Tamara Star suggests 5 sizzlingly romantic summer dates without the heavy burden of a credit card.
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Dating, romance and sumer go hand in hand–it’s a season of warm nights, playful time off and potentially steamy connections. And yes, the fall is fast approaching. But summer’s not over just yet. Here are a few “almost free” ideas to try on your next date night.
1. When was the last time you went for a pleasure ride at night?
Pleasure rides aren’t about getting a work out, or really even about anything. They are all about pure pleasure. Getting on your bike with someone you care for in the cool night air with no agenda, no attention to speed, and no worries of how many calories you’re burning is your ticket to freedom- and to romance. Noticing the sights, smelling the fresh grass, and hearing the sound of crickets will leave you feeling as though you’ve been away to summer camp for a week.
2. I scream for ice cream.
It’s summer. You’ve earned a little indulgence, don’t you think? Ice cream isn’t just for kids. Run down that ice cream truck or stick your head deep into one of those grocery store coolers and get something yummy. Nothing will make the two of you feel like carefree kids again faster than sheepishly holding wooden sticks and licking cool creamy lusciousness on a warm summer night. Carefree and happy are two ingredients for date night romance.
3. Star gaze on a blanket.
Sure everyone looks up at the night sky once in a while, but when’s the last time you spread out a blanket on some grass and plopped yourself down under the magic carpet of black wonder and really gazed up at the galaxies while holding hands with someone special? Not only does this put everything into perspective, hearing the crickets, seeing the lightening bugs and watching the stars twinkle and fall over head, all add up to peaceful easy romantic summer feelings.
4. Jump into a Pool.
Personally, I love high mountain lakes and bubbling natural waters; but nothing matches the icy cold chlorine-scented experience of jumping into a deep blue pool and hearing the sound of bubbling water all around me. If you hold their hand and add in a slide, you’ll both instantly feel seven years old again.
5. Have a Meal Outside.
Whether you live in the city or in an area where you’ll have some privacy, get yourself outside and enjoy a meal. Everyone knows that food mysteriously tastes better when eaten outside. Beautiful surroundings, finger foods, and the extra effort you make to spread a blanket for your date won’t go unnoticed. Keep it as simple as a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or go for a full-blown picnic, but take it outside.
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Feature photo: Flickr/John W. Iwanski