Romantic places: From 'I love you' wall in Paris to a Renaissance villa in Rome
If you're looking for love, where would you go? Where else but Paris! Well, at least that's what the Conde Naste Traveler site suggests. In the article "Romantic travel spots off the beaten path," Conde Naste lists "surprising spots" most likely to inspire lovers' passions. Almost unsurprisingly, the site picks Paris as its number one choice. France has been the backdrop of many romantic movies and French, after all, has long been regarded as the language of lovers. Listed below are Conde Naste's choice for top romantic spots around the world: (1) “I Love You” wall, Paris Estimated number of Filipinos in France: 50,936* Paris is famous for being the romance capital of the world. If you want to hear your romantic partner say, “I love you” AND in different languages, this is the place to go. A masterpiece by Frederic Baron and Claire Kito, this wall is a collection of the three magic words in 300 languages inscribed on 612 lava tiles. Baron started his quest to collect the scribbles from his friends in 1992. His collection, which includes the writings of government officials, has since grown to a thousand. He painstakingly copied and transferred each scribble to the wall, making it one of the most romantic monuments in the world. (2) Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park, Maine Estimated number of Filipinos in the United States: 3,430,864* If seeing the sun rise first in Maine than elsewhere in America isn't romantic for you, what else is? After the breathtaking sun rise, you can explore the mountain, set 1,530 feet above the ground, in all its beauty with the sun beaming down on the mountain peak. Visiting the Cadillac Mountain is a must especially for couples who love to travel and go outdoors. (3) Luzhkov Bridge, Moscow Estimated number of Filipinos in Russia: 2,714* When passing this bridge, you may come across a seemingly bizarre tree made from padlocks. These are actually the metal trees of love. The padlocks also aren't ordinary household items used to secure valuables. They are actually love locks symbolizing everlasting love. Lovers inscribe their names on the padlock and 'lock' it securing their love, hopefully, forever. The key is then thrown down the river. This tradition is also popular in Serbia, China, Italy and France to name a few. (4) Treehotel, Harads Estimated number of Filipinos in Sweden: 15,127* Are you a kid at heart who always dreamed to stay in your own treehouse with your special someone? Don't fret, set plans to book a room for two at the Treehotel. Located 14 to 20 feet above ground, it provides a wonderful view of the Lule river. There's also no worry of overcrowding for the Treehotel only has five guest rooms on top of branches. This allows a peaceful and solemn bonding time with your loved one. (5) Nezu Museum, Tokyo Estimated number of Filipinos in Japan: 220,882* Interested in history or the arts? Then the Nezu Museum is the perfect place to visit. An alternative to Japan's techno Tokyo, the museum was opened in 1941 and features various national trasures from calligraphy scroll, bamboo crafts and paintings. Don't miss out on the experience of walking on their cobblesteone path to get some fresh air and admire the nature around you. (6) Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Estimated number of Filipinos in United States: 3,430,864* A blast from the past. This best describes the experience of wandering in Cobble hills. This place was announced a historic district in the 60's and continues to be an awe-inspiring place. Lined with architectural wonders from the 19th century, Cobble Hills gives a nostalgic yet romantic pre-modern day feel. For couples who like to stroll around in old cities, Brooklyn is the way to go. (7) Villa Farnesina, Rome Estimated number of Filipinos in Italy: 184,638* Villa Farnesina in Rome is a 16th century architecture with Renaissance atmosphere. It has a masterpiece painting of the Italian artist Raphael who dedicated his work to the god of love as well as his partner. Villa Farnesina has an area where lovers could enjoy open air while viewing lush gardens that are certain to banish away worries. All these places may truly be romantic, but in truth, if you really love someone, it doesn't matter where you are as long as you're together.- Andrei Medina, VVP, GMA News * Data based on the 2011 Stock Estimate of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas