Cheap Date Ideas for Lovers in this Economy

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr.
Copy Editor

With the economy tanking and gas prices fluctuating wildly, I've had to change my spending habits drastically. I've stopped trying to get the best seats at concerts and sporting events (I'm OK with nosebleed), and I've turned my weekly dinners with friends into less frequent occasions. Unfortunately, those aren't the only things affected by this grim Wall Street situation: My dating life has also changed.

No, getting dates isn't the problem -- finding the money for dates is the dilemma. A dinner date can cost me more than $50, while a movie date can cost about $40 when you factor in the overpriced concessions. Drastic times call for drastic measures, so I've been forced to get a little more creative in terms of dating and stretching my paycheck. Luckily, there are ways to have fun without spending a lot -- or any -- money. Here are some inexpensive ideas I've tried out that'll get your partner to swoon (results may vary):

Cooking:
If you've had to tighten your budget for eating out, opt for a meal at home. Not only will you be able to show off your culinary skills (or lack thereof), but you'll also get some major brownie points for the effort; there's no skill in ordering off a menu.

Get some recipes online (the eDiets Recipe Club has some great ones), get some ingredients and get cooking. Ultimately, it's cheaper than going to a restaurant and you have full control in setting the mood -- cheesy background music and all.

Movie Night:
Instead of going to the theater, rent a movie and stay home. Granted, you won't see the latest flicks, but it's a good way to catch up on classics and semi-new releases. Aside from saving money, you can also save calories by buying air-popped popcorn; it's healthier than its microwavable (and more buttery) cousin. Plus, this is a prime opportunity for cuddling; there aren't any obstructive arm rests to stop you.

Wine Tastings:
Depending on where you live, local restaurants and wineries may offer wine tastings. Many of them are either free or relatively inexpensive; $15 is the most expensive I've seen. You'll get to sample wines from all over the world and pair them up with appetizers (aka tapas). And we all know that a glass of red wine (or two) can do your heart some good. Call your favorite restaurant or visit www.localwineevents.com for more information.

Sex:
Need I say more?

What other inexpensive date ideas do you have? What has someone special done for you? Share your ideas below by leaving a comment.
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JACQUES' Two Cents:

Called an old friend earlier. He and his wife live in the beautiful Paciic Northwest. He said that, in spite of the economy crunch, he takes her out to eat a couple or three times a week.

He takes her to COSTCO and walks her up and down the isles tasting all the free samples offered by food demonstrators on those little tables...and they even manage to sip on some liquid refreshments offered for tasting...

Next, he drives her over to the Drug store...and to the greeting cards section... picks out a real nice one...hands it to her to read...and then puts it back on the shelf...LOL

Now THAT's what I call a Cheap Date! :o)