Valentine’s Day-related traditions around the world

Japanese women gift their men chocolates on Valentines Day. These can be either giri-choco (for friends and colleagues) or honmei-choco (for boyfriends, lovers and husbands). Be sure to check the type of chocolate you get to avoid any misunderstandings. picture is a reproduction by models

THERE was a time when the mention of Valentine’s Day did not conjure up images of expensive flowers, chocolates, extravagant dinner dates and empty wallets.

Originally a religious festival dedicated to St Valentine’s, one legend claims that the saint was known for secretly marrying off young couples despite a ban by the Roman emperor who subsequently sentenced him to death. Another tells of how he fell in love with the jailor’s daughter while in captivity and sent her a love note signed “From Your Valentine.”