John, Paul, George and Ringo got it right-all you need is love. But sometimes the hustle and bustle of everyday life forces expressions of that love to fall between the cracks. With demanding schedules and a constant need for speed, Americans today are more on-the-go than ever before, leaving little room for much-needed "R&R" (relationships & romance).
But what the Beatles knew all along, Americans are finding harder to remember. According to the "Romance in America" survey, even the most obvious of romantic holidays-birthdays, anniversaries and Valentine’s Day-have been forgotten at least once by nearly half (45 percent) of us. When it boils down to Mars vs. Venus, it’s Valentine’s Day that slips the minds of one in three men (31 percent) and the special "I do" day that one in three women (30 percent) tend to forget.
As if just remembering a special occasion wasn’t enough, you can throw out that box of chocolates and cancel that floral bouquet delivery. It turns out the majority of Americans (42 percent) feel that a romantic getaway is the best gift to receive from a significant other.
You may be able to give without loving, but you can never love without giving. Here are a few simple, convenient and fun ways to express that love and celebrate your romance year-round:
Make a Getaway. Pack your bags and wave goodbye to the world for the weekend with Doubletree Hotels’ Sweet Romance Getaway package. Each hotel plays "romance concierge," providing couples with Sweet Romance Selections – a guide to local romantic hot spots and activities-ensuring every moment of your getaway is memorable. Other amenities include deluxe accommodations, early check-in and late checkout, a bottle of sparkling wine and breakfast in bed.
Dine In. We all know the real way to our sweetie’s heart-a home-cooked meal. Put the kids to bed, light a few candles, pour two glasses of wine or champagne and watch the evening sizzle as you treat the love of your life to what is bound to become a cherished memory. For a special after-dinner treat, snuggle up under a blanket with a romantic movie and a tasty dessert.
Camp Out. For those nature lovers, spend the evening outdoors together on a clear, warm night. Take a romantic stroll under the stars, enjoying the scenery and, of course, each other’s company. If you’re feeling adventurous, try camping out all night long (in the comfort of your own backyard) and watching the sun rise.
Relive Your Past. Re-create your history together by sending your sweetheart on a romantic scavenger hunt. Leave the first clue in the seat of your loved one’s car in the morning before work. Send your sweetheart around town, picking up various treats and goodies you both enjoy (all prepaid and waiting) at your favorite bakery, wine store, etc. With the final clue, direct your special someone to the exact spot you first met. Be sure to reward your starry-eyed sleuth with a congratulatory kiss.
Give the Gift of Love. Nothing says "I love you" like a creative, homemade gift from the heart. Start by channeling your inner craftsman and decorate a small box any way you like. On the inside flap, write "101 Reasons Why I Love You" and enclose 101 brightly-colored strips of paper that feature handwritten notes declaring your love. Whenever your special someone is in need of that extra boost, suggest drawing a strip from the box and keeping it near all day long as a tender reminder of your love-the gift that keeps on giving.
By: Stacey Moore
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To find out more about romantic getaways anytime throughout the year, couples can visit www.doubletree.com/romance or call (800) 222-TREE. A romantic weekend getaway can be just the thing to rekindle some passionate sparks.
