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5. Mountain magic
You may be a bit overwhelmed by the thought of an entire day in the mountains on a first date, but if you and your potential paramour know you can stand each other's company for longer stretches, why not make a day of it? Choose a hike in your local wilderness area (it doesn't have to be mountainous to count), arrange to drive out together, and spend the day communing with Mother Nature and your date. There's something about nature that provides relaxation and ease between people, and the pace of a hike allows for good conversation. A hike also requires a bit more planning and preparation than your average outing, so you'll get to see that side of your mate, too. Make sure you pack a great lunch, lots of water and all the safety gear you need to be comfortable. Nothing spoils a date faster than low blood sugar, a nasty blister or bad weather and improper clothing.
6. Some like it hot
Remember taking summer swimming lessons at your local outdoor pool? There's something fun and energizing about splashing about in a pool with someone you like while the sun beats down on you. It brings me back to my childhood and makes me do crazy things like cannonballing off the high board. If the smell of chlorine and the din of screaming kids are too much, head to nature with a visit to the ocean or a nearby lake or river. Include a hike beforehand, plan a lunch after, and you've designed the perfect day at the beach.
Benefit: If you're still getting to know your mate, swimming is a great way to see the great shape they're in from all of your activity dates. For some that could also feel like a downfall, so choose your activities accordingly.
7. Toss around this idea
Frisbee golf is an adaptation that has you tossing Frisbees toward a target (usually a "cage" made out of chain) the same way you would hit a golf ball toward the pin. Most cities have Frisbee golf courses set up in local parks. It's easier than golf (depending on how well you throw a Frisbee) and has a high fun factor because it's pretty novel. Games can take a couple of hours but since the courses are usually free you can walk off the course whenever you've had enough. No access to a Frisbee golf course? Just head to the park and toss a Frisbee with each other. Face to face conversation with a bit of distance between you is a great tension reducer, especially on those early dates, and Frisbee tossing can generate a bit of running around and a few laughs.
8. Meet the pets
Any pet owner will tell you, "If they don't like my dog, they're out." Since pets are often raised to the status of family member by their owners, it's usually a big deal to meet and get along with your partner's pooch. And if you're a pet owner too, you want to know that your doggies get along as well as you do. Dog walk dates centre the energy around your pets as a topic of conversation; they also introduce another common interest you two may share, and let you see if there is chemistry between date and beast. Since dogs require regular exercise, this could be a way to spend more time with your love interest.
The list of possible outdoor dates is endless. Be creative. Consider your common interests and the amount of time you have (or would like) to spend with your partner. Physical activity gives you energy and makes you feel good about yourself, and since confidence and sense of adventure are attractive qualities for anyone to possess, that's bound to make your mate stand up and take notice.
Ready to go on vacation together? Check out these five fun outdoor activities to try while you're away!
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