Paris Permenter & John Bigley: That region is a great place to explore by boat; for a small cruise of that size, you'll want to look into chartered yachts. Sunsail has a large fleet of bareboat charters (where you crew the vessel yourself) or you can charter a yacht crewed by a skipper (which isn't always as expensive as it might sound if you can get together with other couples and share the cost.)

A less expensive option is a small ship cruise; we toured the area aboard Star Clipper, one of several tall ships operated by Star Clippers. The cruise held just over 100 passengers (mostly Europeans) and its size made it possible for it to visit smaller ports than the larger cruise ships. We cruised the Aeolian Islands, very romantic, small islands that see few tourists.

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Los Alamitos, CA: Hello, I am traveling to London to spend Valentine's week with my British boyfriend of 5 years. We've spent several holidays together, but this will be our first Valentine's Day together and I'd like to make it extra special (without breaking the bank). Any suggestions? Thank you!

Paris Permenter & John Bigley: London's definitely a romantic city and one with lots of options for lovers. If you'll be booking a hotel room, consider one centrally located to minimize travel time and to maximize romantic strolls. We've enjoyed stays at the Crowne Plaza London St. James; unlike some other hotels in the neighborhood, it's not a budget buster but still has many romantic amenities including a spa, several trendy restaurants and a bar, and a romantic courtyard (plus it's just a five-minute walk from many attractions like Buckingham Palace).

A very romantic option in London is a ride aboard the London Eye and they're celebrating Valentine's with several romantic options. You can book the "Valentine's Champagne Flight" after dark and watch the city lights while you enjoy champagne and chocolates (the package also includes a red rose); the 30-minute experience is priced at £59.98 per couple. If you have more to spend, for £299.00 you can book your own private capsule; a host serves champagne and chocolates and, after the 30-minute ride, you enjoy a three-course meal at a partner restaurant. On Valentine's Day only, the London Eye is offering a special adults-only cruise on the Thames; for £40.00 per couple you'll enjoy champagne as you drift by London's landmarks.

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Philadelphia, PA: I'm attending a conference in San Antonio this summer and my wife plans to come along with me. What romantic activities would you suggest for our free time?

Paris Permenter & John Bigley: San Antonio is one of our favorite romantic cities! Even though it's a top convention destination, you'll find plenty of romantic attractions, from strolls along the River Walk to sidewalk cafes.

Since you'll be attending a convention, River Walk hotels are very convenient for your conference and for free time fun. We recently stayed at the Watermark Hotel and Spa, an elegant hotel with just 99 rooms. It's located on the South Bank, a part of the River Walk that's increasingly known for its dining. The hotel itself is home to Pesca on the River, featuring fresh seafood from around the world. We'd also recommend the hotel's spa and their couple's massage.

Just across the river, you'll find a longtime River Walk hotel, Omni La Mansión del Rio, known for its Spanish Colonial style. Be sure to ask for a room with a river view and a balcony if it's available!

While you're on the River Walk, be sure to take a ride aboard one of the barges. The tours are fun but for a real romantic treat, have a meal aboard one of the barges. Many of the river restaurants offer meals onboard so just ask at a restaurant that appeals to you if they offer barge meals.