I'll just come out and say it—Valentine's Day is the most been there, done that occasion on the calendar—especially if you're in a relationship. With everything from newspapers to delivery apps bombarding you with chocolates, bouquets, and cheesy evening plans at bars and restaurants across your city, no wonder plenty of us might feel tempted to sit in and order a pizza for some post-work Netflix & chill.

That said, it doesn't need to be so predictable this year. If I've learned anything over the last decade of dating, it's that your  scene—single or taken—deserves a little kick in the pants every now and then. Adventure builds character of course; so here's a few out-of-the-box date ideas that range from confusingly charming to batshit crazy, in the best ways possible:

The Decathlon Date

If you're sick of nursing hangovers and still too indecisive to plan an 'active' date, here's how you get started. Slot in a free afternoon, pick your closest Decathlon, and pick a shared budget before exploring the aisles and choosing an activity for the day on a booking platform such as Hudle; you can go as low-key as a relaxing evening at the pool, a low-stakes game of paddleball, or hell, buy a couple sets of roller skates and dash to your nearest public park. No judgement.

The ‘Yes Day’ Challenge

Put your trust (and sanity) on the line with a ‘Yes Day.’ The rules? Simple. You and your partner take turns suggesting activities, and the other has to say yes—within reason, of course. Whether it’s trying that bizarre fusion sushi place or hopping on an impromptu rickshaw ride to nowhere, you’ll be surprised how far a little spontaneity can take you. 

Sunrise, Set, Go!

Forget the candlelit dinner cliché—how about catching the sunrise together? Set your alarms for an ungodly hour, pack some hot coffee, and head to the nearest viewpoint or beach. Watching the city wake up as you sip your brew is oddly romantic, and you’ll still have the entire day ahead of you for, well, a nap.

The Thrift Store Challenge

Give your inner fashion icon (or disaster) free rein. Hit up your local thrift stores and pick out outfits for each other, with a ridiculous twist—think ’80s glam or tourist chic. Once you’re dressed to impress, head out to a random café and see how long you can keep a straight face. Bonus points if you take things to a dancefloor.

Museum Roulette

Pick a museum or gallery at random—bonus points if it’s one you’d never normally visit. Whether it’s vintage telephones or modern art that looks like your toddler niece painted it, you’ll have plenty to laugh (or argue) about. And who knows, you might even learn something.

Marine Life Walk

Trade city lights for tide pools and explore Mumbai’s hidden marine world together. If you live by the coast, shorelines during low tide are teeming with sea creatures hiding in plain sight—think colourful sea slugs, starfish, and even the odd octopus. It’s like an underwater safari, minus the diving gear. Check out local organisations offering guided walks for the best experience.

IKEA Maze Run

Test your relationship’s patience (and maybe future living potential) by braving an IKEA trip together. Just enjoy a leisurely stroll while people-watching, or set a fun challenge: pick out one item each for the other to guess the purpose of, or plan an imaginary dream home on a budget. Don’t forget to fuel up with their iconic meatballs or cinnamon buns—because nothing says love like flat-pack furniture and questionable instructions.

The No-Plan Road Trip

Fuel up your car or rent a scooter, pick a random direction, and just go. No Google Maps, no destination in mind—just vibes. Stop wherever catches your eye, from roadside chai stalls to weird tourist traps. It’s about the journey, not the destination, right?

Rage Room Release

Nothing says bonding like smashing stuff together. Book a session at a rage room, gear up, and take turns annihilating everything from old TVs to glass bottles. It’s oddly cathartic and a hilarious way to blow off steam—just make sure you don’t start aiming at each other.

Skydiving Thrill

Ready to take your relationship to new heights? Literally. Sign up for a tandem skydive and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush together. There’s nothing quite like free-falling from 10,000 feet to test your nerves—and celebrate surviving it with a well-earned drink after.

Volunteer Together

For a date that feeds your soul, spend the day giving back. Whether it’s walking shelter dogs, planting trees, or helping out at a community kitchen, doing something meaningful together can be surprisingly romantic—and gives you feel-good points that last longer than any fancy dinner.

There you have it—a mix of chaotic, wholesome, and downright weird ideas to shake up your Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re partnered up or flying solo, there’s no reason love (or self-love) should ever be boring.