Middle-aged couples often have the resources, time, and wanderlust to travel. They most likely don’t have children at home, so they can take longer trips, and they may also be willing to splurge for bucket-list experiences and high-end amenities.
Here are four romantic getaways for middle-aged travelers to pursue five-star cuisine, historical enrichment, and relaxation. On these excursions, couples can stroll through wine country, immerse themselves in Europe’s history, explore iconic places, and indulge in luxury.
SAVOR TIME TOGETHER IN DOWNTOWN NAPA, CALIFORNIA
Known as California’s most walkable destination for wine lovers, Napa offers dozens of tasting rooms, top-tier restaurants like Oentori, and upscale boutiques—all for exploring without ever getting in a car. Couples can bike through town, take a gondola ride, or kayak along the Napa River.
Downtown Napa is an ideal starting point for your couples getaway to wine country. Be sure to visit Oxbow Public Market, a fun place to stroll and discover food, wine, and artisanal vendors. Popular Napa tasting rooms include Benevolent Neglect, Krupp Brothers, Gamling & McDuck, Vermeil Wines, Chateau Buena Vista, and Roots Run Deep. Settle in at the well-appointed Embassy Suites Napa Valley, which offers free complimentary full breakfast and a free nightly happy hour.
ENJOY AN IMMERSIVE EUROPE RIVER CRUISE
River cruising tops the list of romantic getaways for those who wish to spend time in Europe experiencing culture and history up close, along with wine tasting and romancing. According to Patricia Parsons, travel advisor with AAA in Flemington, New Jersey, AmaWaterways boasts a 7-night itinerary for Paris and Normandy in France.
“The City of Lights is the perfect romantic European location to begin a river cruise on the Seine,” Parsons said. “You will travel along the river with gorgeous views and moving scenery on both sides. And, when the Eiffel Tower sparkles after dark...ooh la la.”
An intimate, lyrical itinerary is Melodies of the Danube, which visits six countries from Budapest, Hungary to Vilshoven, Germany. “Their ships are small and lovely, and with only 146 – 196 guests there is always a romantic corner to share with your companion,” Parsons said. “AmaWaterways caters toward adults from newlyweds to retirees.”
ESCAPE TO CAPE MAY, NEW JERSEY
New Jersey’s southernmost city and an idyllic destination, Cape May is a beach town that features gorgeous Victorian inns, splendid restaurants, world-class galleries, and quaint shops to visit all year long.
Lodging options include the Inn of Cape May, located in the heart of Cape May’s charming historic district, or Congress Hall, where rooms are furnished with pieces modeled after American heritage furniture. Plan time at the Washington Street Mall for shopping, and be sure to visit the historic Cape May Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay.
Another romantic idea is the Cape May Winery for wine tastings and tapas or Cape May Brewing Company’s Brewtanical Garden for an outdoor experience. After a long walk on the beach, head to Historic Cold Spring Village or the Museum of Cape May County.
For added fun, venture an hour away to iconic Atlantic City. Stroll the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk and be sure to visit the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa for its nightlife, fine dining, and gambling.
SAIL ABOARD THE CELEBRITY ASCENT℠
The fourth addition to the Celebrity’s Edge Class®, the Ascent offers ultimate luxury for discerning travelers, including 32 distinct restaurants, bars, and lounges. The onboard entertainment is top-tier, the spa is as dreamy as a ship spa gets, and the service leaves you feeling like royalty.
For an extraordinary experience, splurge on Celebrity’s “The Retreat,” a separate resort on the ship that features stunning suite accommodations, private dining, exclusive spaces, and a long list of amenities. Celebrity Ascent has multiple sailings to the Caribbean and Europe. “The Celebrity Ascent is a shining example of upscale cruising; adult oriented, sleek, excellent cuisine, and evening shows that resemble Cirque de Soleil,” said Parsons with AAA.
