A Spanish Valentine's Day

We admit that, for some reason we don't know, Spaniards are considered the pinnacle of passion and romanticism; so we are not going to let you down. What can you do to make your Valentine's Day completely Spanish? Take note.

First of all, there are the flowers. If you want to be as romantic as we are, forget about tulips, daisies, and the like: buy a bouquet of red roses —we insist, red!— or a bouquet of carnations, also red. How many times have you seen the image of a "bailaor" with a rose between his teeth? Okay, it's not real... but it looks great!

How can we continue? How about a movie night? Mind you, don't go see some stiff English romantic comedy. If you want a true Spanish-style Valentine's Day, go see the latest great sensation of our cinema, the hilarious romantic comedy "Spanish Affair" (8 apellidos vascos). We don't know if it's still in theaters, but you'll find it in any video store.

If you are a bit more intellectual and select, a good option is the theater. In fact, this art is experiencing a good moment in our country, and a large number of new theaters are opening. But... how would you like something as authentic as a play by Lope de Vega or a tragedy by Calderón? Our classic theater has nothing to envy of the Elizabethan one.

Depending on the area (let's not forget that in certain parts of Spain, February is the coldest month of the year), we can take a romantic walk through ancient and bohemian streets on par with any European capital (for example, the Cimadevilla neighborhood in Gijón, Las Ramblas in Barcelona, or the Paseo de Recoletos in Madrid). A tip: if you want to impress your partner, look up curious facts or legends on the Internet about the street you are going to walk on. You'll look like a real expert!

What can we tell you about a romantic dinner? Please! Spain has some of the best restaurants in the world; but if your budget isn't enough to go to Diverxo, Akelarre, or Arola, you can always ask friends or work colleagues for recommendations... The good thing about Spain is that you'll find at least one restaurant or bar on every street!

And a bit of music to end an afternoon of Spanish romance? No waltzes, that's for corny people! We would suggest a sensual flamenco session with Manuel de Falla's "El Amor Brujo," but we understand that requires a certain level; so we recommend something as simple as listening to the fantastic "Concierto de Aranjuez" by Joaquín Rodrigo—if you don't burst into tears listening to it, you're not human.

What did you think of our recommendations? If you don't win that person over with this... well... you can always say you've gotten to know the best of our culture.