Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean predictable roses and prix fixe menus. Across the globe, romance takes on extraordinary forms, some steeped in history, others delightfully quirky. Here are five traditions worth travelling for, with places to stay that are as memorable as the ritual itself.
Denmark: Snowdrops and Secret Nodes
In Denmark, a modern Valentine’s twist swaps roses for pressed snowdrops, paired with gækkebrev, anonymous rhyming “teasing letters” intended to charm and keep your admirer guessing. Transform it into a proper city escape at Hotel d’Angleterre, Copenhagen’s storied grande dame, then make an evening of it in their seductive champagne bar, Balthazar, where indulgence is just the pop of a cork away. Settle into the glow with a leisurely glass from its extensive list, and if you feel like going all in, order caviar service and stay for the weekend DJ sets.
South Korea: A Year of Love
Why settle for one day when South Korea’s “14th of every month” culture gives couples a running excuse to celebrate, from Rose Day in May to Wine Day in October? Base yourself at Banyan Tree Club and Spa Seoul, where passion is built into the address: many rooms and suites come with an in-room relaxation pool, so you can swap the city rush for steam and stillness whenever the mood takes you. Book a couples’ spa massage, then let the rest of the day unfold as a series of small pleasures: a view, a toast, a late dinner. No agenda, just the two of you.
Wales: Tokens of Devotion
In Wales, romance doesn’t come wrapped in paper; it’s shaped in wood. Traditional love spoons are hand-carved gifts of intent, rich with symbolism – hearts for affection, keys for home and security. Commission your own heirloom piece, then check in to Plas Dinas Country House, the former residence of Lord Snowdon, where the deluxe setting does all the work for you. With just 11 individually styled rooms and The Gunroom Restaurant on site, the hotel lends itself to candlelit dinners and lingering breakfasts. When you head back, your spoon won’t just be a souvenir, but a charming reminder of a stay designed for two.
Japan: Chocolate with Status
Japan turns Valentine’s into an art form, with women gifting chocolates on 14 February and men reciprocating on White Day, celebrated on 14 March. The customs can be wonderfully specific, from earnest declarations to carefully chosen boxes that feel like luxury in miniature. After a day exploring Tokyo’s temple-like patisserie and chocolate counters, retreat to the Bvlgari Hotel for an after dark interlude: skyline views, an unhurried drink at the bar and then dinner at Il Ristorante, with the city glittering below.
Phillipines: Love in the Spotlight
Valentine’s Day in the Philippines is often marked by mass weddings. Part romance, part community, these celebrations are commonly supported by local governments. Watch the spectacle with a smile before slipping away to Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao, all bare feet, sea air and sparkling waters. Here you can spend the day paddling through the mangroves or hop on a boat to empty sandbars for an intimate picnic just for two. As night falls indulge in cocktails by the beach followed by a chef-led dinner shaped around the day’s freshest local catch, served under the stars.
