Yet another Friday night rolls around, bringing with it the same old prospects for date night.
Book a baby sitter, reserve a table at the same old restaurant, check what’s on at the movies. Sometimes it’s just easier (and cheaper) to stay home, isn’t it? And download a movie and break up a block of chocolate…
But much to the surprise of many of us sceptics, “date nights” seem to have transitioned from something we scoffed at in American movies into a vital part of keeping a relationship alive.
The National Marriage Project, a study by the University of Virginia which was released earlier this year, found that date nights were “particularly valuable” and saw couples “deepen their understanding of each other and their relationship” through meaningful time together.
Just as an FYI, this post is sponsored by Melbourne Stars. But all opinions expressed by the author are 100 per cent authentic and written in their own words.
The reports also found that date nights were most successful when they focused on fun and engaging activities.
Once upon a time, we might have smirked at Facebook date night status updates – but now they are becoming more and more mainstream.
The key is to keep it fun – because getting off the couch and away from that regular order at that regular restaurant is essential to make a night out worth the effort.
We’ve compiled a list of eight unique date nights to get you started.
1. Backyard camping.
No need for a babysitter here – you just might need two tents to keep the kids away. Pitch a tent in the backyard, pack up a picnic, grab piles of cushions some mossie spray and you are all set.
2. Kite flying.
This is not just for the kids. The next blustery summer day, grab a couple of kites and head to the most romantic beach or oval you can find and sail for the skies. You will be surprised what can happen when those lines get tangled…
3. Karaoke.
You might think karaoke is just for the office Christmas party, but think again. There is nothing better than to get rid of those inhibitions, break down any barriers that might have built up through the grind of everyday life and to make a good-old fashioned fool of yourself. It’s a great way to remind yourself just how goofy you can be. Be sure you throw in a Spice Girl hit to make an impression.
Top Comments
Nobody does it better than the Melbourne Stars? HAH! Approximately half the country's teams do it better than the Melbourne Stars! Please.
T20 Big Bash League is a fun evening out though. I've been told Adelaide Strikers do it best...
Big Bash is great, unless you happened to go to the Renegades v Stars derby on the weekend like I did. Renegades all out for 57, a record breaking low score :(
The fishing one fails to mention that in NSW you need a licence to fish - doesn't matter if you do it once and never do it again - you still need a licence. They're available from bait shops.