Best and worst places to go on a first date

 Plan something you both can enjoy. The first date is for having fun and getting to know each other. Offer your date a choice. This allows you to see what they like or don’t like and allows them to pick what they would be more comfortable with doing.

Good dates are usually ones where you can focus on fun and each other. Good date destinations allow you to move away from problem areas and you’re not confined to one spot.

Bad dates are ones that don't allow conversation, where the attention is off yourselves or the fun is dependent on an outside force (eg. your team winning the footy).  Allow room for escape. If a date isn’t going as planned, you need to have a back up plan or way out. A good date plan eliminates risks like drunk people spoiling your time or screaming children in the background.

Quick Connections' pick for the 3 BEST places to go on a first date

1. Picnic in a park - this requires a bit of planning, which will more often than not impress your date. Make the lunch (find out if your date has any allergies or food preferences), and bring a blanket. This is a great opportunity for guys to show off their culinary skills if they have some. If not, just bring a bottle of wine, cheese and crackers, or even better just pick up some chicken and salad. 

2. Kite flying - stop by any toy store and pick up a kite and go on a kite date. Head for your local park, beach, or any wide open space. Kites are not just for kids. It's a fun experience for all ages and it's kind of romantic. So, get your date and go fly a kite. 

3. Free outdoor or in the park concerts - these can be a great first date. You’re not committed to staying in your seat because of ticket price, allowing you to go to a quieter spot if you wish to talk with the music as background ambiance. Yet, still feeling like you are in a public space where you and your date will feel safe.

Other great date suggestions:

• Carnivals and amusement parks
• A zoo or botanic garden
• A nature hike - nothing too challenging!
• Bowling, golf, or other light sports
• Festivals
• Comedy clubs

What are the 3 WORST places to go on a 1st date?

1. Movies/theatre shows - you should generally avoid anything with tickets as a first date when you’re taking someone out for the first time. 1. Because you can’t chat and get to know each other and; 2. if you realise you don’t like the person, you’ll be stuck with them at the event for at least two hours and then after the show as well. Save the theatre,  movie or sporting event for another date. 

2. Family functions - you don’t want your date to know too many personal things about you including where your family lives just yet. Also, it’s pretty full-on to subject someone you hardly know to meet your family straight off the bat. If you want to go out with them again, steer clear of family do’s. 

3. The local bar or pub - because it’s “local” you may run into people either of you know. This interruption will interfere with your time together, and may even have negative effects if either of you are asked about a former partner. At any local hang out it is easy for these other acquaintances to start up small talk, thus pulling you away from each other.

Other places to avoid on a first date

• Nightclubs, Bar or Rock Concerts 
• Romantic movie 
• The Beach 
• Public Swimming Pool 
• Museums
• Expensive Restaurants 
• A Non-Traditional Restaurant 

Click here to find out the best ways to counter those first date nerves!