This is a matter of much debate. Many people go directly to Europe for this one: Paris, no doubt, is romantic, as is Venice. Other places often listed include tropical islands, Sydney, New York, Rio de Janeiro, Dubai, Shanghai there is romance all over the world.

But I believe the most romantic place in the world depends on who you are. For instance, a lot of people find New York City romantic. I find it dirty, crowded, and intimidating. I get lost every time I go there, and, well, it doesn’t do a thing for me.

Boston, on the other hand, is charming. Downtown, even today, it’s a maze of old streets and little pubs and green spaces. Out near the universities, you find outdoor music constantly, often on the bridges crossing the Charles River, and in the spring and summer the river is filled with small sailboats, swan boats, and dinghies. It’s all a matter of taste.

And then there’s the beach. I don’t care about anything else, just give me a wide white beach in a tropical or subtropical region and I’m happy. There’s something absolutely seductive about the sound of the ocean rushing or gliding onto the shore, lying on the warm sand, and then watching all the swimmers and sunbathers. . .

If it were up to me, that’s what I’d choose. Every date, every time, would at least end on the beach. Dinner should be overlooking the ocean, and the best date would involve a boat.

But that’s just me. Fortunately for the beaches, everyone has a different idea of the perfect date.