In which country has underwater weddings become quite the thing to do?

Since the mid-1990s, underwater weddings have gained significant popularity, particularly in Thailand. They host an annual, record-breaking ceremony in Trang province. The Trang Underwater Wedding usually takes place over three days in mid-February, culminating on Valentine’s Day. In 2000, they were recognized as Guinness World Record for the largest underwater wedding. The ceremony was awarded […]
Why did English women traditionally put five bay leaves on their pillows Valentine’s Eve?

In the 1700s, rural English women placed (sometimes pinned) five bay leaves on their pillows on Valentine’s Eve – one in each corner and one in the center. Some would also wash the leaves in rosewater, or eat a hardboiled egg with the shell, and remaining silent until morning. The superstition was used to invoke […]
In what country do lovers exchange snowdrop flowers?

In Norway, Valentine’s Day (Valentinsdagen) is celebrated on February 14th with a mix of modern, romantic, and traditional Nordic elements. Sending a Snowdrop Letter (“gaekkebrev” or joke letters) is a unique, traditional practice. It involves sending, often decorated with snowdrop flowers, to romantic interests. The sender’s name is represented by a series of dots. The […]
In what country do the women wear their heart on their sleeve?

In South Africa, women literally wear their heart on their sleeve. On February 14, they often pin a paper heart, featuring the name of their crush or partner, onto their sleeves to openly declare their love or romantic interest. Although South Africans call this tradition Lupercalia in honor of an ancient Roman fertility festival, scholars […]
In what country do they celebrate love for an entire week during July?

During the entire week of July 1-7, love is celebrated in Argentina. It is also known as La Semana del la Dulzura (The Week of Sweets). It is often more popular than February 14, Valentine’s day. During this week, people of ask, “Una golosina por un beso?” They offer to give a candy or chocolate […]
Why Most Gifts Don’t Feel Romantic (And How to Fix It)

What do Father’s Day ties, a dozen red roses and store-brand chocolates have in common? You might be surprised.
Years ago, I received an interesting collection of Christmas gifts. As I opened each gift, expecting something special, here’s some of what I found.
Why Most Gifts Don’t Feel Romantic (And How to Fix It)

What do Father’s Day ties, a dozen red roses and store-brand chocolates have in common? You might be surprised.
Years ago, I received an interesting collection of Christmas gifts. As I opened each gift, expecting something special, here’s some of what I found.