While many couples book holidays with the hope of spending quality time together, the reality doesn’t always play out.
Relationship expert James Preece told MailOnline Travel that couples often get distracted when they’re away and in today’s connected world they find it almost impossible to switch off from work, with sneaky sessions checking emails or staying in touch with home via social media.
In a bid to get romance back on track, he has revealed his top tips for creating the ultimate romantic Caribbean getaway, with steamy bubble baths, no phones, and tropical cocktails among his key ingredients.
With the hectic nature of modern life, finding a slice of time for a spot of romance can prove tricky
Pick somewhere private
Firstly Preece suggests picking a sun-drenched resort that enables complete seclusion.
For instance Sandals Resorts, which specialises in all-inclusive adult-only holidays, has a new range of ultra romantic over-water villas in Jamaica and St Lucia which make privacy a priority.
The rooms even include custom-designed ‘tranquility soaking tubs’ that are big enough for two as well as private decks where guests can relax in over-water hammocks and private infinity pools. Search out real ‘alone’ time Preece says ‘it’s too easy to get stuck in a relationship rut’ and this is what sees couples drift apart.
Sandals Resorts has introduced a range of over-water villas and suites, which transport guests to a world of tranquility
One of the best ways to avoid this trap is to find a place to rebuild intimacy without any distractions and if you have children then leave them at home.
The Tahiti-style lodges at Sandals Resorts are located a good distance away from the main resort ensuring you and your partner can really focus on each other.
And to help couples back in the groove, Sandals Resorts has launched a new category of rooms, taking decadence to the next level. Unwinding together at a Sandals villa could be just the kind of kick start your relationship needs. The Tahiti-style lodges are located a good distance away from the main resort so you can really focus on each other.
The company, which runs 16 resorts in the Caribbean across six islands, has introduced a range of over-water villas and suites, which transport guests to a world of tranquility with roomy ocean-facing bathtubs, over-water hammocks and very Instagrammable infinity pools.
The new Over-The-Water Villas at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island, Jamaica location have their own infinity pools
And with every need catered for and every comfort provided, the stress of the daily routine can melt away. Preece adds: ‘Spend time making each other happy without having to worry about work or children getting in the way.’
Enjoy true alone time in one of Sandals Resorts over-water villas at its stunning Caribbean locations
Turn off your technology
Mobile phones and computers are a huge part of everyday life but Preece says ‘when you play on your phone or answer an email you are neglecting your partner’.
Mobile phones and computers are a huge part of everyday life but take a break from technology on holiday
He advises taking a break from technology on holiday so you can ‘completely switch off from outside influences and focus on the person you are with instead’.
If it’s necessary to check emails or upload envy-inducing holiday photos to Instagram, maybe dedicate 30 minutes a day for both of you to get your digital fix. Then put your devices away and enjoy staring into each other’s eyes instead of your screens.
Reconnect and LISTEN to each other
Use a romantic break as an opportunity to remind your partner about all the things you love about them.
Preece says the secret of any happy relationship is strong communication. This means listening intently and really understanding each other. He advises using a romantic break as an opportunity to remind your partner about all the things you love about them.
When it comes to discussion topics, he adds: ‘Talk about the good times you’ve had and make sure they know how important they are to you. Empathy will make you stronger.’
The peace and quiet of an exotic holiday for two, far away from the noise of daily life, will ensure you can really reconnect without getting distracted.
Rest and recuperate
Why not enjoy a relaxing massage with your beloved while enjoying the incredible views of the azure ocean?
Finding time to relax is important but something we tend to forget in our busy lives. Preece says that bubble baths and trips to the spa are great ways to speed up the process of unwinding.
Many destinations offer spa services tailored around couples and at Sandals Resorts you can indulge in its two-person treatment, appropriately named the ‘Scents of Love’ massage. This relaxing hour or 90 minute session features romantic candle light and tropical aromas.
The epitome of romance, the over-water villas allow you to lounge in the bath while over looking the stunning Caribbean ocean
If that doesn’t get you and your partner in the mood for love then nothing will. And don’t forget those ‘tranquility soaking tubs’ at the Sandals Resorts villas that are big enough for two and which will help ease away the strain of normal life.
Preece says that ‘once your mind is quiet, your body and mood will follow’ and this will allow you to interact with your partner on a much deeper level.
Go exploring together
Enjoying extracurricular activities outside the bedroom is another way to strengthen the bonds of your relationship.
Preece notes that when you take part on excursions or mini-adventures, ‘you are creating new positive memories’. And a holiday is the perfect time to try something new.
At the Sandals Resorts Caribbean destinations you’ll find an array of things on offer, from free scuba diving sessions to kayaking lessons.
At the Sandals Resorts Caribbean destinations you’ll find an array of things on offer, from scuba diving sessions to kayaking lessons. The luxury travel company has also partnered up with local tour operators across the Caribbean to offer more adventurous options such as deep sea fishing and catamaran sailing trips.
Preece says that ‘new activities flood your brain with dopamine which is a feel good chemical’ and if you’re with your partner then you’ll associate these positive feelings with them.
‘New activities flood your brain with dopamine which is a feel good chemical’ and if you’re with your partner then you’ll associate these positive feelings with them.’
He adds: ‘You will have fun learning new skills together while doing something you wouldn’t normally have thought of. This variety keeps things fresh and interesting and you’ll have new things to talk about.’
Eat, drink and be merry
‘Trying new culinary experiences can really help you rekindle the flames of desire for each other.’
Preece highlights that alcohol and great food can be powerful aphrodisiacs. And an all-inclusive resort can really take the pressure off when it comes to managing finances.
Each of the Sandals Resorts – there are 16 in total across six islands – boast a belly-busting number of restaurants and bars for guests to enjoy. The over-water villas and a number of premium rooms also come complete with a 24-hour butler service.
Guests can request anything, from their favourite tropical cocktails at 3am in the morning to romantic candle-lit dinners on the beach.
Preece says: ‘Trying new culinary experiences can really help you rekindle the flames of desire for each other. ‘It’s even better when you have someone to cook, serve and wash up afterwards for you!’
Click here to start writing your love story and to find out more about Sandals over-water villas.