Bored of the usual bouquet, teddy bear, box of chocolates and romantic dinner? Here are a few out-of-the-box date ideas for this Valentine’s Day on the Maltese Islands.

1. Enjoy a taste of the high life

Get all dressed up and role play for a bit of fun, especially if this isn't your usual thing. Why not feel like Bond and his belle as you enjoy drinks at an exclusive bar with the world at your feet? Prosecco in hand (maybe even champagne), enjoy a taste of the high life at TwentyTwo, for drinks with a view. TwentyTwo is located on - you guessed it - the 22nd floor of the famous Hilton Tower. You could never imagine that St Julian's could look so beautiful when lit up at night, from such breathtaking heights. And once you’ve already taken her breath away, the rest should be easy!

2. Get a cosy night in

Having said that, breathtaking views can be had even from your very own country house. This time it will be rolling green hills and endless horizons from some remote location in Gozo. Authentic Gozo farmhouses accommodation are available to rent in wonderfully pristine areas that still represent the authentic Mediterranean village lifestyle. How about Gharb, Ghasri, Qala, Ghajnsielem, Santa Lucija or San Lawrenz? Or perhaps you'd prefer Xaghra, Zebbug or the capital, Victoria? A word of warning though: an overnight stay in the cosy, rustic environment of your very own country house may just get you into a nesting mood!

3. Have a daytime celebration

When everyone else is celebrating with special evenings here and special nights there, why not make a day of it instead? Start it off sweetly with a Valentine's-themed pancake breakfast at Becky’s Kitchen. Head over to the sweet cafe in Naxxar for that authentic village feeling - what could be better than relishing pancakes with your beloved in the heart of one of Malta’s oldest villages? It's a tribute to a love that will withstand the test of time! Well, even without the added sprinkle of romance, there's no denying that the pancakes are delicious. And so is everything else on the menu. You might choose to stop here for lunch too!

4. Pretend you went to Paris

You may not have gotten on a plane, but you can still get that romantic Parisian feeling right here in Malta. Experience the mood of the esteemed cafes of Lyon and the bistros of Paris at Manouche Craft Bakery & Bistro, which is inspired by the eclectic Manouche style of jazz. Meet your beloved for lunch at a bakery and bistro that will make your hearts sing instead of doing the usual thing. Show how deeply you care, not just for her but the whole world, by choosing a spot that also pays attention to ethical business and natural ingredients. Everything is handmade and lovingly baked in-house here, with the same mastery as that of French patisseries. Oh, and then there’s the chocolate - that's always a winner! You can even head over a little later in the day, add some French wine to the mix and you've got yourselves a unique French-inspired dinner.

5. Pamper yourselves

There’s one definite advantage to a spa date: you can both get pampered at the same time! There’s nothing to do, just lie back and enjoy. And once you’re both nice and relaxed, you’re certainly more inclined for some more sweet loving. Try Schere Spa in Mellieha, where you can book the spa all to yourselves for a whole hour. Drink wine in the bubbling Jacuzzi and relish the steam room before moving on to the double treatment room for a couple’s massage. Top it all off with a stay in one of the many hotels in the area - you won’t have to drive, cook or even make the bed the next morning, and breakfast will be waiting for you!

6. Because you love her everyday

Just keep doing what you do: love each other, without the frills and fanfare. There's no need to break the bank this Valentine's Day. Instead, keep it simple and head out for a relaxed evening - whoever usually does the cooking will certainly enjoy a break from the kitchen at home! Enjoy a wood-oven pizza or one of the many delicious dishes at Tal-Pjazza. It's got it all: a cosy ambiance that will make you feel at home, wide selection of great food, attentive service and good value for money. All in all, Tal-Pjazza is one of those places that’s bound to become a favourite for date night all the year round. 

What will you be doing this Valentine's Day?