Travelling with your partner can be the best thing to do in your life.
Sometimes though, we are travelling so intensely that although we enjoy being around each other, we forget to be with each other. We are too busy oohing and aahing at beautiful locations to be romantic with our partners. This can especially be the case with long-term travelling. It’s not as romantic as people tend to think. Not everything will feel like magic all of the time. Not everywhere feels like Paris, after all. Although I have also written about cheap and quirky things to do in Paris.
But it can do! It’s important to take the time to keep having romantic dates whilst travelling. Take the time to slow down and have dates together, to focus on your relationship instead of the travel aspect. It will make you stronger and so make the travelling even more fun! Here are some romantic date ideas to use whilst travelling long-term:
1. Visit a book store
Go to a bookstore and browse together. Dane and I love visiting bookstores all around the world, and seeing how similar yet different they all are. Pick out a book for your partner and buy it to surprise each other. Don’t show them it before you buy it! Go off on your little mission. Or buy the same book to read together.
It’s also a lot of fun to find a bookstore in the first place! Somewhere new and vibrant, or an old dusty one? Wander between the intimate narrow bookcases, whispering to each other. It’s great to keep this collection of books for home to put on your bookcase too.
It’s a creative idea to fill your house with wonderful memories. Some people like collecting cookbooks from different countries in that language, for example. Build an eclectic collection.
2. Find the local library
Now stay with me on this one! Visit a library – there are always interesting and unique libraries to visit. There’s something about quietly meandering through the long isles together, hand-in-hand, that’s romantic.
One thing Dane and I like to do is find a dictionary and then pick a random page and word. Read the description out loud and have them guess the word. Whisper, and keep your giggles quiet! Get cosy and close together in a corner of the library to feel the romance.
3. Find a quirky cafe
Go from cafe to cafe trying the specialty drinks of that country. This is a fantastic time to take some time out from the sometimes hectic lifestyle of travelling; instead of running around everywhere, take the time to stroll through the streets, and sit in the cafes. Engage with each other and have conversations over your hot (or cold!) cup of coffee.
Another idea is to book afternoon tea. Dress up a little fancier for this one, and make it a special date.
4. Explore a market
They are bound to be different than the ones you are used to. So take the opportunity to try the food and drink, see the souvenirs, and discover how the locals shop. A lot of markets have restaurants too so take the opportunity to sit down and try the local food. Learn about the different fruits and vegetables, and try them. Maybe there’s some nice art or jewelry that takes your fancy?
Markets are busy and vibrant places, full of life which will seep into your heart and make you smile.
5. Go out and dance!
A further easy romantic date idea for travelling long term is dancing. Find a bar with local music and dancing, and grab your partner for a dance. In Mexico, for example, every evening there would be groups of people dancing salsa and swing. All you have to do is join in. They would even teach you.
On a balmy night, it’s romantic to learn how to dance with your partner and be close. It’s also sexy and I’m sure you will both appreciate it! Even if you’re not good dancers it’s sure to make you laugh. There are so many positive effects to dancing that can be read here.
6. Have a spa day
Grab some wine, face masks, and body oil for your hotel room. If you have some snacks, even better. Spend the evening drinking wine, giving each other back rubs, and focusing on each other. We have to remember to come back to each other after a busy day exploring and being on our feet all day. That way you will be refreshed for the next day to explore all over again.
If you’re staying in a hostel, it wouldn’t even look weird wearing face masks in a shared dorm. We’ve all seen weirder things in dorm rooms, let’s be honest.
7. Find a good place to watch the sunset
Put your phones and cameras away, and just be in the moment together. Google, where is a nice spot nearby? Take a picnic and a blanket, and get there nice and early to get a worthwhile spot. Speak to the locals about this one too, they might have some helpful tips.
If you’ve been staying in this location for a while you may have even found your secret sunset spot. It’s your place to have a special moment together.
8. Find a workshop to do together
Extra points if it’s something that the town/country is known for. It’s a great activity to experience whilst travelling and can make a pretty romantic date. Perhaps a workshop for glass blowing, painting, or wine tasting? Even the timeless classic of pottery. In big cities, there’s usually something to suit both of your interests.
9. Recreate your favourite romantic movie scenes
For the movie (or TV) buffs, how about finding filming locations for your favourite shows and movies? Do a silly and creative photoshoot together. Or even make a romantic photoshoot for yourselves if you find a beautifully unique location whilst travelling. The photos can be used to make a collage when you get back home.
Don't forget to have fun with these romantic ideas when travelling long-term
These easy romantic date ideas when travelling long term can be done on a low budget too so there’s no need to feel like you have to spend a lot of money. I’ve also written articles on cheap things to do in Athens and how to visit Athens on a budget, for example. This means you can keep having more and more dates together and keep the romance alive! Please feel free to make it your own, as every couple is different. Add them to your bucket list for the future. (Read here on how to create a bucket list). Do you have any good ideas? I would love to know!
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