'You have to look at the individual as a whole. As the saying goes, it's what's on the inside that counts.'

For Sheri Chiu, 15, from Hong Kong International School, a sense of humour is crucial. She also prefers boys who are tolerant of others, regardless of race, religion or background.

Intelligence is important for Paris Herbert-Taylor, 17, of the Australian International School. She says she has no time for boys who can only talk about their last rugby match.

Girls are more comfortable talking about love and romance than boys, but we did manage to get Grant Parks, 16, from Hong Kong International School, to comment.

He said a perfect girl should be funny, with a warm heart and a big smile. The biggest turn-off was girls who gossip or backstab.

Elise McKenzie, 16, is attracted to people with talent, especially those with rock star potential.

'The only boys worth knowing are those who rock hard on their instrument of choice,' said Elise who attends Australian International School.

Elise says meeting up with people who share similar interests is a great way of meeting new people - and also potential dates.

She advises performing arts fans to attend the Youth Arts Festival and fans of live music to check out Battle of the Bands and Rockit.

After hooking up a date, there are a number ways to make a good impression.

Grant said boys should respect what girls want to do on the first date. Although first dates can be intimidating, he said it's important to act comfortable - light humour serves as a good ice-breaker.

Annie Barnard, 18, from King George V School, said people tend to show off their best qualities on the first date, but end up coming across as egotistic and self-centered.

'So just sit back, be yourself and be nice,' she said.

Annie's idea of a great first date is to watch a movie and discuss it over dinner.

Elizabeth said most girls tend to expect their boyfriends to be generous on the first date.

'The worst thing a guy can do on a first date is ask the girl to pay,' she said. 'Big turn off!'

She believes this shows that the boy has no interest in a relationship, only friendship.

Jisoo Kim from Island School said she doesn't like boys who are overly emotional on the first date.

'The worst thing a guy can do is to tell you all his tragic childhood stories in hopes of getting sympathy from you,' the 17-year-old said.

Ying-wah Cheung, 18, from University College London, recalled her worst first date:

the boy talked about long-term commitment and marriage.

'He probably thought that it would please me,' she said.

But acting too serious, too soon isn't only intimating, it also appears insincere.

'It's unlikely that they truly feel that way,' Ying-wah said.

Valentine's Day isn't just for couples. You can tell your friends and family how much you love them too.