Passion Alert

Locks of Love cover 11 bridges in Paris.

“In marriage you trade intense heat for continuing warmth.” I do not know who said that, but I do know it is true. I also know that even the warmest relationship could do with some fire starter now and then, and travel to romantic locals can definitely kindle the flames.

Places for Passion published by travel expert Frommer’s, lists 75 over-the-top romantic destinations around the world, from the Amalfi Coast to Zion National Park along with guidelines on finding the ideal spot for you and your partner.

Sidewalk cafe. Relax and watch the world go by.

My husband and I just celebrated our 30th anniversary in France – we walked Paris, then drove to the Normandy Coast, the Loire Valley and the Dorgone. I will be the first to admit that traveling can be stressful (Where are we? I thought you had the passports! Kinda small bathroom, huh. The toll booth ate my credit card!), but, given some humor, flexibility, a sense of wonder and the ability to laugh at yourself, travel can be igniting and wonderfully bonding.

A little wine, a little cheese, fruit and non-GMO meat.

You are a team on the road – maybe he has an uncanny sense of direction and you are the organizational wizard that put all this together. Maybe he couldn’t figure out how to buy a Metro ticket and you could. Maybe he saw how quickly you adapt to the tiny bathroom and decided it wasn’t worth bitching about after all. Travel gives you a chance to appreciate your mate’s strengths and to be appreciated for your own. And that extra respect goes a long way toward lighting those fires.