By Shian Parkinson

There are so many wonderful things to see and do in this romantic travel destination. Take that "special someone" to Banff. I'm a hopeless romantic. I enjoy the element of surprise when planning something special for that loved one.

Looking for some romantic ideas for that great romantic weekend getaway? Are you someone who just doesn't have the imagination for planning something memorable. Firstly... Banff is beautiful in summer or winter. Those majestic Rockies look gorgeous in all seasons.

We have some very romantic hotels in the area. The Banff Springs Hotel is a "castle." It's surrounded by mountains on all sides with staggering views. The services offered here range from twelve choices of cuisine, the world class Willow Stream Spa, a scenic golf course and much much more.

There are some beautiful parks for that traditional "romantic picnic." Cascade Garden is unique and a great example of the Canadian landscape right in town. So is Central Park with the Bow River winding it's way through Banff. There's always Cascade Ponds. It's a small man made lake with islands, and a soft flowing creek at one end. Just a few minutes outside Banff. Very idyllic on a hot summer day!

If you want some clean fresh air....there are some great hiking trails around town. Most of these are very scenic, very easy and very romantic! Or take a walking tour of town with some thirty points of interest. If you're in for a little more of a challenge....do some mountain biking, or kayaking on the Bow River, or climb that mountain. There are lots of mountains to choose from!

Still looking for a few more romantic ideas....you could always take the "love of your life" up the Banff Gondola. There are breathtaking views of all the mountain ranges up there. You can see for miles....have a latte or a very intimate lunch or dinner. If that isn't enough....then the ultimate helicopter ride through the Rockies should do the trick.

The winter season in Banff is just as romantic. Icicles, snowflakes and warm roaring fireplaces can get take you to the next level of your relationship. Remember the movie Dr. Zhivago? Well, imagine dog sledding through tranquil forests, horse drawn sleigh rides with the sound of the crisp snow underneath you, or ice skating on any number of ponds.

If you're looking for something a little more "French," then the Chateau Lake Louise could be your next romantic travel destination. It's situated around a lake at the base of a glacier. So beautiful, with very unique architecture. Once again this romantic hotel offers everything you could want for in a romantic weekend getaway. Maybe a walk around the lake, or how about canoeing by the glacier or a beautiful gourmet dinner in one of eight dining areas.

Banff is definitely a Romantic Travel Destination. The romance potential here is limitless....use some imagination, surprise the "love of your life." Could there be a marriage proposal around the corner!


-Shian Parkinson has spent more than twenty years visiting the Canadian Rockies. For more information about this romantic travel destination or some great romantic ideas visit her website www.best-banff-vacations.com.


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By Marica Zammit

Every budding traveler has his or her own favorite romantic travel destinations.

However, some destinations seem to crop up in any romantic getaways list. Places like Venice and the French Riviera have been popular choices with couples for decades.

But perhaps this year, you'd like to go somewhere more low profile than your usual famous romantic vacation spots... Plus when all is said and done, the most important factor for a truly memorable romantic getaway is the company you're with and not the destination.

Here are three romantic travel destinations that you might want to consider if you're planning on taking your special one on a short romantic escapade.

Majorca - Balearic Islands, Spain 
The magical island of Majorca is located off the south-east coast of Spain. This beautiful island is blessed with many beaches, spectacular mountains, small intimate villages and stunning countryside scenery.

Cyprus 
Immerse yourself into the diverse culture of Cyprus. European, Greek, Middle Eastern and Turkish cultural influences intertwined into one island! Impressive isn't it? The island of Aphrodite offers many beautiful mountain walks, fantastic beaches, skiing opportunities and delicious food and wine.

Malta 
Dubbed the Mediterranean's best kept secret, the tiny island of Malta will surely amaze you! Situated right at the heart of the Mediterranean, this small island has over 7000 years of history, countless baroque masterpieces, lovely beaches and much more.

You can make your stay on the Maltese islands as active as you wish. The main advantage that Malta has over other romantic destinations in the Mediterranean is its smallness, just 316 sq kms.

So in Malta, you can spend many lazy days with your partner and dedicate just a few hours to sightseeing. Since the island is so small, you'll be able to see its top attractions even in such a short time. And no matter where you stay, you're never too far off from the most popular attractions and sights.

If you want to really escape the crowds and relax in total tranquility, head to Gozo - Malta's sister island. This tiny island is literally something else... it's for good reason that they refer to Gozo as the "island where time stood still". Sounds dreamy doesn't it?


If you'd like to learn more about the fascinating islands of Malta and Gozo, visit Dreamy Malta Vacations.

For more information on the magical island of Gozo and its many romantic villas, visit Charming Gozo Villas.


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An anniversary is a great excuse for a little vacation. Whether it be a weekend getaway or a week long journey, make it extra special with the right planning. Here is a list of what gifts celebrate each year. Maybe you can try to incorporate the theme into your vacation.

1st Anniversary- Traditional: Paper - Modern: Plastic / Clocks
2nd Anniversary- Traditional: Cotton - Modern: Cotton / China
3rd Anniversary- Traditional: Leather - Modern: Crystal / Glass
4th Anniversary- Traditional: Fruit or Flowers - Modern: Linen, Silk, Nylon
5th Anniversary- Traditional: Wood - Modern: Silverware
6th Anniversary- Traditional: Candy - Modern: Iron / Wood
7th Anniversary- Traditional: Copper and Wool - Modern: Brass
8th Anniversary- Traditional: Bronze - Modern: Pottery / Linen
9th Anniversary- Traditional: Pottery - Modern: Willow / Leather
10th Anniversary- Traditional: Tin - Modern: Aluminum / Diamond
11th Anniversary- Traditional: Steel - Modern: Jewelry
12th Anniversary- Traditional: Silk - Modern: Linen / Pearl
13th Anniversary- Traditional: Lace - Modern: Textiles / Faux Fur
14th Anniversary- Traditional: Ivory - Modern: Gold
15th Anniversary- Traditional: Crystal - Modern: Glass / Watches