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Saint Valentine was a romantic martyr. A Catholic priest, Valentine defied an edict by Roman Emperor Claudius II, forcing all the young men in Rome to remain single, by marrying young lovers in secret. Just before his execution, he wrote the very first Valentine to his jailor's daughter, declaring his undying love. Now that's genuine romance. Do you really think a heart-shaped box of chocolates and "I'm sweet on you" teddy bear combo will cover it this year? Cancel that "be mine" balloon bouquet, and share an afternoon of sensual spa treatments tailored to the season.
To be pampered in pairs, try Spa Bellagio's Couples Chocolate Romance Massage. This side-by-side hot-stone massage with chocolate-infused oils is a decadent departure from the old Hershey's syrup and sticky sheets fiasco. Cool off with a mint hand-and-foot bath and the complete Chocolate Fantasy Manicure and Pedicure.
For some alone time together, Canyon Ranch Spa Club at the Venetian is offering an ancient Rasul ceremony, a couple's encounter in which partners massage special muds into specific areas of each other's body and rinse off in a rain shower, modified to a tastier chocolate and cherries Valentine's version. To add relaxation to your romantic encounters, they're teaching couple's massage classes.
Ladies, coax your courtship to couples status with Cupid's Crush at The Spa in Treasure Island; a strawberry, chocolate and vanilla head-to-toe treatment promises to make you irresistible. Or employ the seductive powers of Star Jasmine with a Love Spell mani/pedi. And for the guys, Spa Mandalay's Mana 'La Body Ritual, a Fijian specialty meaning "powerful, beautiful man" isn't just for metrosexuals, it's for manly men who know the benefits of a "clean, masculine essence."
So forget the satin boxers with little pink hearts he will never (and should never) wear. Please, not another set of kissing bears from Hallmark. No one likes singing telegrams. Homemade Valentines are best left for beloved grandmothers and schoolyard crushes. Just a taste of chocolate, a sip of champagne and the company of someone you "heart" makes the perfect Valentine's Day—and night.
Jennifer Henry's got the goods on what to get & where. E-mail her at
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