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Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and love is in the air.  Both couples and singles are looking to make this day something special.  Of course, romance doesn't have to revolve around V-Day only.  All sorts of things can prompt the need to take some time out of our schedules and find someplace romantic to be.  Many places come to mind when speaking of romance - Niagara Falls, Hawaii, the Caribbean. 

However, some people don’t perceive typical and traditional romantic vacations as the best option.  And since human beings come in all flavors, I thought I’d compile a nice list of some of the more “alternative” things to do during a romantic getaway.  From couples’ adventures to singles’ hedonism, there’s some place out there for everyone, no matter their tastes. These are just a few places, but offer what I feel to be a decent enough variety to appeal to most tastes.

First and foremost, a few of the milder ones, for people that wish to add some spice to their relationship without completely drowning out its original flavor.

1) LoveLand in South Korea

LoveLand is a sexuality-themed park that celebrates this natural act via art exhibits.  It is an open-air museum filled with sculptures, photography, statues and other displays.  Many of these are quite exotic and explicit and to the Western traveler may even seem shocking.  This candid look at sexuality also offers sex education videos, just in case you want to learn something while you’re there.

2) Amsterdam’s EroticMuseum and SexMuseum

Amsterdam is well-known for its infamous Red Light District, which can be an interesting vacation for singles (or the adventurous couple).  But those looking for something a little milder might find it entertaining to visit one of these two museums.  Each one covers multiple floors and has hundreds of exhibits revolving around eroticism and sexuality.  The EroticMuseum is the tamer location, while the SexMuseum is a bit more adult-oriented.

3) Love Hotels in Japan, South Korea and most of the Far East

Japanese love hotels are known worldwide.  These often-themed accommodations offer a variety of atmospheres to please and tease and make a night’s stay more interesting than is typical.  A great many of these exist across Japan and the phenomenon has spread to most countries in the Far East.  From Hello Kitty to Spaceships, if you look hard enough you’ll find something to suit your tastes.  There’s even a JurassicPark love hotel, if you can believe it.

Next comes a few interesting ideas for couples that also happen to be thrill-seekers.  If you just want to do something unusual without getting neck-deep in a vacation, consider one of these activities.

1) Nude Tandem Bungee Jumping in British Columbia, Canada

If you feel like jumping off of a bridge while locked firmly around the nude body of your companion, then look no further.  This bungee opportunity takes place in the city of Nanaimo, B.C. each year for just one weekend, right around Valentine’s Day.  They even offer to video tape it for you, just in case you want something to show the kids once they’re old enough.

2) Mile High Club Charters with various U.S. companies

Usually if you feel like joining the “Mile High Club” you have to take the risk of cramming into an uncomfortable, closet-sized airplane bathroom and potentially getting caught.  Some people decided, however, that they wanted to make it a little easier for people.  Several companies, a few of them major airlines, have outfitted airplanes with either sleepers (just like on a train) or fitted small airplanes to double as bedrooms.  No longer must you endure the quickie in the bathroom, but instead can feel free to take your time on a soft bed.  Some charters even offer “extras,” such as selections of toys or video taping services so you can always remember the moment.

And finally, for those who are seriously looking to go beyond the standard and venture into the realm of the exploratory and kinky.  Three locations that take couples vacations to the limits of “decency.”

1) Caliente Resorts in Dominican Republic / Tampa, Florida

Caliente Resorts is a clothing-optional resort that caters to both singles and couples.  They offer the full package, with spas and luxury services.  Singles will be particularly happy with Caliente, as there are regular clothing-optional beach parties dedicated to getting people to meet-up and hook-up.

2) Temptation Resort in Cancun, Mexico

Temptation Resort is an adult-only, topless-optional vacation spot.  They offer a variety of adult-themed shows and games along with all the luxury that one might expect.  The staff’s number one goal is to get singles mingling, so they set up many events for that specific purpose.  For more traditional couples, they offer romantic rooms and a sexually charged atmosphere.  For adventurous couples, they can join the singles parties and see what comes of it.

3) Monterey Stay and Play in Monterey, California, United States

For the BDSM couple (or those who may be curious), there’s a unique little bed and breakfast in Monterey.  They offer a room, access to their fully stocked dungeon and the services of an onsite mistress if needed.  For those new to the lifestyle or looking to learn more, there is an “educational session” available as well.

So if chocolates and flowers just don’t cut it anymore, you might want to consider just how far you’re willing to go to bring new flavor to your love life and then check out one of the many sex-centric vacation destinations and activities that are out there.  This is just a small selection, so if you don’t see what you’re looking for here, you can easily search the Internet and no doubt find plenty of options that fit.

Nude Beach photo courtesy of Simon via Wikicommons