It is not the spectacular events that are remembered over the years but rather time spent together laughing and smiling that keeps the passion alive in any relationship. Sure, the hot air balloon flight and breakfast on the mountain top is a spectacular memory, but a midweek sneak away to a hotel room or a weekend in the school term is what we are going for here. Keep the Passion Alive. Try a Hotel Date Night!
Why a hotel? Because whether you go down the street or to a different continent, a hotel room triggers all the right senses to trick your mind into a sense of adventure! We traveled to get here, we are not home, and all the romantic memories of previous holidays and trips jump to the top of your mind!
The second reason? Because there is very little to set up. Everything is done for you, everything is close at hand, and of course, everything gets cleaned up by somebody else when you leave! Except for one or two items to bring along to make the getaway perfect, there is really very little extra to do.
That doesn’t mean you should skip out on the preparation though. A few well points to keep in mind:
Preparing for the Romantic Break
1. Advance Planning
A little bit of advance planning is a good thing. Planning doesn’t take away from the spontaneity of the getaway, in fact, quite the opposite. By planning a bit together, you are heightening the excitement of the night. And by planning a few days in advance, you can also decrease the chances of having to call it off because of work or other interferences… Frankly, the planning is the start of foreplay for a passion-filled getaway!
2. Pick a Theme
To some, this sounds a bit much, but really isn’t. Picking a theme allows you to also decide on how you want the day or two you have together to progress. The theme might simply be to relax. Rest with no expectation. Or it may be focussed 100% on the more physical side of romance (In which case, you might want to plan for that)
Most importantly, it manages the expectation for the event and ensures that both of you come away satisfied and stronger in your relationship.
3. Which Hotel?
Once you have your planning going and your theme picked, your choice of hotel would need to match. You might be looking for quiet luxury and a high-end fine dining restaurant or a spa on the premises, or something with more room space, or more bathroom space.
This also goes for the room you choose… Ask the hotel what is available (if it isn’t on their website) Some rooms have double showers or bigger baths in certain rooms, some have bigger beds. Some have chairs while others would have couches in the room. Even carpeting vs wooden floors is available. Most higher-end hotels want to be able to cater to their guest’s needs as much as possible, and will happily book you into a room that will please you!
4. Tell the hotel you have a Romantic Evening planned
More often than not, there is an option to request a romantic turndown service for your room. It’s a few small changes, but it makes a difference. It also gives the hotel an opportunity to inform you of any specials they might have for couples that you may not have known about.
Also, take this opportunity to ask for extra water bottles or arrange for a bottle of wine or bubbly to be delivered to the room (or to be ready in the room when you arrive – remember to give them a time!)
5. Prepare the room
If possible, go and prepare the room for your significant other. Even a few small touches are enough to set an expectation. After more than a decade in the hotel and hospitality industries, you can trust us… You will reap the rewards.
6. Arrange for house- or babysitters
Have someone you trust to look after your place and kids (both human and animal kind) – Just a bit extra peace of mind to help you relax and enjoy every moment of your short getaway without worry!
7. Breakfast in bed before work
Add another twist: Plan to have breakfast in bed and then leave straight for work. Knowing that the workday started with a lot more exciting than your colleagues! Alternatively… take an extra day, sleep in and relax!
What to Pack for a Romantic Hotel Midweek Getaway
Flameless Candles
Yeah, it is not the real thing, but you do not want to ruin your evening with a fire alarm or a fight with hotel staff because of wax all over the carpets!
Lingerie
Nothing like a bit of French Sluttery to set the mood. Put it on to take it off.
Dress up evening wear
Take it to the next level and dress up for dinner. Set the intent of the evening by dressing up for a date in the Hotel Restaurant. Good food, great wine, try something new!
Flowers
If you ask the front desk when booking direct, you can usually arrange for a romantic turndown that includes rose petals. But a fresh flower on a pillow is a small touch that goes a long way.
Relaxing Bath Accessories
We pride ourselves in providing deep, beautiful baths in almost all our rooms. Come a few hours before your partner and relax your muscles in a warm soak. Our showers, however, is a thing of legend and perfectly suited for couples to enjoy together.
Music
Bring along a small Bluetooth speaker that can play music from your phone. Its not essential but we suggest a waterproof version. Nothing like a little mood music playing in the background.
Other “Entertainments”
Maybe you enjoy some other distractions or entertainment. If you have “aids” that enhance sensual play that you ordinarily use at home (or would like to try on this get-away), bring them along. Better to have them and not need them, than wish you packed them!
Snacks
Have a tray of chocolates for a late-night snuggle treat. You can also arrange with the hotel for a fruit and biltong platter or a cheese tray!
The rest is up to you… Make some memories!
What to avoid for a Romantic Hotel Midweek Getaway
Massage oils
This makes more of a mess than you think! Rather book in at the Hotel Spa and let the professionals do their thing!
Wine and Champagne
Order from the hotel bar beforehand and avoid corkage charges after the fact.
Your Work Laptop
Interruptions
Inform your office and or co-workers that you are not available for 24/48 hours
Talks about the Household
Keep your household budget discussions or rent, or the bank accounts for another day.