Ladies, it’s no surprise to you or I as to who likely runs the show at your house: You. From organizing meals to doing the laundry, to making sure kids and/or live-in parents are cared for, to walking the dog that everyone but you thought was a good idea, to earning a paycheck, the initiative lies with you.
Wouldn’t it be a dream for someone to think of you first for once, and take some initiative of their own by surprising you with a relaxing spa treatment, a date night, or something else that you — not them — desire? Well, since Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, we’ve rounded up a few great experiences for you and your honey. All you have to do is drop a few hints — or, forward this along to your partner’s inbox!
Tango for Two
February 10
Heat up your Valentine’s celebration with a night of wine, chocolate and Latin America’s sultriest dance. Ultimate Tango in Medford hosts a slew of talented musicians, including Grammy Award winning bandoneon player Raúl Jaurena and his trio including female singer Marga Mitchell and pianist Maurizio Najt. Enjoy the music and tango performances or step out onto the floor and try it for yourself. Reserve a table in advance, and you can enjoy a complimentary bottle of Malbec.
Ultimate Tango
6 p.m.–12 a.m.
$30 per person
5 High St., Medford
Parking on site, 37 Riverside Ave at Medford Sq stop on the 95 bus
Dinner at Sea
February 14–17
Take dinner onto Boston Harbor on Classic Harbor Line’s Aphrodisiacs Tasting Cruise specifically designed with couples in mind. With live jazz crooning in the background, you’ll sample an indulgent three-course tasting menu featuring oysters, beef tenderloin and chocolate mousse. Add a wine or beer pairing to your meal to really get in the groove. After dinner you can enjoy views of Boston’s twinkling nighttime skyline or sway off those calories on the dance floor.
Northern Lights Ship
1.5 hours, tickets available at 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
$70 per person, additional $25 for wine tasting and $15 for beer tasting
60 Rowes Wharf, Boston
Limited street parking, Aquarium T stop
Film Noir Followed by Pinot Noir
February 20
New England Conservatory Contemporary Improvisation students and faculty have planned a unique evening in its Film Noir Concert. The musical program is designed around selections of 1981 French thriller film “Diva” and mixes the original synth-pop and opera score with contemporary compositions. The CI Chamber Ensemble, the Storyboard Noir Ensemble and the NEC Jazz Orchestra perform a dynamic new soundtrack while the film screens on stage. Sounds extraordinary, right. Well, guess what? It’s also free. Your partner can make up for the cheap date by booking a table at steak and red wine hotspot The Capital Grille for a romantic dinner following the show.
NEC Jordan Hall
7:30 p.m.
Free but requires reservations
30 Gainsborough St., Boston
Limited street parking, Mass Ave T stop
Romantic Staycation
Flexible scheduling all of February
Escape the chaos of school lunches and conference calls with an overnight, downtown stay at the Boxer Boston Hotel in the West End neighborhood. The Boxer’s Wicked Sweet Romance package upgrades your stay with a bottle of bubbly and a local treat (often North End cannoli), which is waiting in your room when you arrive. The Independent Collection hotel offers luxury in a historic setting, and it is located within walking distance of the historic North End. The next morning you and your partner can enjoy breakfast in bed and the indulgence of a late checkout. Turn your cellphones off and enjoy each other!
The Boxer Boston Hotel
Starting at $229 per night
102 Merrimac St., Boston
Limited street parking, Haymarket T stop