One thing we have learned on this journey is that romantic experiences can happen anywhere, anytime, and with three kids in tow. It is no longer something we crave that we are lacking in our busy lives but more a montage of daily stolen moments. This list is by no means comprehensive, or in order of preference, but it is a good start for every hopeless romantic …
London, England: Sauntering across the Tower Bridge late at night taking in all its curves illuminated by thousands of buttery lights.
Barcelona, Spain: Losing track of time in the Gothic Quarter in search of hot chocolate and churros. As the light is squeezed from the narrow cobbled streets, rushing is out of the question.
Stockholm, Sweden: Boarding the historic steam ferry, complete with white napkins and red velvet booths, for a dashing lunch at sea and a jaunt around the island of Grinda.
Rome, Italy: Renting a bicycle built for many and ambling around Borghese Gardens through dappled sunlight and pea gravel paths.
Ljubljana, Slovenia: Taking in a lazy lunch on a Friday afternoon at the International Food Market complete with entertainment and cuisines from around the globe (and vendors who love kids so much they let them cook).
Prague, Czech Republic: Stopping long enough on the Charles Bridge to take in the true resonance of the buskers sound as it carries along the Vltava River.
Paris, France: Skipping the lines and taking the stairs up the Eiffel Tower. There is nothing like the sound of the wind whispering through the puddled iron as the ascent gains momentum and all of Paris is at your feet.
Venice, Italy: Weaving as far away from the main tourist attractions as possible until a quiet piazza filled with local life and steaming focaccia invites you to stay awhile. See if you can find Pasticceria da Nono Colussi. It will be a challenge but you will be rewarded.
Salzburg, Austria: Renting a bicycle built for two and enjoying a picnic near the swans swimming in the park with the Sound of Music gazebo as your backdrop.
Valetta, Malta: Hopping on a harbor cruise to take in this stunning city from the water. Perhaps one of the many superyachts you pass will inspire your next adventure!
Nice, France: Riding the double-decker vintage carousel when it is drizzling brings the patina into a new light.
Madrid, Spain: Devouring Tapas at the grand yet intimate Mercado de San Miguel while taking in the sights, sounds, and beautiful people of this glittering city.
Lucca, Italy: Cherishing the rotating view of the outer wall that once fortified this magnificent Tuscan city. Walk slowly so you blend in with the locals.
Aix-en-Provence, France: Shopping for leather flats, local sausages, and the produce at the weekly market. Stopping for a Nutella crepe is mandatory and marvelous.
Today’s Tweetable: Today, deliberately reflect on an effortless romantic experience.
