Valentine's Day: Turn up the romance with these five dating ideas

As Valentine's Day draws close, The Guide handpicks five exciting date ideas for you and your special someone to pick from

If you like being up in the air
Go hot air ballooning with your beloved in nearby Lonavala. Set off at the crack of dawn and watch the sun come up as you take in the view of the Sahyadri valley and the surrounding hills, floating 4,000 feet above the ground.

AT: Lonavala
LOG ON TO: lonavalahotairballoonclub.in
CALL: 9867676688
COST: Rs 20,380 per couple

If you like it cheesy
Why not go the traditional route and opt for an intimate meal with your special someone? Kiki's Cafe and Deli is a 40-minute boat ride away from the Gateway of India.

The casual dining space provides a view out to the sea, making it the perfect spot for a romance-filled date. Savour a special five-course menu for the occasion. Begin your meal with a welcome drink, followed by a Kobe Aubergine, a Strawberry Kale Salad with Granola Croutons, a Seafood Linguine with Truffle Oil, and Balinese Curry with broccoli and zucchini. For dessert, dig into a Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse.

ON: February 14 AT Mandwa Jetty, Mandwa, Alibaug
CALL: 8308802680
COST: Rs 3,500 plus taxes per couple

If you like to live it up in style
If you're looking for something truly indulgent, why not opt for a candle-lit dinner aboard a luxury yacht?
A personal chef will whip up a three-course meal as you sip on champagne and watch Mumbai's disappearing skyline. What better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than to spend two hours together out in the Arabian Sea, far away from the noise of the city?

ON: February 14
AT: Gateway of India, Apollo Bunder.
LOG ON TO: adventurenation.com
COST: Rs 12,500 per person

If you like going to the movies
If you have an undying love for Bollywood, how about catching an evergreen tale of romance on the big screen, right here in the city? Maratha Mandir screens Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (better known as DDLJ) every day at 11.30 am. While you're at it, be that oddball couple and dress up like Simran and Raj before heading for the movie.

AT: Maratha Mandir, 22, Maratha Mandir Marg, Agripada.
LOG ON TO: bookmyshow.com
COST: Rs 15 to Rs 25

If you like being amidst nature
This weekend, plan a pre-Valentine's Day camp with your other half in a beautiful chikoo orchard. The campsite is spread over 10 acres of land, providing plenty of privacy to couples. Moreover, to make your experience special, the organisers will arrange a candle-lit dinner, a dance floor where you can sway together to romantic tunes, and even a private bonfire.

ON: February 11 and 12
AT: Dahanu LOG ON TO smallstepsadventures.com
CALL: 7738073691
COST: Rs 5,000 per couple

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