Cover Seopjikoji, a scenic spot in South Korea perfect for Valentine's Day (Photo: Wikimedia Commons / song songroov)
Seopjikoji, a scenic spot in South Korea perfect for Valentine's Day (Photo: Wikimedia Commons / song songroov)
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These destinations are sure to make Valentine’s Day memorable
Valentine’s Day is all about spending time with your significant other. Usual plans include a nice dinner, flowers, and a gift, but if you’re planning to deviate from the norm, a plane ticket does wonders. For the quick and spontaneous traveller, Tatler rounds up the best destinations for a romantic Valentine’s celebration. Whether it be a relaxing day on the beaches of Jeju Island in South Korea or an adventurous culture walk all around Bangkok, Thailand.
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Hanoi, Vietnam
Above Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda in Hanoi, Vietnam (Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Richard Mortel)
Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda in Hanoi, Vietnam (Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Richard Mortel)
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An ancient city founded over a millennia ago, Vietnam’s capital is steeped in history, making it an excellent destination for romantic cultural trips and food crawls. If it’s your first time, exploring Hanoi’s majestic pagodas, delectable cuisine, and local coffee scene is a must. For a calming and romantic atmosphere for Valentine’s Day, the Hoàn Kiếm Lake provides a moment of respite from the city’s activities.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Above The Batu Caves in the northern part of Kuala Lumpur (Photo: Jove Moya)
The Batu Caves in the northern part of Kuala Lumpur (Photo: Jove Moya)
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With its towering skyscrapers, vibrant nightlife, and bright lights, Kuala Lumpur offers comfort in the familiar hustle and bustle of the city. Those looking for adventure can head to the Batu Caves, a limestone cave dating back 400 million years. If you’re looking to shop, the tourist favourite Bukit Bintang has plenty of malls and stores.
See also: The cultural wanderer’s guide to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Above The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Arnaud-Victor Monteux)
The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Arnaud-Victor Monteux)
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Nicknamed the “Pearl of Asia”, Phnom Penh boasts some art deco landmarks from the French colonial era alongside classical Khmer architecture dating back to the mid-15th century. A charming city, the best places to visit for photos are the Royal Palace, which houses the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia.
Bangkok, Thailand
Above The Erawan Museum in Bangkok, Thailand (Photo: Erawan Museum)
The Erawan Museum in Bangkok, Thailand (Photo: Erawan Museum)
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Bangkok seamlessly blends traditional and modern, offering an unmatched experience. Must-visit cultural landmarks include the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and Wat Arun. Its lively street life also can’t be missed, so try authentic dishes such as the wide selection of noodles, Thai curry, and grilled meats. If you’ve got the stomach for it, fried crickets, grasshoppers, and red ant eggs are a well-loved delicacy.
Read also: The cultural wanderer’s guide to Bangkok, Thailand
Bohol, Philippines
Above The Chocolate Hills on top of the viewing deck (Photo: Gabriel Bohol)
The Chocolate Hills on top of the viewing deck (Photo: Gabriel Bohol)
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If you want something more intimate, Bohol’s white sand beaches and picturesque views are the perfect backdrop for a romantic Valentine’s evening. Once you’ve had your fill of relaxation, head to the Chocolate Hills or the Tarsier Conservation Area to see some of the local wonders.
Baguio, Philippines
Above The Igorot Stone Kingdom in Baguio, Benguet (Photo: Jon Hipe)
The Igorot Stone Kingdom in Baguio, Benguet (Photo: Jon Hipe)
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Regarded as the ‘Summer Capital of the Philippines’, Baguio City is a tourist favourite for its cool temperatures. From Camp John Hay’s towering pine trees and culturally significant Igorot Stone Kingdom to the bustling night scene of Session Road and the mesmerising artwork of the BenCab Museum, you’ll never run out of places to explore. Perfectly fitting the theme of Valentine’s Day, the much-anticipated Panagbenga Festival—also known as the Baguio Flower Festival—starts on February 1 and runs until the first Sunday of March.
Jeju Island, South Korea
Above Cheonjiyeon waterfall in Seogwipo, Jeju Island, South Korea (Photo: Sgroey/Wikimedia Commons)
Cheonjiyeon waterfall in Seogwipo, Jeju Island, South Korea (Photo: Sgroey/Wikimedia Commons)
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Declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2007 for its Geomun Oreum Lava Tube—regarded as the finest lava tube system of caves in the world—Jeju Island’s breathtaking natural beauty can’t be understated. With forests, waterfalls, caves, and the tallest mountain in South Korea, the island is perfect for travellers who love to hike.
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About
Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
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A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.
