Long-distance date night ideas to feel more connected to your boo

The effort, time, communication and date nights are vital to make any relationship work. But when it comes to long-distance relationships, regular coffee hangs, long walks or the perfectly planned dinner date with a pre-decided dress code becomes a lot more challenging. Consequently, quality time becomes even more important to understand each other, grow together and fall in love with something new about your significant other each day. Living in different cities or even different time zones may often mean that all you may be able to do on some days is have a much-needed video call and conversation. But for some other days, here’s our recommendation: go that extra mile to make your virtual hangs fun and memorable. Here’s everything you need to plan that virtual date night. 

Wine-and-dine night 

Crack open a bottle of your favourite wine, set the mood with some scented candles and fairy lights, put on your best outfit for a night out, order your partner’s favourite food and have it delivered to them, pick a time, schedule the call and don’t be late. Talk, ask questions and answer them as honestly as you possibly can. When you’re in the same city, getting dressed, going out and having deep conversations over a G&T is an absolutely adorable and fun part of dating or being in a relationship. But who says you can’t celebrate love, growth and togetherness even if you’re apart? Here’s a pro tip: Surprise your partner with their favourite dessert for the perfect end to the night.
 
Paint date 

Pablo Picasso once said, “The purpose of art is washing the dust of our daily lives off our souls.” In the midst of the hustle and bustle of our everyday routine, taking time off to do something creative together can do wonders not only for the relationship but also for your own well-being. From reimagining the works of Van Gogh and Monet on your own canvas, learning a new technique such as marble art or mandala drawing off YouTube or even simply hand painting—there are several ways to get your creative juices flowing! 

Movie night 

Ever since the pandemic and imposition of frequent yet erratic lockdowns, virtual movie nights have become a way to spend time and connect with people you haven’t met for a long time. And here’s the thing: it’s not even about the movie. It’s about spending time together, enabling newer conversations, and deeper perspectives, connecting over mutually adored characters or debating their flaws. So, get into something comfortable, cosy up in your blanket and pick a movie together or take turns choosing a show, documentary or movie that you want to make your partner watch. 

Learn something new 

One of the best things about the digital age and space that we’re living in is that we can learn anything we want at any time! With online learning platforms galore, here’s your cue to learn something you’ve been wanting to for a long time, together! Whether it’s exploring literature and poetry, trying your hand at a foreign language or upping your skills in the world of business, discuss, debate and engage. For the ones who love to read, pick a book, read a chapter and let the other person know what you thought over a video call and cup of coffee. Welcome with open arms the growth that is fun, constructive and together! 

Listen to music together 

Here’s one for the days you don’t feel like talking over a video or audio call. Create a special playlist for the two of you—your favourite songs, lyrics that remind you of the other person, songs that remind you of moments you’ve spent together and experiences you’ve had—and explore new music. You can create a joint playlist using Spotify or listen to songs at the same time by creating a separate voice channel on Discord and using their bot to play music. Take the conversation deeper as you listen late into the night. It’s already giving us goosebumps and all the feels. 

Play virtual games

If you’re the competitive kind, playing virtual games is a fun way to spend time, attempt to win and spend a date night full of laughter and excitement. From virtual Catan to online Pictionary and Codenames, these games can be played on a double date, with a group of friends or even just between the two of you! 

Have a cooking or baking date 

On the days you’re in the mood to cook or are craving a baked goodie, ring up your partner and turn the night into a full-fledged cooking date. If you want to keep it simple, whip up some good ol’ pasta or Asian stir fry. But if you’re in the mood for experimenting, choose a cuisine and pick out the recipe of a dish you both want to eat, or better yet take a cooking masterclass on YouTube and cook the best meal you’ve ever had. Take it a notch up by playing music and showing off your moves as you chop, stir and cook! 

Plan a surprise visit 

And finally, if you’re too drained, need a digital detox or just a tight hug from your partner, go ahead and plan a surprise visit to their city. Give in to your impulsive side for once, wear your bright smile, bring some flowers or dessert, call them out to their front door and see their reaction. We promise the journey will be worth it!