Valentine’s Day in Israel – more than just flowers.

Even the most jaded singles among us can feel a certain tingle when we see February 14^th rolling around.  Maybe it’s the chocolates, the flowers, or even the sight of cartoon hearts decorating shop windows that gets to our inner-most souls; regardless, the truth is that love is certainly in the air. While Valentine’s Day has only recently taken hold of our hearts and pocketbooks here in Israel, it is already quite popular with locals and travelers alike, and what better time to show that special someone in your life just how much you care about them?  It is estimated that people around the world will spend nearly $2 billion dollars on gifts this Valentine’s Day!

Tel Aviv port – great place for dates and Instagrammable pictures

And while bringing your special someone the traditional offerings of flowers and a box of chocolates is certainly wonderful, perhaps you want to do something extra special this year.  Maybe it’s even time to pop the question!  But before you get down on one knee, check out seven (lucky) and unique ways to warm your heart while celebrating Valentine’s Day in Israel.

Tel Aviv-Yafo

Perhaps your partner is crazy about rom-com movies and you want to do something romantic and fun—without breaking the bank or serenading them from the street below. Tel Aviv is host to a number of excellent dance studios (including Dance Tel Aviv) where you and your love can learn the Bachata or any other dance you’ve always wanted to conquer.  These classes are offered at all levels and you can join the fun regardless of whether you have ever donned a pair of pointe shoes! Sa’adia Gaon 24, second floor.

Dancing all over Tel Aviv – photo courtesy of Dance Tel Aviv

Maybe you want to be super romantic, but have two left feet? Then why not spend an evening learning about (and sampling!) delicious chocolate treats in one of Tel Aviv’s trendy chocolate boutiques?  Ika Chocolate located in south Tel Aviv will certainly fill the bill for even the pickiest connaisseur de chocolat in your life. Artist and owner-operator Ika fills the shelves with a mindboggling array of handmade delicacies daily. Check them out at 11 Yad Haruzim Street.

In the mood for something that shows you’re an adventurous couple hungry for something new and unique?  Head over to Blackout, the only dark restaurant in Israel and one of only fourteen in the world! Located in Na LaGa’at, a non-profit cultural and arts center, the restaurant’s waiters (who are all blind or visually impaired) will lead you inside and allow you to experience a delicious meal in total darkness.  Surely improving your ability to navigate while in the dark can help in any number of situations! Find the restaurant at Retzif HaAliyah HaShniya, Jaffa Port.

Zefat

Is your significant other a Jeep-loving free spirit aching to head off-road?  If so, why not surprise them with the gift of adrenaline and adventure?!  Arrange a two-hour, four-hour or even an all-day tour of Israel’s green north with Israel Extreme and then spend a lovely evening together in the charming and mysterious Zefat at the  Ruth Zefat Hotel.

Two options of Extreme sports activities for couples via Israel Extreme.

Eilat

Perhaps action and adventure speak to your tastes a bit more than sweets and dinner?  If so, you and your partner should head south to perpetually sunny Eilat and book some activities that will get your hearts racing and give you memories that will last long past your weekend away! Kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming with dolphins, hiking in the desert—all are great options and easily accessible from Israel’s southernmost city!  And when your fun in the sun winds down, the Dan Eilat has some great deals and is the perfect location to call it a night.  With two pools, a spa, and an ideal central location, you have access to flagship restaurants and bars on your doorstep and right on the Red Sea beachfront.

Perfect place for celebrating Love on the 14th of February at the Dan Eilat.

Further north, overlooking the tranquil Mediterranean Sea, the Spa Accadia at the Dan Accadia Herzliya Take an idyllic spa and a range of jacuzzi suites to relieve the stress from day-to-day life and opt for a relaxing Ayurvedic or deep tissue massage, or any of the pampering treatments to leave you feeling ready for love. Nearby, catch the world acclaimed Van Gogh Alive exhibition before it leaves Israel in April.

Jerusalem

All over the world, love and romance have long been symbolized by the rose, so where better to head than the serene (and free) Wohl Rose Garden in Jerusalem for a romantic stroll? A walk past 15,000 rose bushes representing more than 400 varieties will mark your special bond and this special day.