Come Valentine’s Day, social media feeds will be awash with photos of candlelit dinners, rose petal-strewn baths and other lovey-dovey snaps as couples all over the world celebrate romance. But if these seem too ordinary (read: basic) and you’re planning on having an unforgettable tete-a-tete, these luxe resorts and hotels will meet your every need and more, with special offers like dining in the desert and enjoying a full day’s worth of relaxing spa treatments. By Isabel Ong.
Situated on Sumba Island in Indonesia, Nihiwatu Resort is a secluded paradise that beach bums and nature-lovers will adore. Stay in the Mamole tree-house or the sprawling Mendaka estate of ultra-plush villas designed by resort owner Chris Burch, and go snorkelling or hiking up to nearby waterfalls in your free time.
Up for grabs now: A three-day Valentine’s Day package (S$863.67/night per couple), which includes return flights from Bali, airport transfers to Nihiwatu, a picnic for two, a romantic dinner with an amazing view of the island and a spa treatment for two at the newly launched Nihi Oka Spa Safari. The latter is a 90-minute trek – or a short drive away – from the main resort, and every couple will have their own private bale (hut) to relax in.
The Temple House in Chengdu, China is housed in a heritage building boasting traditional Chinese architecture, but with thoroughly modern furnishings. It’s also partnered British lingerie brand Agent Provocateur to launch two romantic packages this February.
The Overnighter Package (S$347/night) includes one night’s accommodation in a Studio 60 room inclusive of breakfast, a choice of two cocktails from the specially created Agent Provocateur menu and a private fitting session at the lingerie brand’s boutique, located adjacent to the hotel. If you’re willing to splurge, opt for the Getaway Package (S$850 for two nights), where you can enjoy a two-night stay in a Studio 70 room, a complimentary bottle of Moet & Chandon pink champagne, a customised Agent Provocateur massage/facial for two as well as the previously-mentioned private fitting session.
Love a good back massage? You’ll be pleased to find out that in Banyan Tree’s beach-side resort in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, you can have a spa therapist at your beck and call (read: unlimited treatments!) throughout your stay in the new Spa Sanctuary Tented Pool Villas. From AED5,599 (S$2,180) a night
Its sister resort, the Banyan Tree Al Wadi, is located only 15 minutes away and is offering a Desert Dining package where couples can languish amidst a sandy oasis with a personal butler on call and juicy grilled BBQ meats to dine on. The best part: You’ll be travelling here by camel. From AED2,000 (S$779) per couple
On a pristine stretch of beach within Seychelles’ main island Mahe, you’ll find The H Resort. Must-dos in the five-star accommodation include island-hopping, snorkelling and scuba diving in its crystal clear waters.
With a mix of suites and villas available to cater to various budgets, the hotel is now offering couples a chance to enjoy a Valentine’s Day picnic hamper along its sandy shores. If you’re looking for a quiet, secluded getaway, this is one to go for. From 475 euros (S$735) a night for a junior suite
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