Saturday, September 7, 2024 Paris, long celebrated as the ultimate romantic destination, has been dethroned. A recent survey of 2,000 Americans revealed that Maui, Hawaii, has now claimed the top spot as the most romantic travel destination, with 34% of respondents choosing it over Paris, which garnered 33% of the votes. This shift highlights changing preferences in the travel industry, where scenic, nature-filled locales are becoming more appealing to couples than urban destinations steeped in history.

Conducted by Talker Research in partnership with Funjet Vacations, the survey also revealed that while many still hold Paris close to their hearts, other scenic destinations like Rome, Italy (29%) and Santorini, Greece (11%) have proven to be equally alluring. In addition to these well-known spots, beachy and tropical locations such as Cancun, Mexico (19%), Costa Rica (13%), and the British Virgin Islands (12%) are gaining traction as prime spots for romantic getaways. One of the most surprising revelations from the survey was the growing popularity of smaller or lesser-known destinations as romantic hotspots.

A majority of respondents (69%) believe that hidden or more remote places are often more romantic than well-known locations. This trend toward discovering off-the-beaten-path locations aligns with the modern traveler’s desire for authentic, intimate experiences. Travelers are increasingly seeking out quieter spots where they can connect more deeply with their partners,.