Romantic Dinner for Two: A Valentine’s Airbnb Experience
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to slow down, reconnect, and share a special moment with the one you love. Everyone feels love in a different way and it all comes down to their love language - in this blog post, I break down the 5 love languages and share a few ways you can celebrate for each!
For those who value quality time and acts of service, turning your Airbnb into a dreamy setting for a romantic candlelit dinner could be the perfect way to celebrate the holiday!
Keep reading for a few tips on how you can create the ultimate date-night-in, complete with a simple yet elegant recipe inspired by Ina Garten.
The Recipe: Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe & Sausage
Inspired by Ina Garten’s episode with Danny Meyer, this dish is as cozy as it is delicious. With its hearty flavors and simple preparation, it’s the perfect meal to cook together and enjoy over a glass (or two) of wine.
Ingredients You'll Need (easily sourced locally or packed ahead):
Orecchiette pasta
Sweet or spicy Italian sausage
Broccoli rabe
Garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes
Parmesan cheese
Cooking together in the Airbnb kitchen adds a layer of intimacy to the evening, and the aroma of sizzling
sausage and garlic sets the mood even before you sit down.
Setting the Scene
Lighting: Dim the lights and add candles or fairy lights to create a warm, romantic glow.
Table Decor: Keep it simple—think a small bouquet of fresh flowers from a local market or a few scattered rose petals.
Plating: Use the Airbnb’s dishware, but elevate it by plating the meal neatly and sprinkling fresh Parmesan over the top.
Wine Pairing
For this dish, pair with a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Chianti. If you're near a winery, make a fun stop to pick up a bottle before dinner.
Post-Dinner Treats
Finish the evening with chocolate-covered strawberries or a small dessert you picked up at a local bakery. Enjoy it with another glass of wine or espresso to keep the romantic energy flowing.
Date Night In Activity Ideas
After dinner, plan a few ways to continue enjoying the evening together! Some ideas include:
Plan a tech-free evening: Turn off your devices and focus on board games, storytelling, or simply enjoying each other’s company by the fire.
Host a movie or game night: Choose a property with cozy seating or a home theater and make popcorn for a relaxed evening. For even more fun, make homemade pizza together!
Set up a couples’ spa night: Bring along massage oils, face masks, and cozy robes for a relaxing evening of pampering each other.
Share a warm soak: Choose a rental with a hot tub or soaking tub, and add bubbles, candles, or bath salts for a romantic atmosphere.
Cuddle by the fire: Arrange blankets and pillows near the fireplace for a cozy spot to snuggle up with a favorite movie or book.
Dance together: Create a playlist of romantic songs and take a moment to slow dance, whether it’s in the living room or under the stars.
Go stargazing: Wrap up in a shared blanket and find a quiet outdoor space to enjoy the beauty of the night sky together.
Overall, cooking, dining, and simply being together in a cozy Airbnb creates the kind of Valentine’s Day memories that last long after the trip ends. Whether it’s a rustic cabin in the woods or a sleek modern getaway, this experience is all about slowing down and savoring the moment.
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