I must admit I do like Valentine's Day.
The history of the day has Ancient Roman Origins, and even the legend of St Valentine's himself is shrouded in mystery. He is either an Advocate for Love or a Priest who defied Emperor Claudius II. Depending on which version of history you believe!
In fact, it was the year 496 AD that Pope Gelasius declared the day St. Valentines day to replace the pagan festival of Lupercalia. Steeped in history.
While I am not overly romantic, I always buy my lovely wife and much better half, a red rose, chocolates and some nice sparkling wine. This year we went the Mumm Marlborough Brut Prestige - a great NZ drop if ever you are in New Zealand!
The gifts are for enduring me for yet another year...poor Kaewruethai:)
In short thought, I like the day as I interpret it to mean 'universal love and happiness' rather than just romantic. And the world could always use more love and acceptance.
Meeting my daughters new boyfriend...
This Valentines Day we had my youngest daughter (A) make the four hour drive up to introduce her new partner to us parents - lets call him D.
We didn't know much about D.
My daughter hadn't shared much.
We knew he ran a marketing and sales business, was Samoan, and according to my daughter "played a bit of rugby for fun".
Turns out he actually played a fair bit of rugby. And played it quite well.
In fact he had just returned from a professional rugby contract in Australia. Union not league as I was told.
Turns out I actually know very little about rugby, and while I was grateful for the tops and merchandise, and the single malt whiskey he gave me as a gift, I really didn't follow the sport or know the team...queue awkward silence from D!!!
I "reckon" we should have free public transport on Valentine's Day...what do you "reckon" Andrew?
To break the silence, and knowing I am a slightly passionate transport planner, D asked me the above question. He got my attention.
"Ok D, why do you "reckon" that?" I said, while taking out my green notebook.
Note: I was told by my mentor 26 years ago when I started out as a transport planner to always carry a notebook, and to always ask people their thoughts on transport. Especially taxi drivers and road users, as you never know when you will get great insight - I recommend to everyone I mentor to do the same!!!
Turns out D had three valid reasons:
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Encourages togetherness: Valentine’s Day is all about connection—whether it's romantic, platonic, or spending time with family. Free public transport helps people come together without worrying about the cost of getting around. Whether heading to dinner, a movie, or simply meeting for coffee, this initiative makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
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Reduces financial pressure especially for students and young people: Celebrations can add up quickly, especially for families and couples on a budget. Offering free transport makes the day accessible to everyone, turning Valentine's into a celebration that doesn't hinge on expenses. It’s an inclusive move that ensures no one is left behind
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Positive branding: Providing free transport spreads goodwill, positions your city or organisation as thoughtful and community-minded, and generates positive buzz. It’s a simple initiative with a big impact, leaving citizens and visitors with warm memories—and great PR for transport providers!
My thoughts on free Public Transport on Valentine's Day
Much to the boredom of my wife and my daughter, I quickly researched if free public transport on Valentine's Day was a good idea.
Turns out it actually is a very good idea...
Data out of the US shows a 4 percent increase in accidents on V day compared to other days of the year. From researching this further, there are three key reasons:
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Increased alcohol consumption: Couples are more likely to drink more when celebrating their romantic connection.
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Distraction: Increases in distractions - possibly thinking about a potential romantic partner - leads to increases in accidents.
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Break ups: Now my daughter out of boredom researched this. And I can't believe I am using data from Bumble..but according to Bumble one in 14 US adults have broken up with somebody on Valentine's Day...Ouch!!! Break ups and emotions are linked to an increase in accidents.
Note: Accordingly to Lotus Legal the highest number of break ups occur on December 11 - and this date is known as Breakup Day! Something to do with holiday stress and reevaluating a fresh start for the next year. Also this day does see an increase in accidents as well.
Making 14 February a free public transport day for all...something to consider
If you are a Politician or decision maker, or policy/road safety advisor for that matter, it might be worth considering making the 14th of February a free day for public transport.
Not only could you be helping reduce accidents but will also help:
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Connect people
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Reduce road congestion
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Create exploration and amazing moments
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Reduce financial pressure
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Promote sustainable travel
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Create a memorable day for all and encourage more spending in the local economy!
Something to think about at least..and while out of the box, things like this can have huge often immeasurable benefits to a community and a country!
Till next time.
Andrew
p.s. The bond quote today has a musical twist: "That's As Bad As Listening To The Beatles Without Earmuffs." James Bond in Goldfinger (1964).
My gosh he was ahead of his time!
p.p.s my youngest son - Z - competed at the Porritt Classic in the 1500m on the weekend. Representing his school. He had a great time and is just learning how to race.
He will also be traveling with us to Cook Islands next month to help promote our sport and train local school athletes along with adaptive athletes. We always encourage athletes - regardless of age - to support and help other athletes as well!
Some photos of last years training in Cooks below:) We encourage participation and inclusion...always!
Transit Trends · Andrew Collings, KA Advisory. Read and comment on the original on LinkedIn.
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