Dates can be expensive – whether it’s paying for dinner and drinks or for cinema or theatre tickets, the bill can quickly mount up. But simple dates can be enjoyable and romantic, too. If you’re trying to think up some date ideas that don’t make such a dent in your wallet, here are a few ideas.
Hike or bike
If you’re outdoorsy types, why not go for a hike or bike ride together? Taking in beautiful scenery and enjoying the journey together can be a very romantic way to spend time as a couple. Take a picnic, sit down and get to know each other. If you’re dating in Kamloops, this is the perfect place to hike, given its vast, rugged landscape. Check out some trails here.
Head to a gallery
A lot of art galleries have free entry or will at least have one day when it’s discounted. Take in some culture together and peruse the collections and exhibitions. You could do some research into the gallery and get clued up beforehand so that you can impress your date with your knowledge about the art world.
Find a farmer’s market or street fair
At certain times of the year, it’s common to have street fairs and farmer’s markets. Enjoy various types of entertainment and food and get chatting as you soak up the atmosphere.
The benefit of this type of date is that you can dip in and out of the festivities. You can choose whether you’d rather be in a quiet place getting to know each other, or, if the conversation doesn’t flow, you can suggest checking out the live music or tasting some of the food on offer.
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Cook for your date
This is one for the third or fourth date after a while of getting to know each other. By this time your date should feel safe in the privacy of your home. If you get the feeling they’re still not ready for that, don’t push them.
It’s a good idea to make a dish that you’ve cooked before to avoid any last-minute disasters, and just keep it simple. Follow it with some wine and dessert, and get cozy together.
All of the above make great inexpensive dates, but it will depend on your date’s tastes and interests as to what you decide to do. If you met through online dating, on a site like eHarmony Canada, you should know what their hobbies and interests are, and you can use this to your advantage. Work this into the date and they’ll be happy that you’ve planned something that they enjoy.
We have so many woods around here; we love hiking. I take it a nerdy-step further and turn it into geocaching. We’ve also done festivals and the like. They’re all great suggestions! We have a $1 theater in the area, but if you’re getting concessions those are the same price so you have to be careful.