Romantic resorts

Valentine’s Day is really not that far away, or so it seems by all the decorations and candy that have been out since the week after Christmas!

I have received several ideas via email this week that I would like to share with parents or any couple that would like a romantic (and unique) getaway. By planning early, you are ahead of the game on making reservations or arranging for child care!

One of the "Best Places to Kiss" at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

The Couples Celebration at The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess offers a $200 resort credit (per night) and an option for in-room dining, including rose petals and votive candles. If you want to venture out to a restaurant, La Hacienda, The Grill, Stone Rose Lounge and LV Bistro all offer Valentine-themed meals, desserts and cocktails with fun names like Valentine Squeeze, Sweet Tart and Love Potion #9. You can choose to add a spa treatment to your visit or learn massage techniques for yourself during the Loving Touch Couples Massage Workshop. They truly have thought of everything romantic when they share their “Best Places to Kiss” at the Princess — the Fragrance Garden gets my vote!

Book a couple's massage at the Aji Spa.

Over at Kai at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa enjoy sweeping sunset views as you dine on a seven-course prix-fixe Valentine’s tasting menu ending with a “journey into the world of chocolate and cotton” (not sure how that works, but I’m intrigued). Also available at Ko’sin restaurant is a four-course tasting menu featuring desert bistro cuisine. Book a couple’s massage (or any treatment) at the Aji Spa on the 14th and receive complimentary champagne and chocolate covered strawberries to enjoy poolside.

Venture down Tuscon way to a unique dining experience at the Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain. Valentine’s Splash Dining presents a specially prepared, romantic dinner under the stars — served in a shallow heated pool! Your legs, and the legs of the tables and chairs, will all be partially immersed in the Turquesa Pool. Yes, even your server will wade up with your meal in hand! Feeling less adventurous? Opt for the “Just for Us” experience that includes a rose petal bath, 50-minute Together Massage and champagne and strawberries.

Try unique Splash Dining at the Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain.

Loews Ventana Canyon is offering the I Heart AZ Romantic Getaway to celebrate both Valentine’s Day and Arizona’s Centennial. The package includes $100 off Loews Best Rate (starting at $169 per night including the discount), based on a 2-night stay, and features upgraded accommodations, sparkling wine arrival amenity and a bouquet of roses. The package is available Feb. 11-18.

Can’t afford a resort getaway? Tell Lowes Ventana Canyon why you “heart” AZ in 50 words or less and you will be entered to win the “I Heart AZ Romantic Getaway” package. Find details at www.facebook.com/LoewsVentanaCanyon .

Hopefully these ideas will help you to plan the perfect (or at lease completely different) Valentine’s Day!