*This post was written in collaboration with date Hampshire singles.

I think it is safe to say, no one expected a global pandemic in 2020. The way we operate in the big wide world has changed permanently, and there are so many aspects of day to day life that will never be the same again. Dating is something that has completely changed in the last six months or so. While it seems to be that the lockdown is easing, there are still a few bumps in the road ahead and it is likely that we’ll have to scale back a bit in the near future. The good news is there are still loads of different ideas for dates that you can use until everything gets back to normal.

Skype or Zoom dinner dates

The dinner date is probably the most classic of all dates. And although they can still go ahead currently, there may be any number of reasons your potential date still wishes to observe social distancing, especially if they are living with someone vulnerable. A cute idea for a date while observing social distancing is to both order a take away and then chat together on Skype or Zoom while you are eating. It will be just like you are out to dinner together, but without the risk!

Somewhere that needs your custom

If you meet someone on something like a Hampshire dating site, the likelihood is you have similar interests. What better way to explore those interests than supporting a local business? There are a number of local businesses in my area like the local zoo and some independent coffee shops that really could use some custom right now. You can mix a socially distanced date with doing something kind for a local business. Everyone’s a winner!

You can still go to the pub or to eat, but you might need to plan ahead

Do you remember the days where you used to be able to just go for a walk and stumble into some random pub to have dinner and drinks? How much of an alien concept does that seem in the back-end of 2020? Following on from the economic success of Boris’s “Eat out to help out” scheme, pubs and restaurants are still open. But it is worth remembering that you will need to plan ahead and it’s likely that you won’t get a table unless you book one.

Make the most of the nice weather where you can

Not only are we having an unseasonably warm late summer, but Autumn looks set to be milder than the average too. This is great news for anyone who is going to dip their toes in the dating pool this season. Going for a nice walk around a country park not only gives you a chance to observe social distancing, but it is also free. So if you find someone you do like on a website like www.datehampshiresingles.co.uk  you can still get to know them if you are in a position where you need to social distance.