TRAVEL TIPS: Planning a sexy escape

Yes, the perfect romantic Valentine weekend is attainable – if you follow some rules. And when it comes to that most romantic of all days of the year, you better believe that there are rules, says Karen Krizanovich

At one end is the ‘do nothing’ school of romance. Stay away from this extreme. I was once ignored on 14 Feb and felt so awful that I wept. Looking back now, it seems silly, but things can feel out of proportion. When he tried to make it up to me (with a bag of dried fruit) I cried even more.

At the other end of the spectrum, when I was sent a London taxi full of flowers the following year, I had the nerve to say, “What? No roses?”. This is one date when you want to get right.

So, here’s how to do it...

BE TRADITIONAL: If your mate is up for a weekend away, they’re up for the whole menu of romantic gestures. And yes, that means roses, a card, lingerie (or preening products for him), champagne and a fancy box of chocolates from Fortnums, Godiva or Charbonnel et Walker. Something from Tiffany always goes down well, even if it is only a charm or keyring. Be ridiculously predictable. Once a year, it really is charming. (Think of the points for the rest of the year. Do it right, and you could almost overlook an anniversary. Almost.)          

PLAN, PLAN, PLAN: Do your legwork and make every step an adventure. Tell them to be ready at a certain time with bags packed. A surprise mystery trip is almost as good as the destination. There’s no harm in meeting them in a chauffeur-driven car, helicopter or horse-drawn carriage either, although a cab fits the bill. Champagne and strawberries on the way is an inspired idea – or whatever you both like the most, except in the case of a curry.        

PLEASE YOURSELF TOO: Don’t go somewhere which is only going to float one person's boat. V Day is for both of you to enjoy; not for martyrs to romance. This is a celebration of how great you are together. Make sure there’s something that is a delight à deux, not just great fishing or shopping, although hopefully, you’ll both be into doing nothing together too.        

ROMANCE IS THE LITTLE THINGS: Of course, a new car or a huge diamond are wonderful gifts on a loved-up jaunt, but remembering her favourite pudding or his favourite wine can be better. A professional facial and massage is wonderful, but so is a foot or back rub, a drawn bath or a surprise bottle of bubbly in bed. Consideration speaks volumes. It may sound schmaltzy, but love is courtesy and being conscientious. Don’t make it all about the location and how much you spend (although fantastic grounds and fantastic food are a prerequisite); and definitely don't crow about your extravagances.      

KNOWING ME, KNOWING YOU: The real beauty of a great Valentine escape is knowing your partner so well that you can give them a memorable day – and that you know when to sidestep any bumps on the road to romance. Be gentle, be tender, be a movie star in love on the big screen. Any hard feelings, office stresses or relationship niggles should be left at home and truly forgotten. Remember how you felt when you first met – and hold that thought for your whole time away. Think of how life would be without this person and remind yourself how good it is with them. You’re bound to have a weekend to savour.