To ensure that Valentine's Day is special every year, you must be imaginative and not hesitate to leave your comfort zone to surprise your partner. A candlelit dinner or a sumptuous bouquet of roses could be enough for you beloved, however, some traditions require more involvement, or conversely contradict the common image that we have of this romantic day. These traditions could also give you some ideas if you’re not feeling inspired.
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Gender swapped gift-giving in Japan
In Japan, it is women who usually give men gifts on February 14th. They often give chocolates to their superiors or colleagues. A month later, on March 14th, it is the men's turn to do the same thing.
Little love poems for the Danes
In Denmark, it is common to secretly send ‘gaekkebrev,’ love poems usually accompanied by a snowdrop, on Valentine's Day. These letters are often signed with small dots. If the recipient discovers who is hiding behind the poem, they are given an Easter egg.
The holiday is celebrated together in South Africa
In South Africa, Valentine's Day is celebrated on the beaches, in the streets or in the discotheque. Women display the name of their companion on their clothes to make it clear that they are taken.
Valentine's Day arrives earlier in Wales
The Welsh celebrate the day of lovers on January 25th. They do not offer chocolates or flowers but wooden spoons often decorated with hearts and padlocks.
In Scotland, you do not necessarily know who your Valentine is
The first person of the opposite sex you meet becomes your Valentine in Scotland. Restaurant invitations and gifts are totally optional. It is indeed a symbolic tradition, and in no way is it commercial.
Check out the video above for more on Valentine's traditions around the world!
