Valentine's Day: Five not-so-predictable ideas to make the day special

For mid-air thrills
If you love the rush of adrenaline, sign up for Sky Waltz Balloon Safari near Pune (also available at Kamshet). Spend an hour in the air in a hot air balloon, where organisers can also make special arrangements for a planned marriage proposal or birthday celebration. It's run by licensed commercial hot air balloon operators authorised by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
On: date as per choice meet
At: Hotel Orritel, Talegaon.
Log on to: insider.in
Cost: Rs 6,800 onwards

For an aerial view
If your partner is bored of exploring the same old sights in the city, book a view from the top in a helicopter joyride. On offer are 10- to one-hour rides with routes that will cover the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Dadar, Mahalaxmi, Haji Ali, Girgaum Chowpatty, airport, Filmcity, Pagoda, Marine Drive and other attractions.
On: date as per choice
Meet at: Juhu
Log on to: accretionaviation.com
Cost: Rs 8,250 onwards

For lilting tunes
If you are a music buff, take your beloved to scout for old records at The Revolver Club, which has a vast library of vinyls from various genres. You can also head to the chaotic Chor Bazaar to scour for rare music finds. With your musical gift sorted, head to the historic Royal Opera House and attend a jazz performance by Karim Ellaboudi on piano, Adrian D'Souza on drums, Dee Wood on bass, and Shreya Bhattacharya on vocals.
At: The Revolver Club, Mahim; Chor Bazar, near Bhendi Bazaar; Opera House, Girgaum.

For a brush with the sea
Pick a day to explore the harbour of the city in an open sail boat by Small Steps Adventures. The weather makes it the perfect time to set sail before the summer starts. Pack a picnic basket and make it the perfect date with goodies cooked by you for your other half.
On: date as per choice
Meet at: Jetty no 5, Colaba.
Log on to: eventshigh.com
Cost: Rs 4,500 onwards

For a heritage class
If you dig the past and want to learn more about the city's ancient history, hike to Kanheri Caves in the heart of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. These rock-cut Buddhist monuments date back to 1st century BCE - 10th century CE. Another option is a ferry ride to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off the harbour, that house Hindu and Buddhist relics, the Trimurti relief (in pic) being the most popular sight.
How to reach: Take a train to Borivali (East, for the National Park); hail a taxi to the Gateway of India from CSMT or Churchgate (for a ferry ride to Elephanta Island).

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