Valentine’s Day is going to be different this year. It’s time to celebrate the most important person in your life – YOU. The day of love doesn’t have to be confined to only those you recognise on a romantic level, it is a time to have gratitude for yourself. Practising self-care – and self-love – has never been so important. So whether you’re young, free and single, a solo parent, or grandparent, an older single or perhaps single by choice, it’s time to be thankful for what you have. You can also appreciate the affection you have for your friends and family, whether it be the unconditional love you have for a child, the fondness you have for an elderly relative or a close pal who brings you so much joy and support.
Many may not be aware but Singles Awareness Day falls the day after Valentine’s Day, as a gentle reminder for those who may struggle and a realisation that you definitely are not alone. ‘Galentine’s Day’, which precedes Valentines Day on February 13th is also a day to celebrate your best female friends. Being single on Valentine’s Day can have many advantages too. You can be as selfish as you want and spend the day exactly how you wish. Or perhaps you could take the trip that you have always wanted to do, learn a new skill or just simply eat the food that you really want to. So why not switch things up this year and make it a reason to go on an adventure. Travelling solo can be a liberating experience and you might ask yourself why you didn’t do it sooner. However, you can invite a single friend or family member along too if you like.
Switch off on a spa day or break
It’s so easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of life so take a well-deserved breather at a wellness retreat. Spend the day relaxing in your robe with a good book or have a massage or facial. Sign out of social media and enjoy a day of serenity you won’t regret. Extend the pampering overnight if you have the inclination. Champneys spa offers singles tables for meal times if you fancy a chat.
Italy, Switzerland and France have some ultra-luxurious spa hotel options if you fancy really treating yourself.
Book a concert
Grab a ticket for whatever show is near you over Valentine’s and dance the night away with hundreds of others for a couple of hours. It might sound corny but music is really a great way to lose yourself, especially if you’re feeling low. You might even find a new favourite artist.
Get fit
If ever there is a time to tick something off your bucket list, it’s now. Get your hiking boots on and join an organised tour on a trip of a lifetime. Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Kinabalu in Borneo or Peru’s Inca Trail are great options. You’ll probably need to get up at the crack of dawn but the sunsets will make it all worthwhile.
Fitness bootcamp
Show your body and mind some self-love by giving your fitness habits an overhaul. Whether it be in the UK or overseas, join like-minded people on a mission to change your lifestyle for the better. The endless burpees and clean eating may seem like hell initially but your body will love you for it.
A walking holiday is a brilliant way to make new friends as there will be loads of time to chat. There are breaks specifically aimed at skiing, rock-climbing and mountain-biking enthusiasts too.
Unwind at a yoga or meditation retreat in Bali
Did someone say aerial yoga? Yes please! Enjoy a really good stretch and a gentle rush of blood to the head at a Balinese retreat. The Indonesian island can claim some of the best holistic retreats into the world due to its chilled philosophy.
Whether you’re a keen yogi or a newbie, you’ll find something for you. Check yourself in for a 5-day break over Valentine and you’ll emerge like a new person.
Party hard in Las Vegas
Every year thousands of male and female singles head to Sin City to enjoy some of the best anti-Valentines parties around. The casino bars also are great places to strike up conversations under the low lighting too if you want to. You can expect temperatures of around 19C so pool parties are an option too.
Hit the beach in Miami
With stylish hotels, restaurants, bars, legendary nightclubs, shops and all-year-round sunny beaches, South Beach is a great place to go people-spotting! The February climate is very pleasant so kick back and enjoy daytime Mojitos from your lounge. An organised food tour around some of Miami’s most famous neighbourhoods such as Little Havana, So-Be and Espanola Way, is a good way to meet people if you want to.
Blend in with the crowds in New York City
It’s called the city that never sleeps for good reason; there is always something to do or somewhere to go. Whether you want to join an organised group tour, go on a sight-seeing bus, hit the shops of Fifth Avenue or go partying all night long. It’s your choice! We definitely recommend getting tickets to a Broadway show. Going to the theatre on your own can be a wonderful, stress-free experience and you often can grab the best single seats at discounted prices last minute.
Go to the theme park capital of the world
Walt Disney World is known as the Happiest Place on Earth for a reason. If it’s pure fun you’re after there simply is no better place than Orlando. Join Mickey Mouse and friends at the sprawling WDW resort, going on pulsating rides, eating delicious foods and watching amazing shows, character parades and fireworks. What’s more if you’re on your own you have the luxury of beating the crowds by using the single rider lanes. If Disney’s not your bag, then there are plenty of other theme parks and activities in the area to try such as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and LEGOLAND.
Go on a cruise
Cruising is one of the most sociable holidays you can do as there are lots of opportunities to strike up a conversation. There are usually loads of onboard activities to get involved with plus you can book yourself onto sociable dinner tables. You also have the added bonus of seeing lots of new places without the hassle of actually having to plan.
Stroll around Amsterdam
If you fancy a spot of culture then the dreamy Dutch city is a great way to discover solo. The main sites like Anne Frank’s House and the Van Gogh museum are walkable from the centre of the city, plus there’s loads of little cafes to cosy up with a good book and a cuppa.
Or if you want to stay at home…
Write yourself a love letter
As cheesy as it sounds, write yourself a note or simply write down all of the things you love about yourself. You’ll probably end up with a longer list than you first expected.
Treat yourself
If you’ve had your eye on a new handbag, dress or pair of sunglasses for a while, take the plunge. You deserve it. Organise a games night with mates. Invite your friends over and indulge in some classic games such as Trivial Pursuit, Twister and Pictionary.
Try volunteering
If you want to put your efforts into a good cause, research local opportunities to help others such as soup kitchens, shelters, nursing homes and hospitals over the Valentines period.
Pamper yourself
Bubbles in the bath, face masks, your favourite take out and a movie. If you fancy something different, Nicole Byer’s podcast Why Won’t You Date Me? will also provide a laugh.
But remember…
There is always someone to talk to if you are lonely.
We understand Valentines might be particularly difficult for those who have recently come out of a relationship or lost a loved one.
