Whether you just met the person of your dreams, have been dating for a while, or are married with children, it can be hard to break the cycle of ‘dinner and a movie’ dates. Sure they’re fun for a little while, but when was the last time you and your loved one went out and tried something totally new? Quality time with your partner can be hard to come by, so make it count when it does! No matter if you have the whole weekend or just a few hours after work, here are a few sure fire ways to spice up your average date.
Spend a Day at the Spa
Sometimes all the planning, dinner reservations and outfit changes are more stressful than fun. Instead of a typical night out, spend the day in at a spa. Relax in the steam room or get a massage and facial all at your own pace. And who knows, maybe you’ll pick up a tip or two from the masseuse that you can try on your loved one at home later.
Get All Dressed Up for a Fancy Dinner
When was the last time you sat at work, excitedly wondering what you were going to wear out that night, or broke out your good jewelry? Takeout may be nice once in awhile, but tonight book dinner at a 5 star restaurant, one you’ve read about and have been dying to try.
Relive (or Rewrite) the Past
Recreate your first date together by going back to where it was held. If you want to really get into it, try to find the same clothes you wore too. Talk about what was going through your head at the time and if you’re feeling really daring – first impressions of one another. If it wasn’t exactly the date of your dreams, spend the time planning your ideal date together and make it happen.
Last Minute Date Ideas
Has February 14th snuck up on you once again? You don’t need hundreds of dollars and weeks of planning to make the day special. All you need is a little imagination and the person you love beside you to make the day memorable. Here are a few last minute ideas that are sure to set the mood.
Cook for her/him. Do you come home to a beautifully cooked meal every night? If so, give your loved one the night off and grab an apron! Go online and look up the recipe for your loved one’s favorite meal. Even if it doesn’t come out perfect, they’ll love the time and effort you put into making the night special. And don’t forget to set the mood with some candles and flowers!
Late night reservations. Most reservations are made for 8pm, so if you two are a couple of night owls, think about grabbing late night drinks around 10pm.
Stroll on the beach. It might be February, but grab a sweater and take to the sea! A stroll along the beach at sunset is not only romantic, but it’s free! If your area allows it, drive your car up on the sand and have a picnic on the beach while still staying warm.
Visit an art gallery. New York City is host to some of the most famous galleries in the world, so take advantage of them. But if you can’t get to Manhattan, there are still plenty of small, local galleries and museums you could explore.
Breakfast in bed. Valentine’s Day falls on a Tuesday this year – not exactly the most exciting day of the week for a night out. Turn the tables and celebrate earlier in the day. Wake up an hour or so before you normally do and enjoy a relaxing breakfast in bed together.
Get Bit by the Travel Bug
Even if you live together and spend the night together all the time, it always feels more romantic when you’re in a different place. Pack a bag (or two) and head to your favorite resort or hotel for a few nights. Nothing relieves stress better than turndown service, a nice dinner and hopefully a hot tub. But if you’re spur of the moment travelers, take a minute to learn the ‘do’s and dont’s’ of last minute travel.
Do go charter. Flights go up the closer you get to the departure date, so if you’re traveling last minute look up deals on charter flights and you’ll see major savings – especially to sunny destinations.
Don’t leave on Saturday. Tuesday – Tuesday vacation anyone? Flying midweek can save you hundreds on plane tickets. Not to mention, the airports are usually less crowded.
Do take a gamble with secret hotel deals. Type in the area you are looking to stay in, preferred star rating and price and you’ll be randomly placed into an unbooked hotel room. You won’t know what hotel you are staying in until the transaction is complete, but the price will be worth the risk. You can find these deals on Priceline Negotiator.
Don’t be picky. If you’re looking to travel last minute and on a budget, don’t have your heart set on one location or room. If you go with the attitude of “I just want to get away somewhere sunny!” you won’t be disappointed.
