The Year of We: Romantic Experiences Remain a Top Priority for Couples Despite Rising Prices | Wealth of Geeks

Even in the midst of economic hardship and inflation, love reigns triumphant. A recent survey indicates that romance is one of the most important factors for travel plans this year, and 4 out of 5 Americans (80%) plan to make more time for affairs of the heart.

Regardless of rising costs, couples are committed to taking that special trip together.

As our ideas of romance continue to evolve, 81% claim that it has changed drastically in the last ten years. What is deemed romantic today? Two-thirds (67%) say a couple’s getaway would be just the ticket. That sentiment is likely to stay, with partners seeing this as their top choice for an intimate gift in 2023.

“The definition of romance varies from couple to couple, but there’s a common thread to a thriving relationship, and that is to be intentional about making the time for connection,” said Marsha-Ann Donaldson-Brown, Sandals Resorts‘ Director of Weddings & Romance.

“The findings from our latest love study are invigorating and compelling, as Americans confirm their commitment to nurturing their relationships in the coming year – which is why we’re celebrating 2023 as the ‘Year of We.’

“Getting away from daily life, free from distractions and stresses, inspires people to focus on what matters most, with the majority of couples agreeing they feel closest to each other while on vacation – and moreover, how this time away energizes the relationship beyond the trip.”

Sharing Experiences is the Ultimate Love Language

The survey reveals a getaway for two was the top choice among both men (67%) and women (66%). Enjoying relaxing spots together, such as watching the sunset (55%), trying new restaurants and shops (52%), and taking adventurous outings (51%) are all considered romantic gifts by most Americans.

That said, a truly memorable vacation will feature all three. Guests who book a stay at a Sandals Resort can experience them all at the leading all-inclusive Caribbean resort brand.

For the most romantic sunsets, Sandals Resorts are positioned on some of the best beaches in the world, from the 7-mile beach of Negril to the private offshore islands at Sandals Royal Bahamian and Sandals Royal Caribbean.

For those couples who feel more amorous over dinner, at Sandals Royal Curaçao, guests can experience Island Inclusive, a cutting-edge dining program off-resort and into the island to support and eat at eight local restaurants across Curaçao.

Why not get your heart pumping with some seriously adventurous outings? In Grenada, couples can scuba dive and experience the island’s underwater sculpture park, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. In Curaçao, guests in top-level suites will have access to their own personal Mini Cooper to experience the island on their own time, in their own style.

Timeless Luxury Escape in the US

For those couples seeking a timeless romantic experience, The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO, is the perfect spot for couples wanting a luxurious escape. Celebrated by Forbes as the longest-running five-star hotel in the US, “The Broadmoor offers the ideal romantic getaway package for couples who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend time in nature,” offers Scott Flexman, VP of Sales at The Broadmoor.

“Couples love that they can try SO many new things outdoors — like fly fishing, golf, or even rock climbing and falconry — while also being able to retreat back to the resort’s comfortable rooms, many restaurants, the spa, and cozy spots for time together. It’s a wonderful mashup of Western adventure with European elegance and Five Star service.”

There may not be a sunset more romantic than atop Cheyenne Mountain at The Broadmoor’s Cloud Camp. You will feel like you are on top of the world with the breathtaking views of Pikes Peak and the rest of the Rocky Mountains.

Guests can indulge in a romantic dinner at the award-winning Penrose Room or gaze longingly at each other over the Chef’s tasting menu at Summit while the Sommelier pours the most exquisite wine pairings.

For a dose of adventure, a horseback ride through acres of trails on scenic Cheyenne Mountain or a round of golf at the championship courses will do the trick. Afterward, couples can relax and be pampered together with a spa treatment at The Broadmoor’s Forbes Five Star Spa.

Making Time for Romance in 2023, Despite Tight Schedules

80% of survey respondents expect to be busier in 2023, with 2 in 3 (66%) acknowledging it is challenging to find the time for romance. Still, the vast majority (80%) are committed to making more time for it in 2023, with 31% strongly agreeing.

For Boomers, finding time for romance isn’t as difficult, with 45% saying it is not challenging, compared to 32% of Gen X, 24% of Millennials, and 25% of Gen Z.

76% of parents say it is challenging to find time for romance. Even in light of this, 88% of parents say they will make more time for romance in 2023, compared with 75% who are not parents.

Vacations Are Key to Connection and Intimacy

A majority of Americans (51%) say the closest they’ve felt to their romantic partner is when they’re on vacation together. When it comes to romantic vacations that deepen connection, Americans prefer a relaxing beach vacation (67%), especially women (72%) and Gen X (74%).

49% view 5 to 7 days as an ideal amount of time for a romantic vacation. Over a week-long romantic vacation, 30% would anticipate being intimate with their partner for 3 or 4 days during the trip, and more than a quarter (26%) anticipate being intimate each day of the trip.

Nearly three-quarters (73%) say intimacy is more satisfying when on a romantic getaway. And that satisfaction doesn’t end when the vacation ends: 80% prioritize intimacy with their partner upon returning home from a romantic trip.

48% of Millennials say romantic vacations impact their intimacy by making them more adventurous, compared to 28% of Gen X and 23% of Boomers.

Americans seek to maximize the value of their hard-earned money by focusing on essential needs over luxuries. Nevertheless, a majority are unwilling to give up meaningful romantic gestures such as presents, trips, and activities that foster relationships and create closeness.

This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.