All around the world, February 14th is a time for couples to celebrate their love for one another and for singles to snag themselves a date.
Generally this is done by showering a partner or crush with heart-shaped gifts from red roses and stuffed animals to chocolate truffles and cards, but every country has its own quirks and traditions to mark this romantic occasion.
So if you're planning a cosy, candlelit meal, composing a piece of poetry or watching a cheesy rom-com, these international influences might inspire you to revamp your Valentine's Day plans...
Le Mur Des Je T'aime in Paris by Lupos (via Flickr)
France
It's believed that Britain and France prominently acknowledged the day in the 14th and 15th centuries, as it was the time of year when birds began to mate. Nowadays lovebirds in Paris sweep each other off their feet by releasing a white dove into the air. This is practiced every year next to the famous Le Mur Des Je T'aime (I love You: The Wall) at the centre of the Jehan Rictus garden in Montmartre, where you'll find those three little words written in 300 different languages.
The London Eye on Valentine's Day by Stephen Freeman (via Flickr)
UK
Before Valentine's Day became the commercial holiday we know today, the common practice was to write a poem to that special someone, while children would sing songs inspired by the patron saint of love. These days there are more modern gestures to choose from, like the London Eye's "Cupid Capsules" where lovers can take in London's landmarks (and a few glasses of Champagne) from aboard a private booth on the glowing red wheel.
The "Love Words Tiles" at Juliet's house in Verona, by Marionzetta (via Flickr)
Italy
On to fair Verona, the famous setting of Shakespeare's tragic love story Romeo and Juliet. Every year on February 14, the city receives more than 5,000 letters addressed to Juliet asking for love life advice. With 15 secretaries answering admirers year-round in several different languages, you're guaranteed a reply.
Japanese Valentine's Day chocolates by Mawari (via Flickr)
Japan
The ladies take the lead in Japan, where traditionally it's the women who send the men chocolate - and only chocolate - every year. There's more to this offering than just romance, though, as the chocolate gifts are also extended to male co-workers, bosses and friends, who often receive the slightly less passionate "giri-choko" - or "obligation chocolate" to you and me.
A chocolate shop in Bruges by 4nitsirk (via Flickr)
Belgium
Belgium is another destination that goes nuts for gifting this gourmet, cocoa delicacy. World renowned for its handmade chocolate and pralines, the country produces an estimated 172,000 tonnes of the sweet substance each year. If you're thinking of celebrating this Valentine's Day with a stay in one of Brussels hotels, dip into the local tradition and take a tour around the hundreds of chocolatiers throughout the city while you're there.
There are even several museums dedicated to the decadent dessert. One of the most renowned being in the Flemish capital of Bruges, where chocolate lovers can spend the day learning about the process and even have a chance to sample a selection of chocolate paired with the best wine to sip for each. With a bevy of Bruges hotels to set the mood in, it's an ideal location for a romantic retreat to remember.
Let us know your Valentine's Day traditions in the comments below...