Valentine’s today has become a mass celebration of love and affection. It single-handedly drives huge sales on greetings cards, flowers, chocolate and jewellery. Romantic breaks are snapped up without a second thought as couples jump at the chance to spend some quality time together. Officially the celebration of St Valentine takes place on February 14th. For many this is a fun day of spoiling and being spoilt by their partner. However, for others it’s a somewhat tedious exhibition of mass PDA (Public Displays of Affection).
There is more to the world then Paris, Rome and Venice on February 14th and at Economy Car Hire we’ve come up with the best Valentine’s alternatives.
Do something different this year and escape the Valentines celebrations. Plan a trip to one of these top anti-valentines destinations!
1. Cuba
Remove yourself from the baby talk and general lovey-dovey mush of Valentine’s Day with a trip to this island nation. Here the Communist Party still has a grip on just about everything. The Internet is spotty at best and your mobile phone won’t work. This almost guarantees an off-the-grid escape from extensive demonstrations of love. Finally, Cubans are warm, welcoming, and always up for a party – grab a mojito and toast your freedom (even better if you can do it in Spanish).
2. Amsterdam
Architecturally Amsterdam is a gorgeous place to visit but it could also be one of the least romantic. Merry-make at one of the 1200 pubs and try an Amsterdam special at one of the famed coffee shops. Or for the ultimate un-romantic icing on the cake take a stroll through the red light district. For a touch of perspective, visit Ann Franks House, take a World War II history tour or visit the Torture Museum. You’ll soon be humbled into forgetting your aversion to romantic greetings cards.
3. Book a spa trip
Treat yourself to a spot of pure indulgence. Pamper and preen at a remote country spa secluded from the outside world. Re-emerge post-valentines feeling super shiny and new. When people ask why you’re glowing you’ll be able to tell them it was down to a few days of investing in your well-being as opposed to the Hallmark domination.
4. Volunteer
Give the gift of aid this Valentine’s. This is perhaps the most genuine way to show someone that you care. Volun-tourism projects now take place all over the world. Take your pick of Peru, Africa, Cambodia, Thailand and many more destinations. Help build a school, hospital or orphanage. Feed the homeless or act as an adventure guide to someone who is visually or physically impaired. Whichever you choose there is something to suit every generous heart.
5. Brazil
Feb 14th is too close to Carnaval so Valentines slips by blissfully forgotten until sometime in June. Rio is also the party capital of the world. Soaking up the sun and dosing up on the Vitamin D it provides is great for beating a case of the grumps. Spend the day chilling on the beach and when night falls don your dancing shoes and jump into the rhythm of the samba. Dancing is a way of life in Rio so you’ll never be short of a partner or a new group of friends with whom to shimmy the night away.
Do you feel inspired to forget the flower petals and leave the cheap chocs at home this February?
Leave us a comment below and let us know where you are jet-setting to! Or, if you are looking to celebrate Valentine’s in the traditional style then we have something for you too. Check out our recommendations.
Written by Jessica Langlands from Economy Car Hire
