COVID-19 has fundamentally changed how we date, and frankly, it makes it hard to find a spark. However, for a new couple or those in long-standing relationships, here are some ideas to have some fun with your significant other. Please ensure you follow provincial guidelines for COVID-19, no matter what date you’re thinking of. For some people, not all dates will be possible.
New Couples:
ORDER EACH OTHER FOOD
When getting to know someone new, it’s vital to find out what kind of food they like. Order a meal from your favourite restaurant and send it to the person you’re chatting with and get them to do the same. Not only will you get to eat something fun, but you and your partner will also find out if your food tastes are compatible. Before you do this, make sure you ask about allergies and preferences.
HAVE YOUR FIRST MEETING ON A BOAT
You can rent a boat at one of the many marinas and docks in the city for a range of prices. If you have the skill, you could take it for a rip on the water, but more likely, prepare a nice meal and serve it on the deck. A beautiful dinner on the water at sunset will make a great impression and set the mood. If you plan to do this in the next couple of months, be sure to dress warm!
GO TO AN ART GALLERY OR MUSEUM
Many galleries and museums remain open despite the pandemic. Most facilities have social distancing and sanitation protocols that make these visits very safe dates. If you are an awkward person, this ensures that you always have something to talk about.
HAVE A VIDEO WINE TASTING
Not ready to meet in person? No problem! Go to your local liquor store, grab two or three bottles of wine and have a video call with the person you’re dating who also went and got the same bottles (what a surprise). Drink the wine together and chat about what you think. The more wine you drink, the sillier you will get.
TRY “WOULD YOU RATHER” SEX EDITION
Talking about sex and intimacy over Zoom can be awkward. But by using a fun game to break the ice, you can get a little deeper without having to ask profound questions too soon.
Long-term Couples:
COOK A MEAL TOGETHER
When you’re super busy, food can become simplified, but it’s an essential part of the day, and it should be enjoyed. By picking a fun meal, putting on some good music, and drinking some wine, you can take a mundane task and turn it into a fun, romantic evening.
GO PAINTBALLING!
This may surprise you, but most paintball arenas are still open, vastly underused, and discounted. The activity is outdoors, and all the equipment has to be regularly cleaned, so you are relatively COVID-19 safe. Plus, you can let out some pent-up energy by shooting your friends and partner with paint.
MAKE ART TOGETHER
Get a big canvas and some paints and have at it. Being silly and colourful will add joy to your relationship and your day. At the end of the project, you will have something to hang on your wall that reminds you of the person you love.
GO ON A LOCAL TRIP TO A REMOTE LOCATION
Vancouver Island, the Okanagan, the BC North Coast and Vancouver are all major international tourist destinations. Why not take advantage of what is in your backyard, and book a long weekend trip to drink wine, eat good food, and go swimming in a part of our beautiful province. Stay close to home and keep away from others while enjoying the nature of where we are. I swear this part of the article was not sponsored by the province.
DOWNLOAD A FOREPLAY APP
There are tons of fun ways to get technology to have a role in your bedroom. Take a look at this list of popular apps, and chat with your significant other. Each of you pick one that looks fun and make a night of it.
Jonah van Driesum is the senior editor of Link, and co-host of our the MicroLink podcast!