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Valentine’s Day Across the World
In the UK, February 14 is the day to remember your loved one – either in the form of cards, chocolates or flowers. But how is St Valentine’s Day celebrated in other countries?
Hamiltons are experts in international removals to Europe and across the world. Here we look at some of the more unusual traditions associated with February 14 across the world.
The Philippines
As well as the usual celebrations which are the same as in the West, the day is often marked by the ultimate expression of love – getting married. Thousands of couples across the country tie the knot, sometimes in mass wedding ceremonies, and often in public places. Some local authorities provide venues and officiate for free, and married couples often add to the numbers by renewing their vows.
South Africa
For those people thinking about domestic or commercial removals to South Africa, this is a country where women can wear their heart on their sleeve – literally! On February 14, many of them pin the name of their loved ones on their sleeves, in what was originally thought to be an ancient Roman tradition called Lupercalia. In some parts of the country, men do this as well. At least this way you are guaranteed to learn whether you have any admirers.
Japan
Here the onus is definitely on the woman to make the first move – but the men don’t get out of it either! On February 14, ladies buy chocolates for their loved ones, and the more expensive they are, the stronger their feelings are thought to be. High-quality ones are reserved for husbands and boyfriends, while cheaper (so-called obligation chocolates) are given to friends and colleagues.
However, a month later on March 14, the men are expected to return the favour, on what is known as White Day. Their gift, often jewellery or lingerie, should be two or three times the value of the chocolate. If it isn’t, then the relationship could be considered to be over.
Finland and Estonia
The Finnish and the Estonians opt for a much lower-key celebration on February 14. They exchange presents and cards with friends and family rather than their loved ones. Both countries have called Valentine’s Day ‘Friendship Day’. People also mark the occasion by decorating their homes with colourful ribbons and lights, while live shows and musical performances are also common in both countries.
Denmark
In Denmark, Valentine’s Day cards were originally called ‘Lover’s Cards’. These could either include pictures of the sender, or white pressed flowers known as snowdrops.
Nowadays, these have both been superseded by more conventional Valentine’s cards, although one tradition does remain. On February 14, men send their loved ones little poems or love notes, known as gaekkebrev. The message is signed anonymously with dots, and if the receiver guesses the name correctly, she can expect to receive an Easter egg later in the year.
International Removals with Hamiltons
At Hamiltons Removals, we pride ourselves on supplying a top-quality moving service at a highly competitive price. If you are interested in international removals to Europe, we can arrange commercial or domestic moves to all parts of the continent, including Denmark and other Scandinavian countries, France, Germany, Italy, Austria, Switzerland and the Netherlands.
Our experienced team can also help with your move to and from most worldwide destinations, including South Africa, the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. If you would like to know more about our services, follow this link or call our friendly, experienced team on 01379 855203.