Countless couples get all caught up in the commercialised hoopla that is Valentine’s Day, and forget to celebrate each other in a way that floats their boat. Instead, they stick to the stereotypical sentimental shtick year after year: fancy dinners coupled with the usual gifts. 

So with Valentine's just around the corner, you may be scampering for ideas that will help you bust out of this generic rut, and make your date stand out. Fear not - we’re here to help. 

While fancy dinners are great and all, we've compiled a list of date ideas to suit all budgets, whims and fancies. These date ideas, although unconventional, will definitely help infuse fresh vibes that will switch your dates up a notch! 

1. Meal In Bed 

It doesn't always have to be breakfast and it doesn't always have to be a one sided surprise. In fact, cooking up a hearty meal together - simple or Michelin star, disasters and all - can be a lot of fun. Feast it out on your bed, pair it with a beverage of choice and watch a movie together. 

2. Be Adventurous 

Valentine's Day doesn't always have to be about fancy restaurants and roses. In fact, nothing signifies love and trust more than engaging in an extreme experience together. While such outlets are limited in Sri Lanka, you could still partake in white water rafting, zip lining, deep sea diving and surfing. You could also try paramotoring, offered by Sky Club Sri Lanka. 

3. Spontaneous Trips 

Spur of the moment plans are always the best. So why not whisk your significant other to a totally unplanned location? Pack your bags, get yourself to the airport and randomly pick a flight to the cheapest or closest destination (convenient now that there are a lot more countries we don't need a visa to visit!). You can also do it locally, pick a location off the map. Upcountry, down south or up north, the choice is endless. 

4. Volunteer Together 

Share your abundant love with others on this day of love. Use this opportunity to give back as a way to connect with your significant other. Be it children’s and elders homes, or pet shelters, helping make someone else’s day a little better will help you connect with your partner too. 

5. Be A Tourist In Your Own City 

Because why not? When was the last time you checked out your locale with your significant other? Like really explored the nooks and crannies or veered off the beaten path? So hop on one of the Colombo City Tour buses or explore the city/village on foot. Rediscover your neighborhood as well as your love for each other. 

6. Get Cultured 

In love, we mean. Valentine's Day is celebrated differently in various countries. The Danish exchanged pressed white flowers called snowdrops, Norwegians exchange “Gaekkebrev” - rhyming love notes or funny little poems, and the Welsh gift love spoons, for instance. So why not adopt a custom that catches your eye? Mix and match these new found traditions and - viola! - you now have your very own! 

7. Try Something New 

Join a dance class at Imzys Dance Loft for the day, try your hand at cooking with Yvonne Fernando or learn to scuba dive at the Poseidon Diving Station in Mirissa. These are just a few of the endless possibilities you can pick from.