All of my most unforgettable romantic moments seem to center around the occasions when my true love and I were on long weekend vacations. We would keep the intended destination our little secret, so it would be just the two of us, sneaking off to a wonderful escape to explore new places and, of course, each other. Sometimes the beaches called to us, with the warm sand slapping between our toes while jogging at daybreak. The luxury of a beautiful resort beckoned us often, where we'd snuggle under crisp linen sheets sleepily deciding what we'd order for breakfast the next morning. The magic of it all was heavenly.

For these excursions, it was always just the two of us. There were plenty of opportunities to be with family and friends but this was our time. No one else was needed or welcome. We enjoyed everything together - canoeing in the moonlight, antiquing on a rainy day, or going off the bike trail to discover an exotic, secluded path - filling our time with romance and enchantment. Dining by candlelight, we would re-live the day, sure that this special mini-vacation was the best one ever!

Many years have passed since our first getaway, but the charm of being in love has never faded. Our albums are full of adventure and passion. Our travels are fewer now, but the excitement builds whenever we do plan to "sneak off". Love, at any age, unleashes a treasure trove of memories that can be called upon at any time to take your breath away - again and again.

10 Tips for a Romantic Getaway
  1. Plan a trip someplace where neither one of you have ever gone.
  2. Order different entres so you can share them.
  3. Plan your day together, with enough time to do something specific that pleases each of you.
  4. Stash an extra $100.00 bill in your purse or wallet. If needed, your partner will be delighted with your forthought.
  5. Find a row of gift shops, duck in, surprise each other that evening with a little gift that says "I love you".
  6. A bottle of champagne tucked away in that luggage can be a pleasant end to a perfect evening.
  7. Leave your problems at home. There's no room for them on a getaway.
  8. Try different things. Windsurf, wear a sarong, relax in a hot tub, go camping at night, ride the coaster.
  9. Share an ice cream cone in public.
  10. Hold hands as often as possible. It's a silent statement of love.

Featured Romantic Getaways:
MD Carroll County - www.carrollcountytourism.org
Quaint villages to explore, festivals to celebrate, scenic biking and hiking. Antique shops, country inns, fine restaurants, challenging golf and our Civil War Driving Tour. Just 45 minutes northwest of Baltimore. 1-800-272-1933.

St. Mary's County - www.stmarysmd.com/tourism
NY Fulton County - www.44lakes.com
Breathe in...relax.
PA Pocono Mountains - www.800poconos.com
For over 50 years the Pocono Mountains have played host to honeymooners. The natural scenic beauty, fun-filled year round activities, and the especially romantic atmosphere at our famous couples-only resorts combines to make your Pocono honeymoon a very special place.

Caesars Pocono Resorts - www.CPRresorts.com
Perfect destinations for your honeymoon, romantic getaway or family vacation. Romantic suites feature world exclusive 7-foot tall Champagne Glass Whirlpool Bath-for-Two, in-room pools, heart shaped whirlpools and so much more.

The Inn at Jim Thorpe - www.innjimthorpe.com
Visit the enchanted village of Jim Thorpe. Relax in old world charm in our historic New Orleans style grand hotel. Elegant rooms and suites. Rafting and mountain biking packages. historic tours. Unique shops.
VA Roanoke Valley - www.VisitRoanokeVA.com
Experience the splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia's Roanoke Valley!
WV Canaan Valley Resort - www.canaanresort.com
Situated in an ideal tranquil setting, Canaan Valley Resort is a four-season destination, offering a 250-room lodge, 23 cabins, 34 campsites, fine-dining, conference center, a championship golf course, fitness center, indoor-outdoor pools, whirlpool spa and miles of hiking, biking, Geocaching, paintball, Eurobungy, climbing wall, and skate park.

Pocahontas County - www.pocahontascountwv.com
Come to the beautiful Allegheny Mountains and explore 900 square miles of mountains, forests and natural wonders. Bike along the Greenbrier River. Or enjoy one of our five state parks. Visit Snowshoe Mountain or ride back in time on a steam locomotive train.