Love is in the air: Gatwick Airport passengers pick Edinburgh and Belfast over traditional Valentine’s retreats

2013-02-07 — /travelprnews.com/ — Edinburgh and Belfast have flown into the top ten list of favourite Valentine’s destinations for Gatwick Airport passengers this year, with the two British cities coming third and seventh respectively in the airport’s top ten.

Surprisingly, traditional romantic hotspots such as Venice and Rome did not feature at all in the top ten.

Nick Henderson, Terminal Operations, Gatwick Airport, said: “Serving more destinations than any other UK airport, Gatwick offers great choice for people wanting to treat themselves and their loved ones this Valentine’s. As usual, European mini break destinations are proving popular but it’s interesting to see less traditional cities, like Belfast, hitting the spot for Valentine’s breaks this year.”

What’s more, this Valentine’s week is forecast to be the busiest yet at Gatwick Airport with around 476,000 passengers expected to pass through its two terminals.

The full list of most popular destinations is as follows:

This is for lovers: Top tips for an extra special Valentine’s getaway

– Airport Acapella – Arrive early airside and listen to gospel choirs serenading passengers all morning before takeoff. The ‘London Community Gospel Choir’ from Love Actually will be performing amorous ballads in both the North and South Terminals between 6am and 10am on Valentine’s Day.

– Perfect packing – If you’re whisking your loved one away for a short break, don’t forget to pack light so you can carry your luggage on board, leaving more time to enjoy your romantic destination when you arrive. Check with your airline before you travel to ensure you’ve got your luggage limits in order. There’s also a helpful overview on the Gatwick website.

– Make an entrance – Why not start your trip in style by upgrading to valet parking when you arrive at the airport? Avoid lugging baggage from the car park and simply breeze straight into the airport. It will make a big difference on the return leg too.

– Wine and dine – Checking in online before you travel means you can make the most of your time before you board by heading straight for a glass of something bubbly and/or dine in style in one of the airport lounges or restaurants. At Gatwick, there’s a wealth of options to choose from including the Caviar House and Prunier Seafood Bar or Jamie’s Italian and Union Jack’s for a treat before you travel.

– Pre-flight pamper – With lounges like the No.1 Traveller Lounge, you don’t have to fly business class to be able to indulge in a little bit of luxury. Pre-book before you fly for the best rate and relax with complimentary food and drink, free Wi-Fi, a games room, mini cinema and much more. You could even treat yourselves to a massage or get your nails done before you fly in the No.1 Spa!

– Shop without the stress – Buy your better half some duty-free perfume, aftershave or chocolates as a romantic gift and save up to 20% off high street prices. Better still, go one step further and take advantage of the tax free savings on jewellery. If you’re travelling light but want to enjoy a mini-spree, Gatwick’s Shop and Drop service means you can leave your shopping for FREE at the airport and then simply pick it up on your return.*

And finally…

– Popping the question? – Don’t forget to take the necessary precautions to make sure your ring stays a well-kept secret as you travel through airport security. Ideally pop it in your bag to avoid it setting off the walk-through metal detector and avoid wrapping the box, as you could be made to unwrap it. It’s also always worth attaching a little note saying ‘engagement ring inside, please be discreet.’