Being in a long-distance relationship is difficult as it is, especially when you're miles away from your partner.
But with some creativity, you can still go on dates to keep your relationship fresh. From sharing a virtual cup of coffee with your partner to watching movies together online, there are ways to make it work.
So, are you ready to give it a try? Check out these virtual date ideas for inspiration.
1. Sign Up for Virtual Cooking Classes
Cooking and romance go hand-in-hand. First of all, cooking together gives you the chance to spend quality time with your partner, which may lead to better communication.
Second, it's a great way to have fun.
You'll get to pick the ingredients together, divide the work, and help each other out. This experience can also reveal new things about your partner and give you an idea of what it would be like to live together.
In today's digital era, distance isn't a problem anymore. If you love everything food-related, you can always sign up for virtual cooking classes—and ask your partner to do the same. Think of it as an opportunity to learn something new and have fun together.
Sur La Table, for example, offers live online cooking classes via Zoom. Most classes are 90 to 120 minutes long and start at $29. Participants get the chance to prepare and cook gourmet dishes, from summer fruit galette to steak and grilled seafood with homemade pasta.
You may also want to check out Airbnb Experiences. This could be a fantastic opportunity for those looking to cook gourmet meals with a regional twist. The best part is, you'll learn the story behind every dish and cook with the locals via Zoom.
Once you're done cooking, you can eat "together" with your partner on Facetime, Skype, or other video messaging platforms.
2. Plan a Virtual Movie Night
Who says you need to be in the same room with your partner to watch a movie and eat snacks? You can just use Scener, Kast, or Teleparty to plan virtual movie nights.
Teleparty, for example, is a free app for watching TV and movies remotely. All you need to do is to install a browser extension in Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, pick a streaming platform, and select any movie or TV show you'd like to watch with your partner.
Share the movie party URL with your significant other to enjoy this experience together. Currently, the platform allows users to stream content from Netflix, Hulu, Hulu+, HBO Now, HBO Max, and Disney+ on their desktop or laptop computers.
3. Play Online Games
When it comes to virtual date ideas, few things can beat a game night. Playing online games together can bring you closer to your partner while creating healthy competition. On top of that, it allows both of you to indulge in a fun challenge and break the routine.
Ideally, look for video games that support video calling. If your favorite game lacks this feature, use Discord to voice-chat while playing. This free app is compatible with Linux, Mac, Windows, Android, and iOS devices.
As far as the game selection goes, there are thousands of options available.
Let's Roam, for example, features over 15 types of games, including trivia, pop culture games, and board games with built-in video chat. Users can enjoy an unlimited number of virtual game nights for a $19.99 monthly fee.
Another option worth checking out is Houseparty, a social networking app. Simply register for an account and then click on the dice icon to play games online with your partner.
You can even invite your friends to join the competition, as the app allows up to eight users to video chat at once. This service is free and works on all devices.
4. Take Virtual Tours of World-Famous Museums
Many couples who are in a long-distance relationship aren't able to visit art galleries and museums together. The good news is that you and your partner can take virtual tours of world-famous museums from home. This experience will not only bring you closer but also expand your horizons.
Depending on your preferences, you can tour the British Museum, the Louvre, the Dalí Theatre-Museum, or the Vatican Museums. The British Museum in London, for instance, provides virtual access to hundreds of artifacts from different cultures and periods, with the earliest ones dating back to 2000 A.D.
If you're passionate about natural history, take your partner on a virtual tour of the Smithsonian National Museum. The tours are organized by category, including current, past, and permanent exhibits, and cover the entire grounds.
5. Attend Online Concerts
Seeing your favorite artists live is a terrific experience that you want to share with the one you love. Unfortunately, that's always an option.
With more and more artists live streaming their concerts, it's easier than ever to view a virtual concert. You just need to know where to find them.
For starters, head over to Songkick to discover the best live stream performances from around the world. Simply click on the name of your favorite band or artist and then join the live stream.
If you're into classical music, you can attend classical concerts and operas right from your couch. Classic FM features a long list of upcoming events being streamed online. Most of them are free and can be accessed with just a few clicks.
Take Virtual Dating to the Next Level
As you can see, there's no reason to stop having fun with your partner just because you're miles apart. These virtual date ideas can serve as a bonding experience and make your relationship stronger.
Whether you're into movies, video games, art, or concerts, you can plan a memorable date without leaving home. The key is to think outside the box. Try to see it as a way to escape the routine and try something new with your significant other, no matter the distance.
