[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Ah, the romantic Mediterranean! Steeped in history with stunning coastlines and views, it provides numerous settings for a romantic getaway. Take a look at our picks for 10 of the best.

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1. Valldemossa, Mallorca

A quiet village in the mountains of Mallorca, Valdemossa is an excellent place to get away from it all. With gourmet dining in picturesque settings, luxurious spa visits and a range of exceptional hotels with historic character, you’ll be set for a special romantic stay. It’s also a good base for exploring this classic Mediterranean island.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1313″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1318″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]2. The Isle of Capri
Nothing short of magical, Capri is a very special place. Situated in the Bay of Naples, it offers a peaceful and tranquil locale with some interesting things to see and do. The beautiful Villa San Michele atop the island was the dream home of Swedish author Dr. Axel Munthe and Capri can easily be your dream destination as well.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

3. The Gothic Quarter, Barcelona

This is a city where you can easily get away from the bustle and relax, along with visiting some unique and fascinating places. Stay in the historic Gothic Quarter and wander its narrow, winding streets, linger along the waterfront and enjoy tapas and Spanish wine in a remarkable variety of restaurants. You’ll find everything you need for a romantic escape.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1326″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1325″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]4. Mediterranean Cruising
Island hopping across the incomparable Mediterranean creates an exceptional romantic getaway. Enjoy breakfast on your verandah while leisurely arriving at a new port. Toast the departure with a glass of champagne on deck. Go ashore when you choose and enjoy all the facilities and fine dining onboard your spectacular ship. Every day is a new experience![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

5. Tuscany & Cinque Terre

Want to combine a romantic escape with hiking through stunning scenery? Consider hiking the dramatic coastline of Italy’s “five lands” where villages cling to seaside cliffs. Head to nearby Tuscany for hikes to hilltop towns above the Chianti vineyards. Add Tuscan cuisine and wines, medieval Siena and artistic Florence for an incomparable romantic getaway.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1324″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1323″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

6. Valencia

Looking for a romantic city escape where you can stroll along the beach as well as marvel at some stunning modern architecture? Valencia fits the bill. Boutique hotels provide a quiet place to stay with couple’s massage and in-room breakfast. Paella was first created here and along with local white wines, dinner for two will be another treat during your romantic stay.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

7. The Greek Isles

Tranquil azure bays, sundrenched vistas and white washed buildings; alluring images of the Greek Islands. They provide a romantic setting for every escape and the spectacular sunsets are not to be missed. Santorini is the star of the Aegean with its volcanic crater harbor and steep caldera cliffs rising from the sea. This is the most scenic and popular island.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1322″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1321″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

8. Crete – Off the Beaten Track

The town of Agios Nikolaos on Crete is a good place off the beaten track to view the amazing Greek Island sunsets. This is a laid back destination where you can completely relax. For more active days, don’t miss the Palace of Knossos, home of mythical King Minos and the legendary Minotaur, a romantic story in itself![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

9. Venice

Another jewel of the region, Venice is considered one of the most romantic places on earth. Its many islands are connected by a maze of canals and bridges. Meandering the narrow streets, with no traffic to disturb you, brings you to many fascinating places. Being serenaded on a quiet gondola ride along the canals is a peaceful, romantic experience you won’t soon forget.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1320″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1319″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

10. The Côte d’Azur

Saint-Tropez, Nice, Cannes, Monaco – the famous French Riviera resorts always bring romantic scenes to mind. They top the list for a luxurious romantic getaway. Be pampered at glamorous hotels near jet-set yacht harbors. Enjoy superb fine dining in marvelous restaurants with scenic views and sumptuous surroundings. The ultimate luxurious romantic escape![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Content Courtesy of Ensemble Travel Group

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Your next international vacation should be full of excitement, magical moments, and unforgettable stops at the most extraordinary restaurants, shops and destinations the world has to offer.

The last thing you need, then, is to show up at the airport simply to get turned away due to an expired passport, or even too many stamps in your book. (Who knew?!)

Check out these five surprising passport mistakes you’ll want to avoid making so you can reach your destination (and return home) with no problems at all!


Mistake #1: Not Checking the Expiration Date

This doesn’t even just mean a passport long since expired. Some countries only accept passports that won’t expire for six months or more. So if you have four months left till your expiration date, it’s probably safer to get a new one than be turned away at the gate!

Mistake #2: Waiting Too Long to Apply

It’s pretty common knowledge that passports take forever to receive and/or renew, but with all the stress of a trip, this important detail can sometimes be forgotten. In general, passports take at least six weeks to arrive on time. If you require it sooner, expedited services will cost $60 and take about three weeks.

Need it even sooner than that? Check out this page to learn how to book an appointment at a passport agency or center.

Mistake #3: Not Correctly Filling Out the Form

We’ve all made some typos here and there, but an error on your passport application will result in a missed flight. Even if the printer was to blame, you’ll still need to correct it before heading through security. The bright side? The correction process is free. You’ll just need a DS-5504 form that you can either mail in or fill out online

Mistake #4: Not Updating Your Name After a Change

Legally changed your name recently? Passports don’t automatically update, so you’ll have to go through the renewal process. You’ll need to use a passport renewal form (DS-82), submit a color passport photo, an official document showing your name change, and your current passport (plus the fees that go along with it). We suggest ensuring you’re eligible for the DS-82 form.

If it’s been less than a year since your passport with your old name was issued, you might be able to update for free with the DS-5504 form.

Mistake #5: Having Too Many Stamps

Who knew that being a world traveler can have its downsides? Though you’re very lucky to have so many stamps in your book, some countries require you to have two to four blank pages in your passport.

If you love traveling as much as we do, make sure you’re always on top of your passport status to avoid any mishaps at the airport and reach your destination as soon as possible!