ROMANTIC SUMMER GETAWAYS

 
TOURISTS IN TOWN

TOURISTS IN TOWN It’s not often you can take the time to smell the roses in your hometown. So why not turn off your blackberries, check into Hotel YourHouse and enjoy a romantic whirlwind weekend in your neck of the woods.

First, you’ll need to prep your home so it feels like an escape. On Friday eve, buy sexy new bedroom sheets to liven up your guest suite (think: red). Stock up on scented bubble bath, candles (at least 3 per room), and fun finger foods like fresh strawberries, artichoke hearts and canapés. Clear away any traces of paperwork and photos of friends and family (they’ll understand!). Lastly, dim the lights and keep the music playing softly.

Start off your romantic weekend on Saturday by hopping on a red double-decker and enjoying the sights and sounds of the city like an out-of-towner. Take fun pictures and hop on and off at local museums, monuments and shops.

Enjoy your first lunch in a local park with delicious goodies from a gourmet food shop. Think delectable sandwiches like lobster salad on brioche bread, sparkling lemonade and butter tarts for two. Don’t forget to pack a large, cozy blanket and a book of sonnets for an afternoon of perfection.

Finish off your day by taking in a concert at your local Opera house and having a last dinner at local restaurant you’ve never been to.

By Sunday, you’ll have a whole new appreciation for the city you live in—not to mention each other—without breaking the bank. Now that’s what we call romance!

TIP Ensure your weekend feels like a getaway by not accepting visits from neighbours and not picking up the phone until Sunday night (just leave an away message on your voicemail or door!).

	THE GREAT OUTDOORS

 
THE GREAT OUTDOORS

THE GREAT OUTDOORS When the temperature’s just right, spend some time in the great outdoors and enjoy a camping excursion for two.

Borrow supplies from friends and family and get back to nature by roughing it with your man. Drive to a nearby campground, throw up a tent, and become one with nature while you play Swiss Family Robinson.

Keep your skin makeup-free for a change, but don’t resort to frumpy attire; just because you’re in the woods doesn’t mean you can’t look cute to boot. You’ll feel ultra sexy being au-natural for the weekend and he’ll love your free spirited approach. Get him to play the role of woodsman. When he chops trees and preps a fire from scratch, it’ll ignite more than just a flame for mealtime.

TIP Don’t forget to call ahead: popular campsites book up early. And be sure to pack your wallets just in case. If either of you chicken out (or if there’s a major case of rain or bugs), follow Plan B and hit up the nearest luxury hotel. Maybe eat canned beans for dinner so you can still tell everyone you “roughed it”.

	ROAD TRIP FOR TWO

 
ROAD TRIP FOR TWO

ROAD TRIP FOR TWO Call up a friend or family member who lives out of town (within driving distance) and plan a road trip to visit them for a long weekend.

Stock your CD changer with your favourite slow jams and love songs and play a sexy version of Eye Spy on the road. Swing into the truck-stop diners along the way for brunch and snacks that you just can’t get at home.

But remember, don’t arrive empty-handed. No houseguest should be without a hostess gift or homemade lasagna that’s oven-ready.

While you’re there, explore their hometown with multiple day trips and excursions. Get to know their city and the favourite hangouts for drinks and dessert.

TIP Spend as much time as possible out of your host’s home. You don’t want to be known as that high-maintenance couple that can’t leave soon enough. And pack a thank you card to leave behind. Leave it on your pillow for when they replace the bedding.

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