January is finally over and we are into February, the month of love, right in the middle of which lies Valentines Day. What’s not to love about a day that’s all about love? Well, plenty actually. The cheesy cards, overpriced flowers and elaborate set menus as you share a romantic date with hundreds of other couples for starters. No thanks, I prefer something a little less forced please. Here are 14 things to do with the person or people you love this February (or anytime!) – or indeed to treat yourself to (because self love is just as important).
1. Watch A Movie Under The Stars
VOX Moonlight is an outdoor cinema on the rooftop of Galleria Mall. Snuggle up on a comfy lounger or book a private cabana and enjoy some of the latest releases under a glittering night sky while being served mocktails and snacks including sushi, burgers and more.
voxcinemas.com
2. Enjoy A Tasting Class Wine Experience
Whether you book in for one of the Tasting Class Experiences which include an Italian Wine and Cheese pairing and Five Tastes Of Thailand Evening with 17 dish menu and matching wines – or you opt for a Wine Experience In A Box (the ‘Brie and Banter’ sounds delish), you can taste and learn to your heart’s delight. Perfect
thetastingclass.com
3. Take A Hike
The weather is perfect for outdoor adventures – get up early and head for the hills to watch the sunrise or go walking in a wadi – guaranteed to be good for the soul. Download the Off The Beaten Track app and you’ll find all the hikes and info for cool places to eat too (you’ll have earned your breakfast!).
offthebeatentrackuae.com
4. Have An At-Home Spa Experience
Is there anything better than a blissful massage in the comfort of your own home and the ability to roll into bed straight afterwards? Vita Home Spa can set up for singles or couples and will bring the candles, music and comfiest beds so all you have to do is chill and enjoy.
vitahomespa.com
5. Bring Your Pooch To The Pub
Award-winning British pub, The Duck Hook, has got a line-up of dog friendly events this month. On Saturday 10th Feb, the Pet Set Go Market includes a ‘Love Your Pup Painting Session’ plus stalls to browse before you tuck into the most delicious meal. And on Valentines Day itself, the whole family (including dogs) is invited to a special meal with pet-themed cocktails, ‘Polaroid Pet Portraits’ and a ‘Paws and Play Zone’ where professional trainers are on hand to give tips.
Jumeirah.com
6. Take A Couples Fitness Class
There’s nothing wrong with a little healthy competition – so grab your other half (or a friend) and head to Barrys Bootcamp for the 8.30am class where you can win a prize for the most miles clocked on the treadmill. Book a tread and floor spot together quick!
@barrysuae
7. Picnic At The Polo
The Al Habtoor Polo Club will host the Dubai Gold Cup between February 7th and 24th. Pack up a picnic and get ready to divot stomp in style.
alhabtoorpoloresortandclub.com
8. Visit Siika Art & Design Festival
From 23 February to 3 March, artists from the UAE and all over the GCC will come together to decorate the already gorgeous Al Shindagha Historic District. Wander through the paved alleys to see exhibitions and installations before enjoying poetry nights, musical performances, workshops and thought-provoking films.
dubaiculture.gov.ae
9. Celebrate Food, Drink & Music At Taste Of Dubai
Hands down one of our favourite events in Dubai, Taste of Dubai not only features 16 of the city’s best restaurants all in one place but is also home to foodie workshops, DJ’s, bands and plenty of festival vibes. Go hungry, leave happy!
tasteofdubaifestival.com
10. Kayak Through The Mangroves
If you’ve had enough of city life then the Al Zorah Nature Reserve in Ajman is the perfect place to escape from it all. Take a kayak for two with Quest For Adventure and paddle your way through the mangroves while watching the resident flamingos. Heaven. questforadventure.net
11. Book A Staycay With A Side Of Magic At Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Not only is Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental a dreamy hotel in which to laze away a couple of days with your loved one but you can also now have dinner and a show as part of your stay. And we’re not talking any show but rather a mind-blowing magical act by world-class The Hon. Drummond Money-Coutts, preceded by a 3-course signature dinner at Broadway.
mandarinoriental.com
12. Eat Local Oysters By The Sea
How does sitting by the water’s edge listening to the tinkling of masts while slurping oysters sound? Pretty amazing right?! Especially as these are local Dibba Bay oysters from Fujairah that are brought to a pretty little Jumeirah fishing harbour Dubai daily. Our tip? Go for a beach walk and stop for a bite en-route.
dibbabay.com
13. Do The Supper Club Thing
If you’ve never been to a supper club then you’re in for a treat. An intimate way of dining away from the crowds (hooray!), supper clubs often take place in a chefs home. You have the option of booking up the entire evening or joining other diners and there are heaps of cuisines and experiences from pizza making to sushi nights and even latte art to try.
breakbread.com
14. Spend The Day At Cloud 22
Book into Cloud 22 at Atlantis TheRoyal and you can expect an incredible elevated pool deck, infinity pool and luxury cabanas with plunge pools and over-water daybeds. There’s also a swim-up bar and a menu for poolside snacks. You’ll be on cloud 9 (or cloud 22 actually).
atlantis.com
Words by Kaya
