A Gateway of Guilty Pleasure

Rekindling the lost passion through romantic getaways.

- Deepshikha Pandey

In the whirlwind of marriages—where responsibilities often outweigh romance—it’s easy for the passion to take a backseat. The early days of love, filled with stolen glances and whispered confessions, slowly give way to bills, in-laws, children, and societal expectations. In a culture where marriages are deeply rooted in duty and tradition, couples often forget that nurturing intimacy is just as important as managing family obligations.

Recent studies show that 38 per cent of individuals in long-term relationships admit to straying due to a lack of physical attraction in marriage, while 33 per cent feel emotionally neglected. But what if the solution to reigniting the lost passion isn’t in looking elsewhere but in rediscovering each other?

A quiet escape—a secret stay at a boutique haveli in Rajasthan, a private Airbnb in Goa, or a cozy villa in the hills of Himachal—can be the perfect remedy. An environment free of daily chores, work stress, and social obligations can help couples rekindle their bond, just as they did in the early days of their relationship.

Why Do Couples Need A Romantic Escape?

In relationships, especially after marriage, it often becomes more about family and less about the couple. The demands of a joint family, social obligations, and even workplace pressures leave little room for romance. Unlike in the West, where “date nights” and vacations are routine, couples often hesitate to prioritise themselves. The result? A relationship that, though filled with love, lacks the spark of desire.

Psychologist Dr. Harish Shetty, a leading marriage counsellor, notes that a lack of privacy and spontaneity is one of the biggest reasons couples struggle with intimacy. Between living with extended families, raising children, and managing work-life balance, romance is often reduced to a mere responsibility rather than an exciting journey.