Valentine’s Day is the ultimate romantic “holiday”, but coming after the traditionally tough January month means that some of us have to come up with a way of treating our partners without breaking the bank.
Claire Cobbledick, marketing head for Gumtree South Africa, shares affordable yet romantic ways to spoil your partner this Valentine’s.
MOBILE HOT TUB RENTAL
Can’t afford to whisk your loved one off to a luxury hotel or spa? Hire a Jacuzzi for the day! There are plenty of mobile Jacuzzi rentals around the country that you can use to spoil your significant other. The Jacuzzi is brought to your house and can be filled using an ordinary hosepipe. It then heats up and creates the bubbles. Throw in a bottle of champagne and flowers for a more romantic feel!
LIMOUSINES OR CLASSIC CARS
If you are spending Valentine’s Day at the movies, going out to dinner or just cruising around the city to look at the lights, do so in style. You can hire a classic car or a limousine to pick up your other half from work or home for an hourly fee. It makes a great impression and will definitely make your loved one feel like a movie star.
A WEEKEND AWAY
Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, making it the ideal time to escape city life and head out to a remote location to relax and recuperate. However, most hotels and guest houses will take advantage of this fact (and may be fully booked). You can therefore hire a private home for the day. There are plenty of holiday flats and houses up for rent along the coast that are usually cheaper than big chains, but you’ll still enjoy the benefit of a good view.
VINTAGE ROMANTICISM
Items with a history are very popular gift items. When buying a vintage gift, you are buying something unique – and something with a story. Vintage jewellery, a replica of a loved one’s favourite childhood toy, or even a vintage magazine from the year they were born makes great presents without spending too much. If your significant other is a collector, you should definitely spend some time finding something to add to their collection.
EXPERIENCES
Experiences make great gifts. If your partner has always wanted to learn French or any other language, sign them up for classes in your area. If they’ve always wanted to learn to play the guitar or piano, find them a tutor. There are lots of private lessons that teach everything from pottery to yoga, and by paying for a few classes you can help them create excellent memories. Better yet, do the classes together and share in their hobbies.
Being romantic does not have to be too expensive. Spend a little extra time researching options that will surprise and delight your partner without costing an arm and a leg. You’ll be surprised at what’s out there.
