February has to be the month when we let our romantic side take over. escape... checks out some of the most romantic holiday venues at home and abroad - with first stop being Paris, of course.

PARIS, one of the world's most romantic cities, makes a great weekend break destination at any time of the year.

To paraphrase Cole Porter's love song the French capital - I love Paris in the spring, winter, summer and autumn.

KLM fly from Cardiff to Paris via Amsterdam. Transfers can be a pain but Amsterdam's airport, Schiphol, has some of the best facilities in Europe.

Arriving at Charles de Gaulle airport, it is a reasonably short bus or taxi ride into the heart of the city.

The Hotel de Vigny, one of the city's newest hotels, could not really be in a better location as a base for taking in the city's famous sights.

Tucked in a quiet street just off the famous Champs-Elysees in the well heeled 8th arrondissement, home to some of the best restaurants and shopping.

The de Vigny may be new but on arrival there is a classic feel to the dcor and high level of service.

The 37 bedrooms have all been individually decorated in a traditional Parisian townhouse style - stylish but relaxed.

From crisp bed lines to efficient room service, it has everything you would expect from a luxury hotel but is small enough to retain an informal atmosphere you lose in the biggest places.

Our suite had everything from a Jacuzzi to a lounge decorated with fresh flowers and exotic fruit.

On the ground floor the art deco Baretto restaurant provides the setting for tranquil breakfasts, business lunches and intimate cocktails, dinner and late drinks.

Chef Patrick Marteau brings a modern approach to traditional French brasserie cuisine, blending simplicity with high quality.

On our first night in Paris we headed out into the bright lights of the Champs-Elysees to check out the nightlife.

One of the great things about Paris is that whatever your budget you can find excellent food and drink, from the pavement cafes and bistros to cocktail bars and multi-Michelin starred gastronomic temples.

Our first port of call was Harry's New York bar in the Opera district. I know it seems criminal to go into an American bar in Paris but Harry's is an institution. It is where cocktails like the Bloody Mary were invented and where American visitors from Earnest Hemingway to Brad Pitt have come to get a taste of home.

After a great night out, a comfortable night at the Hotel de Vigny and an excellent continental breakfast in bed it is time to hit the streets and see the sights.

From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, Paris has some of the world's great attractions. I think the best way to get around is to walk and discover some of the city's lesser known gems.

Paris is packed with markets, wonderful cafes and a street life that is second to none.

At around £300 for a double room the Hotel de Vigny is not a budget option but it is ideal for a romantic weekend of pure luxury. And just think what you will save on bargain perfume, wine and designer labels.

n KLM's flights to Paris start at around £150 return.

For more information ring 0033 142998080 or check out www.hoteldevigny.com and www.klm.coma

OTHER SUGGESTIONS

n IF Paris doesn't tempt you, then perhaps one of the following destinations can bring out the romantic in you:

How about a couple of nights in a 13th century castle steeped in history and romance?

n DALHOUSIE CASTLE, Edinburgh, Scotland, is perfect.

This fascinating castle is the perfect place to escape and relax with a partner. It is steeped in history and surrounded by acres of forest, parkland and river pasture.

Two nights' bed and breakfast accommodation for two people and a bottle of champagne on arrival is available for £380.

For booking details visit www.celtic castles.com

n For a truly romantic break away from it all a little closer to home, why not visit the MAES-Y-NEUADD HOTEL, Wales.

A full Welsh breakfast on Saturday morning, four-course dinner both nights with a harpist on Saturday evening, followed by continental breakfast in bed on Sunday morning, as well as a few surprises thrown in, will create a delicious weekend of love and romance.

The rate is £215 a person for the weekend and information can be found by calling 01766 780200.

n Though sometimes seen as secondary to Paris in terms of romance, the regenerated capital of Cool Britannia, LONDON, still has masses to offer.

Strolling along the Southbank, eating in one of the cities' multitude of restaurants, or visiting one of the world-renowned West End shows would all contribute to a memorable weekend. Located close to Oxford Street and theatreland, the Rathbone Hotel offers a charming venue from which to explore all that the city has to offer.

For £159 a night, the Valentine package includes accommodation in an executive room, full English breakfast, champagne on ice, served with fresh strawberries, deluxe chocolates, massage oils and incense.

Call the hotel on 0207 636 2001 for further information

n Right here in Gwent we have the WEST USK LIGHTHOUSE at St Brides, Wentlooge, which was voted by Cosmopolitan magazine as one of the most romantic B&Bs in the country.

With views out over the sea and the chance to enjoy relaxation sessions, numerous therapies and even the use of a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce, it is made for romance.

Prices start at £90 a night for a double room. Call 01633 810216 for information.