a cocktail while taking in the sunset from the rooftop. The hotel is dog friendly, so your furry friend won’t have to stay behind! 

Amenities: Pool, poolside bar, five slip marina, rooftop bar, dog friendly, fitness center, watersport rentals, on-site restaurant. 

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Sailport Waterfront Resort

Stay directly on the bay at Sailport Waterfront Resort. While there is no access to the water, the resort has it’s own private beach on the water, where you can relax, or play beach volleyball and other beach games. Sailport Waterfront is the only all-suite hotel in Tampa. Each suite features full kitchens, separate bedrooms, and balconies, making it the ideal hotel in Tampa for families or extended stays. 

Amenities: Beach/recreation, pool, fishing pier, beach volleyball, firepit. 

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The post The 19 Best Tampa Beach Hotels appeared first on SmarterTravel.

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Casa Las Tortugas

Casa Las Tortugas is a Bohemian paradise with boutique accommodations. The hotel offers daily yoga classes, spa services, and $4 bike rentals. From the hotel, it’s just a short three-block walk to VIP Holbox, where you can sign up for a swim with the world’s largest fish: whale sharks.

Why Go: Isla Holbox is the “new Tulum,” a lesser-traveled authentic Mexican fishing village protected by dazzling mangroves. At the Yalahau cenote, just a short boat ride from Isla Holbox, you and your new spouse can swim inside a sparkling body of water that was believed to be used by pirates as a fresh water supply.

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San Ignacio Resort Hotel

You’ll find seclusion and romance in the remote town of San Ignacio in Belize. And at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, you can enjoy brunch while watching for colorful toucans, Belize’s national bird, frequently spotted by guests on the resort’s terrace. You can also get up close and personal with thousands of years of Mayan history through the imposing ruins at Xunantunich. After a day tour, shop at the local flea market in town that sells handmade wooden and textiles.

Why Go: Butterfly Falls, a remote waterfall located 20 minutes by foot inside the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, is something of a hotspot for honeymooners. You can also take a short one-hour flight from San Ignacio to San Pedro to dive the world’s second-largest Great Barrier Reef in Ambergis Caye, a UNESCO site.

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Pearson’s Pond Inn & Adventure Spa

Pearson’s Pond Inn & Adventure Spa is set amidst a rainforest garden and alongside a glacial kettle pond in Juneau. (Yes, a rainforest—in Alaska!) Upon arrival, you’ll step into a room with a glowing fireplace, candlelight, soft music, and fresh flowers. Sparkling champagne, chocolates, and a bubble bath await. Later, you can relax by the inn’s private lake.

Why Go: Douglas Island, a tidal island just west of downtown Juneau, is ideally situated for couples adventures and outdoor activities like hiking, cruising through the glaciers, ziplining through the rainforest canopy, and whale watching.

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Belmond Hotel Splendido

The hillside Belmond Hotel Splendido offers sweeping views of the colorful harbor of Portofino. The hotel is one of Italy’s most glamorous retreats, with past guests including Ava Gardner and Elizabeth Taylor. The honeymoon-worthy Ava Gardner Suite spans the entire top floor and has a terrace overlooking the harbor and Castello Brown.

You can cool off (or frolic) in the saltwater pool and then hop aboard the hotel’s private boat to head to San Fruttuoso Bay, only accessible by boat or footpath. A secluded table for two awaits you on the beach, with local dishes served beneath the starry skies.

Why Go: A short walk down a cobblestone path from the Splendido leads to a secluded cove with crystal-clear water. After a quick dip, head to the charming marina where no new buildings have been built since 1935, lending the area some authentic old-world charm.

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Napili Kai Beach Resort

Napili Kai Beach Resort is located on Napili Bay and offers a private romantic dinner called “Na Hoku Dinner” under the stars at the edge of the bay. You can relax at the hotel’s Makai Massage day spa, where you and your spouse can sign up for massage and body treatments in an outdoor garden cabana or on the calm oceanfront.

Why Go: For the adventurous couple, Maui doesn’t have to be all beach and sand. Piiholo Zipline is offers a seven-line Treetop Zip Tour. The journey features seven different treetop ziplines, ranging from 175 to 930 feet. After a heart-pounding day, head to the Sheraton Maui for a performance of the ritual of lele kawa (cliff diving) demonstrated by locals.

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Hotel Odisej

The boutique Adriatic Luxury Hotel, Hotel Odisej, with its seawater pool and spa facilities, is the only hotel on the island. It’s located inside the pine and oak forest of Mljet National Park, where you can bike and hike in the serene surroundings. The restaurant Odisej lets you to stay on site for a romantic meal overlooking the panorama of Pomena Bay.

Why Go: Croatia’s southernmost island is a two-hour boat ride from Dubrovnik. According to legend, Odysseus spent seven years as love slave to the nymph, Calypso, on Mljet. Today, you can swim in the aquamarine cave described by Homer located below the village of Babino Polje.

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Acajou Hotel

The small family-run Acajou Hotel is situated in a little fishing village called Grande Riviere along the dramatic northern Coast of Trinidad. Flanked by a wide expanse of vegetation on the steep hills of the Northern range, Acajou (the French for “tropical wood”) is a group of traditional cottages nestled along the beach, Bohemian-style. Relax on the colorful hammock on the elevated porch or enjoy a coconut cocktail in the ocean.

Why Go: Head to Trinidad’s hummingbird sanctuary, Yerette, for breathtaking views of silk cotton trees, the lush green landscape, and El Tucheche, the second highest mountain in Trinidad.

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Vidago Palace Hotel

The historic Vidago Palace Hotel offers spacious suites complete with De Gournay silk wallpaper and 18th century antiques. Vidago has two main attractions for couples: its spa and its golf opportunities. Relax in the modern Thermal Spa, known for having the therapeutic mineral water of Vidago, or spend a morning golfing at the resort’s 18-hole golf course.

Why Go: Wine has been produced on the slopes of the Douro Valley for more than two thousand years. The Douro Valley Wine Tour allows you to taste regional wines while visiting the two wine estates aboard a tranquil cruise. Douro is the first demarcated wine region in the world, and its landscape is classified as a World Heritage Site.

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Casa Magna Marriott Cancun

At the beachfront Casa Magna Marriott Cancun, honeymooners can unwind with a dip in the infinity pool or a mid-afternoon nap in a private Bali daybed. Indulge your palate with international fine dining from the Argentine Steakhouse and Thai restaurants, and toast with the many varieties of Mexican tequila.

Why Go: Take a trip to the tranquil Isla Mujeres, where you can stroll down the colorful streets, drink a Coco Frio (cold coconut) and try some of the freshly caught ceviche found on the island. For the more adventurous foodie couples, try Lion Fish at Zama Beach Club. Relax with a couples massage or rejuvenating wrap at Live Aqua.

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Vomo Island Resort Fiji

The Vomo Island Resort Fiji has three-bedroom suites with their own private pools, living rooms, and dining areas. The renovated suites feature oversized bathtubs fit for two, and if you wish to be one with nature you can try the outdoor tubs and showers. Sign up for a beach-ready gourmet picnic or a private in-villa dining experience.

Why Go: A stay at Vomo gives you access to the secluded and uninhabited VOMO Lai Lai island, where you can unwind with a beach picnic and “relive the days of Crusoe.” (Don’t worry, five-star luxury is just a radio call away.)  The Vomo Spa offers a COMO Shambhala to Share package for couples which includes a 60-minute COMO Shambhala Signature Massage and a 30-minute express facial.

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Longitude 131, Uluru, Australia

Famous for hosting celebrities such as Oprah and Prince William, Longitude 131 is one of the most luxurious glamping destinations in Australia and possibly the world. Located in the red dunes of the desert overlooking Uluru, Longitude 131 has sixteen tented pavilions available. Although the walls and roof are tent-like, the wooden floor, king-size bed, climate-control system, and luxurious bathroom are more reminiscent of a five-star hotel. The crowning touch on the tents, however, is the fourth wall that’s made entirely out of a special one-way glass that allows guests to gaze out at the amazing Uluru views, without anyone being able to see in.

White Desert’s Whichaway Camp, Antarctica

You don’t have to be a scientist to spend a night in Antarctica—you just have to be really, really rich. Then you can book a tour with White Desert that includes a stay at their Whichaway Camp, open from November through January each year. You’ll stay in a cozy pod that’s heated and powered by solar energy, and even has an en-suite shower. To get to the world’s most remote glamping destination, you’ll take a five and a half hour flight from Cape Town which lands on a runway made of ice in Antarctica’s interior, before being escorted to your camp on a rugged 4×4 vehicles.

Sandy Pines Campground, Kennebunkport, Maine

With interiors outfitted by local designers and luxury amenities, you won’t feel like you’re roughing it at Sandy Pines Campground.  The property offers everything from spacious, 430 square foot family glamp tents and wooden camp cottages to smaller a-frames for a solo traveler or a cozy couples getaway and retrofitted Conestoga wagons. Most accommodations come with a queen- or king-sized bed, AC, fire pits, and a private outdoor space. It’s just about one mile from Kennebunkport’s less crowded beach, Goose Rocks, and when you feel like heading into town for some local beer and oysters, you’re only 10-minutes away.

West Stow Pods, Suffolk, England

This family-run glamping spot has a variety of unique accommodations to choose from. If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, book Pod Hollow, a “halfling-inspired subterranean dwelling” that’s built into the side of a grassy hill. Or, for something a little smaller, you can book a MegaPod, which is similar to a tiny-house and can sleep up to four people.

Inn Town Campground, Nevada City, California

Inn Town Campground offers 20 glamp tents from $85 per night, each with a unique design and feel. All campers have access to the The Commons, which includes their camp store, bathrooms with showers, a kitchen, WiFi, a communal barbecue area, and a pool. Keep kids entertained with outdoor movie nights and the campground’s Saturday craft hour or take the whole family for an educational trek with the Folk Trails Hiking Club. If you’re looking for a more traditional camping experience or want to travel in your own RV to truly feel at home, standard camping sites are available starting from $40 a night and RV sites with hookups are available starting at $50 a night.

Afrika Ecco Camp, Botswana

The best part of camping is being able to wake up in a new location every day, but that usually means carrying all your supplies on your back while you hike. Not at Afrika Ecco Safaris, which is designed to be a completely mobile glamping destination so that the camp can follow wildlife as needed. Every night, you’ll return home to one of six canvas safari tents (complete with an ensuite bathroom) which will have already been set up for you. The only thing you have to do is relax.

Buubble Lodge, Iceland

If you’re traveling a long way to see the Northern Lights, you don’t want to waste a minute of viewing time underneath a roof—but you also don’t want to freeze to death, which is where the Buubble Lodge comes in. The clear bubbles come equipped with comfortable beds, blankets, and eye masks (in case you want to sleep in). They are also located in a secret location to preserve guests’ privacy. A nearby service house has toilets, showers, and a self-service kitchen.

White Pod, Valais, Switzerland

The White Pod’s eco-friendly pods and suites-chalets are nestled in the Swiss Alps, and in the winter, the resort runs its own private ski lifts exclusively for guests. In the summer, you’ll have miles of hiking trails that begin at your doorstep. You’ll have a large king-size bed, a wood-burning stove, and a bathroom with running water. Splurge a little more and you can get breakfast delivered into your pod, satellite TV, Wifi, or an in-pod massage.

Caroline Morse Teel wants to visit all of these glamping destinations. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from around the world. 

The post 8 of the World’s Most Gorgeous Glamping Destinations appeared first on SmarterTravel.