Romantic Getaways Ranked #1 Most Wanted Valentine Gift

Are chocolates and diamonds really the most wanted Valentine’s Day gifts?

Not so, according to a new report from Vacasa, North America’s largest vacation rental manager.  According to the Vacasa Valentine’s Day Report—a nationwide study of the Valentine’s Day gift and travel habits of more than 1,500 U.S. adults—25% of Americans prefer a romantic weekend getaway over chocolates, diamonds, or flowers this Feb. 14.

1. Baby Boomers Want Unique Experiences Too

While 83% of Millennials say they value unique experiences over material gifts—which confirms well-documented generational characteristics—the study surprisingly found that Generation X (77%) and Baby Boomers (71%) also prefer quality time together over material expressions of affection.

2. Americans Want a Romantic Vacation Rental Over a Ho-Hum Hotel

55% of Americans would rather stay at a unique vacation rental for their Valentine’s Day getaway over a one-size-fits-all hotel. When asked why, 64% of respondents said they want to enjoy the comforts of home even while away.

3. Going Phone-Free is a Generational Thing

54% of Millennials said that they would either put the phone down completely or use it rarely when on a Valentine’s Day vacation. 29% of Baby Boomers wish their significant other would spend less time on the phone while on a Valentine’s Day vacation.

4. Warm Beats Cold For V-Day Destinations

Valentine’s Day vacationers prefer the warmer West Coast (44%) and Gulf Coast (44%) Coasts over the East Coast (12%).  Honolulu, Hawaii, tops the list as #1 most desired Valentine’s Day destination.