Think Locally
Why do we seem to think romantic translates into airtravel to some far-flung resort? Consider the fact that where you live is in some sort of proximity to someone else’s romantic destination, and maybe that will start your creative juices flowing.
Regional Wine Tours
These days every region of the US has a selection of wineries. Why not? We are a nation of innovators. All that’s required to get your romantic local wine tour off the ground is a little homework. New England and the Mid-Atlantic have pockets of strong wine culture. Of note is the area along eastern Long Island, NY (http://www.longislandwinecountry.com). Here grape harvests are dependent on nearly a year’s worth of weather and climate. And this area of the country is particularly finicky in all of its seasons. Reputable are all the wines from upstate New York or “The Finger Lake” region.
Virginia and the Southeast have more temperate climates than Long Island and the Northeast, something more akin to the temperate California climate. Virginia’s viticulture has a legacy that begins with Thomas Jefferson who had grape vines imported from Italy and cultivated them on Monticello land.
The Cascades mountain range splits the Northwest region, Oregon and Washington (http://www.winesnw.com/orhome.html) into smaller climatic areas, each conducive to its own growing conditions. Wherever the area, though, this region does not fail to turn out wines with national acclaim, owing to its laundry-list of vineyards and wine producers.
Besides these, nearly every state in the union has at least one winery. Where there is wine, there is romance.
Bed and Breakfast
You have probably stumbled across one of these bed and breakfasts not far from your home stomping grounds. Bed and breakfasts are some of the more secluded romantic accommodations couples choose. Homey, cozy, and hospitable often with markedly fine cuisine, coastal or historic situations, they provide all the ingredients for a romantic getaway without the hassle of far away. Check with your local Chamber of Commerce for those notable and closest to you or check out the “B and B Online website” at http://www.bbonline.com. Pack your bags and a picnic basket with your favorite bottle of bubbly. Pair your stay with a relaxing tour of local antiques shops or haggle over finds at the hottest flea markets.
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