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When it comes to first date ideas, singles like to play it fairly safe. A recent poll conducted by Australia's largest online dating site, RSVP, ruled dinner and a movie as the most popular first date idea. Coffee and cake at the local cafe and a picnic in the park also proved popular first date choices.
''Online dating is a lot of fun and a great way to build confidence and take control when meeting new people. However, when reaching the point of taking online contact with a potential partner offline, the normal first date butterflies and anxiety can be magnified,'' Lija Jarvis, RSVP dating and relationships expert said.
RSVP.com.au members and guests have pooled their knowledge on the issue, and have compiled a list of Australia's most-preferred first date ideas.
Candlelit dinner al fresco and spontaneous planning complete the top five date ideas. The complete list of top dates is:
1. Dinner and a movie
2. Coffee and cake at a local cafe
3. Picnic in the park
4. Candlelit dinner al fresco or meet up and see what you fancy doing (equal fourth place)
6. Twilight cinema
7. Dinner cruise
8. Watching a band at the local pub
9. An ice-cream and walk in the park
10. Pub lunch and a game of pool or going to a theatre/art exhibition (equal 10th place)
''It's no wonder that the simple ideas are the most popular. It is a much better idea to keep a first date short and sweet and ensure a relaxed environment. The first date should aim to minimise pressure and expectations. If you want to impress or be creative, you can always go on a second or third date,'' said Jarvis.
''Naturally, a first date, which allows a couple to share a common interest and open discussion, is a great idea - a drink or a coffee while discussing a movie, an exhibition or heading out together to listen to some live music are favourites simply because the pressure to start conversation is alleviated.''
Another consideration is the cost of dating. Particularly in an online situation, singles are meeting lots of new people and are looking to extend their social network as much as finding a potential partner. Lavish first dates are not realistic for most budgets, particularly if singles are meeting new people every month.
Safety is also an important consideration, particularly for encounters initiated online or as a blind date. RSVP advises singles to have an exit strategy and to meet in a safe, public and accessible place.
''Acting safely sets daters up for a comfortable and enjoyable experience,'' Jarvis said. ''We always advise members to use their common sense and to exercise the same safety and caution in an online dating situation as they would if meeting someone for the first time in a bar.''
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