Fighting the crowds on Valentine’s Day is something that has come to be expected, especially if you live in a big city. Escaping the madness of everyone and their mom celebrating being struck by cupid’s arrow may also be a little upsetting. If you don’t have a special someone to dote on this year, spend the holiday with your girls or practicing treating yourself for a change.

If you are looking to get out of town this upcoming Valentine’s Day, consider one of the following premiere destinations. You can spend the romantic holiday with your lover, gal-pal or just celebrate self-love .

1. St. Lucia

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From beach lounging to climbing nearby peaks for epic views, Cap Maison is sure to not disappoint. The water is crystal clear and the beaches are kept clean due to the increased tourism of the island. If you are looking to capture some photographic memories with your lovey, St. Lucia is the perfect backdrop.

2. Butterfly Beach, Goa

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You can let your mind drift out to sea while watching the sunset on this beautiful beach of Goa. Goa is known as the party city of southern India but this remote beach will never let you believe it. You will enjoy escaping the crowds to go and watch the dolphins playing in the surf.

3. Camogli, Italy

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The small town of Camogli on Italy’s Ligurian coast is the epicenter of love. The artists of the town ramp up to the holiday by creating pieces and poems that celebrate the joys of love. Poets submit love poems to the local authorities in hopes of being one of twenty to be displayed along the Camogli waterfront. There is an art competition where one sole artist is awarded the official image of “Lovers in Camogli” title. While you are strolling along the harbor you can read the handwritten love notes that are tied to the fishing nets along the walls.

4. Paris, France

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What would a Valentine’s Day list be without the inclusion of Paris. It is the cliche getaway for the reason. There are endless amounts of art museums, wine tastings and site seeing to keep you busy, if that is what you are looking for. If cozying up at a small cafe for intimate conversation, the people watching is a visual treat while you solve all the world’s problems over a cappuccino. Tour the world’s most romantic city hand-in-hand this upcoming Valentine’s Day.

5. Napa Valley, California

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Wine and wooing go together perfectly for Valentine’s Day. The Napa Valley is home to California’s wine country and mid-February is going to be less crowded, as it is during the tourist offseason. The barren vineyards are still stunning to explore, offering a different experience than others may get in the summer and fall. Take any of the number of wine tours offered and further your wine knowledge while enjoying a weekend in wine country.

6. Molokai, Hawaii

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Molokai is Hawaii’s fifth largest island and the least visited by tourists. The island’s informal motto is “Slow down: you’re on Molokai.” Take the opportunity to reconnect with yourself and your loved one at a slower speed than regular life. Too often we get too bogged down with the stresses of life, let them melt away as you practice the hula and explore the wonders of Hawaii.

7. Alpeniglu Village, Austria

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If you and your honey enjoy colder weather and are looking for something new and different to do this year, rent an igloo in the small village of Apleniglu. Located in the heart of the Kitzbuehler Alps, you can ride up the mountain on the Hochbrixen gondola for a grander view before taking a torchlit stroll through the forest.

8. New York, New York

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In the city that never sleeps, you will not run out of things to see and do. New York City has every type of food and drinks offering that you can imagine, so take your pick on the big night of Valentine’s Day. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park or to visit Rockefeller Square.

9. Bora, Bora

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The idyllic blue waters are a draw for water lovers year round. The bungalows set on top of the water are a perfect setting to waste away days at a time listening to the sounds of the waves. You and your lover can enjoy snorkeling along the beaches and shore to see colorful marine life in the turquoise Southern Pacific waters.

10. Barnard, Vermont

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Exploring the beautiful country roads of the small rural town of Barnard, Vermont is a great way to catch up on conversation with your loved one. If you are wanting to explore the great outdoors together, enjoy some winter ice fishing or ice skating. Don’t let the cold east coast winters get you down. You can look forward to cuddling up fireside afterward.

11. Steamboat Springs, Colorado

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Known as Ski Town, USA and for its trademarked “Champagne Powder,” this ski town is the perfect getaway for powder hounds. The town has the ski resort vibe with small town feels. The perks of the high amount of tourism is the area has attracted world-renowned chefs to offer delicious restaurants throughout town. After a long day on the slopes, look forward to a long soak at Strawberry Park hot springs.

12. Lake Bled, Slovenia

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What is more romantic than a fairy tale setting for your Valentine’s Day vacation? With a real medieval castle located on a placid lake, you almost expect a princess to be singing songs to the birds from one of the windows. Get out on the water by renting a traditional row boat to take in the view of the majestic mountains surrounding the area from the middle of the lake.

13. The Whitsundays, Australia

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If you have a passion for sailing, book a trip to the Whitsundays to sail from one white sand covered beach to another. The Whitsundays are the complete opposite of the rugged outback that is so often envisioned at the mention of Australia. Add this to the bucket list of the many beach front vacation destinations to take your honey.

14. Pennsylvania Dutch Country, USA

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If you are hoping to slow down this romantic holiday, follow in the footsteps of the Amish that still churn their own butter and make their own furniture. You won’t find any five-star resorts, just modest motels and farm fresh eggs in the morning.

15. Tuscany, Italy

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There is so much to see in Tuscany that ooze romance between a combination of beautiful landscape and iconic buildings. Terracotta houses, rolling green hills, hot springs and the seemingly never-ending flow of wine offer a beautiful way to spend the holiday.

16. Istanbul, Turkey

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In 2010, Istanbul was named the European Capital of Culture. Along with relics of the past such as the mosques and colorful bazaars, there are also a number of artistic exhibitions and museums to visit as well. After you have finished touring by foot, take a ferry to the island of Heybeliada to explore the monasteries and churches by horse-drawn carts or bicycle.

17. Sedona, Arizona

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Known as an energy vortex, many people come to visit Sedona for its spiritual connection to out of this world energies. If you are looking for a terrestrial experience, the town is surround by hiking trails through the red rock country that makes this country so appealing.

18. Zanzibar, Tanzania

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Another prime sapphire water destination, this small collection of islands are not to be missed on a romantic getaway. If you aren’t married, be prepared to be asked if you are newlyweds as this is the destination for many couple’s honeymoon vacation. Take a day to visit each island — they each have something special to offer such as rich history and hidden rainforests.

19. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Idaho

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For the adventurous nature loving pairs, head to the rugged country of Yellowstone National Park to get a view of the winter wildlife and colorful geysers. Although you may be able to drive through parts of the park, pack your snowshoes for a wintertime adventure in one of the most cherished parks in America.

20. Chicago, Illinois

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If you are planning on making this year’s Valentine’s Day the ultimate date by getting engaged, head to Chicago. Deep in the heart of the city you will find jewelry row where you can choose the perfect ring for your commitment. If engagement isn’t on the agenda, horse-drawn carriages through the city and exploring the city’s numerous museums will keep you busy in the meantime.

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