The Top 5 Non-Traditional Romantic Study Abroad Destinations
Everyone knows that cities like Paris and Venice are pulsing with romance, but we decided to put together a list of equally romantic, albeit lesser-known cities where l’amour is the heartbeat of the town. Below is our list of cities that are sure to excite many a romantic expedition.
1) Melbourne, Australia: For those who are more inclined to find love in the outdoors, Melbourne offers a spectacular variety of activities that are sure to thrill and ignite. Whether it be a hot air balloon ride over its breathtaking coastlines or trekking through its national park and savannahs, Melbourne guarantees love in the air with these once in a lifetime adventures!
One student mentioned, “I loved the opportunity to see amazing natural wonders such as the Great Barrier Reef, New Zealand’s glaciers, the Great Ocean Road, as well as the chance to see other attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Melbourne’s cultural institutions.” Acland St provides a wordwide mecca of sweets through its cake and pastry shops, and the decadent European architecture, inviting café culture, and proximity to world-renowned wine country are sure to inspire romance.
2) Kyoto, Japan: Boasting more than 2,000 temples, shrines, and gardens, Kyoto epitomizes tranquility and reflection. One of the most well known sites to visit in Kyoto is the Kiyomizu-dera Buddhist temple featuring “love stones” that sit about 60 feet apart from each other. According to legend, if you manage to walk from one and into the other with your eyes closed, you will find true love.
Kyoto is also home to the romantic, Nanzenji Zen Temple. Set into a Japanese hillside, the Nanzenji Zen Temple is bejeweled with serene ponds and stunning gardens that are perfect for a romantic afternoon picnic. Visiting Kyoto promises beauty, romance, and a friendly, inviting culture. As one student claims, “It isn’t hard to find a group of people interested in doing what you want to do. Whether it’s enjoying Kyoto nightlife, traveling, studying a cultural art, or just chilling, it’s easy to find your niche.”
3) Edinburgh, Scotland: With its fascinating history, unique heritage, ancient buildings, dramatic scenery, countless attractions and lively nightlife, this castle filled city is considered a top romantic destination for travelers and students alike!
Edinburgh also offers amorous excursions, such as horse-drawn carriage rides, bikes and walking tours through picturesque landscapes, and overnight adventures in the scenic wilderness of Scotland. One student mentions that through living in Edinburgh, she “gained a new understanding of how vast nature is and how beautiful the mountains and hills are.”
5) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Rio de Janeiro, affectionately known as Rio, is located on the renowned white sandy beaches of Brazil. Rio basks in the indescribable beauty of majestic mountains, harmonious cityscapes, and perfectly tanned locals that together provide the perfect recipe for a romantic destination. In addition to the picturesque landscapes, Rio features a variety of outdoor activities, such as surfing, hiking, sailing and dancing, that are sure to appeal to any outdoor enthusiast!
A recent student in Rio claims, “Rio is amazing! It has mountains, GORGEOUS beaches, and beautiful people…”
Visiting any of these destinations will assure unforgettable memories so throw away that Paris tour guide and brush up on your Portugese or head down under!
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By Sarah and Rachel
