9 Ideas To Put The Fun Back Into Dating*

*This is a collaborative post*

We all know that dating can be nerve-racking, especially when you've just come out of a long term relationship and you're facing the prospect of starting over. However, putting that to one side for a moment, dating can also be a truly enjoyable experience. Dare I say it?... Dating should be fun! Of course it depends on where you go on your date and who you're with, but choose the right environment and it could be a fantastic way to not only break the ice but to really get to know each other whilst having plenty of laughs along the way.

Here are nine ideas to try.

Ice Skating

If you're anything like me - Bambi on ice - then this will provide plenty of laughs. Just please don't break any limbs! :)

Roller Skating

Whilst similar to Ice Skating, this is one that doesn't require an ice rink. So if you're not as keen on the cold, don your roller skates instead.

Dance Class

I've been to many dance classes and I can safely say they are a lot of fun! Dancing is one sure way to get intimate pretty quickly as you'll be getting up close and personal no matter what the routine. The sparks will be flying in no time...

Bike Ride

Speaking of sparks, there's something about being competitive that really gets them flying. You could try a traditional bike ride with your bicycle or why not get a little fast and furious and have a track day. I love these! I've never tried the motorbike version of this - yet, but it looks like a lot of fun. And if a motorcycle isn't your thing then you could always opt for a car track day instead!

Theme Park

I'm going to hold my hand up and admit that I hate rides, so this may or may not be your cup of tea. However, with all the adrenaline and rollercoasters that come hand in hand with a theme park, this is one sure way to break any ice and provide plenty of laughs.

Teach Each Other A New Skill

Try teaching each other something new. You might have a secret skill for pebble skimming or perhaps your date is a fantastic dart player and you've always wanted to try it! Whatever the skill, sharing with each other is a great and romantic way to bond.

Karaoke

Not one for the faint hearted, this may require a couple of drinks for some dutch courage, but karaoke is a great laugh! Anyone seen the clip from My Best Friend's Wedding?? Watch it and you'll see what I mean.

Babysitting

Some of you will be looking at this idea and thinking what the heck?? Of course I do not advocate leaving the child in your care with your date, nor is this suggestion a good idea if it's a first date and you don't really know the person. But maybe on a later date, take your potential other half with you on your day out. Kids have a way of making everything about them. You know that old expression? Out of the mouth of babes? My nephews constantly surprise me with the random and hilarious things they say. And having a child around also gives you the chance to see how your date is around children.

Halloween Party & Bonfire Night

I've rolled these two ideas into one because both Halloween and Bonfire Night fall pretty close together. There's of course something romantic about being cozied up together at a bonfire. And if there's a Halloween party to go to, make the most of the opportunity, dress up in your Halloween best and take your date along with you and show him/her some frighteningly good times! Pun intended - #sorrynotsorry :)

If you love all these ideas but are lacking in the date department, then get yourself online!

From We Love Dates, to the dating agency Buckinghamshire, there's literally so many dating sites to choose from. Are you looking for the best dating sites? Or maybe you're after a local man/woman but you can't seem to find the right dating site for this.

It could just be that you're looking in the wrong places. There are now dating sites designated for most areas. So whether you're after an Isle of Man dating site, an Isle of Wight dating site, or a Fife dating site, or one more local to you, I guarantee there's a website out there for you if you just look for it.

One final note before I go, good luck, have fun and remember, always stay safe!