Feb 10

Feb 10 3 Budget-Friendly Valentine's Getaways

Can you guys believe it’s already Valentine’s Day this week? Where did the last month and a half of 2019 go? Time is clearly speeding by way too fast, but that doesn’t mean we can’t slow it down a notch this week, and take some time to feel the L-O-V-E. February can be a stressful month for a lot of people. We’re knees deep in new years resolutions, coming out of holiday vacation mode, and the pressure is on to show your loved ones that you care. Still, no matter if you’re single or in some sort of relationship, don’t forget to give yourself a break and make love a priority this week. To help you do so, I’ve put together a list of some of my fave affordable and budget-friendly getaways for any size group of people - 1, 2, or 3+.

SINGLE AND READY TO MINGLE

Being single on V-Day doesn’t have to be sad and depressing. Take this time to show the most important person in your life some love - you. Whatever your fave activity or food is, you better believe Valentine’s Day is as good an excuse as ever to enjoy those things. Maybe you love movies, why not take yourself out on a movie date? Or maybe you love retail therapy, who says you can’t buy yourself that stunning necklace you’ve been eyeing? Make up your own rules for this holiday of love, but if you need some inspiration, try heading to Ottawa for the weekend! Round-trip train tickets cost just around $300 and there is so much to do once you arrive. For some killer shopping, eating, and pampering, check out Byward Market. It’s open 7 days a week, year-round, and was established in 1826, making it one of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets. Take yourself on a unique adventure and see things you’ve never seen before.

TWO PEAS IN A POD

We all know that Valentine’s was made for couples. Sweet dinner dates, thoughtful gift giving and cards, and showing your appreciation for the love that you both share. However, Toronto can get pretty hectic during V-Day, so why not take your love out of the city and get some much needed romantic R&R. I love the Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain for such an occasion. It’s just outside the city enough to be away from the hustle and bustle, but you’re still surrounded by good food and local attractions. Tuck yourselves away into peaceful tranquility with this perfect couple’s package at the Heathcote Haven Bed and Breakfast. It includes accommodations, 2 Spa Bath Passes, a bottle of wine, and breakfast - all for $250 (taxes included!).

THE MORE THE MERRIER

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for lovers, because love can present itself in many different ways. One of those ways is through friendship. If you’re looking to celebrate with a group this year, cottage country is the way to go. Bring a van full of food, friends, and fun times over to Washago, ON this week, and don’t forget the chocolate. At approximately $150 a person (6 people) for 3 nights, this adorable little lake house will make the perfect group getaway. Head out into the snow for some snowshoeing or ice-fishing, or stay in and keep cozy by the fireplace with some V-Day themed cocktails. This lake-house is also a short drive to Casino Rama, so if you get bored, you can always test your luck at the slots and table games.

No matter how many people in your party this year, remember to enjoy yourself this Valentine’s Day. We should celebrate love all-year-round, but sometimes we need a reminder to make the extra effort for those we love. Self-care is always #1 on my list, but I guess I can celebrate my 3-year-long relationship too.. I’m definitely expecting chocolate from SOMEONE this week. Let me know what your V-Day plans are in the comments!