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SINCE ChatGPT has taken the world by storm, we wanted to see if the robot, which can apparently write university-level essays and explain quantum physics, can manage to plan a student-friendly Valentine’s Day itinerary.

When asked what the most romantic spots in Exeter were, ChatGPT suggested Exeter Cathedral Green, the Quayside and the RAMM museum — nice places to visit in themselves, but not necessarily par ticularly tailored to the Valentine’s Day crowd.

We went on to ask for budget Valentine’s Day ideas for students and the AI did suggest a picnic in a park or scenic spot, so where better to do this in Exeter than out on the Cathedral Green if the weather is in your favour. The AI also suggested cooking a romantic dinner at home, but when we asked for a recipe for a romantic dinner, it seemed to forget all notion of a student budget and suggested “Steak with Red Wine Sauce”. While the recipe looked nice, it was really just all steak, and didn’t offer any side dishes, so just be warned.

Asked for gift ideas, ChatGPT suggested flowers or jewellery, which were fairly predictable. It did also suggest a few more creative experience gifts however, like a spa day, cooking class or romantic getaway. A lot of these did ultimately seem quite out of the student budget, so we asked particularly for budget gifts.

The AI suggested a lot of cosmetics and pamper products like candles, soap, bubble bath. The idea of a snack hamper was a nice homemade gift which would still be affordable for most students.

Overall, ChatGPT offered some good starting ideas, but, as is to be expected, it was difficult to get it to suggest the best options for students and their interests — the best Valentine’s Day celebrations are tailored to the friends and/or partner you’re celebrating with. ChatGPT, however all-knowing it may be, is unlikely to know what their favourite movies, favourite restaurants or favourite activities are — which means you best get thinking!