Whether a daunting first step in a fledgling relationship or a much needed break from the monotony and routines of love for the long haul, the weekend getaway is an important ingredient in the recipe for mutual happiness. Your first weekend together can be as crucial as your one thousand and first. Some feel romance is difficult to spark, others feel it is difficult to sustain. Both are correct.
Selecting the perfect weekend getaway is a very challenging task. Keeping a few simple things in mind can eliminate hours of aggravation.
1. Proximity – How much of your trip do you want to spend in transit? A closer locale will obviously afford you more quality time at your destination but will you have to settle for less lavish accommodations, less entertainment and recreation or fewer options at meal time? Which amenities are most important to you and your partner?
2. Itinerary – How many activities are you planning? Use your time wisely. Sometimes less is more. Elaborate plans can be very romantic but a weekend of room service and relaxing in the hot tub may be just what the doctor ordered. Defining how active your weekend will be should narrow down your choices considerably.
3. Budget – How much do you intend to spend? Financial considerations or constraints can seriously limit your options but having less to choose from may end up being easier than having many choices.
Here are some suggestions to get you started planning your own perfect getaway. Enjoy!
Orcas Island, WA
Orcas Island is considered by most to be the height of beauty in the San Juan Islands. It is easily reachable by ferry from locations in and around Seattle making it a fabulous weekend getaway or even a long day trip. The ferry ride turns transit time into quality time. If the weather permits, the view from the deck of the boat is magnificent. During the summer it’s important to be at the ferry dock 30 to 45 minutes before the boat you wish to board is scheduled to leave.
Lodging choices range from camping to bed and breakfasts with hotels, inns and guest cottages in between. Summer months often require a reservation. There are several waterfront accommodations with rooms in the one hundred to one hundred and fifty dollar range. Most rooms under one hundred dollars are either not on the water or have shared bathrooms.
Orcas Island also offers a wide range of recreational activities. Whale watching, sea kayaking, bike rentals and boat charters are just some of the choices for the outdoor enthusiast. If you’d rather remain indoors you might want to visit the Orcas Island Historical Museum or maybe just catch a movie at the Sea View Theater.
Dining can be found almost anywhere on the island but the best choices will be found in East Sound. There are Thai, Mexican and bar style finger foods as well as the finest Northwest cuisine. From take out to an intimate dinner for two, Orcas Island has something for all.
Leavenworth, WA
Known as “Washington’s Bavarian Village” Leavenworth is about two hours from Seattle. It offers easy access to Steven’s Pass and Mission Ridge as well as cross country ski trails, snowmobiling, sledding and sleigh rides in the winter. During the summer you’ll find rafting, wineries, paragliding, horseback riding, miniature golf (or regular) and wagon rides. Leavenworth has the potential to be a great weekend getaway year round.
Take advantage of the natural beauty of a river front cabin or enjoy more luxurious lodging at an inn or bed and breakfast. Hotels and motels can be found but are not in abundance. What is in abundance is true Bavarian style and architecture. Everything from lodgings to shops and restaurants are steeped in a culture that almost makes you feel as if you’re in a different country.
Less than an hour east of downtown Seattle lies the Salish Lodge and Spa. Overflowing with traditions like the famous “country breakfast” which has been served daily since 1916, Salish Lodge will provide you with an experience unlike any you’ve ever had.
There is a world class culinary team to provide you with delectable dining, wonderful rooms to relax in and a spa to help alleviate stress. This Northwest inspired Asian retreat will leave you in a state of tranquility akin to no other.
Each person has their own unique perspective on what makes a romantic getaway truly amazing. Consider this when planning your escape. With a bit of thought and research a memorable jaunt with your loved one is only a moment away.
