The Love Connection

Even the scientists had no idea how important it was. Yet, it was a more powerful indicator of a long and healthy life than wealth, IQ – and even genetics.

Love – or, more specifically the quality of our closest relationships – is one of the biggest influences on how well we age. That’s according to the Harvard Study of Adult Development, the world’s most comprehensive longitudinal study of human wellbeing.

The study’s conclusions were revelatory. And the details are fascinating. For example: satisfaction in relationships at 50 was a better predictor of good long-term health than cholesterol levels. Those who were most satisfied in their midlife relationships were the healthiest at 80.

Indeed, happy marriages provided protection against physical and emotional pain later in life.

The conclusion – if you want to live longer, it’s not just your body you have to take care of. Your relationships matter too. And so, discover the following destinations where wellness and romance align. Escapes to restore your health and deepen your connection…

It’s not just what you do but who you do it with that truly makes an experience. Hence Avani Kalutara Resort’s double-the-fun approach to feeling good; that wellness comes with added benefits when it’s a shared experience. Start your day with a shoreline walk along its private slice of sandy peninsula then take a kayak out on the turquoise lagoon. Or, since studies show that adrenaline-fuelled activities deepen couples’ bonds, perhaps traversing the sparkling waters via jet ski or the resort’s 165m-zip line, offers a more high-octane kind of romance.

When it’s time for some calm, take a stroll across to the adjacent sister property Anantara Kalutara Resort where a hushed treatment-room-for-two awaits. Opt for the Sri Lankan Romance package for 180 minutes of indigenous healing, including foot rituals, body scrubs, a Ceylon tea couples bath, full body warm oil massage and Ayurveda facials. Find your calm together – nervous system and relationship, reset.

The terracotta rooftops and winding sun-dappled slopes of pretty Porto already whisper a quiet sort of romance you want to tenderly weave your way through – hours lost to the city and each other. Now imagine taking in that view through floor-to-ceiling windows in a spa suite-for-two. Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel’s Romance Retreat centres on personalised massages and the power of local influences with a therapeutic bath in the region’s dealcoholised Port wine, enriched with Epsom salts and essential oils. Celebrate your time together with a toast of Kopke Port wine, accompanied by traditional Portuguese chocolates. Embrace the indulgence – studies show that couples who spoil themselves report feeling closer and more satisfied with their relationship.

You may not know of Mérida, the capital of Mexico’s Yucatán State, so let us introduce you to the largest – and reportedly, safest – city in southern Mexico. Despite being known as the ‘White City’ thanks to its wash of limestone colonial architecture, there is endless colour to Mérida. Rainbow-washed streets of pastel-hued artisan boutiques, bars and restaurants give a romance and whimsy to a city that otherwise prides itself on order and efficiency.

At NH Collection Mérida Paseo Montejo, feel the love eight floors up as you sip a Mezcal cocktail in its rooftop gardens. Here wellness is about tranquil moments, deep breaths and slowed time – feel it all in the panoramic rooftop pool as you take in stunning city views in soothing waters. Should you desire more of the latter– a short trip outside the city and you’ll find the cenotes of the Yucatán; underground pools, created (possibly) many millions of years ago by asteroids. Floating in them is an almost ethereal experience, an incredible moment to share with someone you love.

The north-western city of Ourense may fly under the radar compared to go-tos like Seville or Barcelona but if you’re after Spanish escape for body and soul, add it to your list. It’s a place where wellness and intimacy naturally combine. The stylish NH Ourense – which comes with a rooftop terrace and its own wellness area, including a recreated Roman bath – is just a five-minute ride away to the area’s famous thermal springs. Together experience soothing hot waters, flanked by rolling green hills and wide cyan skies. Unwind, reconnect – shared moments to soothe your mind and strengthen your bond.

The ultimate luxury wellness retreat, Layan Life by Anantara at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort sits on a paradisical hidden hillside of northern Phuket. White sands, turquoise waters and lush greenery surround you – nature’s serenity provides your introduction to its wellness philosophy. This is a place to appreciate the now while quietly investing in what comes next. With expert guidance from Thai doctors, personal trainers, spiritual healers and energy workers its wellbeing centre combines cutting-edge science and ancient Thai wisdom to provide immediate relaxation and long-term transformation. An investment in your health, your connection and your shared future.

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