Sydney hotel offers a range of Valentine's Day experiences - and a view

Whether you just want a drink, a stylish treat, or an overnight stay to mark Valentine's Day, Sydney's five-star InterContinental Hotel probably has something to suit. 

Available year round - including limited availability over Valentine's Day - for those planning something special guests are invited to upgrade their stay with a Signature Suite Experience. 

Think a suite with  sweeping Sydney harbour views along with a bottle of Champagne, petit fours, breakfast for two, an Aster Rooftop bar experience and a late checkout. 

Or check out the Valentine’s Day experience in the historic Treasury sector of the hotel.. 

This experience includes half-dozen freshly shucked oysters and two glasses of Champagne for 
$80 per person. 

The Aster rooftop bar, meanwhile, offers panoramic harbour views with a half dozen oysters and two glasses of Champagne for $99 per person, or a Premium Experience featuring a 10g tin of caviar with brioche and a half a bottle of Ruinart Blanc de Blancs for $169 per person. 

For details see https://www.sydney.intercontinental.com/promotion/valentines-day-intercontinental-sydney/

Which Asian destinations fit the bill for romance on Valentine's Day?

Valentine's Day is one of the most romantic dates on the calendar, so which destinations are searched for and booked in the lead-up to a big day for lovers?

Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled the top 10 most searched international destinations for Valentine's Day and Asia's eclectic cities seem to be getting the most love from travellers this Valentine's Day with eight out of the top 10 Asian destinations being a cosmopolitan hub.

Bangkok (above) wins most hearts, with Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul, and Hong Kong making up the rest of the top five.

Bali and Phuket are the only two beach destinations feeling the love and making it to the top 10. 

The list reveals a significant trending interest in Japan and Thailand, with three Japanese cities - Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka - making the top 10, and two Thai destinations - Bangkok and Phuket - also in the mix.

"Valentine's Day is a special time for couples to explore and create new memories together," says Andrew Smith, senior vice president, supply (really silly job title), at Agoda.

"The diversity in this year's top searched destinations highlights the broad spectrum of experiences couples are seeking, from the bustling streets of Tokyo and Bangkok to the rejuvenating beauty of Bali and Phuket.

"At Agoda, we're excited to help lovebirds see the world for less by facilitating memorable romantic journeys with our extensive range of accommodations and travel options."

The inclusion of cities like Seoul, Hong Kong, and Kuala Lumpur certainly reflects interest in exploring dynamic urban environments, while the presence of Bali underscores the enduring appeal of tropical getaways.

This trend suggests that quality time can come in many forms, with couples looking for a mix of adventure, culture, relaxation, and culinary delights.

Top 10 searched international destinations for couples checking in on Valentine's Day 2024: 1. Bangkok, 2. Tokyo, 3. Osaka, 4. Seoul, 5. Hong Kong, 6. Bali, 7. Phuket, 8. Singapore, 9. Fukuoka, 10. Kuala Lumpur.

The way to destroy Valentine's Day romance

 

It's Valentine's Day and you ae ready to pop the question. 

You've enjoyed a romantic three-course restaurant dinner and a couple of glasses of wine. The mood is right. 

You lock eyes with your loved one and are suddenly aware that your server is hovering. 

"Excuse me guys, but you've exceeded your two-hour time slot. You'll have to leave now."

Limited-time slots in eateries are the new normal, but to insist on them on a night when romance is in the air just doesn't seem right. 

Particularly when loving couples are already being charged inflated prices for "special menus" just because the date in February 14. 

But that doesn't worry the Hyatt Regency Sydney: which sent out a press release saying the hotel has "lot's to love this Valentine's Day".

Not only do they not know how to use an apostrophe, they apparently don't like romance much either.

Here is one of their offerings: a Valentine's Day Seafood Dinner at Sailmaker Restaurant:

"Treat your date to Sydney's most indulgent and sustainable seafood experience at Hyatt Regency Sydney's Sailmaker Restaurant, with an unforgettable evening of wining and dining.

"Enjoy a glass on [I think they mean of] premium sparkling on arrival, then tantalise your tastebuds with an elevated three-course seafood dinner featuring seasonal produce from local suppliers that is fresh, flavourful and sustainable. To finish your evening, a sweets trolley will see Valentines-inspired desserts prepared and served tableside.

"Wednesday 14 February from 6pm-9:30pm (2 hour sitting). $99 per person."

We've got your $200+. Get out. We need your table.