Valentine's Day Adventures

Valentine’s Day can be a polarizing holiday—people either love it or hate it. We caught up with Whitney Casey, relationship expert at Match.com and author of The Man Plan, to get the skinny on Valentine’s Day plans that defy the holiday’s cheesy stereotypes. Casey suggests that you tailor your V-Day plans based on where you are in your relationship -- new relationships, budding relationships and established relationships each require a unique set of standards for the holiday.

Being in a new relationship can pose its own challenges because you don’t want to come on too strong. But Casey advises against ignoring the holiday altogether; instead, keep things simple and fun with such quirky present as an old-school board game like Connect 4, Battleship or even Twister if you want to get a bit naughty. “It’s a clever way of saying, ‘I don’t know where this is going, but I hope these are the only games that we play,’” explains Casey.

Every couple can benefit from injecting some excitement into date night. Many couples, especially those in budding relationships, go the safe route with the standard romantic dinner plans. Casey suggests that couples opt for something active instead. “Try something exciting, like learning how to shoot a gun, climbing a mountain or even watching a thrilling movie. The chemicals you get from that thrill are the same as a new love or a new kiss,” she said. “Studies show that sexy, novel things can really increase the feelings of newness again.”

Seasoned couples can benefit from switching up the routine for Valentine’s Day, for example by staying at a sexy hotel, even if it’s just a few miles away. “Not everyone can afford an exotic trip, especially after the holidays, but you may have things right down the street or in your neighborhood,” suggests Casey.

Here are our picks for a Valentine's Day romantic adventure to get those endorphins flowing.