Ølive et Øriel: Valentine's Day

Having discussed the topic of 'Valentine's Day' with various friends, it came as quite a shock that people don't seem overly interested in participating in the romance and fun that is February 14th! Albiet, Hallmark certainly have claimed the day with the overuse of their smooshy cards, overpriced roses and heart shaped chocolates. Now we don't believe gift giving is what the day is all about (even though that's exactly how it all began!).

Things evolve and we truly believe Valentine's Day is a day, to set things aside and show how much a special someone means to you... Your hubby, wife, toy-boy or best friend. So we've come up with twenty perfect dates you can share with your 'favourite' to show them how much you care. Most of them won't cost more than a bottle of wine, so let's reclaim Valentines Day! Move over Hallmark...

Enjoy.
-O&O

Rent a tandem bike, map out your route and plan for a stopover for glass of wine and a delicious dessert to share. Trying to ride a tandem bike, is simply hilarious!
Take dance lessons together! Salsa anyone?
Get yourselves a yummy seafood platter (or fish & chips!), go to your favourite viewing point or beach, and enjoy the serenity of nature.
Go for a hike, iphone loaded with tunes, a backpack prepared with some of your Valentines favourite treats and set up somewhere lovely for a picnic.
Rent a luxury car for the day, pack a bag and hit the road. Drive until you find a cute B&B and enjoy that room!
Make an indoor retreat (think back to your youth of setting up an indoor cubby!). Hang up some pretty fairy lights, fill the floor with soft blankets and pillows, bottle of wine and some of your Valentines favourite foods. Perfection!
Enjoy a live band together. It doesn't matter what music it is, you can connect even if its a disaster!
Go camping! A night or two away from the chaos of normal life is complete bliss. Kick back, and relax with your beloved. (You'll be surprised how much you can connect without mobile reception!)
Play strip poker in the privacy of your own home - or wherever appropriate... Camping works well too (in the tent people!!) ;)
Write a letter to your favourite person explaining why you are happy they are in your life. Then, take a quilt, a bottle of champagne, lay under the stars in your backyard, local park or favourite beach and read… They will never forget how special you made them feel.
Buy a copy of The Book of Questions and ask away. You can do this anywhere, a perfect way to get to know your Valentine on a deeper level.
Rent a luxury car for the day, pack a bag and hit the road. Drive until you find a cute B&B and enjoy that room!
Check out the last minute deals, book a 'secret hotel' and hop on a plane to a fun destination. Theme park weekend?
Enjoy a day at the spa together including champagne. Sensual, sexy and relaxing!
Pop down to your local pub, play a round of darts or pool. Winner takes “all”…
Go 'dream-house' hunting. Get dressed up, pick up a coffee, and dream about your future.
Plan yourselves a trip. Doesn't matter if it is in the future. Spend a night picking your destination and what things you want to do/see while you’re there.
Pour yourselves a glass of wine and take a walk around your neighborhood. A nice evening stroll with no destination but to get back home... You'll be surprised at how relaxing and fun this is!
If you've got any kiddies, there is no shame in turning it into a family affair. Play mini golf or ten pin bowling. And enjoy some fast food! A treat for all of the fam.
Enjoy a living room camp out! Bring out the air mattresses, unleash the junk food and watch movies as a family all night. So what if it’s not one-on-one time with your man… at least you’re together and enjoying the family you’ve created!