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May 10, 2005
The Cost of Dating
A recent article has suggested that in the UK, a date costs about £200 or $375. They don’t go as far as to say what goes into that number but they do mention that the average woman spends £90 in the salon before a date so I’ll assume that there’s a broad range of costs that go into this rather extraordinary figure. It also goes as far as to suggest that 60 percent of men feel they should pay for date and that this somehow “offsets” the cost that women incur getting their hair done and buying lingerie. I had no idea buying new underwear was standard practice for women dating in the UK, but if that’s the case, way to go to all the blokes over there! On this side of the pond it’s a little different I think, but what gets me the most is that there is supposed to be some connection between what women pay out vs. what men do.
Women pay out for themselves and men get little more than a memory. Women will still look good the next day with their brand new appearance and flashy lingerie. They can have a terrible time chatting over dinner and then leave, waking up the next morning, still looking like a million dollars and safe knowing that their pretty panties are tucked safely in the drawer for use when Mr. Right pops around. Men get to take home a doggy bag, if they’re lucky, and wake up the next morning wondering what hit them and their wallet without anything to show. Women and men just aren’t on equal playing fields when it comes to dating.
I pay for all my dates so I’m a victim of my own judgement, but this just goes to show that men remain at a disadvantage when it comes to dating. They need “it” more, they generally pay the way and end up paying for 8220;it” one way or another. Men are generally the ones that need to make the approach first, too, putting women in a pretty position to pass or fail the boys and their onslaught of attention. Men get the shaft, in my books, but not all agree.
I discussed my concerns with a friend who told me that she thought differently. Women aren’t supposed to approach, she said, and this gives men power. I don’t agree, but I needed to mention it here because it deserves note.
I knew the UK was supposed to be expensive, but if dates cost $375 on average, I’m surprised anybody over there ever hooks up. If I were there, I’d be online looking for love in North America because a couple of UK dates could easily pay for a flight and a really interesting dating experience on this side of the Atlantic.
Posted by CupidsReviews Doug at May 10, 2005 5:52 PM
Comments
Ok, here's the nitty gritty on dating. Don't try to impress. I'm saying that to both sexes. Don't encourage her to pretty herself up to the point that you drool when you try to talk. Guys, don't get all fancied up looking like you're one step away from the wedding cake. It's not necessary! Both sexes need to just be casual, because 99% of the time that is the way you will see that person. Be your everyday self. Check three things only: Hair, complexion, and smell. If you're ok in all those areas then don't worry about it!!!!!
As for money, I find the best dates are those doing almost nothing and also costing very little. Perhaps a walk in the park (parks are terrific for communication!). Take a hike, go jogging together. Look at the beauty God made for you to enjoy! A beach is the most enjoyable...even on a bad day! I even had an interesting date talking about insects and evolution! Guys, do something that's enjoyable and go shopping with her (don't run yet!). Take a walk down an interesting market street with her and just talk and look at things. You'll see what kind of things she likes and she'll get info about you as well! I think you'll find that in a short while you know each other pretty well, your histories, your ups and downs....a good starting point into each others souls! Dates don't have to be expensive, so I'll list a few of my favorite and enjoyable activities....
1.) a walk just about anywhere.
2.) time spent at the beach (or a lake)
3.) hiking.
4.) jogging.
5.) shopping.
6.) take her to an ice cream shop.
7.) take her to a festival. (don't spend a lot)
8.) have a picnic!
9.) go to a charity event.
10.) lay down on a blanket in the grass and
talk!
You'll notice none of these activities require a lot of money, and none of these activities have a tremendous amount of noise or interruption. That is to let your hearts talk! You may even find that these are necessary things that you need to do on a regular basis to stay close and remain in love! It creates amazing benefits!!!!!
These are quite enjoyable from a conversation stantpoint and will get you all the information you need to find out of they're right for you without spending a fortune. Explain right off the bat that you're sensible and interested in communication to start with! It's only natural for a girl to be impressed with money and someone who shows off. It's only natural for a guy to like a gal that's all prettied up and flirting heavily. Eventually you'll find out that real love doesn't work that way and you'll pay the price for letting instinct overrule your heart!
Guys: LISTEN and relax. Don't try to impress. Be yourself! Don't expect attention. Settle for a warm hand to hold or maybe a goodnight kiss.
Gals: Don't expect the moon unless you're certain he's the only star in your sky.
Calm down, remember what you're looking for. Money isn't everything. Looks aren't everything.
Seek the soul that best suits the desires of your heart!
Just some advice from the helpful hinter....sorry if I droned on too long. I get all wrapped up in it sometimes....
Posted by: hinter at May 20, 2005 8:39 AM
I am making a video on dating. What is the most common problem for dating?
Regards,
Iain
Posted by: Iain at February 19, 2006 4:46 PM
