Hearts, flowers and cuddly toys might resonate with romance for some, but if we all felt the same way, the world would be a very dull place indeed. So, for those couples that covet experiences that get the blood pumping in a way that’s not for the faint of heart, we’ve tracked down the ultimate thrill-seeking romantic getaways for this March. Time to inject some adrenaline into your life…
1. Diving in Komodo National Park, Indonesia
The rugged archipelago of protected islands that make up Komodo National Park have enticed thrill-seekers with roaming colonies of Komodo dragons and unspoilt dive spots for years. There is a wildness to the dramatic landscapes in this part of the world, both above and below the waters, thanks to the strong currents that flow between the many islands and islets. Sink below the surface with your beloved at renowned dive spots such as Batu Bolong and Manta Alley and watch groups of rays and large schools of barracuda, surgeonfish and dogtooth tuna drift by. The magnificent hammerhead shark is also spotted with frequency in parts of this region, too.
2. Winter sports in Alaska
If the call of a frozen landscape speaks to your heart more than tropical waters, head to Alaska this March when the harsh winter weather breaks, revealing clearer skies and longer days for indulging in a wide range of outdoor pursuits. Whether you and that special someone want to head out on a guided cross-country ski tour through the wilderness, try your hand at traditional dog-sledding or rev up and power out on a snowmobile, Alaska provides a range of thrill-seeking experiences set against a beautiful winter wonderland backdrop that’s guaranteed to melt your heart.
3. Wildlife watching in South Africa
If channelling your inner Attenborough and getting up close and personal with the wildlife of the world gives you a thrill, head to South Africa to take your holiday experience to the next level. From shark and crocodile cage diving to a walk with the rhinos in Kruger National Park, from an elephant safari to riding an ostrich in Outdshoorn, this is the place to walk on the wild side with the one you love. A cold beer and that famously laid-back South African lifestyle are sure to work wonders for lowering your blood pressure after the event.
4. Skydiving in New Zealand
With sweeping scenery worthy of a Tolkien novel, New Zealand has long been the destination of choice for adrenaline junkies. After all, where better to hurtle towards the ground at more than 100mph than an epic region of national parks, lakes, mountains and beaches? Whether you choose to head to Queenstown where tandem skydiving in New Zealand began, or leap out of a plane over Taupo where Mt Ngauruhoe – Mt Doom in the Middle Earth trilogy – presides over all, you’re in for a thrilling experience you’ll never forget.
5. Mountain biking in Canada
For downhill trails that will snatch your breath away and spellbinding views of nature at its finest, book a trip to the Canadian Rockies where a magical region of alpine lakes, diverse wildlife and outdoor recreation sites awaits. Travel the high country on the Icefields Parkway, one of the greatest mountain roadways in the world, discover the quaint mountain towns of the Rocky Mountain Lakes or tackle the challenging route from Lake Louise to Whistler Road where big climbs are rewarded with breathtaking scenery.
Although the adventurous amongst us choose to push the boundaries at times, you should never take a risk with your travel insurance – particularly if you intend on participating in extreme activities on your trip. An accident could leave you or your loved ones with huge medical bills – which would put an end to any further adventure plans for some time. Make the sensible choice and purchase a travel insurance plan that covers you and your beloved properly, so that you can both get back to concentrating on creating memories together that will