Unexpected Valentine's Day ideas

If you are one of those people who are full of the cheesiness and clichés that you hear about year after year for February 14th , we've got you covered with some unexpected tips for this week's Valentine’s Day.

We've tried to concentrate on meaningful and sentimental ideas to include in your plans and impress your girlfriend or wife, boyfriend or husband.

A first thing to do in order to spark up that creativity would be to forget about the standard red roses, overpriced candy and ditch any heart-printed, sappy items. Read our incentives to think out of the (chocolate) box.

You and your sweetheart should try a new activity together or something you haven't done in a long time. Going out for bowling or karaoke is a great idea for a date and even greater if you are planning to go with other couples or a group of friends. Another feasible idea is heading over to an amusement park. Go on those rides you've never dared before. You know you'll be safe with your significant other next to you.

Mix things up and do something you wouldn't do in general. Take your Valentine on a hike, a weekend getaway in the mountains or a road trip. It's up to you how sweet and special it will be for the two of you, but we are certain it's an experience to share. These activities can turn out to be more romantic than you'd initially think.

Know of a place that your lover has been dying to see ? Well, book a few days in that location and make his or her dream come true. If you don't have time on or around Valentine's Day or feel a bit cash-strapped at the moment, plan it for the future. Your other half will most definitely appreciate the effort and thought.

Be spontaneous, suggest exploring a part of town that you've never spent time in or its surroundings.

If you're really not the outdoorsy type, it will sound more appealing to you cosy up in the house and have a movie marathon or a game night. Spend an intimate evening together watching some new released movies or playing board games. You can also invite friends over. It may not be that unconventional, but as long as it's enjoyable and you're having fun, what else matters, right ?

Moving on to the materialistic side, we recommend getting some reddish pink window blinds, the universal colour of love. It's an unusual gift idea, but it will last longer than a bouquet of flowers. A beneficial addition to your home. You can do the installation part together, an activity to bond you even more.

Speaking of flowers, choose potted plants on V-Day instead of fresh cut flowers that die really fast.

Gift certificates, coupons or invitations have always been in trend. They may not be the ultimate present, but your sweetie will be thankful to receive an indulging day at the spa, to enjoy on their own that much-needed relaxing time, away everyday household and job worries. Alternatives are Pilates or yoga sessions. A “gaming day” coupon will suit the tastes of any big video fan boyfriend.

Try to get those creative juices flowing and surprise your other half with a new and unexpected gift or activity. Spending a lot of money will not guarantee a successful day, remember that happiness can be found in the most minimal of gestures.