Ask them what kind of activities and environments they enjoy. Do they prefer the beach, mountains, urban travel, or something more adventurous? Research has shown that sensation-seekers are drawn to other adrenaline junkies, and it seems to be a trait that's conducive to romance. A study presented participants with high sensation-seeking measures with descriptions of potential romantic partners.
The purpose was to examine the relationship between sensation seeking and the extent to which these people see others as attractive. Compared to low sensation seekers, the group high in sensation-seeking rated potential partners as less risky and more attractive. They were more likely to want to date the individuals (whose descriptions were actually computer-generated.)
Since it's a new relationship, choose a destination and activities that both of you will be comfortable with. More and more couples are seeking the perfect romantic getaway. Valentine's Day travel plans increased by 45% in the US between 2022 and 2023. The majority of itineraries - 71% - were domestic. 29% of couples went on a trip abroad.
Choose a destination close to home
For a new relationship, choosing a destination that's not too far away might be wise. That's in case the trip doesn't work out – it's easier to get home. What's more, a weekend getaway a few hours from home can be just as romantic as a week-long vacation in an exotic location. Any setting could be perfect for the soft launch of your relationship as long as you feel good together.
If it was meant to be and you end up tying the knot, you could become one of many couples that choose a destination wedding. The global market for these weddings grew from $21.3 billion to $28.3 billion year-over-year in 2023. Industry professionals expect that growth to continue throughout 2024.
Journese, a luxury vacation provider, said destination wedding bookings increased significantly in 2023. That growth continues in 2024. These trips make up around a third of the wholesaler's total group bookings.
Set a romantic tone – and a budget
Discuss the budget openly to ensure that both of you are comfortable with the cost of the trip. If the budget permits, look for a boutique hotel, a private cabin, or other romantic accommodations.
Consider activities like a candlelit dinner, a sunset cruise, a couples' spa day, or a walk on the beach. Pack appropriately for the weather and planned activities, and consider bringing something special. It could be a bottle of wine, a playlist of romantic songs, or a small gift.
Follow up after you return
After you return, consider planning a follow-up date that relates to your trip, like cooking a meal inspired by the place you visited or watching a movie about that destination. Vacations make people 65% happier on average, and 58% say their world feels bigger after returning. Hopefully, this will be true for you.
Keep the spark alive
In a survey, 77% of 2,000 participants said vacations were a great way to keep the spark alive in a relationship. New research has found that a vacation saved almost 60% of Americans' relationships, but it doesn't say whether they traveled as a couple.
Final thoughts
Consider your partner's preferences, plan thoughtfully, and focus on meaningful moments together. This will help ensure that your perfect romantic getaway strengthens your bond.
