The Valentine's hype begins

Valentine's Day in the US almost seems to be as big an event as Christmas.  We always make a special point NOT to go out for dinner that night if we're in the US….always crowded and you wait even with a reservation.  Most people waiting around seem to be scowling rather than whispering sweet nothings.

If you have an extra $40 K and feel like going to Paris,  this is on offer according to the Desert Sun today.

Heart-throbbing highlights: Sip vintage Champagne in a historic wine cellar. Savor dinner prepared by a two-star Michelin chef.

Indulgent details: The luxury for this overnight package begins when you step into your Hermès Rolls Royce Phantom for your chauffeured drive to the Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris. At the iconic property, steps from the Champs-Elysées, relax in your flower-adorned Penthouse Suite until it's time for your aperitif served in the wine cellar. Nearly 46 feet underground, the cellar contains 50,000 bottles, hand-picked by award-winning sommelier Eric Beaumard. Sip your Krug Clos d'Ambonnay 1998 Champagne (a bottle sells for about $9,347) in the glow of the candle-lit cave. Back at your suite, with its 360-degree view of Paris and the spires of Sacre Coeur and the Eiffel Tower, tuck into your sumptuous meal prepared by Eric Briffard, the hotel's two-star Michelin chef. Before departing the next morning, enjoy Champagne breakfast in your suite.

Price tag: About $40,515 per couple, fourseasons.com/paris/

Would I do this even if I had the money?  No,  absolutely not.  There is nothing more romantic than wandering about the streets of Paris and dropping into a sidewalk café for a drink.

Price:  under $20