State of affairs: Are these the world's most romantic locations?

Who can resist the pull of the city of canals and bridges, of crumbling marble mansions built on a lagoon, and gondolas drifting against the backdrop of centuries-old cathedrals? Venice is magical even when it's searing hot and crowded with tourists, but if you want to dial up the drama, visit in the colder months when dense clouds can give the city a magnificent otherworldly tint. And guess what? Hardly any tourists in sight. visitvenezia.eu/en

If an overwater villa, complete with a pool and direct access to a crystal-clear lagoon, in the Maldives is not the very definition of romance, then we don't know what is. There's no dearth of heavenly resorts where you can exchange your vows, renew your vows, or simply kick back with wow views, but if you're after something sparkling-new, consider checking in to the adults-only Anantara Veli Resort, which underwent a renovation in 2022. visitmaldives.com

Placid lakes, lush gardens, storybook bridges and ancient shrines ... Kyoto is not just one of Japan's most historical cities, it's one of the world's most atmospheric destinations, too. Check into a ryokan, get your ramen fix in the city's Ichijoji precinct, pray for everlasting fortune at the Kiyomizu-dera temple and wrap your hands around a warm matcha at a traditional tea house. Just don't forget to visit an onsen. kyoto.travel

You don't need a time machine to go back to the eighth century. Just plan a trip to Udaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Fill your eyes with wonder at one of its colourful bazaars, visit historic havelis with ornate facades and balconies, and enjoy a boat ride at dusk on Lake Pichola, with views of the city's honey-hued temples and palaces blazing in the setting sun. And when it's time to head back to your hotel, just ask the oarsman to turn the boat towards Taj Palace, located in the middle of the lake. incredibleindia.org

You can chase the big-hitters in the City of Light - from the Basilica of Sacre Coeur perched high on a hill in Montmartre to the Iron Lady that dazzles crowds both by day and night. Or you could settle for small moments of utter joy - wander through one of its magnificent streets flanked by Haussmannian architecture, enjoy a flaky pastry at a Seine-side cafe, or nab a table at a bistro with quintessential red and white tablecloths and garlic-infused escargot on the menu. Whatever you do, you'll make lifelong memories - and you'll always have Paris. parisjetaime.com/eng

If the colourful bazaars, the historic medinas and the extravagant palaces of Marrakech don't take your breath away, its lofty riads - complete with tranquil courtyards and trickling fountains - will surely do the trick. Take in the sights and sounds of the mesmerising city from a rooftop bar - the one perched on top of the Nobu hotel with 360-degree views would be our pick. Then check into one of the riad hotels and let their timeless serenity seduce you. And if money is no object, turn up the indulgence factor at luxury resort Amanjena, where endless rose-hued arched corridors give way to expansive suites with private pools. visitmorocco.com

Is it possible to feel romantic in the middle of a big city heaving with crowds? Yes, if the said metropolis is NYC and if - more importantly - you know where to go. Slice your way through the skyscrapers on the 2.3-kilometre-long elevated walkway, High Line, or slow down and literally smell the roses in Shakespeare Garden, hidden in the shadows of the miniature Belvedere Castle in the heart of Central Park. iloveny.com

Keep your eyes peeled for boisterous tangos that have a tendency to erupt along the streets of La Boca, and don't forget to snag a spot at one of the city's "closed-door" restaurants, hidden behind imposing doors (hence the name) on leafy suburban streets that are quiet as. You have to be in the know, book well in advance, turn up at the address and ring the bell. Tegui by chef German Martitegui is one such establishment. Once the door opens, you can step into a moodily lit room and enjoy courses that look as good as they taste. The most memorable meal of your life? You bet. argentina.travel