Forget Cupid, all you need is Google Maps this Valentine’s Day

Are you in a last minute scramble to plan a lovely evening for your Valentine? Hop to it! Reservations are going quick because according to Zagat’s 2014 Valentine’s survey, 42% of respondents will be hitting the town to celebrate the day of love. Whether you’re searching for a restaurant to take your date to, scouting for the perfect gift in a store nearby or looking up directions to a movie with friends, Google Maps has the ingredients to cook up a successful night.

Step one: we all gotta eat. If you’re still reading this post, chances are you’ve left dinner reservations -- how shall we say it? Up in the air. Here’s a hint: book Italian. Whether it’s pizza or pasta, Italian cuisine is the top pick for 2014 Valentine’s day meals, topping the survey chart at 28%. And to be sure the ambiance is just right, with Google Maps’ 360-degree virtual tours of venue interiors, you can scope out the perfect place to woo your date.

Delfina Restaurant in San Francisco

River Cafe in London, UK

Next up: a token of your love and affection. Whether you’re a guy or a gal, survey respondents agree that giving a gift is a must. No idea where to start? You can never go wrong with candy and flowers, whether it’s a lollipop bouquet or a dozen roses. Just fire up Google Maps on your phone and find the nearest one to your date destination, by tapping the search box to “explore nearby”.

Dylan's Candy Bar in NYC, USA

Aoyama Flower Market Ramura Iidabashi in Tokyo, Japan

Finally: don’t be late. Navigating to your destination has never been easier on the new Google Maps. Quickly get directions from your saved home location to the restaurant, including a stop at your date’s place displayed right on the map -- whether you’re taking public transit, a car or riding a tandem bike.

A parting tip: if you’re thinking of popping the question, consider waiting until after dessert. Apparently, 73% of Zagat survey respondents feel marriage proposals at restaurants are “cheesy”.

Wishing you all a wonderful Valentine’s Day!

Posted by Pegman