Valentine’s Day on a budget

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and it’s always nice to be able to spend it doing something nice with that someone special. So, if you’re stumped for ideas, and cash, here are a few suggestions to get you on your way:

A different kind of date

The traditional “dinner and a movie” date can get old; you can’t really talk during the movie, and paying $7 for a bag of popcorn is ridiculous! Get creative: have a picnic in your living room. Chocolate-covered strawberries and heart-shaped pizza? Yumm! Instead of sitting silent during a movie, laugh over a fun board game

Dinner recommendations

Elizabeth Smyth, columnist for EAT Magazine and Camosun instructor, suggests Cafe Ceylon, an Indian food cafe with reasonable prices she calls “a hidden gem,” for an “exquisite” lunch. Another spot Smyth suggests is an Ethiopian buffet restaurant in Esquimalt called the Blue Nile. “If you’re not caught up in candle lights, and your date is adventurous and not fancy polished, bring them to Esquimalt. Make a joke about it!” she laughs.

Sidney by the sea

Smyth also suggests taking a trip up to Sidney to peruse the bookstores, walk along the harbour, and stop for Thai food. “For the more introverted people, this is a sweet date,” says Smyth. “Sabhai Thai has a nice atmosphere and is nicely decorated.”

Ferry for two

Taking one of those small green harbour ferries to Fisherman’s Wharf from the Victoria harbour costs only $5. After a lovely ride, stop for fish ‘n’ chips by the unique boathouses, then watch the sunset along Dallas Road.

Movie date

If a movie date is something you’re into, the Roxy on Hillside and Quadra has a dirt-cheap double feature (just $4!) every Tuesday, including Valentine’s Day. Comfortable couches are located at the back of the theater for you to snuggle up on with your significant other.

Skate with your sweetie

For a fun, recreational date, skating or swimming at the Oak Bay Recreation Centre is only a toonie after 11 pm. A little late, but it’s a great thing to do after a drink or a walk around the city. Handholding included.

Build a love nest

Let’s face it; you’re really never too old to build forts in your living room. Create an ambience with nature sounds and twinkle lights. A bottle of wine, chocolates, and camping games and you’ve got yourself an adventure without having to leave the house.