The Fiji Times

Be romantic this Valentine’s Day

- By ANASEINI DIMATE

AS we all know Valentine’s Day is when lovers express their affection to each other through greetings and gifts. Given their similariti­es, it has been suggested that the holiday has origins in the Roman festival of Lupercalia, held in midFebruar­y.

In most countries, Valentine's Day is commonly celebrated by exchanging handmade or store-bought "Valentines" (greeting cards) or other tokens of affection like chocolates and flowers.

Since this is a time when lovers reminisce on good times and celebrate their love for each other, there are a few fun ideas found on www.countryliv­ing.com that couples can enjoy this Valentine’s Day.

No matter your personalit­y types or what your idea of fun is, this list of ideas for activities is sure to inspire couples of all ages, from students to seniors, and all stages of relationsh­ips from a first Valentine's Day to a 50th.

*Book tickets for a night out.

Peruse local events calendar to see what plays, concerts, or other events are going on and buy tickets in advance.

You could even just go see a movie in theatres together.

Whatever you choose, be sure to dress up and take a picture together at some point in the night.

*Re-create a memorable date.

A fun way to relive the past and enjoy the present it to think of a favorite date you went on together or even your first date and then plan how to recreate it. Twist it up by doing an at-home version with a little extra creativity.

*Plan a progressiv­e dinner.

Why eat at one restaurant when you can crawl your way to a different one for drinks, appetizers, a main course, and dessert. You can plan an at-home version by each doing a round of takeout orders to enjoy without the crowds of Valentine's Day.

*Book a staycation.

You don't have to go far from home to have a getaway.

Book a night at a nearby hotel or resort and leave your kids with a sitter or family member. Upon arrival enjoy a night away from your to-do lists and ordinary routines. Order room service, watch a movie, read together, or do whatever says "quality time" to you and your partner.

*Watch the sunset or sunrise together.

Take some time to take in the sun's natural artwork in the sky together. You can wake up early and enjoy a breakfast treat or cup of coffee together for the sunrise, or pour a drink and grab some cheese and crackers to watch it set.

*Plan an indoor picnic.

If the weather is frightfull­y cold, you can still switch up the mealtime routine and enjoy a picnic without leaving home.

Clear some space in your living room and lay out a blanket, and then feast on cheese and crackers, sandwiches, salads, and cookies together.

There are many other things you can explore to make this year's Valentine’s Day a lively one.

You and your partner can also explore new places and do some sight seeing, try out new food and also learn more about the outdoors - but all in a romantic way.

 ?? Picture: SMARTCANUC­KS.CA ?? Plan a progressiv­e dinner with your Valentine.
Picture: SMARTCANUC­KS.CA Plan a progressiv­e dinner with your Valentine.
 ?? Picture: CLASSPOP.COM ?? In most countries, Valentine’s Day is commonly celebrated by exchanging handmade or store-bought (greeting cards) or other tokens of affection like chocolates and flowers.
Picture: CLASSPOP.COM In most countries, Valentine’s Day is commonly celebrated by exchanging handmade or store-bought (greeting cards) or other tokens of affection like chocolates and flowers.
 ?? Picture: VANCOUVERI­SAWESOME. COM ?? Book tickets for a night out this Valentine’s Day.
Picture: VANCOUVERI­SAWESOME. COM Book tickets for a night out this Valentine’s Day.

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