Travel Blog: Year 2012 Travel

Travel Blog: Year 2012

Travel Blog:

The world is full of beautiful and interesting places to visit. Yet one may ask oneself where to go first, especially at the beginning of a relationship. While the first, second and even third dates have passed, perhaps even a few months, the question of where to go on the first 'real' trip is one that must be weighed carefully and answered properly. The following paragraphs have compiled a list of five must-see places in the year 2012, five places from which one can choose that are certain to be as unforgettable as they are remarkable.

The five places mentioned above all include either cities or countries. For instance, the first place is the City of Lights, Paris, France, which is a must-see for any couple at any point of the relationship. Yet the second place is Ireland, a country whose countryside is as romantic as it is calm, and very beautiful indeed. Ireland is also quite cheap, especially if one is used to eating simply and is able to lodge with strangers whose hearts are as warm as their hearths.

Whereas Paris is a metropolitan area for those who are very 'chic' and in step with fashion, art, and culture, Ireland is lower key, for people who are willing to spend some time listening to the patter of the rain and the beautifully green solitude of the country.

The third place that is a must-visit for couples in 2012 is Turkey. The country, especially its capital, Ankara, is full of life, color, and culture. Though Turkey is undergoing quite a tumultuous time, especially as it is across the border from many Middle Eastern countries, Turkey's largest city, Istanbul, as well as the capital, mentioned above, offer a full array of luxurious services, from world class hotels, to nightlife, to spice markets and shopping. Turkey is definitely a destination for the adventurous.

For those Americans who want to stay close to home and experience the novelty of a new country, Canada must not be forgotten. Montreal, a city just at the border of the U.S. (New York State), and Canada, is full of charm and history, with churches so close to each other that Mark Twain was known to say that one could not throw a stone without breaking a church window. Yet Montreal is not only for lovers of religion and history; indeed, the city presents the gastronome with an array of fantastic opportunities as well. For this reason, Montreal is fourth on the list of must-see places for couples.

Perhaps the most unexpected but, in a way, predictable destination is a 'warm weather' destination. This kind of a yearly trip is present on every couple's list. Who does not love a day on the beach with a daiquiri, or a swim in the most clear, blue water? Yet whereas some couples may choose the Caribbean and Mexico, which are, indeed, wonderful places, this list recommends one of two warm-weather destinations that can put that spark back into even an older relationship. These places are Thailand and Brazil. Thailand is an ever-popular destination, especially since it is very exotic. Bangkok, the capital of the country, can present the visitor with an out of body experience, with a focus on religion, history and a larger-than-life temple.

In contrast with Thailand, Brazil is just a few hours' flight away, and in the same time zone as the East Coast of the U.S. In Brazil, one could visit any of the three large cities: Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paolo or Brasilia, the capital. Rio the Janeiro is the must-see, tourist attraction, a vibrant city both during Carnivale and out of season, with fantastic temperature year-round. Sao Paolo, however, offers a big city, New York-esque experience, for those who want to enjoy culture and food. These few destinations, counted here and divided into categories, present any couple with a fun, exciting itinerary that can be relaxing, fast paced, or culturally resplendent.

Last to be included here is a list of hotels where one can stay and enjoy these wonderful cities and countries.

France: Hotel le Bellechasse (Paris), or Hotel Francois 1er (Paris), both very evocative of French Style in the City of Lights and both very romantic.

Ireland: Hampton Hotel (Dublin), for a very clean yet comfortable look.

Turkey: A'jia Hotel (Istanbul), or for more space the Deris Bosphorus Lodge (Istanbul), both of which have fantastic service.

Quebec/Canada: Le Saint Sulpice Montreal, for fantastic service and the spa amenities as well as great views of the Old Town.

Thailand: Ananthara Bangkok, for a relaxing feel.

Brazil: If you do not choose Thailand, Brazil plenty to offer, including: Hotel Santa Teresa with pool access and amazing views in Rio, and the Emiliano Hotel in Sao Paulo.

LETTER to the EDITOR:

Dear Mr. Solzmann,

I have included in my letter to you an excerpt from my travel-based blog. This blog offers monthly updates, complete with detailed descriptions, advice, and pictures, as well as answers to various questions about destinations featured. The blog is unique in that it provides subscribers with customized itineraries, such as the couples-focused one presented above.