V-Day: The coolest new trends in gift-giving

Make a statement with your romantic gesture this February 14.

Rather than spending hours searching for more stuff to give loved ones, this year many gift-givers are choosing to give experiences and gifts with a personalised twist. These are the hot new trend, leaving a much more intense and lasting impact on the recipient.

Sure, flowers are nice and chocolates can melt any sweetie, but how about trying out these exciting new ideas to take it up a notch this Valentine's Day? Here are some of our favorite new gifts that even Cupid would approve of -- move to the following pages!

Sula Wine Trail and Tasting

Always dreamt of wandering through the sun-kissed vineyards of Tuscany or Napa Valley? Does merlot make you merry?

If you're nodding yes, then you're in luck because a leisurely day trip to the Sula Vineyards in Nasik will lift your spirits, quite literally!

This romantic date for two includes a wine-tasting session, a guided tour and a bottle of sparkling wine, courtesy of the good folks at Sula. Cheers! (Rs 1,300)

Gourmet Breakfast in Bed

There's nothing more romantic than staying in your pajamas and snuggling in bed. How about a gourmet breakfast basket delivered on Valentine's morning so you really don't have to get out of bed?

Hampers include chocolate-covered strawberries, pastries, juices and even two red roses. Crumbs in bed are so okay on this special occasion! (Rs 2,000)

Fill a Room with Balloons

Remember the pure delight you felt as a kid when you came home with a bunch of balloons? This is a simple pleasure you are never too old for.

So how about filling a room with over 300 multicoloured balloons to really surprise your honeys? Watch their faces as they laugh with abandon at this unexpected gift.

Luxury VIP Shopping Experience

If your sweetheart chants Prada instead of Om for inner peace, and reads Vogue like it's the gospel truth, then this is just the gift for him/her!

Treat your fashionista to a Luxury Shopping Experience, complete with a personal shopper who will do an extensive consultation to understand body type, preferences and desired looks. Let her pick through racks of gorgeous designs, leaving her feeling like a red carpet star! (Rs 5,000)

Roses with Embossed Photos and Messages

So you're an old-school romantic and Valentine's Day just isn't complete without a dozen red roses. We get it! But how about adding a personal touch by embossing your favorite photos and messages on the petals?

This gift weaves the timeless beauty of flowers with the thoughtful sentiment of a photo or greeting card. Elegant, delicate and simply eternal! (Rs 1,000)

At Home Couple's Photo Shoot

A private photo shoot in the comfort of your own home? Definitely! Capture your love with timeless, professional photographs without the stress of wardrobe changes and pesky onlookers.

Choose your favorite nooks and corners so you and your partner can relax, smile and make beautiful memories. (Rs 7,500)

Couple's Private Dance Lessons

Add that cha-cha to your step, grab your honey close and get moving! Be guided every step of the way by an expert in a one-hour private dance lesson.

Pick your favorite from 15 styles. And remember, no one's watching, so having two left feet is no longer an excuse! (Rs 1,600)

Couple's Cooking Class

You've heard that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. You should also know that women can't resist a man in an apron!

So no matter which side you are on, private cooking lessons with celebrated chef and food writer Asha Khatau is definitely the way to go! Whip up a gourmet six-course meal with cuisines from around the world. Good times and good food, guaranteed! (Rs 10,000)

Spa Treatments

Who can resist some TLC, especially when it involves aromatherapy, soothing music and a pampering massage? This is pure head to toe indulgence.

Several spa packages for both men and women are available at spas across the cities, and include treatments such as Thai massages, hot stone massages, body scrubs, aromatherapy and reflexology. Pure, unadulterated bliss to leave your partner feeling relaxed and renewed. Mmmm... (Price varies)

Luxury Sunset Cruise and Dinner on a Yacht

Imagine a golden sunset and a romantic dinner aboard a luxury yacht with your loved one. Watch the maddening city become a distant memory as you sail away from the Mumbai Harbour, just your honey and you.

Well now it's possible. Enjoy a three-and-a-half hour joyride and take in Mumbai's breathtaking sights, including the Gateway of India and Taj Hotel. This is an indulgent experience and a memory that will surely last forever! (Rs 18,400)