Travel Guide

Your loved ones are special all year round, but sometimes it is nice to be spoiled a little and shown just how much your partner cares. What better time of year to make an outward show of affection than on Valentines Day? The 14th February is synonymous with romance and valentines gifts are on everyone’s agenda. You don’t have to spend a fortune, even the smallest valentines gifts, if carefully chosen, can convey exactly how you feel.

There is still a place for the more traditional valentines gifts though; after all they are popular for a reason! A romantic meal, in a restaurant or home cooked, chocolates, flowers and perfume are all perfect gifts but as it is valentines day ideas, put a little extra effort in and purchase something from a luxury brand and choose a top quality restaurant. The key to successful valentines gift giving is to make it more special than a similar item you might buy at any time of the year.

You may want to think outside the box if you know your partner would prefer something less traditional. You could go the extra mile to research a gift that would be unique and very special to them, for example you could hunt down a first edition of their favourite novel or buy something that is tied up with any hobbies or special interests they might have.

Collectors and hobby enthusiasts should be relatively easy to buy for as there will usually be something they are lusting after or an item to add to their collection. They may need to update sports equipment or you could upgrade something for them. Showing that you have researched and gone to the trouble of sourcing something especially for them, perhaps a rare item for a collection will definitely be appreciated.

Men, as well as women can have a penchant for designer clothing and accessories, although it usually women who have a particular fondness for high end brands, especially in shoes and handbags. If you know your loved one well you may know of a designer item they would love to own, but may not consider spending the money on themselves. Pay special attention to them if you are out shopping or they see an item in a magazine they may helpfully point out to you, it could be a hint!

Think about a gift with longevity, classic items like bags or scarves that are considered investment pieces. These will be treasured for many years and used for a lifetime instead of items that are only likely to be a passing fad or last a season at best.

If you are considering proposing, the engagement ring will be the most important valentines gift you ever buy and it is important to get it right. You should be pretty confident that you know your partners taste in jewellery; check out her jewellery box and maybe bring one of her friends along to help you. Perhaps it’s too soon for an engagement but you can still get a very special piece of jewellery, for example earrings or a bracelet. Jewellery is always a winner!

Whatever you choose for valentines gifts, putting a little extra effort in will be the difference between an impersonal and throw away gift and a gift with ‘wow factor’ that will surely earn brownie points for the rest of the year! The only problem is how to top it the next year!