More than half of Ontario couples "in a committed relationship" haven't vacationed together in the past 12 months. (Comstock Complete)

Romantic escapes Get some love in '08

If you and your spouse, partner, whatever, have holidayed together in the past year, you're in a minority, according to an Expedia.ca/Ipsos-Reid survey.

It indicated that more than half of Ontario couples "in a committed relationship'' hadn't vacationed together in the previous 12 months, including 15 per cent that had never taken a vacation with just their partner.

According to a counsellor consulted by the pollsters, "Ontario couples know that their relationship could use a boost by taking a vacation, yet they are still struggling to get away and reconnect." She says "the hectic pace and daily demands of life take their toll on relationships, leaving couples feeling distant and disconnected from each other.''

There was no mention of something I've heard from a lot of people over the years, particularly women -- the difficulty they have trying to persuade their other half to travel.

Too many guys don't really want to do anything but golf. To be fair, some women have a built-in GPS containing nothing but mall locations. Two suggestions:

- Find a friend or relative who's in the same boat and make it a foursome. The women can hit the shops, the guys can chase balls, and everyone can get together later for drinks and dinner.

- Keep it a twosome and choose a destination where both can indulge in your passions but have the option of snoozing by the pool or trying something different -- perhaps browsing in a gallery or taking a nature excursion.

If you haven't vacationed together for quite a while, start with something simple -- a couple of nights at an inn within a day's drive of home. Georgian Bay, Muskoka, Niagara and Prince Edward County are good areas to start looking. Mid-week is usually cheaper and less crowded. Visit www.ontariosfinestinns.com.

A mid-winter break down south should be another easy sell. Look at all-inclusive resorts in destinations that don't require a really long flight. Cuba and Cancun, jumping-off point for Mexico's Mayan Riviera, are only three hours away.

Keep it simple, keep it comfortable, and you just might turn your reluctant spouse into an avid traveller.

WHAT'S NEW:

- Merit Vacations has reduced the price of long-stay winter vacations at Sea Trail Golf Resort in North Carolina. For $1,429 per person, you get return air fare from Toronto, car rental for 30 days and 29 nights accommodation in a one-bedroom villa. Another option is a fully escorted group tour priced from $1,990 per person which includes return air, 29 nights accommodation, 30-day car rental, gratuities, bus transportation for included tours and tickets for various festivals and shows. Phone 1-866-341-1777.

- Golf Vancouver Island has a couple of winter specials on the east coast of Vancouver Island. One's a package priced at $295 double that includes two nights at the Quality Resort Bayside in Parksville and a round at three courses, the Fairwinds, Morningstar and Pheasant Glen. The price is $295 per person, double. Visit www.golfvancouverisland.ca or phone 1-888-465-3239.

Another package, available until March 31, includes a night at Crown Isle Resort, near Comox, a round of golf with a power cart and a $25 food voucher per room. Rates start at $129 (per person, double. Visit www.crownisle.com or phone 1-888-338-8439.