Her Valentine's Day: Why Valentines Day is Worth Celebrating
OK cynics, let’s get one thing straight. While I do concede that Valentines Day nowadays is ultimately a day hijacked by Hallmark, I also insist that the original, underlying meaning of the day – to show someone that you love them – prevails. Ideally, we ought to show appreciation for our lovers (and friends) year round, but it’s not always practical and in our busy live, it’s usually those we love the most who we take for granted. So once a year (and preferably at unexpected times during the year too), I maintain that it is worthwhile to make a point of celebrating love – and who you love.
I’m not a Hallmark victim. I’m an educated, cultured consumer – and I want my Valentine's Day. So listen up buster, or that red lingerie you had in mind might never appear. Here is all I ask:
Read about a perfect Valentine's Day from the woman's perspective here.
Where to go
My ideal date wouldn’t (necessarily…) involve a reservation at a white tablecloth, Michelin starred restaurant. I’m not expecting a guy to put their bank account on life support just to show me I’m worth it. Just take me for a picnic in the park and while you’re at it show some creativity. I’d head to the hidden Victoria Peak Garden for an cosy picnic. To get there, head from the Peak Tower up Mount Austin Road for a 15-20 minute walk (a sure way to work up an appetite).
What to do
Lay a thick blanket upon those lush, green blades, or dine alfresco upon one of the gorgeous, Georgian pavilions. Open a bottle of full-bodied red wine (let’s say Wolfbass Merlot) and then as if effortlessly, like this was all no trouble at all (because it shouldn’t be, if you do love me) make an olive, crisp, warm baguette with pate and a sprinkling of seasalt appear before my overjoyed eyes (try Olivers Deli, darling). Together we can share a gourmet picnic away from annoyingly over-attentive waiters and conclude the indulgence with some seriously sweet strawberries (City Super is selling them far cheaper than usual).
What present would you like?
Present? Make it three.
1) Flowers because they always make a woman feel special no matter what. Every girl loves pretending to be embarrassed while drawing envious stares walking through the street with them (be unique and stop in at Tallensia Floral Art, on Tai Ping Shan Street).
2) A box of deliciously dark Vero truffles which we pretend to share, but really, they’re all for me
3) Two vanilla scented candles (for that candle-lit glow over those dinners I cook you)
Expectations on the day
To have a bouquet sorted (it’s really not rocket science) and a corny card to make me laugh. Then I’ll know you went to a lot of trouble to make me happy on this corny day.