You’re lying on the beach, the rush of waves slowly lulling you to sleep, the sun’s rays keeping you warm. Maybe you’re sipping wine at an ocean view restaurant or getting a massage at a spa retreat.

Why you've decided to splurge on a getaway with your squeeze isn't important. Even with the rotten economy, taking a great vacation without breaking the bank is still possible; in fact, now may even be the best time to get a fantastic deal.

The Budget-Conscious Trip

Anne Banas of SmarterTravel.com says right now it is possible to get a great deal on your next romantic getaway, without having to stick to major tourist destinations.

“The good news is that deals are everywhere right now. Spring deals are a steal and many travel providers are reducing prices for summer travel already,” Banas says.

Within North American, she recommends Camden, Maine for its harbour location and great eats; Newport, Rhode Island, for its plethora of historic mansions and the Cliff Walk (a romantic recreation trail); and Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, which is ideal for wine and theatre lovers.

Do your homework, Banas suggests. “Compare prices as much as possible before booking to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Package deals can save you money, and check your destination's CVB (convention and visitors bureau) for free events and other savings opportunities. Consider other alternatives like off-peak destinations or vacation rentals, which can save you a bundle over hotels.”

The Trip of a Lifetime

Getting a great deal may be exhilarating, but sometimes nothing beats spending more and taking an incredible, life-changing trip somewhere most people will never see.

Island Destinations' Liz Zea recommends Bora Bora, the Maldives, Seychelles and Bali for that unforgettable trip of a lifetime.

The Adventure Trip

If the Amazing Race is your idea of a romantic vacation, Let Competitours take you for a ride - without the 24/7 camera crew and onscreen elimination thing! They offer 8, 10 and 14-day European trips, where your partner and you participate in tasks during the day but still have time for sightseeing at night. Best part: the winning team earns a free trip!

Another way to scratch that adventure itch is with Butterfield and Robinson (B&R), who specialize in biking, walking and boat tours to exotic locales.

Kathy Stewart of B&R recommends their nine-day Dubai to Oman walking trip, the 10-day Moroccan biking trip and the nine-day Kerala biking trip for couples who want a unique travel experience.

The ‘Undiscovered’ Destination

To have a truly romantic and peaceful vacation, these lesser-known destinations may just be the ticket.

Banas recommends Nevis, in the Caribbean. “[It] is very romantic and much less known than islands like St. Lucia,” she says. “It's filled with great outdoors activities including beaches, boutique and luxury hotels, and lots of nice restaurants.”

Zea, meanwhile, recommends Raffles Canouan and Parrot Cay resorts, also in the Caribbean.

“With 200 acres of lush hills, secluded white sand beaches, and surrounded by one of the world’s largest coral reefs, this private island [Raffles Canouan] is one of the Caribbean’s best kept secrets,” Zea reveals.

Parrot Cay is located in Turks and Caicos. White sand beaches and Asian-inspired spa treatments at the COMO Shambhala Spa combine to make this resort the ultimate in romance and relaxation.

Where to Score a Bargain

Still stumped trying to find travel deals? Here are a few places to start (please note we are not affiliated with any of the sites listed):

* SideStep.com searches 200 travel websites for deals on flights, hotels, car rentals – you name it.

* SellOffVacations.com has rock bottom prices for last minute departures. I spotted an all-inclusive weeklong trip to Santa Lucia, departing from Toronto for $496 after taxes!

* On BelAirTravel.com, a 5-night all inclusive trip to Varadero, also leaving from Toronto, was $490 after taxes.

Where do you search for travel deals? Share your tips with us!

by Laura Stricker