The Pros:
Staying at a fine hotel means you can expect full service and privacy. If you want to stay in bed all weekend, sipping Champagne and nibbling on chocolate-covered strawberries, room service should be able to accommodate.
Hotel Close-Up: Sofitel the Grand Amsterdam Hotel
Hotel Close-Up: Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, New Jersey
Hotel Close-Up: Encore Las Vegas
If you care to venture out for a meal, a hotel dining room is nearby. The concierge can arrange reservations, transportation, and tickets for you during the weekend. For privacy, just put out the "do not disturb" sign, and a weekend of romance is yours.
The Cons:
Good hotels can be pricey, but many that host business guests during the week offer romantic weekend getaway packages for couples. If you stay in a city hotel in a business district, some surrounding local establishments may be closed on Sundays.
RESORT Romantic Weekend Getaways
The Pros:
Spending a weekend at a resort means that you can choose from a variety of activities to participate in. Beach resorts often rent sailboats, canoes, kayaks, and other watersports equipment. Ski resorts put you close to a mountain. Larger resorts, depending on the location, may offer instruction in sports such as scuba diving, golf, tennis, and skiing. Resorts also tend to have more than one restaurant (plus room service) so you can savor meals in a variety of settings.
Resort Close-Up: Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island, Bahamas
Resort Close-Up: Marco Island Marriott Resort, Florida
Resort Close-Up: Royal Plantation, Jamaica
The Cons:
A resort can be costly, and little things — like parking and raiding the minibar — can add to the expense. Also, many large resorts cater to families, so there's a chance the squeals of children or the noise of them tearing down the hallway may intrude on a romantic weekend. In the event this occurs, don't put up with it. Ask management for another room, and enjoy the rest of your weekend.
LODGE Romantic Weekend Getaways
The Pros:
Smaller than resorts but larger than inns, lodges are usually located in beautiful natural surroundings and offer a variety of outdoor activities.
Lodge Close-Up: Stowe Mountain Lodge, New York
Lodge Close-Up: Lodge at Turning Stone Resort, New York
Lodge Close-Up: Lodge at Woodloch, Pennsylvania
The Cons:
Lodges cater to families as well as couples. Food tends to be banquet, not gourmet, quality.
