Weekend Getaways
A two-day vacay is just a short drive away
By Brent Turnbull
It's that time of the year when you're ready for some sun -- heck, even added hours of daylight are a supreme bonus during winter. Forget holding out for spring or splurging on an expensive week in the sun for a romantic break. Instead, try a local weekend getaway -- short enough to spend some quality time together but not long enough to drive each other insane. Romantic and rejuvenating, a quick two-day adventure is just what the doctor ordered. The weekend getaway is a cinch. Just do some research, pack your bags and head out.
The Spaaaaah
Most people live within driving distance of a simple, idyllic spa. But for a rejuvenating weekend getaway find a spa with some bonus exclusives. You can still lie around and be pampered, but many spa weekends now include adventure activities like hiking, skiing and caving. What sounds better than kayaking by day and a full-body rosehip massage and eucalyptus body exfoliation by night? It's the best of both worlds. The emphasis is on total mind-and-body health treatments to leave you feeling relaxed, de-stressed and ready to enjoy each other's company without the baggage of your week from hell at work.
What to look for: spas that provide, or at least permit, alcohol (a glass of wine is always relaxing)
Benefits: Total relaxation is a powerful aphrodisiac.
More info: www.spafinder.com
Uhmmm...Ohmmm?
Spiritual retreats are starting to offer many of the same amenities as spas. Some retreat centers feature gourmet food and body therapies (like therapeutic heated rock massages), but retreats generally focus more on the mind than the body. Centers offer everything from yoga to tai chi to Buddhist meditation. Stretching your joints and calming your mind can give you the "flexibility" to take your relationship to new levels. Find something middle of the road: Some are austere, provide only basic meals and frown on coed accommodations.
What to look for: amenities and certified instructors
Benefits: What brings you two together more than yoga's downward dog stretching for two?
More info: www.retreatfinder.com
Cooking Up Romance
Heat up your relationship with some spicy cooking in the kitchen. Cooking retreats offer everything from Asian to Mexican to continental cuisine. Group classes alleviate the pressure of being alone together for an entire weekend, and preparing food might give you the erotic Like Water For Chocolate experience you've been looking for. Plus, after preparing and eating your scrumptious meal, you can sneak off alone while the staff does the dishes.
What to look for: exactly what you'll be preparing
Benefits: If the romance doesn't pan out, you still learn to cook.
More info: There are loads of regional resources online.
Hit the Road, Jack
There's nothing like feeling the freedom of the open road. Looming in the distance is your destination, the Shrine of the Miracle Tortilla. For something completely different, visit the crazy roadside attractions North America has to offer. Visit the World's Largest Ball of Twine, or have her cling to you while touring ghost towns in your area. Every bizarro moment will provide some lasting memories for the relationship.
What to look for: giant lumberjacks, elephant graves, transparent women
Benefits: You never forget your first time...in a UFO museum.
More info: www.roadsideamerica.com, www.ghosttowns.com
Hometown Hideaway
Find a hotel in your own city, check in, turn off your pagers and cell phones, and don't tell anyone where you are. You'll be surprised at how romantic you can feel when hiding away a few miles from home. There's something naughty and delicious about it. Many hotels even offer great deals on weekend packages for walk-in customers.
What to look for: hot tub, room service, dirty movies
Benefits: See the city with new eyes
More info: local yellow pages
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