What’s that in the air? Is it the heady scent of romance, doused in Chanel No 5, awash with offers of single roses and overlaid with doe-eyed enthusiasm as we seek new and better excuses to combine conspicuous consumption with personal pleasures and interpersonal connections? Yes, Valentine’s Day is on its way again, proving once again that clichés can be surprisingly effective as a shorthand for summing up our feelings.

Abu Dhabi Week is certainly not immune, and not-so-secret messages are being prepared in quiet corners of the office even as the more attached members of the team plan a weekend of emotion and indulgence with our own guide to the best of the F&B offerings in town.

So in the true spirit of romance, the editor (who probably ought to know better at his age) offers a couple of additional thoughts.

If you want uninterrupted views of romantic sunsets etc, try Jabel Hafeet, Yas Island or the Intercontinental Hotel – nothing much obstructs the view of the sunset. All are lovely spots to share the drama of the day’s end.
And a hidden favourite – a few yards before the Heritage Village near Marina Mall is a charming little café in a round, traditional style. It’s a little overlooked from the outside – but stoop down and through the wooden entrance and beyond you’ll find a rather lovely terrace, white sands and seafront with a great view of the Corniche and the city. Perfect for sunset and shisha.

Any other romantic spots? We’ll run a few ideas in our next issue, but any and all input is always welcome ...