Top 10 Romantic Getaways in the U.S

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How do you make a top-ten list of something subjective like honeymoon locations? Systematically, that's how.

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Highly Scientific Ranking

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To create this list, I started with general Internet searches for top honeymoon spots in the U.S. I tried to weed out the advertisers and focused instead on the news and information websites, such as About.com, MSNBC and USA Today.

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Next, I began putting the various lists into a spreadsheet, and then cross-referenced the data to find the ten locations that occurred most often on the most lists. When that proved to be way too complicated, I just picked the ten locations I liked the most! Voila ... a top-ten romantic getaway list (in no particular order).

Top 10 Romantic Getaways in the United States

1. Mountain Cabin - Part One

If you're the kind of person that equates "romantic getaway" with "mountain seclusion," then a cabin in the Rockies might be just the thing. The popular ski towns of Aspen and Vail, Colorado are popular for another reason - cabin retreats. Imagine the snow falling around your warm and cozy cabin. Imagine the smell of hot chocolate and the bubbling sound of a hot tub. And just imagine being there with the one you love!

2. Mountain Cabin - Part Two

The Smokey Mountains come up on a lot of romantic getaway lists. For instance, each year approximately 10,000 people get married in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a popular vacation spot in the Smokey Mountains. Because of this, the mountain town has become known as the unofficial wedding and honeymoon capital of the South. With its wooded seclusion, small-town charm, and breathtaking mountain views, it's no wonder so many people equate "Gatlinburg" with "romantic retreat."

3. Bed & Breakfast in Vermont

Manchester, Vermont offers all the ingredients of a classic New England getaway -- white-steepled churches, bed and breakfast accommodations, romantic dining and great skiing.

In more recent times, shopping has also taken root in Manchester. The city's website, ManchesterVermont.com, says: "Today, visitors to our community come to enjoy Brooks Brothers, Ralph Lauren and J. Crew, as well as the more traditional recreational activities."

4. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

There's a reason the Kennedy family owned vacation homes in Cape Cod. This New England seascape is the essence of "small beach town" tranquility. Don't expect an action-packed beach-resort experience - Cape Cod is not that kind of vacation spot. But if your idea of relaxation is a seaside stroll along historic harbors, biking and boating, and visiting an antique shop or two, then this is your place.

5. San Francisco, California

San Francisco is a picturesque city with a diverse mix of cultures and populations. It's also a popular destination for couples in search of a romantic getaway. Between the Golden Gate Bridge and their world-famous trolleys, San Francisco offers something for everyone.

As an alternative, you might also consider adjacent Sausalito, California, a Mediterranean-style village that marks the gateway to California Wine Country. And speaking of California wine...

6. California Wine Country

If your idea of romance involves good wine and good scenery, you can't go wrong with California Wine Country as your destination. Napa Valley and Sonoma County are about an hour's drive north of San Francisco, and they have long been an attraction for honeymooners, wine lovers, and wine-loving honeymooners. Add in the scenery and the availability of bed-and-breakfast-style lodging, and you have all the makings of a great romantic getaway.

7. Big Island, Hawaii

Sure, some parts of Hawaii are quite touristy. (Waikiki comes to mind.) But there are plenty of locations on the volcano-formed island that offer beauty, seclusion and a nature-rich experience you can't find anywhere else.

On the Big Island of Hawaii, the Kona Village Resort is famous for providing comfort and luxury in an otherwise remote tropical region. The resort is also a popular spot for honeymooners, and it comes up on quite a few "top ten" lists like this one.

8. Charleston, South Carolina

I grew up in Virginia and have traveled all throughout the Carolinas. But when I think of "Southern hospitality," one place comes to mind above all others. Charleston, South Carolina. Marjabelle Young Stewart, one of America's well-known etiquette experts, once called Charleston the "most mannerly" city in the U.S., and I think she was right.

Founded in 1670, Charleston held significance during both the American Revolution and the Civil War. To this day, it retains much of its old-world charm and gentility. Conde Nast Traveler has named it a top-ten domestic destination for nine consecutive years.

There's one other thing I love about Charleston. I'm a southerner by birth, and I vote for Charleston as having the most delightful of all the southern dialects.

9. Niagara Falls

Okay, so this one's a bit cliche. But the reason Niagara Falls has been in so many movies, songs and water-cooler conversations is because so many people flock to it with romantic notions in mind. Straddling the border between the U.S. (New York) and Canada, Niagara Falls has attracted honeymooners and getaway-ers for 200 years.

In fact, if you played word-association and said "Niagara Falls," most people would probably say one of two things - waterfall or honeymoon. For that reason alone, Niagara Falls has earned its place on this list.

10. Home Sweet Home

If you consider your home a cozy refuge from the world, it is in a sense a getaway. After all, home is a place to get away from lots of things -- work, school, crowds, relatives, noise, traffic and hassle. It's also a place where you're the most comfortable. So there's certainly nothing unromantic about a crackling fire, a bottle of champagne, and a table for two in home sweet home.

Top 10 Romantic Getaways in the U.S

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Nantucket: Coastal Charm and Beautiful Beaches

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Let a gentle ocean breeze wash over you, peruse exquisite boutiques in town, or simply soak up the sun 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod. Anything you can imagine, and anything related to relaxation, is waiting for you on the charming and isolated island of Nantucket. Nantucket is brimming with adventure and excitement in an atmosphere all its own, so hope aboard the ferry and set out for an actively invigorating getaway to this popular Massachusetts destination.

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It is impossible to overstate the beauty of the pristine and stunning beaches that line the shore of this quaint little island. The sparkling stretches of sand along the north shore, including Children's Beach, Dionis Beach, and Jetties Beach, are the perfect place for family-oriented excursion since they are protected by Nantucket Sound and generally have few waves. Swimming, shelling, and sunbathing are all available near the water in addition to sandcastle building competitions and Fourth of July fireworks at Jetties Beach and a playground at Children's Beach.

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In contrast to the relative calm of the north, the rest of Nantucket's shoreline is susceptible to pounding surf and strong currents. The south and eastern shores, which feature Miacomet Beach, Cisco Beach, Surfside Beach, and Siasconset Beach, are particularly dangerous since the Atlantic's waves flood into this area. Depending on the conditions, swimming is sometimes possible, but wading is usually a better bet along with surfing at Cisco Beach. On the western shore, Madaket Beach has very heavy surf along its lengthy banks and is the best place on the island to soak up a vibrant and breathtaking sunset.

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Although the numerous public beaches cater to different crowds, the local attractions offer the perfect blend of history and ambiance to leave every visitor satisfied with their experience. Outdoor enthusiasts simply cannot miss a jaunt around the island on a harbor cruise that also features a lobstering demonstration, a popular pastime off the Massachusetts coast. Even more adventure awaits at the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, whose complex ecosystem is perfect for appreciating the great outdoors. Featuring miles of hiking trails, acres of maritime dunes and forest, and extensive white sand beaches, visitors can catch a glimpse of various wildlife, including egrets, osprey, harbor seals, and much more, or visit the historic Great Point Lighthouse.

With its rich history as the whaling capital of the world during the 1800s, a stop by the Whaling Museum is always in order during your stay on Nantucket. The awe-inspiring 43-foot skeleton of a finback whale is sure to delight children, while adults can certainly appreciate the paintings, portraits, and collection of scrimshaw in addition to the daily lectures, chock-full of colorful history, on the whaling industry. If the history of the island appeals to your senses, or you simply need to fill a rainy day, the Nantucket Life Saving Museum, with its stories of heroism, is always inspirational, and the Egan Maritime Foundation Museum offers interesting insight into the traditions, architecture, and history of Nantucket.

Even after all of these coordinated attractions, the bountiful shops in Nantucket Town, housed in wharf shacks along the harbor, are still waiting for you to pick up a memento or little piece of history. Festival aficionados will also appreciate the Daffodil Festival in April, the Nantucket Wine Festival in May, the Nantucket Film Festival in June, and the Nantucket Arts Festival and Nantucket Harvest Weekend in October.

With so much to see and do on this exciting, welcoming island, it can be easy to overlook the importance of your lodging. When you stay in Nantucket vacation rentals, the island is an oyster of nearby amusements and activities just waiting for you a short stroll away. Enjoy easy access to boutiques, museums, and beaches without giving up any of the comforts of home you are accustomed to, including a spacious living room, gourmet kitchen, wireless internet, a washer and dryer, and much more. For a Nantucket getaway to remember, search the numerous Nantucket rentals available and experience the difference of truly accommodating accommodations.

Nantucket: Coastal Charm and Beautiful Beaches

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Florida Time Share Promotions

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Florida is a very popular tourist destination. As a result, some tourists stay even longer than a few weeks. That's where time share rentals come in. The getaways offered by timeshare ownership combines the comforts of home with the luxuriant style of world-class resorts or clubs.

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To experience the magic of Florida, these resorts entice potential owners with attractive promotions such as discounted vacations and free resort tours, presentations that outline the advantages of buying into their property, free tickets to popular attractions and gift vouchers. There is also owner referral, where the resort offers incentives to a member on recommending a guest or potential buyer.

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The great feature of these promotions is that it helps a great deal in deciding which timeshare vacation to purchase. Instead of being taken in by the glib spiel of marketing geniuses and misleading promotions, extensive and meticulous research is a must.

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In Florida, timeshare resorts have great promotional ideas. Typically, in tourist hubs like Orlando and Kissimee, 4 day stays at prices ranging from -0 are available. At times, the stay could even be free!

These timeshare promotions find their way to us through the Internet, mail or telephone. Disney World, Sea World, Westgate vacations, Marriott, Sheraton and numerous beach resorts are not far behind in their attempts at seducing the buyer with their 'unique' features.

Leisure is an integral part of our lifestyle. Life is a blessing and one needs to take time to smell the flowers. These promotional vacation packages are definitely steps in the right direction.

Florida Time Share Promotions

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Where to Stay on Cape Cod

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Choosing Cape Cod as a vacation destination was a great decision. You must, however, now determine what part of the Cape to visit and where to stay. Our 65 miles have distinct "sections," each with its own special features: The Upper Cape (closest to the bridges), the Mid-Cape and the Lower or Outer Cape. Even though, technically, the Lower Cape is farther North than the Upper Cape, it is easy to remember the terms if you think of Cape Cod as your arm raised over your head. Your lower arm may be higher than your upper arm but you can still remember the difference. (Illustrated using an actual picture of my arm!)

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PLEASE NOTE: Some people are trying to divide Cape Cod into four sections: Upper, Mid, Lower and Outer. If you hear these distinctions, the Lower Cape is then meant to refer to the "elbow" region of the cape, while the Outer Cape refers to the forearm, wrist and hand. To most people, however, the terms "Lower" and "Outer" Cape are synonymous.

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The Upper Cape was settled first (if you don't count the Pilgrims pre-Plymouth landing in Provincetown, circa 1620). On the Upper Cape you will find many historic houses and classic architecture. The beaches are found on Cape Cod Bay and Nantucket Sound.

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The Mid-Cape is the most populated part of the Cape. Our only city, Hyannis, is located there. Visitors who do not want to be without the urban influences of malls, neon and night life should plan to stay there. Mid-Cape beaches are found on Nantucket Sound and Cape Cod Bay.

The Lower Cape is the most remote and least populated part of Cape Cod. It is also the narrowest and is surrounded by water. Lower Cape beaches are found on the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod Bay and at the numerous crystal clear fresh water ponds located throughout. These ponds were formed by huge chunks of ice left by our last passing glacier.

The Great Beach, running from Chatham to Provincetown, faces the Atlantic and is truly the best beach on the Cape. It inspired President Kennedy to form the Cape Cod National Seashore Project here on the Lower Cape and not in the Mid-Cape area where he had his own summer home. It is the only place to go if you are a lover of waves. Standing on the shore, beneath towering dune cliffs, one gets a special feeling watching the sun rise out of the ocean, knowing that beyond the horizon lies Portugal. The North Atlantic is known for its violent storms and these produce some of the most majestic breakers here on the Outer Cape. Surfboards and their owners are seen trying to harness that power year 'round here.

Because of The National Seashore, there are no motels on the ocean. Some motels may be found by the bay or on Nantucket Sound in other towns, but most of their guests end up commuting to the Atlantic Ocean beaches just the same.

The Lower Cape has been described as what the rest of Cape Cod used to look like. Quaint little villages, local fishing boats and an abundance of undeveloped land in its natural state wait for you to explore.

The Lower Cape is a hiker's haven, a bird-watcher's bonanza and a city-dweller's oasis. The main motto here is....Life's a Beach!

Cape Cod lodging offers motel, cottage and house rentals on Outer Cape Cod.

Where to Stay on Cape Cod

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Color Sells Houses

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Staging is like a competitive reality show, but the prize isn't a cool million dollars or an opportunity to host your own show. It is selling a property quickly and for maximum dollars. Staging a house is like getting ready for a blind date, you only have one chance to make a first impression. The key is to focus on the selling features of a property with careful attention to the visual aesthetics, updates, de-cluttering, placement, and color geared to appeal to your target market and competing comparable properties. Color plays a large role in the success or failure of the staging process. Take a look at some color tips that will result in successful staging.

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Color begins outside - The exterior and interior color palettes must complement the architecture of the house. I recently was asked to look at a condo that had been on the market for 9 months. Driving up to the lovely Cape Cod style condos, I was eager to see inside. I walked into an interior filled with Miami Vice colors of hot pink, bright green, and black with 80's art. Our new Sherwin Williams color palette of Blonde, Clary Sage, and Rain, created a house that sold at the next showing because the colors "fit" the exterior of the house and also gave the condo a "turn-key" feel. The exterior and interior colors made sense and provided great eye appeal.

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Color Sells - The average buyer looks at 12 homes over 90 days before purchasing. Have you heard Simon Cowell, of American Idol fame, tell contenders that they simply are not memorable enough? The staging goal is the same, make the house memorable. Old rules recommend using white and predictable neutrals which simply results in a house that has blends in with all of its competitors. Warm soft colors in the family and living room accented with a touch of boldness such as warm red or rust in a dining room will create a space that sells. Add color with large accessories and artwork to complete the process always keeping in mind showcasing the selling features of the house.

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Color Sells Houses

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Fishing on a Party Boat in Galveston

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If you plan on going on a vacation in Galveston, Texas and like being on the water and fishing, a great way to do both is on a Party Fishing Boat. Even if you have never fished before you can have a great time on one of these 4 hour fishing trips. Most are between 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM but some boats do have an evening schedule too.

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The average going price for a Party Boat trip is - and includes everything you need from fishing rod to bait. Some boats hold up to 50 people and have bathrooms and air-conditioned areas to get out of the sun if you want a break. You can catch Sharks, Red Drum, Black Drum, Trout, Whiting, and Cat Fish.

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There are plenty of crew members to assist in every aspect of fishing and will help you land any fish. Depending on the number of people on the trip, it can get a little crazy when they find a large group of fish and everyone is catching. Not everyone may catch a fish but there is usually a lot of action so you do have a good chance and it's also fun watching others.

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Most Party Boats travel out into Galveston Bay and the Jetty's area so there is some riding time and if they go out to open water it could take up to an hour to get out where the fish are hanging out. To me that's part of the fun and the view of the ocean, other ships, and shore is great.

The boats cruise out for up to an hour to the first stop and if people start catching they stay until it slows down or stops. Then they move to another location and do the same. Most four hour trips make at least 3-4 stops to fish for up to a couple of hours of actual fishing. When you catch a fish, the crew will come and get it and mark it as your fish. At the end of the trip they clean the fish for you and give it to your in plastic bags. There are even some restaurants that will cook it for you, just ask a crew member and he'll give you the names.

There are several Party Boats at Pier 19 across from Harborside Drive. You can find the Galveston Port at 51st Street and Harborside Drive and go east for about 3 miles to find Pier 19. It's a scenic drive and if you go around 1:00 PM you can see the Party Boats come back in and check out the fish caught and watch the crews clean the fish that were caught that trip. You can also talk to the people who just returned and get an idea of which boat you may like to give a shot.

The ride is totally dependent on the weather and activity of the waves. It can get rough at the drop of a hat due to changing conditions. If you have never been out on a boat before, take some Dramamine (or the generic) just in case if you have any concerns about motion sickness. If you prefer a natural remedy, ginger is found to be effective for many people. Most Party Boats have refreshments and snacks available onboard too.

Even if it's not hot or overcast, you probably want to use some sunscreen since you will be in open areas for much of the time. You can get a pretty good sunburn even on an overcast and cool day being out in the sun for 4 hours or more. Better safe than sorry and you don't want to ruin your vacation with a bad sunburn.

Even if you decide not to go on a fishing trip Pier 19 is a fun place to go visit. Looking at all the fishing boats and seeing all people is worth the time and effort. And the Galveston Port offers a lot of things to see too. Watching all the boats come and go, the offloading of cargo and people, and seeing a major Sea Port in action is fun. And the price is right for just looking around, free.

Party Boats can be fun just because you get out on the water and see more of the area. The fishing is fun and catching is even more fun. And the cost is reasonable for a half day activity. Just seeing the Galveston area from a boat and meeting other people can be worth the trip. And you might even catch lunch or dinner.

Fishing on a Party Boat in Galveston

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Parasailing, Water Skiing and More at Sammy Duvall's Watersports Centre

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If you and your family enjoy adventures in the water then the place for you to go while visiting Orlando is Sammy Duvall's Watersports Centre. Located behind Disney's Contemporary Resort this water park offers you an opportunity to parasail, ride on a powerful personal watercraft, water-ski, wakeboard, tube ride and more.

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The center features new Mastercraft speed boats, a state of the art parasail vessel, personal watercrafts, the latest ski and wakeboard equipment and a staff of instructors that have been groomed and personally chosen by Sammy Duvall.

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Duvall was a world-champion during his 17 year long career as a professional water skier. His enthusiasm for the sport has not diminished since his "retirement" from professional waterskiing and is expressed in the Watersports Center where his staff take the time to help participants learn as much as they can and have a good time too.

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One of the biggest attractions of the centre is parasailing. This is the only the only parasailing facility in Central Florida and its location will give you a bird's eye view of the Walt Disney World Resort and the rest of Orlando. Imagine being lifted on a parasail several hundred feet high as a tow boat speeds through the water below

Their parasailing vessel is brand new and exceeds Coast Guard safety regulations. They claim that the ride is so smooth that you won't even get wet. You get a choice of a 450 feet high ride or a 600 feet high ride. You can travel alone or in tandem with a friend or family member. To take part in the parasail adventure you have to weigh at least 130 pounds and be over 6 years old. However, if someone does not have the required weight, he or she, can accompany another adult or child.

Another popular activity at the Watersports Centre is the personal watercraft rides. The crafts are capable of holding up to three people with a combined weight of 400 pounds and they offer two tours of the resort area. There is a morning guided tour along Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon or you can opt for a free ride in which you can cut loose and speed through their private watercraft area.

For the Watercrafts, all drivers must be over 16 years and have to bring a photo I.D. when they check in. A credit card is required to be used for a damage deposit. Minors must have an adult present to sign waivers.

The third major attraction of this park is the general water sports that are offered. You can learn how to water ski for the first time or get pulled around on a tube. You can learn how to wakeboard or you can perfect your skills. The Centre uses state of the art equipment and has experienced instructors on hand to help you get the most out of this experience. Whether you are a water sports beginner or a slalom skier interested in high-level instruction you will probably find whatever you wish here.

Parasailing, Water Skiing and More at Sammy Duvall's Watersports Centre

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