10 Places for the Perfect Kiss

Paris, France

There’s no shortage of scenic places to kiss in the renowned City of Lovers, like on a cruise down the Seine River, on the Eiffel Tower lit up at night or just about anywhere the city’s famous skyline serves as a backdrop.

However, Lonely Planet recommends an unusual place to stop for a smooch: the Père Lachaise Cemetery. That’s where you find the final resting places of artists, writers and famous lovers like Abelard and Heloise, as well as hundreds of other notable names. Ladies, don’t forget your favourite red lipstick to add your mark on Oscar Wilde’s grave.

If you’re looking for inspiration, head to the Musée Rodin to see Auguste Rodin’s famous work,The Kiss. Love is also a popular theme at the Louvre, where you’ll find romantic works like Antonio Canova’s Psyche Revived by the Kiss of Eros in addition to the scenic Tuileries and Carrousel gardens.

Photo courtesy of Al Ianni

Blarney, Ireland

You’ve heard the legend but have you thought about its practical applications? Kissing the stone to receive “the gift of the gab” might just help you sweet talk your sweetheart.

But the kiss isn’t without its trials because the stone isn’t easy to reach. Those who want to attempt the ritual have to climb up to the castle’s battlements, lie on their back and lean backwards over the edge to kiss the stone — upside-down. Luckily, safeguards have been installed and the practice of hanging people upside down by their ankles has been abandoned altogether.

Sounds like too much trouble? The “biggest little village in Ireland” is still worth a look for its scenery and local history — and it’s just a short trip from nearby Cork City.

Photo courtesy of Tiare Scott

Casablanca, Morocco

The largest city in the North African Kingdom of Morocco gets the nod as the place to quote classic film lines and kiss “as if it were the last time”. While you won’t find Bogie’s fictitious café, you will find a rich heritage that blends Arab and European influences. Visit the medina area to see the Hassan II Mosque, and brush up on your haggling skills before you hit the Central Market and the many shops in the city for that unique souvenir.

But kiss with caution: Morocco is a Muslim country and adheres to conservative laws and customs. According to government travel advice, a kiss in a public place may give offense in some parts of the country, and heterosexual relations outside of marriage and homosexuality are illegal.

Photo courtesy of Shawn Allen

New York, NY

Movies like An Affair to Remember and TV shows like Sex and the City have made this city a media darling, but there’s some historical precedence for a special embrace. As Lonely Planet points out, Ellis Island was the entry point for immigrants entering the U.S. and was therefore the site of many happy family reunions. Every year, millions of people gather in Times Square on New Year’s Eve to watch the ball drop — and start the year with a smooch. And of course, there’s Alfred Eisenstaedt’s famous photograph of a sailor stealing a kiss with a nurse during the VE Day celebrations.

Other kiss-worthy occasions include a trip to the observation deck at the Empire State Building and a picnic in Central Park’s Sheep’s Meadow.

Photo courtesy of epicharmus

Hershey, Pennsylvania

How about a kiss of a different kind? Anyone who loves chocolate will undoubtedly enjoy a trip to the “Sweetest Place on Earth”. There are many things to do in the area besides enjoy the company’s popular chocolate kisses. Take the kids and grandkids to Chocolate World or ZooAmerica, or enjoy a little time to yourself at the Chocolate Spa at the Hershey Resort. Head to the Antique Auto Museum or play a few rounds of golf at one of the Hershey Golf Collection courses.

If you’re looking for a sweet Valentine’s getaway, the town offers month-long chocolate celebrations every year during the month of February. Some of the events include gourmet dinners with chocolate dessert buffets, chocolate tastings and classes on how to make truffles and chocolate cocktails.

Photo courtesy of Vox Efx

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Sunny beaches, world-famous parties and breathtaking views make this a popular destination for young and young-at-heart lovers. Take a cable car up to Sugar Loaf Mountain, or tour up Corcovado Mountain to see the city at the base of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. Head to Samba City for some dancing, or visit the many museums and galleries in the city.

And there’s no shortage of reasons to celebrate. While one of the most famous events is the annual Carnaval, New Year’s celebrations also bring out locals and travellers alike to celebrate at the Copacabana beach, and this year marks the city’s 445th birthday in March. Watch for bonfire festivals on feast days in June, and there are sporting events throughout the year including cycling, boating and the annual marathon.

Photo courtesy of annemoraes