Author: Sari Ghamar
Who would have thought that now, in the year 2020, we’d be reading an excerpt with this title? As crazy as it may seem, this is the reality we are living in. Coronavirus is all we hear about now; in the news, in conversation with friends, and on social media sites. The majority of what we’re hearing is inevitably bad news. Covid-19 has thrown our lives, in almost every way possible, for a loop. Although, when it comes to dating, can we utilize our time in quarantine as a means for exploration, self-realization, and improvement?
I’d like to argue that yes, we certainly can! I’d even make the jump to say that now is a great time to put ourselves out there (virtually, of course) to meet future romantic partners. A first date in quarantine could lead to a lifelong number of dates in “real life.” Look at it this way, we aren’t able to go out to parties, to bars, or to networking events where we meet someone and jump into a relationship right away. Now, we’re able to have several date nights within the comfort of our own homes while also getting to know someone the “old-fashioned” way. Try to keep an open mind when it comes to dating in the era of Coronavirus. Who knows? With an open mind, you might be able to meet someone great.
Why don’t we think of several first date ideas that would work during the quarantine?
1. A Date on Zoom or FaceTime.
Nothing says date night like a nice meal with a cocktail and great conversation. Why not do this over video chat? You and your date can order the same type of food, prepare the same cocktails, and enjoy them while on video chat. The key ingredients of a perfect date are still there along with a level of creativity as it will be taking place in your own home!
2. Netflix Party.
The new feature on Netflix allows you and friends to watch a show or a movie at the same time with a chat extension. You and your date can both log on, enjoy a movie, and make conversation while watching! This will enable discourse on the content of the show or movie while also allowing you to figure out each other’s interests.
3. Virtual Wine Tastings.
Bring the vineyards into your living rooms! You and your date can order a selection of wines, make up your own charcuterie boards, and get on a video chat. You’ll be able to see each other while tasting the wines and discussing your most and least favorites. Maybe you’ll share the same favorite and can look forward to enjoying a bottle together once quarantine ends.
4. Game Night.
Several sites are offering online board games and trivia games. Simply log on with your date and get to playing. This could add some flirty competition. Maybe you’ll get extra invested and video chat while playing the games too.
5. Online Workouts.
We all know that working out at home is not the same as going to the gym. What we can do, though, is try to add some excitement into keeping fit during the pandemic. Find your favorite online workout, share it with your date, and start exercising together.
6. Take an Online Class.
Several universities are offering free, or discounted, classes online. Why not incorporate some self-improvement while dating? You and your date can enroll in the same course. You two can study together, discuss course content, and learn something new! This might feel like being back in school and having a crush on a classmate.
7. Book Club.
Find a book you’ve been interested in diving into! You and your date can begin reading at the same time and then schedule times to discuss the book. Maybe you can get on a call or video chat once a week to go over what’s going on in the book. This way you can keep connected while also having something to talk about!
8. Preparing Dinner.
You and your date can agree upon what kind of meal you’d both like to make and on one of your essential trips to the grocery store, grab the needed ingredients. Plant your phone or laptop in the kitchen and video chat while you both make the same meal! See how it turns out when you eat them at the same time.
9. Dance Party.
No matter the time, music always helps. Create a playlist with your favorite songs to hear in a club. Share it with your date, jump on a video call, get loose, and dance away! This will be a lighthearted date that will allow you to get goofy.
10. Draw Each Other.
This may sound silly but trust me, it can be fun and hilarious. Get on a video call and put your artistic skills to the test. Try drawing your date! This idea can also bring out some laughs, good-hearted fun, and a piece of art to keep.
Sites I used:
https://www.thelily.com/11-ideas-for-first-dates-during-coronavirus/
https://donyc.com/p/creative-date-ideas-in-the-age-of-coronavirus-quarantine
https://www.them.us/story/21-quarantine-virtual-first-date-ideas