V-Day--It's Here Again

Whether you love it or hate it, Valentine's Day is here again.  No matter where you go, there are hearts, roses, chocolates, and teddy bears all around.  You may even start to think something's wrong with your vision because the only colors you see are red and pink.

I probably don't have to offer suggestions on gifts or things to do since we're bombarded with advertisements everywhere, but I thought it would be interesting to go outside the box and see how Valentine's Day is celebrated in other parts of the world.  Some traditions are a bit different from those in the U.S., and if you're thinking of doing something new with your sweetie, you might get a few ideas.  For example:

• Austria--Men give their loved ones bouquets of flowers. 
• Denmark--Pressed white snowdrop flowers are exchanged.
• Italy--Romantic dinners and an exchange of gifts are the norm.
• Philippines--Mass wedding ceremonies are performed.
• South Africa--Women pin the names of their loved ones on their sleeves.
• South Korea--Women give men chocolates, candies, and flowers (men reciprocate on March 14).
• Taiwan--Men give women chocolates, candies, and flowers (women reciprocate on March 14).

If you want to learn more about how other countries celebrate V-Day, check out the following websites:

10 Strange and Wonderful Valentine's Day Traditions from Around the World

10 Valentine's Day Traditions All Around the World

Valentine's Day Around the World

Wishing you a Happy Valentine's Day from the perch.