Whether you’re more of a mountain or beach person, looking to relax or enjoy an adventure… Whether you’re more into traveling to places for the food or the people, a well-known place or somewhere off the beaten track, we’ve got something to suit your taste! Of course, you could visit any of these places by yourself, but these are some of our top destinations for couples in 2017.
“You’ll never know until you go.” – Your Passport
With so much to see and so little time, we’ve compiled a list of 17 places to visit in 2017. While we understand it may be a bit ambitious to cover them all in a 12-month period, pick your favorites and go now!
Top Destinations For Couples in 2017
1. Adams Peak, Sri Lanka
With many lovely places to visit in Sri Lanka, we’d definitely recommend making a trip to Dalhousie. Here, you can climb to the summit of Sri Pada or Adam’s Peak in Ella. Enjoy a scenic trip as you wind down the road after your arrival in Hatton. Get an early night’s sleep and wake up for a sunrise trek up the mountain (2:30 am start needed). After climbing nearly 6,000 stairs, remove your shoes at the top. Then prepare to witness the first footstep of Buddha, Lord Shiva, or Adam (depending on your religious beliefs).
2. Asheville, North Carolina, USA
Ahhh, that fresh mountain air! With the beautiful landscapes, a variety of food and a plethora of entertainment, Asheville should definitely be on your 2017 agenda! Home to the Biltmore House, Asheville is a brilliant place to visit any time of year. It is also considered to be the LGBT capital of the East Coast. Enjoy the laid back vibe while you explore with your loved one.
3. Bagan, Myanmar
Opening its borders in 2012, now is the time to visit Myanmar. While it is still a developing country, there is adequate infrastructure in place making it easier for tourists to travel around the country. And Bagan should not be missed. With over 2,000 temples in the area, you’ll never be able to visit them all, but why not give it a shot. With many comparing it to the stunning beauty of Angkor Wat and Borobudur, you are sure not to be disappointed!
4. Batad, Philippines
Wow! Still one of the most amazing places we’ve visited to date. After exploring the brilliant beaches the Philippines has to offer, we didn’t know how we could beat it. That is until we made our way to Northern Luzon. A 30-minute hike into the Batad area leads you to an area full of B&B’s ready to welcome you as you soak in the beauty of the rice terraces surrounding you.
5. Eriyadu, Maldives
Fulfilling a lifelong dream, we finally made the Maldives a reality as part of our delayed honeymoon. And, it was definitely worth the wait! The blue water is so inviting and the life underwater is incredible. And did we mention how romantic it is? Be sure to check it out before climate change further impacts the corals and sea life in this region.
6. Flores, Indonesia
If you’re looking for a well-rounded paradise then look no further than Flores. Whether you’re looking for crystal clear waters with amazing diving, snorkeling, and beach lounging, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed. If hiking active volcanos or witnessing the giant Komodo dragon in its natural environment is what you’re looking for, Flores is the place for you!
7. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
With half of our duo being from Australia, it’s ridiculous we haven’t visited here yet. But, it’s going to happen! The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system stretching for over 2,300 km’s. With the Reef being under heavy environmental risks, we want to encourage you to visit before it’s too late.
8. Havana, Cuba
Only legally opening to US citizens in 2015, now is the time to go! While we tend to avoid large, capital cities where possible, Havana is an exception. Live music, Latin dancing, and Spanish cuisine sound like the perfect combination to us!
9. Kauai, Hawaii
You will fall in love with many parts of Kauai. But, in particular, head to Polihale State Park. Beach camping? Falling asleep under the stars? Yes please! See arguably the best coastline Kauai has to offer with mountains as your backdrop. You won’t want to leave this peaceful destination.
10. Khövsgöl Lake, Mongolia
Take in some of Mongolia’s most beautiful landscapes while you make your way through the surrounding forests. Khoskovol Lake is huge and is the most stunning lake we have seen throughout our travels so far. Sleep in one of the local gers. And if you love the outdoors, why not organize a 2-3 day horse trek through the area. Highly recommended!
11. Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia
When you think of Cambodia, beaches aren’t normally the first thing that comes to mind. But head south, an hour off the coast, and you’ll find yourself in a little piece of paradise called Koh Rong Samloem. The island has different pockets, each offering a unique experience. Enjoy a day out soaking up the sun (don’t forget your SPF), before kicking back and watching the sunset!
12. Marlborough, New Zealand
Technically, we’ve already been to New Zealand (but it was only for work, so it doesn’t really count). And to be honest anywhere in New Zealand could have made our list. But as we are especially partial to the South Island, we wanted to make sure you experience the magic Marlborough has to offer. Known for its wine, this is a place not to be missed!
13. Namibia, Africa
If you think of a city like Bangkok for example, Namibia is completely the opposite! Not crowded. Surrounded by wildlife. And one of the most beautiful places on earth. What could be more romantic than watching zebras graze in the wild? Sign me up! When can we go?
14. Pokhara, Nepal
If you love being at one with nature with your significant other, Nepal is waiting for you! Test your mental and physical fitness on a trek (ranging from 1-21 days depending on what you’re up for). You will immediately fall in love with the amazing landscapes Nepal has on offer. Being a lakeside town, Pokhara is the perfect place to unwind and relax after your trek.
15. Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia
What could be more romantic than interacting with a orangutang! And with a lush jungle at your doorstep (assuming they slow down on the palm oil extraction)! Plus you can climb one of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia, Mt. Kinabalu. While you’re at it, dive off the coast at the infamous Sipidan Island. Seriously, a one-stop shop for couples!
16. La Fortuna, Costa Rica
If adventure is your thing, head to Costa Rica. Swim in local waterfalls and zip-line through the jungle. Hike the volcanoes and relax in the hot springs. An adrenaline junkie’s dream, why not experience it with your partner! Get out of your comfort zone and grow closer together in the process.
17. Udaipur, India
Known as the “Venice of the East,” Udaipur offers magnificent views over the lake from any number of rooftops. Indulge in a drink, enjoy a meal, or just sit back and enjoy each other’s company. Visit the local cultural show to get a taste of the Rajasthan style of music and dance. It’s the perfect place to take it all in!
Wherever you go, make sure you spend time together. Whether it’s cuddling up to watch a movie, or just sleeping in, take the time to just appreciate each other!
We’re curious, what’s on your radar for 2017?
This was a guest post from Kim. Kim is a freelance writer and the Co-Founder of Simply Travelled. Simply Travelled is a travel blog that encourages people to take a LEAP! An adult gap year, career break, sabbatical – call it what you will. Despite her klutzy nature, she believes life is all about balance. Being the recipient of so much generosity to date, Kim wants to pay it forward, by offering her top travel tips and advice to everyone interested keen on travelling. You can connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.
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I´d love to see Mongolia.
I´m visiting India, including Udaipur, this year though. I´m so excited.
Oh cool! You’ll LOVE Udaipur. I’m hoping to go back there this year!!
Mongolia is epic! It took us a bit to find our feet as it was so unique, but that’s part of what we fell so much in love with. Enjoy your time in Udaipur
Wow, how can you possibly choose among all these extraordinary destinations!? But not being able to visit all places at once (since I have to abide to the physical laws on earth, lol!), I think I will choose Borneo and the Maldives. It’s heartbreaking that so many places are threatened in one way or another, like the coral bleeching and the palm oil industry slashing the rainforest. How can we be so stupid to destroy our very own home?
Borneo & Maldives are great choices!! And by visiting these places you can make people more aware about the threats to paradise! Hope you enjoy and look forward to hearing more about your trips x
Oooooh I always wanted to have my honeymoon in Udaipur!! I ended up in Paris instead – not a bad alternative I guess :D Great list :)
Umm, no not bad at all! I’d LOVE to go back to Paris.
I was stoked to see Kauai on the list (mostly because I just booked a trip there for July!). Awesome list–and good for couples who take lots of honeymoons! ;)
I’ve only been to Maui and would LOVE to go to Kauai too! You’re lucky!! :)
Amy – You’ll love Kauai, it is such a beautiful place with amazing scenery.
Haha! You have Udaipur as 17! If anyone is coming to Udaipur come by the Udai Art Cafe and find me, Betsy I can tell you where the most romantic spots in town are. As the Monsoon palace is not the best sunset spot in my opinion. Hire a car and go out into the countryside. The most romantic meal I have ever had in Udaipur was at Hari Garh restaurant. It is right on Lake Pichola. Unlike most restaurant it is on the ground floor but there are tables that extend out over the water and it is beautiful when the sun is setting.
Happy travels everyone!
True that, Betsy knows Udaipur best!!
I bookmarked this post for reference once I’ll have a partner to travel with :) Anyways, I’ve been to Sabah and Philippines (twice) and I actually enjoyed my stay in Coron, Palawan because of the amazing team behind Ultimate Coron Experience. I booked a 3D2N tour and it’s one of the best tours I’ve ever experienced in my SEA adventure.