UIA promotes Europe’s top romantic destinations

01.02.2008

UIA announced today the start of a 1.5-month long promotion of its top nine European destinations during February-March 2008 period. Destinations include the following cities – Amsterdam, Rome, Berlin, Frankfurt, Vienna, Madrid, Barcelona, Lisbon and Tbilisi. Tickets for two for weekend tours or week-long getaways are made available for advance purchase, each at a symbolic fare of 214 USD in February and 308 USD in March.*

Travelers can immerse themselves in rich, over one thousand year old, St. Valentine’s holiday traditions, participate in numerous carnivals and festivals signifying the start of spring, visit Europe’s and the Caucasus region’s most romantic places, participate in unique events and indulge in exquisite culinary treats and select wines.

Holland’s annual Flower Festival in Zwaagdijk-Oost from the 20th till the 24th of February is a perfect choice for a romantic getaway. This year, the festival celebrates its 75th anniversary so the visitors are in for a special treat – a real celebration of spring in the middle of winter. Amsterdam’s airport is just a short trip away from the neighboring Belgium and the ancient town of Bruges (Brugge), where on 9-10th of February the Chocolate Fair will open its doors. On the eve of St. Valentine’s, Bruges’ renown chocolatiers have committed to making the largest chocolate heart in the world.

By visiting Italy in early February, one can participate in Europe’s most famous Venice Carnival (taking place from January 25th through February 5th this year). The town of Terni in Italy and its St. Valentine’s cathedral, the resting ground of the world’s most favored Saint, is the place of the month-long themed annual celebrations and traditionally is a popular location to propose or celebrate wedding anniversaries.

Germany also offers a myriad of romantic opportunities. The traditional Reine Festival will take place from February 27th through March 3rd. The cities of Köln, Düsseldorf, and Mainz are in the center of the Festival activities and are all easily accessible from the Frankfurt Airport. The carnival guests will witness а mock attack of the City Hall and numerous other festivities and participate in the breathtaking parade under the rain of sweets and confetti. Frankfurt will host the world-famous Fur&Fashion Show from 6th through 9th of February which no woman will turn down. One of the year’s most significant cultural events, the Berlinale Film Festival, will take place in Germany’s capital on 7-17th of February.

Join the Johann Strauss Ball in Vienna, the birthplace of the world’s famous waltz, for an ultimate St. Valentine’s Day celebration traditionally taking place on the 14th of February.

From 15th to 17th of February Madrid becomes the fashion mecca. Salon International De Moda De Madrid taking place during those days is one of Europe’s key fashion shows. One can also participate in the exciting Barcelona Carnival taking place through the 16th of February or in the Fiesta De San Medir (“Shower of Sweets”) parade on the 3rd of March.

If you ever wondered what the Brazil Carnival is like, you don’t need to plan a trip to Latin America. Instead, visit Lisbon Carnival from February 1st until the 4th for its exciting samba rhythms and exotic dresses. For those with a taste for music and fine art, Lisbon Spring Festival (Fiesta de Primavera) is a clear choice in early March. True wine connoisseurs would not miss the Portugal Wine Show in Braga (12-16th of March) 

Last but definitely not least, is Georgia, a traditional destination for those in search of unique wine bouquets. Infamous hospitality and one of the widest choices of wines are there to enjoy throughout the year. The capital Tbilisi also has something in store for the ladies during the Emerald Exhibition from the 23rd through the 25th of February, featuring finest samples of traditional and ethnic jewelry.

This and much more has been made possible through the special UIA promotion this romantic season. 

* Ticket purchase to be made through February 16 and March 9 accordingly for 1 February-29 February and 1 March-31 March travel periods for a minimum of a 3-day stay and a maximum of a 7-day stay. Per ticket promotion fares only apply for the same-time purchase of two tickets. Airport taxes and service fees are not included and are to be paid separately.