ROMANCE stems from the heart but attitude can help. In the 1990s the concept of the dirty weekend is outdated, but for those looking for a getaway that combines style, atmosphere and fun, the place to head for is Macau.
The most mundane event could be memorable for lovers. A jetfoil ride could be a space age adventure, the high speed ferry a luxury cruise.
Arriving in Macau, the posters at the terminal promote the sleazier side of life - saunas and topless dancing girls - so for real romance forget the cost and have a car meet you outside.
High on the Rua do Comendador Kou Ho Neng, the re-furbished Bela Vista is a beacon for the hopeless romantic.
The ochre columns face the sea, as stalwart as they have been for more than a century, as the car pulls up a sweeping staircase bring couples to their own fairytale castle.
It is an exquisite hideaway from the modern world. On the balcony, wicker chairs overlook the harbour while liveried footmen pour tea from a silver pot into bone china cups.
After a leisurely afternoon lounging around, there is always the nagging compulsion to get up and see the sights.