Six Locations Behind the Summer’s Most Binge-worthy Dating Shows
A whirlwind summer of love is upon us, with the return and launch of some must-see dating shows around the globe. With over a third (37%) of global travelers wanting to travel to a destination or accommodation that was featured in a TV show or movie*, in the spirit of love we selected six picturesque havens behind the popular dating shows the world just can’t get enough of. Whether travelers are looking for love or wanting to inject a bit of va-va voom into their relationship, they will be sure to find their perfect match in one of these romantic hotspots. From a tropical paradise in Mexico to a picture-perfect town in Italy, there’s something for everyone to fall in love with.
Majorca, Spain
It’s no surprise that the OG of dating TV shows has returned to play cupid in a brand-new villa on the idyllic Spanish island for its eighth season this summer. Well-known as the island of love, Majorca is the crown jewel of the Balearic Islands and the perfect destination for vacationers seeking a sun-drenched escape. With its dramatic landscapes, ravishing beaches and soulful hill towns, visitors will be spoilt for choice with the activities on offer. Couples can Kayak the Bay of Sant Elm and the Island of Dragonera in tandem on turquoise waters, discover the plethora of wineries, admire the Cathedral La Seu in the romantic capital of Palma, or simply relax at one of the many beach clubs like a true islander.
Where to stay: Encircled by the natural beauty of Sant Llorenç des Cardassar, the adults-only boutique hotel, Cas Cabo Nou Agroturismo, is a particular hit for those seeking a peaceful and private getaway. Relax in the outdoor heated hot tub and infinity pool, or for a more adventurous date, couples can experience the breathtaking views from high above with a hike or bike ride through some of the surrounding mountainous trails.
Punta Mita, Mexico
This sun-soaked beach resort is a Pacific Coast hotspot for those seeking a glamorous getaway. Nestled within a private peninsular situated in the Riviera Nayarit, with sensational sunsets and pristine sandy beaches, Punta Mita is the perfect location for a steamy reality dating show full of temptation. The tropical paradise comes with no strings attached for vacationers; with a balmy, breezy climate all year round, it’s so tranquil that even during peak season visitors can hear the soothing sounds of indigenous birds and ocean waves. Travelers can opt to submerge themselves in aesthetic bliss and world-class service, dip their toe into the fabulous nightlife on offer, or simply head to one of the secluded beaches for a truly out-of-this-world experience. If beach fatigue sets in, the resort features two sprawling golf courses and tennis courts for a love-all experience.
Where to stay: The Punta Mita Surf Lodge with spectacular sea views and an onsite massage service is the perfect place to relax and recharge. The boutique hotel has a saltwater swimming pool in its courtyard garden, a surf school and a terrace with a bar, making it an ideal stay if travelers are looking to meet new people. Head to nearby town Puerto Vallarta for a Snorkeling Cruise where lovers will discover secluded coves and hidden waterfalls, or try the country’s favorite drink at a Tequila Tasting.
Avignon, France
Forget Paris, this idyllic south-eastern Provence, known for its architectural beauty and bursting with culture is the ultimate destination for a first date – and home to a famous matchmaking hotel on a popular dating show. Packed to the brim with art galleries, museums, cobbled streets, quaint shops and delicious food, in all its splendor and exuberance, Avignon is the perfect setting for an intimate date for two. Visitors can immerse themselves in the mysteries of the gothic and UNESCO-listed Palais des Papes, experience the Rhône Valley’s best winemaking appellations on a Wine-tasting Tour, and walk hand-in-hand along the River Rhône. In fact, boasting an array of laidback date activities, this beautiful city is the perfect backdrop for a vacation full of romance.
Where to stay: Located in the heart of the small medieval village of Castillon-du-Gard, Le Vieux Castillon offers enchanting views of the famous Roman aqueduct bridge, the Pont du Gard, whilst the heated outdoor swimming pool overlooks sprawling vineyards. The quaint Renaissance building features a luxury spa and a restaurant serving refined regional dishes, and couples can wind down for a romantic evening together at the hotel’s open-air cinema.
Dalat, Vietnam
Whether it’s the mini Eiffel Tower, the horse-drawn carriages or the colorful hearts dotted around the city, Dalat certainly takes romance seriously. So it’s little wonder that Vietnam's honeymoon capital, with its poetic scenery and picture-perfect landscapes, is the location for an exciting dating show where participants go to put their relationships to the test. Couples can lose themselves in the heart-shaped maze or swan-shaped boats in the Valley of Love, admire the panoramic views from Lang Biang Mountain or enjoy a breathtaking sunrise or sunset at the banana-shaped Xuan Huong Lake. A guided Da Lat Countryside and Elephant Falls Tour into the Vietnamese countryside scattered with French-colonial villas and farms cultivating strawberries and flowers provides a dreamy setting to inspire love.
Where to stay: The family-run resort Zen Valley Dalat, a short drive away from Xuan Huong Lake and the Dalat Flower Gardens, looks down on exceptional views of the forest of the valley, has a superb outdoor swimming pool and offers rooms and bungalows with private terraces. Dalat is known as the adventure-sports capital of southern Vietnam; if couples can tear themselves away from the hotel, popular adrenaline-packed activities include white-water rafting, mountain biking and a Canyoning Adventure.
Telese Terme, Italy
Italy is the backdrop to countless historic, literary and legendary love stories of all time – and now a popular blind dating series, where singles travel overseas in search of love in idyllic surroundings. Whether visitors plan on traveling for a first date or the hundredth, this small town in the Campania region of southern Italy is the perfect setting for love. Boasting tranquil thermal baths and spas, untouched nature, striking lakes and historical sites, those seeking the date of a lifetime will be spoilt for choice. Visitors can relax and recharge in this peaceful setting, or escape to the coast for the day on an Amalfi Coast Tour, and lose themselves in the pastel-colored architecture, history and beauty of this magical coastline.
Where to stay: Housed in an ancient and historic building, the stylish Aquapetra Resort & Spa surrounded by olive groves is set in the picturesque Sannio Valley and just a short walk into town. Elegantly decorated and full of character, the resort features a large outdoor pool, a heated indoor pool, indulgent spa and hammam – ideal spots to unwind and relax together. An expansive wine cellar and a restaurant offering delicious regional dishes made from local produce means lovebirds won’t have to wander far if they want to stay put.
Tainan City, Taiwan
From ancient temples and tropical oceans to green rice paddy fields and lantern-lit alleyways, the oldest city in Taiwan is both romantic and inspiring. Known as the historical and cultural heart of the country, this alluring coastal city is home to a dating show where nothing is off the cards. With a deep-rooted food and drink culture, let things get spicy in a traditional wooden teahouse sipping aromatic oolong tea, or at the celebrated night markets where Chinese delicacies are found amongst local favorites such as Danzai noodle soup and shrimp rolls. Travelers can enjoy the old-world charm of the captivating Confucius temple or mosey around the lagoons and mangrove swamps in the beautiful Taijiang National Park.
Where to stay: The stylish Fun Simon Hotel is a cozy homestay which is both classic and modern in design. A stone’s throw away from the Confucius temple, it’s only a short walk to Singda Harbor and Lover’s Wharf – both romantic spots to watch the golden sunset. The location also offers easy access to street food, shopping areas and the beach.
*Research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total 24,055 respondents across 31 countries and territories were polled (including 501 from Argentina, 1003 from Australia, 500 from Belgium, 1001 from Brazil, 500 from Canada, 1000 from China, 1007 from Colombia, 1001 from Croatia, 508 from Denmark, 1002 from France, 1000 from Germany, 1005 from Hong Kong, 1000 from India, 502 from Israel, 1003 from Italy, 1002 from Japan, 500 from Mexico, 501 from The Netherlands, 501 from New Zealand, 500 from Peru, 1000 from Russia, 1005 from Singapore, 1002 from South Korea, 1002 from Spain, 501 from Sweden, 501 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 500 from Thailand, 1000 from the UK, 1002 from the US and 501 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in August 2021.