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- This Sunday, 14 February, is Valentine's Day - a day celebrated primarily - but not solely - by couples.
- You have less than a week to get a gift and an itinerary ready for the day.
- Luckily for you, we know there's always that one person needs an extra push in terms of choosing the right gift for their valentine.
- So here's a guide including hotel stay special rates, Covid-compliant museum visits, and affordable sparkling wine.
I mean, you should have already planned something thoughtful by now, but we're not here to shame anyone. If anything, we're here to help.
And to the singles (yes, myself included), there's no plot twist here - we won't be convincing you to boycott the day altogether. And while we always encourage self-care (especially on Sundays), this is also not an anti-Valentine's Day rant that might end with "just focus on yourself, queen."
If anything, it's pro the biggest marketing scam of all time.
Why?
Because I think it's time we let go of the notions that a solo V-Day date is a consolation prize or love that isn't romantic is lesser and therefore not worthy of celebration on 14 February.
So yes, take notes from this guide for solo date ideas even if it means being surrounded by the couples who, according to FNB, on Valentine’s Day in 2019, spent approximately R50 million at different restaurants around the country. We predict this number will be dented in 2021 due to the pandemic.
READ MORE: Sweet talk - There's a rosé champagne for every kind of date or couple this Valentine's Day
Enough chatting, you don't have much time.
Here are your last-minute options:
Staycation
We’re all tired of living and working in one place (our homes!), which is why a night or two away can feel like a complete luxury. But there’s no need to go too far; a staycation close to home can offer the same highs as a holiday halfway across the world. Experience hotels that are usually out of reach financially for a fraction of the standard cost with Radisson hotels’ special rates.
From an ocean-view room, cheese and wine selection and an indulgent spa offering at Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, to ice-cold bubbly in your suite and a delicious, contemporary dinner at Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Plus, Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol, established in partnership with SGS, will assure your peace of mind throughout your stay.
Retail romance
If you’re entertaining a partner who loves to give and receive gifts, make this year memorable with gorgeous lingerie or clothing. They might just put on an extra special fashion show… just for you.
Local e-tailer RunwaySale offers great branded value fashion at reduced prices, so you can splurge without the guilt that comes with overspending.
From aromatic fragrances to beautiful lingerie sets, or even glitzy wristwatches, find fashion, beauty and more with the click of a button, and have your goodies delivered straight to your door.
Museums for your muse
Opened in 2017, the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) is the first museum of its kind which collects, preserves, researches and exhibits contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. Now you can take home a piece of the MOCAA magic in the form of one-of-a-kind products inspired by the art and design featured at the museum.
Pop in at the Museum Shop after a visit to this very special venue, or go online to buy jewellery, prints and other beautiful collectables you won’t find anywhere else.
Bonus: Receive 25% off selected merchandise each week with the code FEB25%.
Norval Foundation’s new exhibition by Georgina Gratrix
Let your partner immerse themselves in Norval Foundation’s latest exhibition (and the first ever solo by a South African artist): ‘The Reunion: Georgina Gratrix’.
The show opens on Saturday 13 February. Ideal for those who love nothing more than an afternoon (or morning) spent gazing at galleries and strolling through sculpture gardens. The new Norval Foundation Access Memberships offer great value. For R120, Access members are entitled to unlimited entries for one year from date of purchase.
Visit: The Reunion: Georgina Gratrix
Image supplied by Avenue Communications
Food lovers
No, not that one.
beyond | Buitenverwachting, Constantia
A veteran on the food scene in South Africa, Peter Tempelhoff’s latest dining venture, beyond at Buitenverwachting wine estate is an ode to the region in the most elegant and yet unpretentious fashion.
Expect carefully sourced high-quality ingredients – from local small producers - and presented as understated and refined dishes – and a unique wine. Join Tempelhoff and team for their special Valentine’s Day menu. Perfect for those who prefer eating to cooking.
Image supplied by Avenue Communications
House of J.C. Le Roux... at your house
The House of J.C. Le Roux, South Africa’s leading sparkling wine producer, wishes everyone a happy Valentine’s Day and encourages consumers to celebrate the month of love responsibly with their delicious non-alcoholic bubbly. There are few things in life that are as romantic and indulgent as popping a bottle of bubbly, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to pop a bottle to a loving partner, friend, family member or even yourself.
The House of J.C. Le Roux’s vivacious Non-Alcoholic Sparkling range consists of J.C. Le Roux La Fleurette and Le Domaine Non-Alcoholic bubbly, both made with the same care and dedication as the J.C. Le Roux Vivante Sparkling range. The La Fleurette Non-Alcoholic Sparkling variant has a beautifully distinct blush pink colour and entices all the senses.
It reveals fruity flavours with hints of strawberry and plum. The balance of freshness and sweetness typical of the original J.C. Le Roux La Fleurette is pure delight. The Le Domaine Non- Alcoholic bubbly is an enchanting sparkling white that comes alive on the palate. It has all the finesse, crisp freshness and gentle sweetness of J.C. Le Roux Le Domaine, but in a Non- Alcoholic alternative that allows you to enjoy your favourite bubbly for longer.
Image supplied on behalf of J.C. Le Roux
Add ice to a fiery romance
Shop the new diamond stud range from Linde collection.
If all else fails, you can’t go wrong with diamonds (or rubies, sapphires and emeralds, for that matter). Look no further than the Linde Collection – an independent jewellers specialising in bespoke diamond and gemstone pieces.
They’ve recently launched a range of contemporary diamond studs – think lightning bolts, small blooms and stars – perfect for fashionistas, or those jewellery aficionados amongst us.
Seal it with a French 'kiss'
Lastly, you can ensure that your loved ones feel spoilt this Valentine’s Day with gifting solutions from French Lemon’s fresh take on soaps, scrubs, salts and scents.
From their Valentine’s day range to their Mom-To-Be range to their Men’s range, there is something for everyone at French Lemon. The French Lemon collection is exclusively available online at www.frenchlemon.co.za
Image supplied on behalf of French Lemon
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