Relationship professionals agree: dates are important in every relationship. As a matter of fact, date nights (or days) make the relationship. Whether you’ve just met, or have been in a relationship for years, dates are a way to build on your connection.
MeetnFly’s goal is to get you inspired to head out on a date, whether it’s a first date with someone you’ve just met online, or the 50th with your partner. What makes a great date, though? We wanted to find out.
So, in December of 2020, we asked 100 singles aged 24–48 to describe their most memorable date. Dates build a relationship; let’s get you started!
First, we can let go of the misconception that dates are expensive. The number one most memorable date experience from our survey was taking a walk. With 34% of people indicating that a simple stroll was their favorite, it’s nice to see that a date can be easy to plan and easy on the wallet. In fact, we love this idea since current circumstances limit some other, more traditional date options.
The second most common answer (28%) to our question was, in fact, going out for a meal to a restaurant. Various restrictions, and personal comfort, may not make this a realistic choice for now, but enjoying a meal can be done at a picnic (also an answer from some survey takers). Better yet, learning to cook something together can be a rich and new experience for both people.
The third most common answer, shared by 17% of respondents, is another budget and restriction friendly choice — walking in a bog or forest, or camping there. Thankfully, Estonia is full of opportunities when it comes to this popular date choice. The State Forest Management Center (RMK) website, which is available in English, Estonian, and Russian, helps you find trails and camping sites. Or better yet, make it a real adventure and hop onto the next train out of Balti Jaam. You might even end up in Aegviidu to set off on the President’s hiking trail.[1]
While these were the most common activities from successful dates of the past, they certainly weren’t the only ideas. Many people mentioned that sharing a relaxing conversation over a cup of coffee or fancy cocktail was a memorable date experience. Others remembered a more active date as their favorite, for example, playing sports. (Hint: disc golf is a great outdoor option.) Board games and spa days are also great options. In general, people are looking to do something new and different. Often, you can combine a few options to make an entirely different experience.
However, no matter who we asked, or what they listed as the favorite date activity, there was one point that was shared across the board — the X factor. Unsurprisingly, the person you’re on a date with is the biggest influence on enjoyment. If you’re able to feel comfortable, to share a laugh you’re likely to feel like the activity flew by. You’ll remember the joy of the most ordinary activities — walks and cups of coffee. Now how do you determine that X factor? Well, it can’t appear in their online profile and picture, or a messaging chat; it’s apparent when you meet face-to-face. That’s another reason dates are important.
Whether you’re just starting to get to know somebody, or you are in a long term relationship, dates are very important.
Dates aren’t just for the start of relationships; relationship experts recommend to reserve time for weekly dates in long term relationships!
Make it a priority, reserve time in your calendar. Do something together that lets you forget the outside world and allows you to concentrate on each other. We hope you get inspired by the ideas that others have enjoyed, or come up with your own. Either way, happy dating!
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