Dating in the credit crunch

The credit crunch has arrived.  It’s been predicted for months and now everyone is talking about it and most of us are feeling the effects of it.  So along with reducing our electricity bills and food shopping there are ways we can spend less on dating without reducing the fun.

A good date isn’t measured by how much money is spent.  Think about good past dates, and what you enjoy doing on a date, it doesn’t have to involve a huge bill at the end of it. 

Or why not arrange to meet for coffee or lunch rather than an evening meal?  A light lunch and a drink are less expensive and still gives you the opportunity to meet and chat.

Alternatively you could have a meal at home.  Buying in ingredients is far cheaper and gives you a chance to show off your cooking skills.  If you’re not an up and coming chef all supermarkets offer great ready meals and you’ll often get a three course meal and wine cheaper than a meal for one eating out.  Failing that you could always order in a takeaway.  To make it feel more romantic remember to set your table with candles and have your favourite CD playing.  Whilst you may prefer this, it’s always a good idea to double date at home for your first few dates.  Remember not to invite someone into your personal space until you feel comfortable to do so.

An evening out at your local pub is great for a date, and when looking at member profiles seem to be the preferred choice of date location.  You can choose a quiet corner for an intimate chat and forget that anyone else is even there.  Or why not arrange to meet up with friends or even join in the pub quiz; you never know, you could win some cash!

If you enjoy films and often go to the cinema a cheaper option is to rent a DVD.  Films are out on DVD much quicker now and your sofa is far more comfortable for a cuddle than a cinema seat with an arm rest between you and stale popcorn under foot. Have your favourite nibbles close to hand and bring your duvet to the sofa for an evening of entertainment in comfort.

For a different type of date why not visit a museum or gallery.  Many are free to enter and give you a quiet place to wander around together and the opportunity to get to know each other better.  There are a huge variety of museums and galleries so you can choose which you would both find most interesting.  At the end of your date you’ll be more cultured and still with a full wallet. 

Other great places to browse around are markets or car boot sales.  Check your local paper for what’s on and spend hours wandering the stalls, you may pick up a bargain and in doing so you’ll learn what each other are interested in.

Why not jump in your car, grab a map (or SatNav), a packed lunch and take a drive somewhere new?  A drive can be relaxing and fun.  Take in the scenery and stop off for lunch and enjoy a date for just the price of your petrol.  This gives you lots of time to chat and find out more about each other or just enjoy each others company while listening to your favourite music.

So in these times of tightening your belt it doesn’t mean the end to dating.  Being romantic doesn’t cost anything and there are options that won’t break the bank. Always remember your own safety and unless you know your date well, stick to public places.