TOP FIVE ROMANTIC AND REMOTE DESTINATIONS

Looking for somewhere to go that is remote, exotic, and romantic? Here are a few exceptional ideas:

Turtle Island (Fiji) is an exclusive private island. There are only a few luxurious villas (only fourteen couples on the island at any given time).  Each villa or “bure” (as the locals call these eco-friendly structures) has a private beach overlooking an incredible Blue Lagoon, so great for a romantic getaway. Visitors dine on fresh local seafood, exotic fruits, and delicious tropical drinks. For those with unlimited funds, the entire island can be rented. www.turtlefiji.com

The Seychelles (Africa) features both inner and outer islands but the outer islands are where you want to go. In particular, Alphonse Island is spectacular. It has a population of 82, so it is guaranteed not to be crowded! The small island offers some of the best diving and fishing in the world. It also has lots of wildlife (including sea turtles and exotic birds) and wide, white beaches. Guests can opt for one of five suites or twenty-five luxury bungalows. Flights lasting roughly fifty minutes depart from the big island of Mahe´.

Note:f you want something a little less remote and lots of amenities, I recommend the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles on Mahe´ Island. www.fourseasons.com/seychelles

Kauai (Hawaii) is hands down the most beautiful and least touristy of all the Hawaiian islands. The most visited are Oahu, Maui, and “Big Island” of Hawaii. But those looking to get away from it all will fall in love with Kauai. On the northern side of the island is Hanalei. This small hamlet features an amazing botanical garden and the Waialeale Volcano and is just one of the most relaxing “get away from it all” places you’ll find. There are a few small eco-friendly hotels on the island, but no high rises. One of the closest islands to Kauai is Niihau, also known as the “forbidden island.” It is where some locals who still practice ancient Hawaiian traditions reside (without running water or electricity). Some good options: Hanalei Colony Resort, and for those on a budget, the Aston Aloha Beach Hotel is a great option.

Punta Cana (Dominican Republic). This is a great honeymoon spot, especially the Paradisus Punta Cana Resort. A twenty-two minute drive from the Punta Cana International Airport but a world away from the chaotic hustle and bustle of everyday life. This is a big resort with lots of amenities: 1 garden villa beachfront suite, 80 Royal Suites, 132 Reserve Suites, and 604 Guest Suites. Sizes range from 500 – 1,000 feet and all have a private terrace or balcony and fully stocked minibars. There is 24-hour room service, 12 restaurants, 8 bars, nightly entertainment, 7 swimming pools, 4 tennis courts, 3 paddle courts, casino, spa, and more. Optional actitivies: scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, fitness center, horseback riding, and more. www.paradisus-puntacana.com

Campania (Italy). Everyone knows that Italy is a romantic place, but also full of tourists. But there are a few places were those in the know can go and find utopia. About an hour south of Sorrento is the Cilento region of Campania. And it is so much better than the Amalfi Coast. It is largely comprised of the Cilento National Park (the second largest park in Italy). Ernest Hemmingway came here in 1952 to get away from it all and relax after writing “The Old Man and The Sea.” Much like during Hemmingway’s time, visitors today will find quaint fishing villages, cute cafes along a seaside promenade, ancient Greek temples, Certosa di San Lorenzo (huge picturesque monastery), and miles of picturesque coastline. Lodging ranges from rustic to upscale. For example, you can stay at the La Fattoria, which is in the heart of Cilento National Park and has very reasonable rates. It has nine rooms, a  swimming pool, and bicycles for rent. www.lafattorialdelcilento.com. For those looking for something more upscale, the Palazzo Belmonte is a elegant county estate that has been turned into a lovely B&B. www.palazzobelmonte.com

Good resources for packing and planning: www.tripadvisor.com and www.urbanoutfitters.com