The romantic destination couples from Wales want to visit the most is…the Maldives

A nationwide study of married couples in the UK has revealed where around the world we want to travel to for our next romantic holiday.

The research, commissioned by worldwide travel company Kuoni, uncovered the favourite holiday destinations of couples in Wales, and also took a look into the personality types of couples from the country. The majority of Welsh couples described themselves as more introverted and private (rather than outgoing and sociable), much more mellow and steady (rather than passionate and fiery) and there was an equal split between busy and organised couples versus more spontaneous couples who go with the flow.

The research showed that the most popular countries for couples from Wales to take a holiday together were:

• Spain
• Greece
• France
• Italy

The most popular countries for Welsh couples to go on honeymoon came out as France and Italy.

However, when asked where they would most like to travel to next for a romantic escape, the answers were much further afield, with the Maldives, Australia and Thailand topping the list.

Finding romantic holiday inspiration

For Welsh couples planning a special holiday away together, whatever your couple personality type, we’ve shared some of the best gems from each of the favourite locations to give you some serious romantic wanderlust:

Maldives – best for switching off completely

The Maldives is a great choice all year around with a climate that stays at a fairly consistent 25-30°C all year around. With a sea temperature of 25°C and eight hours of sunshine a day, you don’t have to worry about the weather at all and can just focus on relaxing with your other-half. Relaxing is different for everyone, but the Maldives has you covered in all ways – whether it’s sinking back into your private villa pool overlooking the turquoise ocean, or taking a gentle stroll under the palm trees and feeling soft white sands under your toes. If you like to relax by doing, then take an excursion to a tiny hideaway island for a night, or take a day trip to Malé to explore the capital’s colourful markets.

Australia – best for adventure seekers

There is so much to plan into a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Australia. With its raw desert beauty, famous cityscapes and extraordinary wildlife, a romantic trip to Australia could include an epic road-trip, an awesome beach adventure, city-hopping between Sydney and Melbourne – or all the above! If you want dazzling white sands and blue waters, include a stay in Queensland and visit the iconic Whitsundays archipelago. If it’s wild nature you’re after, take a tour of the Outback in the northern territory, or explore the rugged beauty of the Blue Mountains in New South Wales. Soak up sports, arts and a stellar café scene in Melbourne, and plan a trip to Perth for cool bars and quieter historic streets and parklands.

Thailand – best for planners

Couples who enjoy organising and making schedules will have a great time creating their holiday itinerary for Thailand; from planning an island hopping expedition, to visiting golden temples, taking on tuk tuk tours, and visiting elephants at ancient national parks, there is plenty to keep you busy. Your romantic escape can also include scheduled downtime at Koh Samui or Koh Lanta where you can sunbathe and snorkel, the perfect respite after a plunge into the heady chaos of Bangkok’s nightlife and floating markets.

 Italy – best for introverted couples

Italian cities like Rome and Venice are notorious for their hustle and bustle, however there are a number of regions in Italy which are particularly suited for couples looking for a more private and romantic escape.  The southern regions of Basilicata & Puglia offer stunning forests and mountains, dotted with tiny churches (including the cave churches near Matera) and traditional villages, as well as a sprawling coastline that’s home to stylish adult-only resorts. And for a city mini-moon without the stress of too many tourists, Milan offers wide open parks, peaceful churches and a gorgeous canal lined with the glittering lights of bars and restaurants – perfect for a low-key (and delicious) night out.

 France – best for foodies and culture seekers

Whilst Paris is the place most people’s heads go when thinking of romantic French destinations, the country has a huge choice of other locations that you and your partner can make life-long happy memories. Lille is a real gem, an enchanting city close to the Belgian boarder in northern France that offers you all the pleasures of Paris without the crazy tourist crowds; the city is brimming with delicacies including sweet sugary waffles and delicious salty moules-frites; it has an incredible fine art museum and, for the evenings, there is a great choice of relaxed and fun bars. Or, if you prefer a seaside escape in the south of France, explore Nice with its charming old town and markets, sophisticated harbour and beautiful promenade offering incredible views of the azure ocean waters.