Okay, stop rolling your eyes!  Before you judge me, this IS NOT another random commentary for or against “Fifty” that, like it or not, has only just begun to push it’s way into our sub conscience.  Like a tidal wave that’s been churning out in the ocean searching for a landing spot on which to explode, once the movie is released in another week, www.50shadesofgrey.com, even the two people left on this planet who have never read the books by E. L. James , www.fiftyshadesofgrey.com  will now be forced into discussions and conversations about red rooms, blindfolds, and, um, “oh my”, what people do with those whips in the bedroom.

Lucky for you that’s not what this post is about.  (Pause for disappointing sighs from some readers who now feel mislead by this blog title.  I guess this is where we say goodbye? . . .)

Wait – before you leave this page, let me explain. 

You see, before sitting down to write this, I was thinking about the upcoming Valentine’s Day and how Orlando residents will be celebrating, so that’s how I’m circling back to that cleverly crafted lead-in.  (Yes, I was also hopeful that my word choice raised this blog just a tad in the search engines, so okay, guilty as charged.)  Anyway, because in this blog we try to stay focused on issues within the hospitality community as opposed to the ‘shadier subjects’, pun intended, it’s not hard at all to link Valentine activities to some really romantic options around town.  A recent gander through my own inbox brought a couple of standouts like this one, from the Hyatt Regency Orlando, www.hyattregencyorlando.com .  In this passion-inspired special offer women can be pampered at the hotel salon ( a must before gazing into your lover’s eyes, yes?) before indulging in a gourmet meal (this is where the companion would join you) at one of the hotel’s fine dining options (both are excellent), and at a decent price of $230.00 (plus tax & tip) per couple it’s a classy, swanky alternative to trying to impress with wine, chocolates and cute-but-useless stuffed animals, (hint-hint).  Of course, it’s worth mentioning that classy, swanky jewelry selections are always welcome, but today we’re focusing on hot date night locations, okay?

Our friends at the Orlando Convention & Visitors Bureau have already picked out some other interesting Valentine options, and you can view those here:  www.visitorlando.com .  They include a “Sweet Escapes Package” at Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort, dining specials offered by our friends at Rosen Resorts , and a luscious signature berries and bubbles drink concoction offered up at Ocean Prime.  Visit Orlando also has a really creative and unique list with a variety of possibilities/price points called Top 14 Romantic Things to do for Valentines Day in Orlando and you can find that here:  Top 14

But, what’s that, I hear you asking?  What is the Hive Maven’s personal Valentine fav?  This year that would actually be found the night before Valentines Day on Friday, February 13, out at Loews Portofino Bay Resort, Universal Studios.  Harbor Nights Romantico can’t be beat for ambience, food, wine, dancing to live music and other outdoor Valentine delights.  And if you can’t find some love while sipping a lovely Italian red wine and mingling under the stars among an authentic replica of the ultimate in romantic Italian seaside locations, well then maybe you need to go to the bookstore and start at the beginning of Fifty Shades to rediscover what the art of romance is all about.  Just sayin’ .

Finally, if you don’t agree with any of my choices, how about taking a minute to participate in this unique Valentine’s Day poll sponsored by well known Orlando Restaurant Reviewer, Scott Joseph.  He’s asking a simple question, ‘What’s your favorite Orlando restaurant for romantic dining?’ and I’m sure you’ll be interested in the extensive list of great local establishments you see posted here:  Most Romantic Restaurants

So no matter where you go, I think you can find la dolce vita here in town because, after all, there are at least fifty shades of love already in the Orlando air!