Paris.  Venice.  Maui.  Detroit.  We’re all well versed in the usual locales of love. But what if you’re after something a little less cliché? Somewhere remote. Say, for example, one of 378 islands in a remote region of Panama. Or maybe the remnant of a Greek island once ravaged by a massive volcanic eruption? Whether you and your significant other are into the heat of the driest place in the world or snowy French slopes, we’ve got you covered. So dust off that underused passport as we guide you through some lesser-known options for your next retreat. Save the locations and hotels you like in your Springpad account for when the time is right. (New to Springpad? We’re a free application that makes it easy to save anything you want to remember. Learn more here).

1. Atacama Desert, Chile

Love dry heat? NASA recognizes this plateau just west of the Andes, as the driest place in the world! If you’re looking for an escape, where better than the otherworldliness of the Chilean desert?  And if you want, you can stretch the truth and tell your friends you went to Mars; after all, this desert was the shooting location for Space Odyssey: Voyage to the Planets. San Pedro de Atacama and Hotel Terrantai Lodge offers travellers the most authentic experience possible by honoring a host of native customs. Guests can take excursions to the oases, lakes, and geyers that surround the hotel.
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2. Balapitiya, Sri Lanka

While just a short drive from Bentota, one of Sri Lanka’s major beach resorts, Balapitiya remains mostly unscathed by tourism. The coastline of golden beaches is primarily a fishing village, so chartered fishing trips and river safaris are easily arranged. A lovely destination for couples looking to see the “real” Sri Lanka. Maduganga Villa is a retreat located on the bank of Mahaladuwa. Guests enjoy dining in a floating houseboat, peaceful walks in the surrounding gardens, and viewing the antique artifacts that decorate the grounds.
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3. Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles

Regular visitors to the region consider this small Caribbean island a best-kept secret. (Sorry!) The proof is in the pudding: 55 percent of travelers there are repeat visitors. What keeps them coming? Probably Bonaire’s perfect blend of laid-back, timeless culture by day and lively entertainment by night. If you’re looking for an amazing home away from home, look no further than this island of the Netherlands Antilles, a true pioneer in nature preservation.  The Sorobon Beach Resort is located on a remote peninsula in Bonaire. The resort is clothing-optional, which makes sense because it is that secluded.
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4. Cabarete, Dominican Republic

If you’re looking for a little action on your beach vacation, this northern seaside town just 20 minutes from Puerto Plata Airport is known for its wind and kite surfing. What’s more, its medley of natural elements — the offshore reef, the trade winds, and the low-lying hills behind the village — makes for a thrilling thermal effect and some truly gorgeous sights. Tack on DR’s legendary nightlife, and you’re in for a wonderful trip. Located on Cabarete beach, Hotel Algeria is a small, family-run hotel with a great location. Perks include a laid-back atmosphere, outdoor jacuzzi, and a short walk to beachfront night clubs. Ideal for travelers on a budget.
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5. Colchagua Valley, Chile

Love wine? To say this scenic Chilean valley is known for its vineyards would be an understatement. In 2005, Wine Enthusiast Magazine named it the Best Wine Region of the World. When you’re done visiting the cellars and sampling the world-class reds, make the short trip to the Flaco Hotsprings to bask in your buzz.  Located in Chilean wine country, Casa Silva is a converted farmhouse that is now an intimate hotel. Patrons can enjoy bicycling to the nearby vineyards or riding through the countryside in a horse-drawn carriage.
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6. Courchevel, France

A favorite ski resort for Paris jet setters, Courchevel’s world-class restaurants and accommodations are considered among the best in the Alps. They’re also the priciest, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to spend a fortune. Courchevel consists of four very different villages, and not all are reserved for the high rollers. You’re sure to find a fit for your budget, and the slopes are full of spectacular runs, even for beginners.  The Courchevel Ski Resort is located near Vanoise national park. It offers accomodations for any budget – from studio apartments to four-star hotels.
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7. Essaouira, Morocco

Perhaps Morocco’s most lovable resort, Essaouira, like Cabarete, is praised for its water sports-friendly wind, called alizee. It makes for an ideal setting for wind and kite surfing, and the town even goes by the nickname, “Wind City, Afrika.” In addition to its natural beauty Essauira boasts a rich culture, replete with marquetry and wood-carving workshops, as well as spice and jewelry souks.  Hotel Essaouira is located in Marrakech, Morrocco. While the rooms may be simple, the hotel itself is quite beautiful. It has both a courtyard and rooftop terrace and is rightfully favored by budget-savvy travelers.
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8. Hoi An, Vietnam

UNESCO declared the town a World Heritage site in 1999 as a village that exemplifies the Southeast Asian trading ports of the 15th to 19th centuries. And thanks to a terrific exchange rate, finding cheap (we’re talking $20 cheap), spacious accommodations is no problem. Also of note: the tiny town consists of more than 200 tailors, and it’s their fine fabrics that help make Hoi An’s streets so colorful. Hoi An Hotel is designed in traditional Vietnamese “open” style, complete with gardens and a pool. It also has an outstanding location in walking distance from the center of Hoi An.
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9. Kerala, India

Resting on the Southwestern tip of India, Kerala is fondly referred to as “God’s Own Country.” National Geographic Traveler has named it one of the world’s 50 best destinations, and one of the 13 paradises of the world. Its rich rainforest carries an amazing bio-diversity, with hundreds of species of fauna you won’t find anywhere else. Thanks to the consistently moderate climate, Kerala’s classical art forms, lively festivals and local cuisine are a year-round draw. The city, Cochin, is known for hosting honeymooners who will no doubt want to stay at Hotel Taj Malabar, a five-star hotel. It comes with a number of accomodations for guests, including four restaurants and a dance club.

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10. Krabi, Thailand

This Thai province consists of over 80 smaller islands and is known for its national parks, most notably Hat Noppharat Thara, Ao Nang, Railay and Ko Phi Phi, all best visited during the non-monsoon months between October and April.  With an extensive list of scenic attractions (waterfalls, caves, bird-watching, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing) it’s no wonder this is a favorite for adventurers, yachtsmen, scuba-divers, snorkelers and day-trippers from Phuket.  Krabi Resort is the only resort in Ao Nang with private beach access. Guests can enjoy the beauty of the beach, which is the most popular in Ao Nang, and explore its coral reefs, waterfalls and caves.
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11. San Camp, Botswana

If you’re looking to get lost in a landscape, San Camp’s vast 360-degree horizon should be on your radar. It’s not uncommon to watch a full moon rising on one horizon as the sun sets on the other. The camp is made up of six widely spread Meru-style tents facing the horizon, each with its own en-suite bathroom with a private shower and a flush toilet.  Considering the location (you can take a stroll with the local San bushmen) these accommodations are definitely sheik. San Camp is ideal for die-hard campers staying in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. While the amenities are slim, many agree that the wonderful staff makes the experience worthwhile.
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12. Negril, Jamaica

With its seven miles of pristine beaches, Negril is the perfect place to take off your sandals and spread your toes in the water. And despite its booming resort business, Negril remains surprisingly laid back. With its fantastic water-sports facilities, open-air dancing, first-rate live music and the best sunsets on the island, it’s no wonder many foreigners decide to move here permanently.  Travelers staying at Rockhose Hotel can enjoy beautiful Jamacian beaches and view sunsets over the ocean. It’s a prime spot for easygoing couples that want to enjoy relaxing by the beach in a villla.
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13. Santorini, Greece

Home to a small but flourishing wine industry, Santorini, part of the Greek Cyclades in the Aegean Sea, is known for its indigenous grapes. White wines, black sand beaches and lime-washed buildings color the island and make for some of Greece’s most spectacular landscapes. The traditional village, built on tall cliffs, offers a breathtaking view over a submerged volcano. There are many Greek legends surrounding Santorini’s origin, some of which involve the mystical Atlantis.  Karami Beach Hotel is an upscale resort located in Santorini. Completely renovated in 2007, it blends Aegean style with retro desgins. Outside, guests can relax on the nearby black sand beach.
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14. Yunnan Province, China

The Chinese consider Yunnan their “frontier province.” The terrain is lined with mountains to the north and west, and to the east lies a rugged limestone plateau and “un-navigable” rivers that slice through deep mountain gorges. With three separate UNESCO Heritage Sites, and Yunnan’s physical beauty is matched only by its diverse culture. The Province is home to citizens representing 25 of China’s 56 recognized ethnic groups.  King World Hotel is a four-star hotel located in the city’s business district. Guests will enjoy beautifully decorated rooms and fine dining in the hotel’s revolving restaurant.
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15. San Blas, Panama

It may be just 20 minutes by plane from Panama City, but a trip to San Blas is said to take you 20 centuries back in time. The Kuna Indians, who govern the 378-island province with minimal intrusion from the national government, have preserved their traditional economic system, language, dress, legends, music and dance, and have effectively fended off traditional tourism development. But don’t let their fierce independence fool you. The Kuna are gracious hosts, eager to grace you with the simple pleasures in life when you return home from snorkeling and diving by reefs that are among the oldest in the world.  Yandup Island Lodge is known for its fantastic location. Travellers can lodge in one of six cabins to take in the natural surroundings of the remote island. A great place to get away from the bustle of Panama City and enjoy an authentic island stay.
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