For some South Africans, romance involves desserts and a view for two. For others, it’s all about getting as far away from the Valentine’s hype as possible. So, wherever you are in SA and in whichever category you fall, we hope you find something you may like to do in this romantic-not-romantic list of things to do this Valentine’s Day in South Africa.
We’ve got options for those who have
1. money to spend,
2. those who are on a budget and
3. last but not least, those who are single!
1 . If you’ve got money to spend
Romantic Dinner
Of course, there are other ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day, but with so many restaurants in South Africa promising an evening of magic, how can you pass up the opportunity to be wined and dined? Planning the most romantic event of the year is made easy when all you have to do is arrive, sit back and enjoy! Dont forget to order your outfit in time if you are an online shopper. (Benefits of shopping online)
Remember, it’s always best to book before hand. Your date wouldn’t want to wait in line all night only to get to the front and told its about an hour wait.
When in Johannesburg: A la Bouffe offers 5-course meals bound to satisfy! The family run French restaurant is run by an award-winning French Chef Patron, so you’ll be in good hands.
When in Cape Town: To enjoy a 4-course meal and live entertainment, head to CASA Restaurant & Cabana at The Ritz in Sea Point.
Eat out has some really cool Valentine’s day Romantic Dinner ideas for you on where to eat depending on where in the country you’re situated. Click here to view this list.
Stay at a fancy hotel
If spoiling the one you love is your top priority, then enjoy a one-night stay at a fancy hotel in South Africa. Here are two or three possible fancy Hotels to stay in this Valentine’s Day.
When in Johannesburg: The African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel is situated in the heart of Johannesburg. You and yours could dine at their March Restaurant to enjoy global cuisine. Known for the romantic atmosphere and delicious cuisine, this restaurant is the perfect setting to create a memorable experience with your dinner date.
When in Cape Town: The iconic Ritz hotel in Seapoint offers a sea facing deluxe room. This stay includes a delicious three hour, seven-course dinner at the top of the Ritz. Take in picturesque views of the Mother City with your partner on your arm.
Indulge in a couples spa package
It’s common for couples to sometimes discuss topics in such a way that it seems a bit like bickering back and forth. A spa environment is one that makes bickering seem forbidden especially with the excitement and anticipation that often occurs when one is waiting for a massage. Couples who experience such a distraction-free and calming environment might benefit by reconnecting even before receiving their massages.
It can sometimes be difficult to find alone time without stressing over the day’s events. A couples massage eliminates all elements of stress, allowing couples to be together in the moment and reconnect with one another – even if through silence.
Life Day Spa has an amazing Couples Package. Their Eternally Yours couples package includes a Middle Eastern Mud Ritual in the Rasul Chamber, a 60minute luxurious candle massage, use of the Luxury Couples Suite including the private Spa Bath and cheese platter with sparkling wine and spa facilities. Enjoy 3.5 hours in pure relaxation with your loved one.
When in Johannesburg: Life Day Spa Fourways, Life Day Spa Rosebank
When in Cape Town: Life Day Spa Century City or Life Day Spa Waterfront
2. If you’re on a budget
Sure, we’re all still recovering from Januworry. If you’re stressing that your funds won’t go far (again) and you won’t be able to give your dear Valentine a day to cherish, worry no more! Sparkly jewellery and a meal at a 5-star restaurant is not something your loved one expects of you – it’s always the thought that counts.
Find an activity that both of you can enjoy together and show that you care by planning a small and intimate affair.
Pack a picnic basket
Pack a picnic basket and a sit-on blanket as well as lap-blankets for you and yours. Cuddle up and enjoy and evening outdoors!
When in Gauteng:Pretoria National Botanical Garden
When in Cape Town: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Cook a romantic meal together
Promising to be fun-filled and an amazing bonding experience, staying in and putting together your favourite meal is a sure winner. Not to mention a great way to avoid the crowds on a day that should be just for the two of you.
Don’t forget to light the candles!
Here’s a great recipe to try!
Chicken with Lemon Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken
– 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
– 5 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 2 lemons
– 5 clove garlic
– 2 scallions
– coarse sea salt
– Freshly ground pepper
– 1 3/4 lb. small to medium potatoes
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 bunch fresh parsley leaves
DIRECTIONS
PREP TIME: 0:30
TOTAL TIME: 2:10
Preheat oven to 230 degrees C with rack set in middle. Remove any excess fat around chicken cavities and discard; rinse chicken and pat dry, inside and out.
In a small bowl, combine basil, butter, lemon zest, garlic, and scallions.
Starting at chicken’s neck, slide hands under skin, carefully loosening skin on breasts and thighs. Spread butter mixture, about 1 tablespoon at a time, between loosened skin and meat, taking care not to tear skin. Rub hands over skin to spread mixture into crevices.
Season chicken (inside and out) with salt and pepper, then tie legs together with kitchen string. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and enough pepper to coat well. Cut reserved lemon into quarters and set 3 aside.
Heat roasting pan in oven for 10 minutes. Remove; then put potatoes and any oil left in bowl into pan, keeping potatoes in a single layer and pushed to edges to make room for chicken. Place chicken in pan, breast-side up.
Roast chicken for 20 minutes, then remove pan from oven and turn bird breast-side down. Continue to roast for 20 more minutes, then remove pan from oven and turn bird breast-side up again. Sprinkle parsley over potatoes, then stir to coat with pan drippings. Squeeze reserved lemon over chicken and put rinds into pan. Continue to roast until juices of chicken run clear when thigh is pierced with a fork, or an instant-read thermometer inserted in breast reaches 160°F, 20 to 30 minutes.
Remove pan from oven; let chicken rest for 15 minutes before transferring to a cutting board. Let rest for 5 more minutes, then carve. Spoon pan juices over chicken; serve with potatoes and roasted lemon.
Open air cinema
When we were younger we were constantly told to “switch off the TV and go play outside in the fresh air”. Imagine our excitement when the best indoor entertainment known to man – watching movies and eating popcorn – met the airy outdoors! Open air cinemas are the best of both worlds, it would be a waste to not go outside and enjoy them.
When in Johannesburg: Visit the Independent Cinema, The Bioscope. Watch the special Valentine’s screening of True Romance. Not your typical romance film, this action rampage is something a little different. Don’t expect Hugh Grant and a girl standing in front of him asking him to love her.
When in Cape Town: Watch Valentine’s Day at Nooitgedacht Wine Estate. Aside from the very fitting movie title, we rate this movie perfect for the occasion since it’s both a romance and a comedy. What better way to spend the day of love laughing away with your loved one?
3. If you’re single
If you find yourself single on Valentine’s Day either by choice or for other reasons then not to worry we still got you covered.
Hang out with your gal-pals for GALENTINES DAY
Gather your closest girlfriends and throw a dinner party. Why spend it with one special someone when you can spend it with all of your nearest and dearest! #GirlGang
Movie marathon
Spend Valentine’s with your real crush. Collect your favourite actors/actresses movie and spend it with your on-screen love
Spa day
Treat yourself to a well deserved pamper session. Even though as a singleton every day might be a me-day, take it up a notch and indulge in a massage or mani pedi.
Laugh
Visit your nearest comedy club. Did you know? Laughing releases feel-good endorphins and decreases stress hormones.
When in Johannesburg: Parker’s Comedy and Jive will knock your socks off with “Your Funny Valentine”. For more information, click here
When in Cape Town: Cape Town Comedy Club is hosting their annual Anti-Valentine’s Day Comedy Show on Wednesday 14 February 2018! For more information, click here
Unplug
If being alone on Valentine’s day hit’s a sore spot, try unplugging from all social media on the day (maybe even the day after) to save yourself from reading soppy captions. Happy couples all over.
Hit the gym
Put your earphones in. Blow off some steam. Sweat it out.
Couch potato
Picture this. All the junk food. All the Netflix. All the chilling.
Here are some series to watch on Netflix:
2. Glow
3. Love Sick
Grab your best friend(zone) and work your way through all of the couples deals
Perk 1: discounted deals
Perk 2: the person you’re going with actually fancies you and will treat you like the special you are
Don’t share
Buy your favourite dessert and eat it ALL BY YOURSELF. You don’t have to share that last fry, or that last spoon of ice cream. Okay, you’ll probably pick up a bit more weight but the extra chub will keep you warm at night. Enjoy the fact that it’s all for you.
Still not satisfied with these options? We’ve rounded up the best Restuarant Specials to take advantage of, this Valentine’s Day here.
If none of the above excites you, let’s end off with 4 words. POST VALENTINE’S CHOCOLATE SALES.
Can’t figure out what to get him/her? We’ve got you covered with Valentine’s Day gift ideas here. Shop them now! Looking for a great date night deal? Chek out our top Restaurant Specials to Take Advantage of This Valentine’s Day.
