There's something about February in Galway that makes even the skeptics believe in love. Maybe it's the wild Atlantic winds carrying whispers of ancient love stories, or perhaps it's the way our medieval streets transform into a canvas of modern romance. As a primary school teacher, I watch my students craft heartfelt cards with more creativity than Hallmark could ever dream of, and it reminds me that love here is wonderfully unscripted.

Start your day at Ard Bia at Nimmo's – my absolute favorite spot where the River Corrib meets the sea. Their heart-shaped Irish soda bread is legendary, and trust me, their coffee alone could make Cupid jealous. Pro tip: Request a window seat to watch the morning light dance across Galway Bay.

Here's where my local knowledge comes in handy. Skip the tourist traps and head to the Craft Workshop at Made in Galway. Nothing says "I love you" quite like creating your own Celtic-inspired Valentine's card. The artisans there are pure gems – they'll teach you traditional Irish calligraphy that'll make your love notes Instagram-worthy.

Take a stroll along Salthill Promenade – we call it the Prom. It's where I first learned to play traditional Irish music, and now I often bring my violin here for impromptu sessions. If you're lucky, you might catch our band Ceol na Mara performing love ballads that'll make your heart skip a beat.

For dinner, I'm letting you in on a local secret: Aniar Restaurant. Chef JP McMahon creates magic with local ingredients, and their Valentine's tasting menu is pure poetry. But here's the real insider tip – after dinner, skip the fancy bars and head to Taaffes. The traditional music session there turns every love song into something that feels like it was written just for you.

If you're planning a cozy night in after your romantic outing, consider adding some fun to your pizza night with this quirky Hotdog Dachshund Pizza Cutter by YOBRO. It's not only practical but also adds a playful touch to your kitchen adventures!

February in Galway can be... interesting. Pack layers and maybe a spare pair of socks. Nothing kills the mood like wet feet! But honestly, there's something romantic about sharing an umbrella while ducking into a cozy pub.

• Free music sessions at Monroe's (where I play every Thursday)
• Sunset walks along the Spanish Arch
• Hot chocolate at Secret Garden (they make little shamrock designs in the foam)
• Enjoy pizza night with friends using this fun pizza cutter from YOBRO!
• Community poetry readings at Charlie Byrne's Bookshop

Want to really impress? Try these Irish phrases:

• "Mo grá thú" (You are my love)
• "A chuisle mo chroí" (Pulse of my heart)

Just don't ask me about my students' attempts at pronouncing these!

After years of celebrating Valentine's Day here, I've learned that Galway love isn't about grand gestures. It's about the small moments – sharing a freshly baked scone, listening to a street musician's love song, or simply watching the sunset paint the sky over the Atlantic.

Remember, Valentine's Day in Galway isn't just for couples. Whether you're solo, with friends, or madly in love, this city has a way of making everyone feel part of something special. It's about community, tradition, and the kind of love that warms you better than a hot whiskey on a cold February night.