Thailand is Asia’s most popular tourist destination and the combination of sun, sea, sand and traditional culture is perfect for a short romantic getaway. Languish together in one of Thailand’s innumerable spa resorts and discover the true meaning of relaxation, take an elephant trek into the rainforests of northern Thailand or go on an evening star lit, boat trip down Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River.

For those of you looking for an unusual wedding location, how about the bottom of the sea! Valentine’s Day couples from all over the world don scuba gear (you have to be dive certificated to participate) and plunge, hand in hand, into the Gulf of Thailand near Trang in southern Thailand, where couples can sign their wedding papers underwater. You’ll be the envy of your friends, having Clown Fish for bridesmaids!

In the enchanting Maldives, you’ll find the ideal spot for snorkelling and scuba diving activities. Start off with snorkelling and ‘fly’ over the underwater landscape of coral reefs, with its myriad shoals of rainbow fish and find out what ‘being at one with nature’ really means. The more adventurous may venture further out and scuba dive into the depths, where manta rays, turtles and whales can be seen.

Back on land; take a ‘love stroll’ on the perfect beaches or give windsurfing a go and relax afterwards with an Indian head massage, all the while being surrounded by whispering coconut palms. Finish off the day on a traditional sailing boat (called a dhoni), taking in the spectacular islands at sunset and sip champagne as you glide across the ocean’s glassy surface – if you’re lucky you might be escorted by leaping dolphins!

If you’d prefer somewhere that offers young couples real action as well as excitement, a worthwhile option is Hong Kong. Wander the over-flowing markets, cobbled streets and giant malls, ideal for the shop-a-holic. Or take the 125 year old Peak Tram funicular railway to the island’s summit for a romantic interlude. The Mövenpick Marché in the Peak Tower has a special Valentine’s Day menu (including my personal favourite, Kir Royale, a delicious combination of Champagne and Cassis) and offers a spectacular view of Victoria Harbour.

At the harbour itself, you can book yourselves onto an old Chinese Junk, a traditional Sampan or the Star Ferry for a leisurely moonlit cruise, soaking in the glittering fairy tale lights around the harbour. Hong Kong’s legendary night life is a must too; you can find everything from cabaret to karaoke to get those heart beats thumping.

After a hard night on the tiles, pop across to the smaller outlying islands and their fantastic beaches – Lo So Shing beach on Lamma Island offers unspoilt sand and sea, ideal for a love filled, care-free day.

The city of Dalat is Vietnam’s most romantic destination, attracting thousands of Vietnamese and international honeymooners. Known as the City of Eternal Spring, due to its high altitude and therefore relatively cool temperatures compared with the nearby plains, the area is strewn with coffee plantations, rolling hills and waterfalls. Rare blue orchids and many other exotic plants can be seen in the town’s bounteous gardens and markets, making for a romantic setting like no other.

Other highlights of this quaint colonial town are: the Emperor’s Summer Palace, with its display’s of royal artefacts; The French quarter, with its street café’s and chalets; the bustling market where you can buy hill tribe handicrafts, as well as a colourful riot of local produce; and the “Crazy House”, a bizarre, tree-like construction filled with curious curios and statuettes, built by the daughter of the 2nd president of Vietnam.

For a truly romantic, love filled time; 5 km away lies the ‘Valley of Love’ where you can go horse riding with guides dressed as cowboys, take a trip on the lake in a paddleboat shaped like a giant swan and stay in the Sofitel Dalat Palace, an exquisitely restored 1920’s hotel.

Last but certainly not least on our list of Valentine destinations, the Rajasthani town of Jaipur, India, with its meandering alleys, glorious gardens and hidden secrets, couldn’t be more romantic. Explore the famous Amber Fort, with its crumbling temples and courtyards; experience the desolate beauty of the desert from the back of a camel; or pick out that engagement ring – Jaipur is world renowned for its emeralds.

After catching the sights and sounds of this desert city, treat yourself to the ultimate luxury – sleeping in the bed of a maharaja! The Ram Bagh Palace Hotel, originally a summer palace, features the Sheesh Mahal (‘Palace of Mirrors’) where you can see your loved one’s face reflected a thousand times and acres of gardens filled with the cries of peacocks. Fountains sparkle in your sitting room, incense relaxes the mind and the cosy, antique furniture is sure to put you in the mood. The full royal treatment can be arranged too, where you are brought to the entrance on an authentic brocaded elephant, and greeted with marigold garlands.