03, March 2015: Statistics from a new survey have revealed that couples would rather spend their Valentine’s Day in Venice instead of Paris. Italian tourism experts have expressed their enthusiasm for this news, as Paris is often regarded as ‘the place to be’ when it comes to romance and gestures of love. Italy’s Venice has firmly knocked France to second place, with Paris coming in a close second. 

The survey required participants to name the most romantic location in the world: Venice came first, followed by Paris and Santorini, in Greece. The Maldives polled at fourth followed by Florence, Kauai in Hawaii, Rome, Saint Lucia, Koh Samui in Thailand and St Moritz in Switzerland. 

Italy fills three of the top ten places, making it the most popular country in the poll when it comes to romantic getaways. A spokesperson from ABTOI's Italian holiday specialist website Love Italy speculates as to why. "Tourists are broadening their horizons in their search for the perfect romantic location and it has led them to Italy instead. When we have spoken to them upon the return from their holiday, many have commented on how much they love Italy as a romantic destination, as there's an excellent balance of both city based and rural activities to choose from." 

It seems many people agree, with record numbers of visitors heading to Italy in search of romance and relaxation. 

Despite missing out on one of the top 10 spots as 'most romantic', the famous Italian town of Verona is gaining popularity with each passing year, thanks in part to the ‘Verona in Love’ festival, which takes place over Valentine’s Day weekend. Similar to the tourist appeal of Venice with Shakespeare’s play ‘The Merchant of Venice’, Verona has become a popular romantic destination as the setting of ‘Romeo and Juliet’. 

As the website of ABTOI (The Association of British Travel Organisers to Italy), Love Italy provides information and contact details for a host of tour operators selling accommodation and packages all over the country. 

About Love Italy: 

Love Italy is the website of ABTOI - The Association of British Travel Organisers to Italy. If you’re looking for the perfect holiday in Italy, the website provides destination information, contact details of tour operator members to help you plan the best Italian holiday, ‘insider’ tips, year round special offers and information on everything from beach holidays in Sardinia, cycling in Sicily, to a wedding or honeymoon in Tuscany. 

Contact Details:
Contact Love Italy at www.loveitaly.co.uk