February 14th is nearly here again, and that means crunch time. Whether you decide to go simple or extravagant, romance and thoughtfulness are a must. Gifts of chocolate and flowers are classic and romantic, but creativity gets bonus points. Here are a few ideas that may give you the inspiration you need to make this Valentine’s Day a memorable one for both of you.

Posh Restaurant

A reservation at a restaurant that would be outside the casual budget is always a strong contender. This outing usually involves getting dressed up, which adds to the romance. Perhaps there is a restaurant that serves a favorite dish or has a location that offers a great view. Skyline views and natural settings in the mountains or by a body of water always seem to go over well.

Helicopter Tours

Helicopter tours are available in most major cities. These are normally offered out of smaller municipal airports and can be cheaper than you might think. Many operators offer specials on holidays and usually a tour will fly over landmarks and other local points of interest. The drawback to a helicopter tour is that they are loud. If you are looking for a quiet conversation, this is not the choice for you.

Spa Treatment

A visit to the spa doesn’t have to involve an expensive resort. In and around most major cities, there are a great number of day spas that offer massage and other treatments that are perfect for Valentine’s Day. In fact, most spas offer Valentine’s Day couples massages. A couples massage is a great way relax and connect with your date. A gift certificate for a massage is nice, but making the appointment and sharing the experience puts this one over the top.

Limousine and Executive Car Service

No matter what you decide to do for Valentine’s Day, you can maximize your time together by letting someone else do the driving. So much of our time is spent getting from point A to point B. Hiring a limo service for Valentine’s Day tells your date that they have your undivided attention for the evening. A dinner date is suddenly much more romantic when a chauffeured car arrives for pick up, especially if they are not expecting it. Limo services generally have various cars to choose from, including luxury sedans that are perfect for 2 passengers. You could always go all the way and hire a stretch limousine for several hours and enjoy a romantic ride after dinner.

They say it is the thought that counts; hopefully, these ideas will spark some excitement in planning for a special Valentine’s Day.