A study of 2,000 adults has revealed the ideal activities involved in the perfect date with outdoor activities and cultural experiences popular choices. New experiences are also important with 45 per cent of those polled wanting to explore something or somewhere different on a first date. Although a traditional one in 10 opt for the tried and tested approach.
A third would go for a cultural rendezvous to seem more ‘worldly’ to impress their potential beau, with 40 per cent planning to avoid the traditional dinner this Valentine’s Day. Almost three quarters of those already in a relationship also think new experiences on a date adds fresh energy to a relationship. The study commissioned by museum and attraction ticketing company Tiqets, saw Paris named the most romantic city, with Venice and Rome also dreamy options. And Central Park, the Eiffel Tower, Niagara Falls and a Gondola in Venice are considered the best places to propose – followed by the London Eye.
Alexis Peppis, UK manager at Tiqets UK, said: “The results have shown that Brits are keen to impress and enjoy soaking up a bit of culture along the way with a visit to inspiring locations to wow their date.
“It’s so easy to get stuck in a rut in daily life – so a date is an ideal opportunity to burst the bubble and try something a little different.
“Sharing new experiences with someone is always romantic.
“In 2020, we’re seeing these cultural activities become more popular not just when people travel, but when they’re at home looking for a unique date as well.
“After all, a trip to a museum or cultural landmark gives you a break from daily life that can change your perspective – and it’s especially romantic to share that experience with someone else.”
The study also found that you should date someone for an average of seven weeks before taking them away on a romantic weekend getaway. And more than a third of Brits want to plan ahead when setting up a date, although 38 per cent like a mix of order and spontaneity to keep things fresh. A quarter believe you should plan your date a couple of days in advance, with nearly 39 per cent advising to do so at least a week or two ahead.
It also emerged Brits are willing to spend money on these date experiences, with an average spend of £73 considered the ideal amount. But worryingly, 41 per cent of those polled, via OnePoll, said they have never been on their perfect date. The study also revealed other top tips for how to behave on a perfect date, including cracking three jokes, complimenting your partner at least twice and buying them three drinks.
Telling at least two funny anecdotes, giving them two hugs and asking for a second date no more than twice were other nuggets of wisdom from those surveyed. You should also wink at them at least once – and take a selfie together. But the most important things to do on a first date are to be on time, be a good listener and avoid talking about your ex. Only one in 10 think it’s inappropriate to kiss on a first date, with 81 per cent ready to go in for the smooch when the time is right.
Alexis Peppis, from Tiqets, added: “Even the healthiest relationship can get boring if you don’t mix it up with new experiences. “Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to show what you find interesting to a date – we make it easy to find the cultural activities that will appeal the most to you and your date. “More and more couples are playing tourist in their own city as a way to get a new perspective and appreciation for their hometown – or jaunting off on weekend trips to keep the spark alive.”
“Whether couples plan these romantic rendezvous in advance or at the last minute, they can find tickets to skip-the-line at cultural attractions on Tiqets, since everyone knows waiting in line isn’t romantic.”
If you’re struggling for inspiration for your Valentine’s date, visit www.tiqets.com/en/
TOP 10 DAYTIME DATES
A walk in a park or botanical garden
The zoo
A river or canal cruise
A modern culture attraction such as the Empire State Building or Warner Bros studio tour
A historical attraction
Amusement or water park
Boat ride
A castle or palace
Aquarium
Art/Music museum
TOP 10 PLACES TO PROPOSE
Central Park
Eiffel Tower
Niagara Falls
Gondola in Venice
London Eye
Empire State building
Canal cruise in Amsterdam
Seine River Cruise
The Colosseum
Windsor Castle
