February 13th, 2012
Despite being considered seriously soppy and pasé, there's something about Valentine's Day that gets our most secretly romantic hearts beating at double speed. No matter what you say, there's no way a card from a secret admirer, your loved one surprising you with candlelight and roses or sharing a kiss with your crush won't give you the tiniest of thrills.
So, in celebration of all things romantic, we've put together a quick and comprehensive Valentine's go-to guide.
Valentine's for singles
"Your eyes meet across the bar. Flirtatiously this happens more than once. The chemistry is enough to help Eskom out of a slump.
You smile wryly, knowing you have a room pre-arranged for an impromptu encounter such as this - on the very day the world goes gaga about love..."
Selene Brophy explores the excitement of a Valentine's Day hook-up with a stranger in Be my naughty Valentine.
Last Minute Valentine
Unfortunately we aren't all the romantic sort, or maybe we just like rebelling against the commercialization of romance... whatever your excuse, the truth is, everyone has a secret wish to be someone's valentine. Yes, even your non-conformist, anti-romantic partner. Check out Is it Valentine's Day already? and An effortless Valentine's for quick and lovely solutions.
For the hopeless romantic
The above does not apply to you in the least - you are unashamedly romantic, with a passion for the old-fashioned, the classic and the beautiful. How refreshing in a world rife with cynicism and sarcasm.
Now we know you're probably not at a loss for Valentine's ideas, but just in case, read through Kylie Quinn's A dozen ways to win a heart and 7 Valentine's escapes(?).
Planning to pop the question?
So, you really want to propose on Valentine's Day, but still feel a bit scared of what all the haters will say about your cheesiness? We say, forget about them... and glean some inspiration from Top 10 Places to propose from a girl's perspective, and then Top 10 Places to propose from a guy's perspective. By the way, ladies, it is a leap year, so if your man isn't showing any signs of getting some sparkle on your finger, you may want to try your luck asking for his hand.
We also have some solid advice on how to handle the big event, in Lisa Bartlett's Proposal Dos and Don'ts.
And once that's all done, kick off your wedding planning by reading through I do with a difference, Getting Hitched in SA and Honeymoon on a Budget.
Revive your romance
You and your partner no longer celebrate Valentine's Day, not because you're non-conformists or anti-romantics, no the reason you've given up on it is just because... well... there's no romance left.
That's a shame! And we say fix it!
Why not Add some kink to your holiday, try one of these 5 romantic escapes, just make a bit of an effort again with the help of this romance re-ignition plan or have a sweetly simple romantic "time-out"?
Sound too tame for you? If you want to get really loved-up, here are a few sexy hot spots to try out... if you dare... But before you get too carried away, take a look at our Holiday nookie no-nos: 5 public places NOT to do it in.
We recommend
Finally if you're looking for the most romantic hotel or resort, these are our suggestions:
For more ideas, inspiration and suggestions, check out our Romance section or take a look at this round-up of Valentine's specials around the country.
If you're looking to take a loved-up break later this month, take a look at these romantic deals.
