Dating and Relationship Tips Learned From Salsa Dancing

Lately, I've been getting quite engaged with Salsa dancing. Why? Salsa dancing is fun, good exercise, healthy, and challenging! Second, I love the music. Cuban, Cha-Cha, Afro music is fun to dance to. I've lost 12 pounds in 6 weeks since embarking on my recent classes Salsa dancing, so it is also a good workout!

There is another benefit to Salsa dancing: gaining a better understanding of dating and relationships. By dancing Salsa, you can learn more about how to relate with the opposite sex, how to be a "healthy" partner, how to be a stronger man, and how to be a more complete woman.

This past year, a member of CPSalsa.com sent me the following list of dancing tips for Salsa dancers: "I'm sure that most of you have heard of the saying that ignorance is bliss. Therefore, by inference, the less I know, the happier I am. Of course, in the salsa dancing world this is pure rubbish. You may be happy, but your dancing partner may be secretly formulating a plan to gouge out your eyeballs. To avoid this situation, you absolutely need to know what works and what doesn't on the dance floor. As G.I. Joe proclaims, "Knowing is half the battle".

So in your battle to become that salsa stud or salsa diva on the dance floor, I managed to gather up a list of dance floor pet peeves and other things people actually love about their dance partner for your reading pleasure. These are in no particular order.

Dancing Pet Peeves

1. Not looking at your partner or holding eye contact while dancing. In other words, you're easily distracted.
2. Not dancing to the level of your partner. In other words, you're a showoff.
3. Bad breath. Come on people, we sell mints for crying out loud!
4. Really sweaty shirts. This one's subjective but it's always a good idea to keep an extra set of clothes handy.
5. Loose arms. This one's for the ladies. They call it spaghetti arms for a reason.
6. Ladies who come to a dance, but don't dance. I'm still trying to figure this one out.
7. Instructors who don't dance with beginners. Those spoiled instructors.
8. Couples who invade another couple's dance area. Not cool man!
9. Followers who apologize too much.
10. A guy who dances with the same lady more than twice in a row.
11. Too strong of a lead. Guys: Know thy strength.
12. Guys who think they are Salsa Heaven's gift to women. Guess what? You're not.

Alright, so let's not dwell too much on the negative. I'm sure you get the picture. Essentially, don't be an easily distracted showoff with bad breath and you should be fine. Now , let's dive into what people love about their partners.

I really love it when my dance partner....

1. Makes conversation with me.
2. Protects me on the dance floor.
3. Does simple but elegant moves.
4. Has engaging eyes.
5. Isn't easily distracted by other happenings on the dance floor.
6. Doesn't correct me on the dance floor.
7. Smells good.
8. Leads gently.
9. Thanks me after the dance.
10. Looks like she's having fun.
11. Makes me feel like I'm the best dancer on the floor.
12. Admits to their own mistakes and doesn't fault their partner.
13. Does shines and arm styling.
14. Encourages me.
15. Twirls me a lot.
16. Patient and helpful with a smile
17. Is confident.
18. Asks me to dance and isn't a wallflower.
19. Smiles through perspiration.

So, what can we learn from this list, as dancing might improve our dating and relationships?

Dating and relationship qualities features I noticed include:

• Confident: Confidence is sexy in men AND women. Know what you want to do, why you want to do it, and approach it with inner strength.
  
• Good eye contact: The eyes have it - we can always improve our dating and relationships by using "engaging eye contact" and not letting our eyeballs strain to other people, events, or distractions. Be present with your eyes, and you'll improve your relationships.
  
• Men - protect your women: Women like strong men because they enjoy being protected. This doesn't mean being a jerk to other people, just protect your partner's space. In addition, don't invade other people's space. This could go for people who cheat with their partner's friends, family members, or associates. Don't do it!
  
• Women - engage your men: show up, be excited, invite him, and respond to his requests. Be involved with style: Show-up, get involved, be simple, elegant, and restrained (no need to show off).
  
• Deal with mistakes politely: Correct in private, praise in public. Good advice from Dale Carnegie applies everywhere! Admitting to mistakes easily without blame is a good policy for dating and relationships, too. Have patience with each other and encourage when you experience something good together.
  
• Have fun: Twirls? I relate this to having fun. How often do you take your woman out and keep her active? Have fun with each other, surprise each other, make love often, kiss each other, and let your partner shine. Have fun and act like you're having fun. Have you ever been around someone who forgets to laugh, shake their hips a little, and greet you in a happy way? Remember to do this dancing AND in relationships!
  
• Be a good conversationalist: I've always felt there is a natural lead and follow in conversation, much like in dancing. Be open to your partner's thoughts and ideas and you'll have better relationships. Be encouraging, open, supportive.
  
• Look good, smell good: Practice good hygiene and nice dress. These things are basics but you'd be surprised how many people date looking like a slob or let themselves go in relationship. If you're finding yourself in sweats together hanging out on the couch, dress up, get out, and do something fun together! If you have bad breath, do something about it...maintain good hygiene and you'll likely keep your partner interested.
  
• Smile and be nice even through adversity: You'll notice from the dancing tips they suggest to smile through perspiration. Even when things are tough, don't stress on each other, keep it light, keep it fun, keep smiling and loving each other.
  
• Make each other feel special: Both men and women must make each other feel special. Men ought to make their woman feel like she's the only woman that matters to him, and women must act as their man is someone they enjoy and have fun with, as well as encouraging him.
  
• Show gratitude: Are you showing gratitude? Do you say "thank you" and write thank you notes frequently? Gratitude is a way of showing appreciation. Say thank you. Show you are into it, and initiate on your own, too.

As you see, you can improve your dating and relationship success by dancing Salsa (and probably West-Coast Swing, Argentine Tango, Rumba, Ballroom, East-Coast Swing, Night Club 2-Step, and other dancing styles). Use what you learn about dancing to gain insights into how to relate with the opposite sex, how to be a "healthy" partner, how to be a more dynamic, confident, and fun person to be with.

Use these tips in your own dating and relationships to increase your success with love and happiness.
______________________________

Want to learn more about Salsa Dancing? (Read on!)

Salsa can even be fun for kids to improve their interdynamic relationships. You'll notice all the fun group interaction when you check this out:



This is where salsa usually starts:




This is how partner dance moves develop:

Aren't these instructors awesome?



Notice the fun dynamic happening with the dancers in this group class:



And this is where you might end up if you get totally into it:



The Pros make it look so easy!



If you think you can't spin fast, watch these two:


As you can see, this can get a little crazy. I'm just starting with the basics and having fun with it.
_______________________________________________________

Copyright © 2008 AspireNow and CPSalsa.com. All rights reserved. Want more? Subscribe to the A-Blog.

What Women Want

What Do Women Really Want?


Really! What DO women want? Isn't this one of the most challenging questions of all time? We thought "what men want" was difficult, but this is even harder.


The epic struggle of mankind to figure out the inner workings of women is ages old. Even Sigmund Freud, the master of modern psychology, died trying to figure out women. It isn't easy.


I had a friend once joke with me that "men mostly want sex, woman want the right to be hypocritical, yet call men on their inconsistencies." Yikes. No wonder men and women have struggles getting along!


One reason why understanding women isn't such an easy thing is because the ways women process thoughts and emotions are drastically different than their male counterparts' ways of processing.


Key difference between men and women: I've reviewed many studies that indicate women use emotion to process thought as their basis for decision making 30% more than men do.* As such, women are also known for being more intuitive than men. This is not exactly true, as men use intuition in different ways, and have different ways of communicating. Nevertheless, men tend to bond through shared activities, whereas women bond through sharing thoughts and feelings.


I've noticed that a woman will want to tell every little nuance of a story, where their male counterpart might be feeling like, "ok, what's the point?" A man typically seeks a solution to the problem, as if the story was a problem. Or, he's looking for a way to suggest something to help his woman improve, which is based upon competitive thinking (how men relate in conversation is much more competitive). In fact, a woman often is just relating this story to SHARE with him; there isn't anything competitive about it.


So what do women really want in a man?


The top 6 things women want FROM MEN, in order, are:
1. Confidence (or Power)
2. Sense of humor (Fun)
3. Money or the things money can buy (Security)
4. Looks (Protection and Attraction)
5. A little bit of "Bad boy" qualities (Mysterious and Independent/Strong)
6. All the other stuff they typically list (varies - sensitive, caring, etc.)


However, in interviewing countless women, and receiving numerous pointers from women (after all, I AM a MAN!) I must say that there is an expanded list for us guys to get familiar with, according to women. So, what is the expanded list? Men can get what they want from women much more frequently when they approach women with a few simple - yet effective - guidelines:


1. Women want a man to be confident! Confidence is the number one quality women look for. Don't be wimpy. Don't apologize for everything. Be real. Be you.


2. Women want a man who makes her feel like she's the only one. Women go nuts over a man who will go the extra mile. For example, he opens the door for her, he walks on the right side of the street, he helps her shop. I'm talking about being a GENTLEMAN! If she is cold, offer her your jacket. If she is in trouble, protect her. If there is danger, put your arm around her. Be a real man.


3. Women want a man with a sense of humor. A woman will almost always love a man who can make her laugh. If you are dull, you are boring. If you make a woman laugh, you're halfway home. Take a chance, be real, but be funny. There are several seduction experts who claim that being "cocky" and "funny" are the two most important qualities to attracting a woman. I agree.


4. Women want a man to listen to them (yes, even to the gripes and details of all the craziness) and not necessarily give advice. Many women love to complain about their problems; however, they complain not to receive advice, but merely to sound off. I know it's hard to nod and be supportive, because you want to watch ESPN or do something that to you may seem more exciting, but the fact is, your woman will go to the ends of the earth to love you when you truly listen to them and acknowledge their needs. You need to understand that women need to VENT. Allow her this, and she'll allow you in. Nod. Get involved and provide active listening feedback. Be truly interested in what she is saying without worrying about what you're going to say next. Then, watch what happens as your woman opens up to you more.


Women want men to listen to them, because they have a need to be heard. And, women want their man to express his feelings and trust her with his intimate side. Real listening, with real intimacy, is rare. Real listening is suspending thinking about what to say and being deeply engaged in what she is talking about. Listening requires actively paying attention -- shutting off the chatter mind.


5. Women want to be treated like they are the sexiest woman on the planet and that no other woman compares. Talking about your ex-girlfriends is not going to score big points with your new woman. Treating her like she's the ONLY one will make her smile for quite a while.


6. Women want to know you will be faithful. Don't tell a woman how you cheated on your ex. It won't make her think you are wise, loyal, or trustworthy. I'm not saying to lie to her -- just don't go there. Don't cheat on your woman. She will not think you are a better man for doing this. Just like you want think you are the only man she's ever loved, well, that's the thing she wants, too.



The key to faithfulness comes from your own inner character. Be a man of character and you will reap a relationship built upon trust. You gain respect through consistent committed action. Respect backed up by love builds trust, trust builds a strong relationship that can stand the tests of life and time.


7. Women SAY they want a sensitive man. Truth is, if you go around apologizing all the time and crying frequently then a woman will abuse you. Trust me, it is NOT wise to do. This was well exemplified during the beach scene in the movie Bedazzled, where the main character in the film was trying to woo his love interest, his advice had been to "be more sensitive." Well, he went so overboard, was so sensitive, that his love interest ended up walking away with another dude with the assumption that they'd have meaningless conversation and casual sex! Boy was HE surprised! Being overly sensitive is a quick way to get shown the door. It is important to strike a balance. Be strong, be there, yet share your emotions. Speak up and be real. Let them know you care. But don't be a sissy.


Women say they want to be treated like an equal. This is not true. Women want to be treated like a WOMAN. Not like a man. If she wanted to be with a woman, she'd do that. She wants to be with YOU. Therefore, be a MAN. This is not to be confused with being treated like a piece of property, not to be confused with being treated with disrespect. Women want to be respected! A woman wants to be respected for being feminine, being a woman. Women are quite different from men. A man who takes the time to understand the difference is a wise man. Bottom line here: NO MORE Mr. NICE GUY. Be a REAL MAN, not a sensitive NICE GUY. Because the nice guys usually do finish last.


You still don't get it? Ok, then try this: be your own bad self. I will say that some women are attracted to "Bad Boys". I think there is a certain ruggedness to the bad boy - they break rules, they sometimes behave rudely. But the true gentleman always remembers what matters most. Have an air of mystique, but definitely be you. If, on occasion, that means doing what you want, rather than what she wants, then do it. Just don't make a continual habit of it - that's rude.


8. Women LOVE a man with a plan. Women love men with ambition. Men who know who they are, what we're doing tonight, and what we're doing with our life. If you don't have a plan, get one. I have a plan (a) and plan (b) ready at all times, so that no matter what, it will appear I'm fairly spontaneous, but reality is I usually know where, when, and how the evening or date could go. In dating, it is extremely important that you have a plan when you ask a woman out. They will judge your sense of confidence by how well you have thought out where you will take her and what you will do together. So, think ahead, have a plan, then work that plan. While you're at it make sure you have an alternative plan, too, in case she doesn't like the first one!


It is equally important for a man to know when to call a woman's bluff and let her know when she is pushing his limits. A man who just falls over and laps at his woman's feet is a man who is called "whipped" for a reason. An example is as follows: she asks, "what do you want to do tonight," he says, "whatever you want to do." If this is his consistent pattern, he's whipped. She won't respect him in the end.


9. Don't be a tight-wad. Give the woman in your life gifts. Like the Chairman of the Board, Ol' Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra, used to say, "you gotta gift 'em." Well, I figure good enough for Frank, good enough for me. After all, Frank was a MASTER SWOONER. Guys, get this: Frank Sinatra went to Hollywood with a plan to take a lengthy list of top actresses in his movie studio to bed at some point during his career. As the story goes, he pretty much succeeded. Some women will frown when they read this - but guys, I know what you're thinking: "who did Frank get together with?" Well, how about Gina Lollobrigida and Ava Gardner, for starters (I believe it was Angie Dickinson who claimed to abstain). That's like saying Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry, and Charlize Theron to today's younger actor. So, maybe giving a gift once in a while isn't such a bad idea.



Just don't go broke trying to impress her! After all, Frank Sinatra also had a stellar voice, plenty of swagger, and loads of star power to go with his ability to buy a gift or two. Nevertheless, small gifts, especially gifts that show you were listening when she mentioned her favorite candy bar, or when she stopped at that jewelry counter to admire those earrings (but put them back without buying them), or how she commented on how she'd just love that dress in the window of that snazzy clothing store. Well, use your own imagination. But if you don't gift the woman in your life you'll probably be referred to by the woman you love as "cheapskate".


Now, "why," you ask, "do women care about gifts?" Good question. The answer is that one way women relate is through giving gifts - especially when you've paid attention to what they want. Women will gift exchange compliments with each other, too. So just trust me and surprise her with a gift every now and then and see if she doesn't respond favorably.


10. Be a true friend. LISTEN TO HER. Let her share her good times and problems with you. Be there, rather than just promising to be there. Consistent committed positive action is a definition of love. How do you show you are a friend? Are you there when it matters most? Are you there for the small stuff, too?


11. Women want to be loved, despite their flaws, and need to be satisfied mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as much as physically. Unconditional love would be ideal love. How can you love a woman without judgment, conditions, or rules? How would you like to be loved?


Sexually speaking, women define great sex differently than men, using words like soft candlelight, light touch, then becoming more aggressive as their mood rises to the occasion. A man, on the other hand, instantly rises to the occasion. Women want men to be their lover instead of obsessing over their body to just get sex. Rather than treat women as sex objects, treat them as someone to relate with; in other words, a real person! That means taking your time, showing extra attention, and being tender in ways with her to let her know she is special.


12. Women appreciate a man who is creative. Roses are nice. But sometimes it is extra special to think of something that most guys wouldn't do for a woman. It could be something frivolous, but if it is something that you think SHE would like, then why not do it? You might have just made her day.


13. Women want a sense of security, to know that her partner will be there if she becomes sick or when she grows old or flabby. Giving a woman security is being there through emotional and physical support. An example might be if she has to have surgery. Take the day off and be there for her, hold her hand, and give your full support to her. In other words, postpone that "tee time"! Security comes from trust. Again, this is about being able to rely in your strength of character.


Do you have a question relating to what women want?


Check out the AspireNow Advisor - solutions for only $29.95!


Are you a guy trying to figure out how to do better with women? Try this!
Learn The Art of Approaching Women. Any man CAN DO It!
Don't Break Up - Get A Plan To Get Your Ex Back Now
Rebel psychiatrist reveals how to: Get anyone to "say yes" to you.
Burn The Fat, Feed The Muscle
Want To Lose Weight Now? Try Weight Loss 4 Idiots... Learn More Here
Guy Gets Girl. Learn Why Here.
Get 3,000 TV Stations for just $49.95


Visit AspireNow's Smooth Sailing to learn more about building love in relationships.
_______________________________________________________

This article is written by Scott Andrews, Founder of AspireNow. Copyright 2007. All rights reserved.

You may republish this article only AS A COMPLETE WHOLE with ENTIRE LINKS and copyright messages attached. All rights reserved. To read more articles like this, subscribe to the A-Blog.

31 Fun Dating Ideas

Ever get stumped with "Honey, what do you want to do tonight?" when you're planning on a night out with your partner or a new date?

Whether you're a couple of single looking for fun dating ideas, this article may be handy for you. I've put together a list of 31 Fun Dating Ideas that will make it easier for you the next time you're stumped and trying to find something enjoyable to do. Some of these will be expensive, others will cost you hardly anything. But the main focus, from my perspective, was to make sure they sounded FUN.

Here's the initial list.

31 Fun Dating Ideas:

1. Walk on the beach. When polled as to their favorite and most romantic first date, a vast majority of people said a walk on the beach. This is great if you live NEAR a beach. If you don't, consider a walk in the park, a walk by a stream or lake, or other romantic water setting that enables you to get exercise in nature, along with a chance to get to know each other better. Popularity: 10. Fun Factor: 8. Cost: free. The expanded version of this is to take a portable fire pit and roast marshmallows around the fire after you watch the sunset over a glass of wine. That's a little more elaborate but adds to the fun factor if you have the time.


2. Cup 'o Joe. This may not seem like a date to some people, but sometimes, if you only have 30 - 60 minutes, a brief meeting over coffee, tea, or other beverage in a nice coffee house can be a nice setting where you can better get to know each other and determine what you have in common. For couples who've been together for a while, a cup of coffee gives you a chance to reconnect. Popularity: 9. Fun Factor: 3. Cost: less than $10



3. Cozy up to a fire. Nothing like snuggling up in front of a fireplace with a glass of wine together. Watch the sparks and share stories from fireside sessions before. Popularity: 6. Fun Factor: 7. Cost: Free (or a bundle of wood and some matches).
   


4. Comedy club. While it costs a little to go out to a comedy club, laughing together at silly or funny comedians is always a fun date. Popularity: 9. Fun Factor: 9. Cost: $30 - 50.
   


5. Be a tourist in your old home town. I did this last summer on a vacation back to San Francisco. My girlfriend and I took turns taking pictures of all sorts in popular spots, like museums, restaurants, and other landmarks. The whole idea was to pretend we were a tourist and capture "moments" from our vacation on film. I've never had so much fun taking pictures, and our photos from that trip are still my favorite. This is more fun if you're in a larger city than a small town, but you can find "spots" for photos in either. Popularity: 9. Fun Factor: 9. Cost: a couple rolls of film (or free if you've gone digital)
   


6. Treasure Hunt. This requires some advanced planning. But, if you have a little money, and a day of time for preparation, you can have a ton of fun taking photos of your partner as they "discover" all the clues you've left them. It can be as simple as a backyard hunt or as elaborate as cross-town clue-chasing. It's all up to you. Popularity: 9/5 (it takes work and imagination on one party to entertain the other one) Fun Factor: 9/5. Cost: Varies.
   


7. Finger Painting. I know, it sounds juvenile. I got this idea when a friend of mine hosted a "bring your own spray paint" party at his art gallery. At the part, he left out his acrylic paints and a huge canvas. See this, I started to work on my own masterpiece. I noticed this was fun as a group activity, too. I hadn't painted since Junior High, so it was a blast for me! Acrylics can be expensive, so you might want to start with finger paints. And who knows? If all goes well, you may soon be getting creative with your own engagement rings and create rings as unique as your bond. Popularity: 7 (some dig, some don't). Fun Factor: 7. Cost: $25 - 30.
   


8. Board Games. In the early years of dating my ex-wife, my sister and her husband used to get together with us and we'd play card games or pictionary. It's a lot more fun if your partner can draw or guess what you drew. Popularity: 6. Fun Factor: 6. Cost: $20 (just for the first time you buy the game). After that, it's free!
   


9. Virtual Reality Exploration. Try a go at SECOND LIFE. I found two new friends the first time I signed up, and one friend led me on a journey to find a coke machine (dispensed free coke to my avatar), a hover board, roller skates, and new dance moves. It made it more fun that just wandering around looking at billboards for clothing. Popularity: 6. Fun Factor: 5. Cost: Free if you own a modern computer and an Internet connection.
   


10. Road Trip. The weekend road trips can be very fun. I love adventuring through nearby forests, finding streams and rivers, and then getting out of the car for a hike in nature. It's enjoyable, you learn from each other while on the road, and the only cost is the gas to get there. Popularity: 9. Fun Factor: 6 - 10 depending. Cost: Usually just gas.
    


11. Shopping. Some guys hate this. But women usually enjoy it. Just make sure you set-up rules. Go to two stores that he chooses (can even be Home Depot) and two stores for her (can even be Victoria's Secret). I know, I just stereotyped, but, use your own judgement for your guidelines. Help each other buy things and pick out ideas for an "ideal house" or imagine you're dressing a mutual friend. That can get crazy! The key is to make sure it is fun for both of you. Popularity: 5/10. Fun Factor: 7. Cost: Varies.
    


12. Go Dancing. Okay, it's easy to say "let's go dancing" but you'd be surprised how many local dance studios offer "drop-in" dance lessons. Always start with the basics, then work your way up if you enjoy it. I find Swing and Salsa both highly enjoyable. If your toes get a little bruised, find a video store that rents classic movies and pick up Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers in the classic, "Top Hat" which has terrific dancing to make up for your sore toes. Oh - and a toe massage may be in order. Popularity: 7. Fun Factor: 8. Cost: $10 per person typically.



13. Backyard Camping. I've never done this, but I read about it. Some kids love it. Some adults enjoy it, too. Camping in your backyard to me sounds like an experience of dog-barking, slobber, ants, and lack of a view. If your own backyard offers a better experience, you might try it. Popularity: 5. Fun Factor: 5. Cost: Free if you own a tent. BETTER: REAL Camping. It requires going to a campground, but there's something to be said to get out of the typical routine of life and spend a couple of nights around a campfire under the stars. Keep the meals simple (or better yet, pre-cooked), pick some place closer to home, and it won't be as much work. Popularity: 8. Fun Factor: 8. Cost: $20 - 50 a night, in many campgrounds.



14. Jam session. Try learning to play an instrument together. It helps if you have a "how-to" guide and a decent instrument. This one will be more popular with musicians than non-musicians, but it's fun for a while for more people. If you already own instruments, try switching off or learning a song or two together and pretend you're starting a band. Popularity: 6. Fun Factor: 7. Cost: Varies.
    


15. Imaginary People. Go someplace new together and use different names, different occupations, and make up a story for your past. This can get interesting, as you'll find out how your partner weaves you into their imaginary story! I've seen this in two movies, and in both cases, it was pretty funny. The first was in Mad About You, where Paul and Jamie were on a cruise ship together. It helps if you're at a potluck, mixer, or other place where interaction is EXPECTED of you. Only problem: Paul picked a doctor (bad idea, think about it). The same thing happened in a movie with Sandra Bullock and Ben Affleck in the movie, Forces of Nature. Popularity: 9. Fun Factor: 9. Cost: Free/depends on where you go.
    


16. Art Museum. This might sound boring to some people, but I've always found art museums interesting. My brother, an artist, taught me a fun game you can play when viewing art. Pick your favorite piece in a room, then explain why it is your favorite, and how it moves you. You will find yourself challenges to explain and understand your feelings, as well as motivations for choosing each piece of art. Popularity: 6. Fun Factor: 6. Cost: $10 or less.
    


17. Come Fly With Me! There are several versions of this date. One goofy one is fly rubber band airplanes in a park. Play songs about flying, like Red Hot Chili Peppers Aeroplane, or Frank Sinatra's "Come Fly With Me" while you're driving there. Make it a fun theme! I did this in high school and it was a blast. You can step it up from there, to flying a kite, or get even more intricate and fly a remote control airplane. Or, if you're the type who enjoys heights and a bit of a dare, try sky-diving or bungee-jumping together! Popularity: Varies. Fun Factor: 8. Cost: Varies.
    


18. A Trip to the Zoo. I've taken someone to the zoo on a first date and it was a blast. You can enjoy looking at the animals and have fun playing with the different experiences. A zoo is fun at all ages. So, if you've missed out on the Zoo lately, check it out. An aquarium is also cool, if you have one close by (we're lucky to have the Monterey Aquarium in California). Popularity: 8. Fun Factor: 7. Cost: $20 - 40 per person.



19. Meet Me At The Fair. I've always felt fairs are fun. Usually, I'll go once or twice a year to hear the live bands. Sometimes, the best bands are the bands playing at the side stages for free with entrance to the fair. I've seen Hank Ketchum, War, Ozomotli, and others this way. The fair is also fun because you have: the FERRIS WHEEL! Ha! You probably thought I was going to say THE ZIPPER, huh. Well, I puked on the zipper once, so it's off the list. But the rest of the fair can be a fun change of pace date - especially if you haven't been for a while. Popularity: 9. Fun Factor: 8. Cost $7 - 35 per person.
    


20. Amusement Parks/Disneyland. Amusement parks are fun. I used to have a season pass to Great America when my girlfriend was this total daredevil. She loved roller coasters. So, even though I'm scared of heights, I'd conquer my fear every week and we'd jot over there after work, hit a few roller coasters, then go out to dinner at Gordon Biersch and listen to the live jazz bands. All in all, not a bad way to spend an evening with your honey. If you're close to Disneyland, that can be even more magical and fun. Popularity: 10. Fun Factor: 9. Cost: $50+ per person. Season passes help make it a lot less if you're close by.



21. Test Drive Cars Together. Especially, new, sexy, sports cars. There's nothing more fun than the smell of a new car, and tooling around the curves of the local mountain road in a Boxster or Thunderbird convertible. I've made this a "fun date" on two different occasions and both times it inspired us to dress up (had to look the part of a buyer, at least), and then talk the salesperson into letting us drive off the lot with their cherry sporty car! How much fun is that?! Popularity: 8: Fun Factor: 7. Cost: Free! (Just maybe a little karma cost due to the white lie you're sure to tell!)
    


22. Canoeing or Kayaking. If your date loves the water, take them out on a lake or the ocean for a little kayak or canoe trip. It's a lot of fun. Who knows, if you bring your fishin' line, you might even catch a trout or bass for dinner. Popularity: 6. Fun Factor: 6. Cost: $35 per person (unless you own your own canoe or kayak).
    


23. Cooking A Special Meal Together. This particular date is a lot more fun if you try a NEW recipe together. Both of you pick out the ingredients, go shopping, then roll up your sleeves and get in the kitchen to show off your best gourmet skills. Popularity: 7. Fun Factor: 6. Cost: Varies. Benefit: you get to eat what you cook. If you're not up for the challenge of cooking, take a cooking class together. My experience with the last cooking class was I ate incredibly good food, watched how they cook, and ate more yummy food. It was rough, but someone had to do it. Popularity: 8. Fun Factor: 7. Cost: $50 per person.



24. Tour New Homes. I love touring model homes. Why? Because you get all kinds of DESIGN IDEAS when you go around touring model homes. You find new patterns of furniture, drapery, kitchen stylings, carpet, moldings-- you name it. It's especially fun touring multi-million dollar homes and dreaming a little. For couples, this can serve two purposes, as if you think you might want to live together, you can learn about each other's likes and dislikes in a rather harmless way. Popularity: 8. Fun Factor: 7. Cost: Free.



25. Go to a Professional Sports Game. Now, ladies, it's only fair. I've always said, "a wise man shops, a wise woman watches sports." There's a good reason for this: you balance each other and show you care about each other's interests/teams. Men bond a lot through sports. So, the woman who goes with him to professional sports events is showing she can be real and bond with him. I don't recommend this for a blind date, though (bad experience). Popularity: 9/6. Fun Factor: 9/6. Cost: $30 - 120 per person.



26. Pool Sharks. I love shooting billiards. A lot of women are surprisingly poor at it, until you put something worthwhile on the game as "stakes" for winning or losing. Then, suddenly, she starts to make every shot. Uh huh. I thought so. Test your own ability for being a pool shark. Pretend you're meeting for a high-stakes tournament. Winner of the best of three gets to decide where you go and what you do next... Popularity: 7. Fun Factor: 7. Cost: $20 per person.



27. Poetry Slam. There are several varieties of poetry slams. You could find a poetry "slam" or reading in your town, or take a trip out of town for one. Perhaps you both decide to participate and write your own poem prior to going. Dare each other to get up and read their poem at the slam. Gutsy, but fun! If you don't have the gumption to do the slam, you could always go to a bookstore and seek out your favorite poetry books and poems and share with each other over a cup of coffee. Popularity: 5. Fun Factor: 6. Cost: Free.



28. Wine tasting/Pub crawl. If you live near vineyards, like I do, going wine tasting can be a ton of fun. You learn about the wine, and experience beautiful views at the vineyards. Bring along turkey sandwiches and yummy cheese and crackers and make a picnic out of it. I recommend stopping at two or three wineries unless you have a designated driver or limo to take you home! (Be safe!) If you do not live near a winery, try a pub crawl or beer tasting at the local microbrewery. Those can also be fun. Popularity: 6. Fun Factor: 7. Cost: $ varies.



29. Get Vertigo. I'm watching Alfred Hitchcock's Vertigo while I write this. So I just thought of this idea: Go to the TALLEST buildings in town, meet on the rooftops. It works great in a city like San Francisco, where you can share an appetizer of cheese plate at the Marriott, taxi across town, and watch the sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge from the top of the Grand Hyatt while nursing a cocktail in the piano bar, then later kicking up your heels at either the Top of the Mark, or Harry Denton's Starlight room. Of course, Vertigo was set in San Francisco, so it could be a follow-up movie to watch later if you get dizzy! Popularity: 6. Fun Factor: 6. Cost: $50 or so per person.
    


30. Miniature Golf or Bowling. These two sports are both fun for guys and girls. Men and women still have bowling leagues. I've always loved bowling. Miniature golf is frustrating. So, maybe try taking turns, or do both! It depends upon time, and how much fun you're having, of course. Popularity: 8. Fun Factor: 7. Cost: $10 - 20 per person.



31. That's Amore! One of my favorite dates is to make spaghetti. This is a twist on 23, because in 23 you didn't know the recipe. In 31, you do. Of course, you have to be comfortable enough to bring your date over. So, use this with caution and common-sense, of course. While you're cooking play a little Louis Prima, Dean Martin, and classic Italian music. (I enjoy spicing it up and playing my sax, sometimes, too!) If spaghetti is too fancy, try Capellini, as Angel Hair pasta is pretty easy. My recipe calls for a few Sun Dried Tomatoes, a few rings of onion finely chopped, and two full cloves from a head of garlic cooked until medium brown in olive oil, then a 8 - 16 oz. of pre-sliced mushrooms, cook those while boiling your water for the noodles. Add sliced Roma tomatoes when the mushrooms are half done. Put the noodles in the water. Add the bread into the oven. You can either garlic/butter or oil up the bread, or dip it in olive oil with balsamic vinegar. Toss some heads of romaine with a few slices of tomato and a couple of onion rings (uncooked), mix in olive oil and balsamic in the salad to blend with the bread and the sauce mixture. Add fresh cut basil to the sauce mix while the tomatoes are still cooking. Grate the Parmesan cheese (yes, buy in solid form - it's always better than the Kraft carton type) while the sauce and noodle finish cooking. Remove the noodles al dente, strain water, then pour the sauce over the noodles. Take out the bread and serve as you like, and top both with a little cheese. Serve with a bottle of Chianti, Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Syrah, if you like to mix wine with your meals. Popularity: 8. Fun Factor: 8. Cost: $20 - 50, depending upon the cost of the wine, usually.

So, there they are. 31 fun dating ideas. I hope you'll enjoy them as much as I do. I can pretty much say that there isn't a dating idea here that I either haven't tried or wouldn't like to try again. But, we all have our favorites. What's the funnest date you've ever had? Care to share with us? We love to hear stories!

Have I missed your favorite date idea? Please share!
_______________________________________________________

This article is written by Scott Andrews, Founder of AspireNow. Copyright 2007. All rights reserved.

You may republish this article only AS A COMPLETE WHOLE with ENTIRE LINKS and copyright messages attached. All rights reserved.

Get more fun dates, and more out of your love life through a regular subscription to this feed.