Use This Guide to Plan a Special Valentine’s Date in Bangkok

Valentine’s Date Ideas Your Thai Partner Will Love

One of the best things about being based in Bangkok is that there are lots of exciting things to do right at your doorstep. As a result, planning fun, unforgettable dates is an easy and convenient process.

Here are some Valentine dinner date ideas you can check out:

• Enjoy breathtaking, 360-degree views of the city while having a six-course rooftop dinner at Red Sky Restaurant at Centara Grand.
• Dine at the top of the world while enjoying Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Sirocco at Lebua (considered to be the world’s highest alfresco restaurant).
• Indulge in a Valentine’s buffet dinner that features oysters, caviar, and more at the Goji Kitchen + Bar at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park.
• Get a taste of Japan by sampling the kaiseki or teppanyaki set dinner aboard the Okura Cruise or at KiSara at Conrad Bangkok.
• Treat yourselves to a one-of-a-kind curated omakase menu at Nobu Bangkok or a modern izakaya experience at Zuma at The St. Regis Bangkok.
• Explore the fusion of Thai and European cuisines at The Deck by Arun Residence, where you can take in stunning riverside views of the Wat Arun.
• Dive into classic Italian favorites at Casa Lenzi, which uses a wood-fired oven and charcoal grill to give dishes an authentic Mediterranean taste.
• Book a dining cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess, which is known for its top-tier Thai and international buffets. For a more luxurious experience, make a reservation with Manohra, Pruek Cruise, or The Opulence.
• Give in to your sweet tooth at the Bangkok Baking Company (BBCO), which offers a limited-edition dessert collection for Valentine’s Day.
• Grab after-dinner drinks at popular rooftop bars like the Eagle Nest at Sala Arun, Piscari at Andaz One Bangkok, and Moon Bar at the Banyan Tree Bangkok.

Mistakes to Avoid During Your Valentine's Day Date

Even with the most meticulous planning, Valentine’s Day can bring unpredictable hitches beyond your control. But you can navigate these hiccups and create the perfect date by avoiding the following mistakes:

• Making reservations too late: In the run-up to any holiday, many dining and hospitality establishments in Bangkok get fully booked in just a matter of months or even weeks. To snag the best deals and avoid disappointment, make a booking as soon as your favorite hotel, restaurant, or cafe launches their Valentine’s Day promotions.
• Not accounting for heavy traffic: Bangkok’s infamously heavy traffic often gets heavier during holidays and special occasions. Leave early to avoid getting stuck on congested roads and being late for your Valentine's Day date.
• Sticking to roses only: Roses are popular during Valentine’s Day, but remember, there are other blooms to choose from. Some popular bouquet additions include caspia flowers and baby’s breath, which symbolize unwavering love and gentle affection, respectively.
• Choosing the wrong Valentine’s Day gift: Make sure your present perfectly suits your sweetheart’s personality and lifestyle. If she doesn’t like wearing jewelry, for example, giving her a diamond bracelet might not be the ideal step.
• Expecting public displays of affection: By now, you’re likely aware that PDA is frowned upon in Thai society and that Thai women are expected to act modestly in public. This doesn’t change during Valentine’s Day, so respect your partner’s need for space and decorum even when you’re on a date.

Cultural Tips to Remember When Planning My Valentine Dates

While the Thai people have adopted Valentine’s Day celebrations from the West, they’ve added their own twist to this holiday over the years. By keeping these Thai influences in mind, you’ll plan the ideal date for you and your partner while showing respect for her culture and background.

Add a Thai touch to your Valentine’s date by using these tips:

• Consider wearing red clothing: In Thailand, the color red signifies not just passionate love but also good luck. This is why many Thai couples wear matching red outfits when going out on Valentine’s Day.
• Master some basic Thai phrases: Learn how to say “Happy Valentine’s Day” (sawasdee wan Valentine) and “I love you” (chǎn rák khun) in Thai. This lets you express your feelings for your partner in a deeper, more impactful way.
• Buy your Valentine’s bouquet from local markets: There’s a flower shop on almost every corner of Bangkok, but you can find the best deals at Pak Klong Talat. This flower and vegetable market is the best source of fresh blooms, and local vendors can even create gorgeous custom bouquets for you right on the spot.
• Take part in sai sin string ceremonies: Sai sin is a white (or sometimes red) thread that’s tied around the wrist for love, happiness, and good luck. Getting a sai sin bracelet lets you celebrate your love while showing respect to Thai Buddhist culture.
• Visit the Trimurti Shrine: Located in the heart of Bangkok, this shrine attracts locals who believe that Hindu gods will help them find their soulmates (for singles) and have lasting love (for those in relationships). According to the Thailand Foundation, Thais believe that making merit, praying, or listening to Buddhist teachings together will strengthen the love of couples, or even if they are separated, fate will reunite them. Even if you’re not a believer, consider embracing the tradition to express gratitude for your relationship and set a romantic tone for your date.

Add a Loving Touch to Your Date

Bangkok is the perfect city for romance, so putting together the perfect date shouldn’t be a problem. But don’t just focus on the logistics of date planning! To make your Valentine’s date more special, make sure it reflects your effort and thoughtfulness, and lets you express your love and affection.

Need more tips on dating Thai women? Take a look at other AFA Bangkok guides!

Frequently Asked Questions