Valentine’s Day is about celebrating your love for your partner, not about how much money you spend on them. It is also completely understandable that not everyone has the means to give their all for this day of love. So we’ve put together a list of some ideas so that, whatever your budget, you can make this day special for you and your partner.
A picnic at home
Other than some food items, it doesn’t cost anything extra to take off. Or to the ground (see what we did there?). For a picnic at home, you can lay out a blanket on the floor, add some cushions for a soft place to sit, and then lay out some of the necessary cutlery and crockery. Food can be anything you want, really. Sandwiches, cheese, crackers, stew – whatever you and your partner will enjoy. To create a romantic atmosphere, don’t forget to light a few candles!
Long walks on the beach
Or in the park or anywhere. And it doesn’t even have to be long. If you and your partner aren’t spending a lot of quality time together – life is busy, after all – then this might be what you need. Plan a romantic walk outside in a nice place. And pack snacks to munch on while you’re away. Use the time to really chat with each other and have a little fun together.
An adventure activity
Some couples love the thrill of adventure, so why not plan something to suit them? You can abseil Table Mountain in Cape Town, bungee jump from the Orlando Towers in Johannesburg or do the “Big Rush Big Swing” at Moses Madiba Stadium in Durban. Anything that gets your adrenaline pumping.
A dinner in a fancy place
There are many restaurants across the country that offer Valentine’s Day specials. If you’re in Cape Town, Tobago’s restaurant offers a picnic on the lawn or a terrace menu for Valentine’s Day only, both options with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Picnic is R950 per couple, while set menu dinner is R695 per person. Reservations are essential.
For those in PE, the Radisson Blu Hotel is hosting a delicious Valentine’s Day buffet dinner at R345 per person. All ladies will receive a box of chocolates upon arrival.
If you’re in Durban, well, there’s plenty to enjoy at the beautiful Oyster Box Hotel. In fact, there is something going on all month. Daily specials such as a sushi and oyster platter for two for R590 per couple, accompanied by a bottle of Bouchard Finlayson Blanc De Mer wine at a Valentine’s Day dinner on February 14. This dinner is a five-course meal with live music to set the tone. It’s R990 per person.
And for those of JHB, the go-to spot this month of love is the Radisson RED Rosebank. There is a rooftop event on the RED Roof on February 12 with a DJ, tapas and delicious drinks, while a Sunday Lover’s Lunch is also planned for this February. The menu includes oysters, salmon, prime rib, creamed spinach and three-cheese fettuccine, as well as a delicious dessert platter to share.
A little time to be pampered
A little relaxation is always welcome. Why not spoil yourself and your partner with a spa treatment or two? Spas across the country will offer a variety of Valentine’s Day specials that often include a light meal and beverages. It’s the perfect way to unwind together in the most relaxing setting. If you are in PE for that special day, Amani Spa has a great package for you and your partner. For R1,850 per couple, guests will receive a steam cocoon for two including sparkling wine, a platter of chocolate to share and a 60-minute aromatherapy massage. Sounds divine, right?
Some time in the bush
If you’re looking to go a little crazy this Valentine’s Day, look no further than Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge. With glorious sunsets to set the romantic tone, celebrate love in February with an incredible stay at Kruger Shalati.
For R4,700 pps/pn (minimum stay 2 nights), guests can enjoy a love-filled all-inclusive experience at one of Africa’s finest accommodation establishments. The price includes a romantic blanket with bubble bath, a food and wine pairing on February 13 and a rose for all the ladies on the train. Various top-ups are also available for your stay. If you have already booked your accommodation in Kruger National Park but still need a place to drink wine and dine, on February 12, 13 and 14 there will be an amazing Valentine’s Day meal at the Kruger station. The two-course option costs R245 per person, while the three-course option costs R285 per person. All ladies receive a single rose stem on the day.
A movie night in
Everyone loves a good romantic movie! Why not organize a movie night for Valentine’s Day? Choose a movie that you and your partner will enjoy and arrange your space to feel cozy and comfortable. Get some popcorn, snacks, and something to drink to really feel authentic. If you want, you can even print out movie tickets in advance to “invite” your partner to go on a date with you.
There’s so much to do for Valentine’s Day, whatever your budget. Take advantage of it by creating memories with your partner and no matter how much you spend, you are sure to have a wonderful time.
Comments are closed.