Louis Armstrong's immortal lyrics proclaim "You must remember this, a kiss is just a kiss, a sigh is just a sigh…the world will always welcome lovers, as time goes by."
February means love is in the air.
True romance is best expressed with a tender kiss and there are unforgettable places around the globe for lovers to share that magical moment. Here are just a few.
Venice Bridge of Sighs from a Gondola
Venice, Italy's beautiful legendary Bridge of Sighs was built in the early 17th century. Italian renaissance by design, the bridge suspends over the Rio di Palazzo. Though theories abound on how the bridge actually got its name, one long-held belief is that if a couple passes under the Bridge of Sighs their love will last forever. The best way to do this? On a gondola ride of course where sighs are said to come from lovers overwhelmed by the romantic scene.
Sunset in Santorini
The archetype of the idyllic Greek islands, mystical Santorini, Greece is said to hold magical powers to make people fall in love all over again. One wonders if its enchantment relates to a belief that the mythical ruins of Atlantis lie buried underneath its cerulean waters, or Santorini's unique beauty-multicolored cliffs rising out of a sea-drowned caldera, whitewashed buildings, lofty summits and panoramic vistas. Whatever the reason, there's nothing quite like sharing a glass of wine and a lover's kiss during a glorious and unforgettable Aegean sunset in legendary town of Oia.
Paris' Eiffel Tower
Audrey Hepburn once said "Paris is always a good idea," and there's no better place for romance to blossom than in the city of lights and love. Every couple needs to take the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower-one of the most iconic structures in the world-and share a French kiss overlooking the twinkling lights of the city. If heights aren't your thing, you can share that kiss underneath this Parisian landmark where every hour on the hour each evening the tower is covered with 20,000 golden lights that sparkle for five minutes while the beacon shines over the city of Paris.
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Trevi Fountain
Few fountains have the international fame of Rome's Trevi Fountain. Built in the 15th century, the fountain is Rome's largest. Throwing coins into the fountain became popular after Hollywood released the movie "Three Coins in the Fountain." The original legend says that if you throw a coin into the Trevi, with your back to the fountain and right hand over left shoulder, this will ensure your return to Rome. A kiss to seal the deal probably wouldn't hurt either. It worked for us and we returned to the eternal city once again. Whether true or not, thousands must believe the legend as $1.26 million is collected from the fountain annually and distributed amongst Rome's most needy.
Sunrise at Haleakala
What could be more romantic than to see one of nature's most awe-inspiring sights-a spectacular sunrise at the rim of Maui's largest volcano, Haleakala which literally means "house of the sun?" Outfitted with warm clothes and huddled under blankets to keep warm, in temperatures often below freezing on the 10,023-foot summit, couples anxiously await the sun's majestic appearance. But not before witnessing the stunning, multi-hued clouds and sky before daybreak.
Empire State Building
Who hasn't seen the romantic heart-wrenching movie, An Affair to Remember, with Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr where a couple falls in love and agrees to meet again in six months at the Empire State Building? It's no wonder this world-famous New York City site has been a hot destination for Hollywood. The 102-story Manhattan skyscraper offers spectacular views from its open-air observatory, especially at night when the lights of New York glimmer in the distance. There's no better time to be locked in a tight private embrace than at midnight when the long lines and tourists have all left the building.
Lovers Point
One of the most romantic California coastal locations has to be Lovers Point, a scenic outcropping of rock in Pacific Grove with spectacular views of Monterey Bay. Crashing waves, bracing winds and sea spray make you feel totally alive and a reminder that these are moments to be shared with the one you love.
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