Every year, millions of confused souls agonize over what to do on Valentine’s Day. While some have been in a relationship for a while and are simply in need of fresh ideas, others have a significant other whom they just started dating or their romance is “under the radar.”
Whatever your situation (or budget) is, it’s very important not to underestimate the impact of making the right choices on this day.
Great Ideas for Dates and Gifts
Dates:
Fun loving, sporty or animal lover? Take a trip to Miami MetroZoo, Miami Seaquarium or even the Everglades! Bring extra items, such as insect repellent, Benadryl, a bathing suit and maybe even towels. you know, just in case.
Averse to physical activity? Try something different: A picnic by the beach, preferably Key Biscayne at sunset. Visit the Spanish Monastery or the Deering Estate for a daytime stroll. Spa days are always a good idea if in a serious relationship.
Dinner:
If you have money to spare: Try The Melting Pot, an incredibly romantic spot, or perhaps P.F. Chang’s, The Cheesecake Factory, Benihana or one of the highly-rated restaurants around Coral Gables such as Cacao.
For the upbeat couple: Good choices are Taverna Opa or Moroccan Nights restaurants. Both feature great in-house entertainment. Espanola Way in South Beach always offers its fair share of fun in a variety of exotic restaurants. Also consider the Miami Improv Comedy Club located in the Grove.
For an intimate meal: Try renting that movie that your date has been talking about, or a nostalgic film with that actor he/she admires. If you feel adventurous, try making some fondue or any other meal meant to be shared (e.g. skewers, bruschetta, cheese or other finger foods). Don’t forget the drinks!
Gifts:
Flowers are a classic. Roses are always nice, but find out if your date has a preference for another kind of bloom. Sunflowers, lilies or even orchids are all great alternatives.
Think outside the box. of chocolates! How about a chocolate rose, caramel-coated apple or tuxedoed strawberries? Originality counts!
Hopelessly romantic? Get a star registered for your beloved (assuming you have been dating for a while and are in a committed relationship). Dedicate a song on the radio, or if you are very comfortable with each other, take a dance class together. Don’t overwhelm your date. Too much sweetness might also be a deal breaker.
Still can’t decide on this evening’s festivities? Here are some of the events happening around Miami, for singles and couples:
Concert at the Caleb for Lovers: The Joseph Caleb Center hosts a Valentine’s Day concert at 7 p.m. featuring Eric Roberson, a soul artist from Rahway, N.J., plus local music acts and comedians. $25/person. Call 305-804-5741 for more information.
Deering Estate Moonlight & Music Valentine’s Day Concert: Starting at 8 p.m., this outdoor concert features Eric Hansen and the Hansenhaus Sextet. Guests can bring blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets with wine inside. Food and wine will also be available for purchase from vendors. $15/person. For more information contact 305-235-1668, ext. 233 or visit www.deeringestate.com
The Show at Crobar: A party featuring hip-hop, ’80s rock and house. If you are single, this is the place to be in South Beach. Dress to impress, especially today! Doors open at 10 p.m. 305-672-8084
Las Vegas Style Show at Club Tropigala: Showgirls, dancers and recording artists will be in attendance, and singles and couples alike can enjoy this event. Call 305-672-7469 for reservations.
Plush Thursdays at the Pawn Shop Lounge. Sexy singles can party all night to the sounds of DJs Tony Tone and Alex Alvarez. The Pawn Shop opens its doors at 10 p.m. and keeps on going until 5 a.m. A nice stop for singles on Valentine’s. 305-373-3511
Sushisamba Dromo’s Samba Sensual Valentine’s: A very nice stop for couples! They offer an assortment of aphrodisiac-infused treats, including a special four-course omakase. Open from 7 p.m. $55/person. For reservations call 305-673-5337.
Some Dos and Don’ts to Consider:
Don’ts:
1. Don’t expect too much from your date. They might not be at the same emotional or mental level as you in the relationship. They might not even have the budget to take you out or buy a present!
2. Don’t ever mention your previous experiences on Valentine’s. If you are there, be there.
3. Don’t assume anything from the present or the place where your date is taking you. Try to have a good time. Don’t complicate things.
Dos
1. Do compliment your date.
2. Do have manners. Pay attention to the conversation and thank him/her for the date.
3. Do triple check your personal hygiene, looks, and time. Don’t leave your date waiting.
4. Above all: Do remember your date’s name!