By far, one of the biggest downsides to dating is that it is not cheap. The problem is perhaps worse if you are a guy as many women still expect a man to pay for everything, especially in the early stages of a relationship. In the recession-hit times of today, very few of us are blessed with endless wads of cash to spend on impressing our date, much as we would like to. Though being a tight-fisted miser may do wonders for your bank balance, unfortunately it will do absolutely nothing for your love life. Here are some ideas for budget-friendly dates that will impress your partner so much she won’t even stop to consider the cost.

1. Cook her a meal

There is nothing more attractive to a woman than a man who can cook and many women will positively welcome the chance to be able to get a good look at where you live. Learn three simple recipes for a starter, main course and dessert and practice them on your friends before you set yourself loose on her. Dress the table with fresh flowers and crisp linen and get a good bottle of wine from a discount warehouse to add the extra wow-factor. If you live in an absolute hovel or have unruly flat-mates, you may need to be a bit more inventive so consider a picnic in a picturesque location.

2. Set up a treasure hunt for her

This is best done in a place that you know well, your home, your garden or possibly a local park. Place a trail of clues for her to follow; each clue leading her to the next location until she eventually ends up at the treasure which can be a small gift for her e.g. a scarf or a CD. If you do this in a public place, make sure you keep the clues well hidden, e.g. on the underside of a bench or beneath a rock and follow her as she goes so you can point her towards these hidden locations.

3. Rent a boat

Taking her for a lazy afternoon floating around on a lake in a cosy little boat is a romantic idea that will come in well under budget. Many parks with lakes hire out small boats for a few hours and taking a simple picnic along will complete the idyllic date. Make sure you pick the right season to do this in however, taking her out in gale-force winds and thunderstorms won’t earn you any brownie points.

4. Challenge her to a tennis match

Playing a sport together is a great way of getting to know each other. Furthermore, physical exercise releases feel-good hormones and makes people feel more relaxed. Most sports centres will offer activities at little or no charge and will also have a restaurant or canteen in which you can sit afterwards and enjoy a coffee or an inexpensive healthy lunch together.

Remember, a successful date is not dependent on how much money or effort you spend on it but more so on how much you can get your dating partner to relax and enjoy herself. So be imaginative and consider her hobbies and interests and you should get it right every time.