Be my Valentine: top 5 hotels for a romantic getaway
Banyan Tree Dubai
Banyan Tree Dubai is a masterpiece of Asian elegance, nestled in the heart of Dubai with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and the iconic Ain Dubai Ferris wheel. The hotel boasts a private 500-meter beach, three pools, five exquisite restaurants, and luxurious rooms offering panoramic vistas.
Celebrate the most romantic day of the year with the Royal Banyan Couple Experience at the spa—a transformative journey of harmony and renewal that blends Middle Eastern traditions with Asian wellness practices. Indulge in a soothing ritual that includes a eucalyptus-infused black soap steam, refreshing shower, kessa exfoliation, verbena rassoul wrap, and argan-infused treatments for your face and hair. The experience concludes with a blissful massage and an aromatic bath, leaving you rejuvenated and deeply connected.
End this enchanting day with a romantic dinner at Alizée, the French fine-dining restaurant, featuring a special five-course menu. Savour exquisite dishes like herb-crusted lamb and sea bass with sturgeon caviar for a truly unforgettable evening.
The Nautilus, Maldives
The luxurious Nautilus resort in the Maldives invites you to celebrate Valentine’s Day surrounded by natural beauty and seclusion. Here, you can embark on a journey of self-discovery while deepening your bond with your partner. The Solasta Spa offers an array of indulgent experiences, including aromatherapy, synchronised four-hand massages, self-care workshops, and couples’ yoga and meditation sessions. As a special keepsake, each couple will receive a self-care gift set featuring essential oils, massage oil, and a body scrub. For those seeking inspiration, individual art workshops are available, allowing you to express your emotions through creativity. A barefoot stroll along the island’s pristine white beaches, accompanied by outdoor meditation, brings moments of tranquillity and harmony with nature. In the evening, delight in exquisite dining experiences: a private dinner on a secluded sandbank, an elegant meal at Thyme Beach, or champagne paired with fine dishes at Zeytoun.
On February 12th, the eve of Valentine’s Day, discover the magic of the full moon with the resort’s exclusive Moonlit Renewal rituals under the stars. Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of Tibetan singing bowls, the gentle rhythm of ocean waves, the aromas of essential oils, and the warmth of herbal tea to set your intentions. Guests can enjoy aromatherapy on the sandy shores, a moonlit massage, and a serene dip in the ocean, followed by relaxation by the water’s edge. These enchanting rituals are held monthly at The Nautilus during the night of the full moon.
The Oberoi, Marrakech
Nestled among lush gardens and olive groves with the majestic Atlas Mountains as a backdrop, The Oberoi, Marrakech, promises couples a romantic getaway filled with unforgettable experiences and refined pleasures.
Start your morning with a champagne breakfast aboard a hot air balloon, floating high above Marrakech, accompanied by a bouquet of fresh flowers. Follow this with a rejuvenating spa ritual at The Oberoi Spa, where relaxation meets indulgence.
In the evening, embark on a culinary journey at Rivayat, where Chef Rohit Ghai presents a special Valentine’s menu inspired by Indian cuisine. Savour dishes such as tender tandoori salmon, crispy turkey samosas, and the flavourful Rogan Josh curry. End the night with a glass of wine under the stars at Vue, a bar offering stunning views of Marrakech’s glittering skyline.
For an extraordinary romantic adventure, take a thrilling ride through Marrakech on a vintage motorcycle with a sidecar. Explore the city’s hidden gems, visit picturesque gardens, weave through bustling markets, and cap off the day with a glass of champagne, celebrating Valentine’s Day in style.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, invites couples to celebrate an unforgettable Valentine’s Day. The resort offers a unique program that blends romance, gastronomy, and relaxation. Begin your day with a couple’s Zen yoga session or a strength workout overlooking the ocean to nurture harmony in your relationship. Follow this with total relaxation during a 90-minute candle wax massage at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, where you’ll receive a rose quartz crystal as a special gift. In the evening, embark on a romantic catamaran cruise featuring a breathtaking sunset, playful dolphins, and champagne.
For those with a creative spirit, the resort offers art workshops, while food enthusiasts can indulge in a tasting menu crafted by Michelin-starred chef David Yarnos, who holds two stars. For a more private evening, couples can enjoy an intimate dinner under the stars in the Mystique Garden or by the yacht marina.
Layan Life by Anantara
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Phuket, the newly opened Layan Life by Anantara introduces a groundbreaking approach to health and harmony. Offering programs ranging from 3 to 10 days, the retreat combines cutting-edge technology, traditional Thai medicine, and the philosophy of mindful living.
Every guest’s journey begins with a comprehensive diagnostic process, including an epigenetic test and 3D body scanning, to craft a personalised wellness program. The unique concept revolves around the “Four Pillars” of wellness: longevity medicine, traditional Thai practices, modern medicine, and lifestyle medicine.
Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, from yoga, meditation, fitness, and spa treatments to more dynamic pursuits like windsurfing, stargazing at the resort’s private observatory, and culinary workshops.
To celebrate Valentine’s Day, the resort offers a special festive menu curated by Chef Filippo Tavilla, presenting a unique take on traditional Thai cuisine to make the occasion truly unforgettable.
