Love is in the air and with the world back open following the COVID-19 pandemic many couples are looking for a romantic getaway. For those seeking to give the gift of travel this Valentine’s Day, Automobile Club of Southern California travel advisors have released the 2023 top romantic vacation destinations and what couples should know before booking.
Auto Club travel advisors say they’ve noticed an eagerness to travel again, with many people willing to book early. Some people are booking 18 months to two years in advance. Travelers are looking to make up for lost time after nearly 3 years of restrictions. Nearly 75 percent of travel advisors also reported that that they are seeing strong interest in all-inclusive resorts, a popular experience for many romantic getaways.
In addition to the most popular destinations couples are booking this Valentine’s Day, a new AAA survey finds 52 percent of U.S. adults are just as likely or more likely to consider taking a cruise vacation than they were before the pandemic. That number is up from 45 percent one year ago.
For those couples planning a romantic getaway, the Auto Club has the following tips:
- Book Travel Protection Plans to ensure you’re covered for unexpected occurrences.
- Book activities or shore excursions early, since they are likely to sell out.
- When traveling internationally, passports must be valid for at least six months prior to your return. AAA Travel can help you rush your passport as well as take your photo.
- Always carry a change of clothes, your medications, your itinerary and any other must-have items in your carry-on luggage.
- Look into arriving a day earlier than the formal start of your tour or cruise and/or staying a day later by booking a hotel room so that you are not too rushed or tired to enjoy your vacation.
- Arrive at the airport early. Recommended time for domestic is 2+ hours and international is 3+ hours.
- Consult with your travel advisor for other vitally important information specific to your destination.