Many may argue that Valentine's Day is too cliché and commercial, but don't let them get you down. The day is a great excuse to celebrate love, and it's up to you to get creative and put together something exciting and unique. Here are some ideas. Dressing up, staying in. Have you ever tried to go out to dinner on Valentine's Day? What a nightmare. All the restaurants are fully booked, the traffic jams are endless and parking is impossible. Instead why not arrange a night in of dinner and slow dancing. Put on your dressiest outfit and style your hair as if you're going to a celebrity ball. Don't forget the candlelight and music - Sinatra would be a good choice. And keep the food simple. Order some oysters - Gourmet Egypt has some good quality Clevedon Coast Oysters and you can order it right to your door - and pop some Champaign. Of course, send the kids to their grandparents for the night. We know you love them too but this is a day dedicated to heighten your romance. Spell it out. For a simple yet effective romantic gesture, spell out the words "I love you (partner's name) on the gate of the house/building, or at their office. Try to do this in as much a public place as possible because something about screaming out your love to the world is awfully dreamy. Pour your heart out. This one needs more imagination and creativity. Start out by finding an empty jar, and clean it out. Maybe even paint some hearts on it. Next, bring out a notepad (preferably colorful paper) and start jotting down reasons why you love your partner. Think of all those personal things only you would know or appreciate. Also scan your memory for certain song lyrics, poems or even quotes from films you have enjoyed together and write them out. Now cut each of these statements out separately and put them in the jar. You can also add any memorabilia you have like movie tickets or any other reminders. This jar will forever be a constant reminder of why you love this person, and will no doubt be cherished. Destination Valentine. This year Valentine's Day falls on a Thursday, which is the perfect opportunity to get out of town for the weekend. Egypt is full of many romantic weekend destinations. Sahl Hashish, located south of Hurghada, is acclaimed for being a beautiful honeymoon resort. Taba, Sharm El-Sheikh, Ain Sokhna and El Gouna are other suggestions around the country. Even easier, why not book a luxurious hotel room in the city. Hotels like the Four Seasons or the new Sofitel El Gezirah provide great wining and dining and great spa facilities. What better way to bring on the romance? Movie night. If renting your favorite romantic movie is outmoded, we recommend you simply rent out all your favorite movies. The catch is you both have to agree on each film beforehand as to avoid any possibility of arguments on this day. Also important is to choose the best TV snacks. Popcorn, chocolates, Chinese take-out. whatever floats your boat. And remember no calorie counting on Valentine's. Warm and cuddly, a lazy night in can be the perfect romantic date.
