25 SOLO DATE IDEAS

The festive season can be overwhelming, so take some time for yourself and go on a solo date. They are essential for a life well lived

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Solo dates don’t have to be wild, hair-raising adventures – unless that’s what you’re into! Stretching yourself could simply mean going to a restaurant you’ve always wanted to try and savouring a meal for one, or attending a favourite artist's art exhibition opening. It could also include multiple dates around one experience, such as a course that runs over several weeks or months. Simply ask yourself, “What sounds fun?” – and then book your spot!

Here are a few solo date ideas to get you started...

1. Pack a picnic basket and wander through a picturesque park or botanical garden, admiring the diverse flora.
2. Attend a cooking or baking class and awaken your culinary skills.

3. Find a charming bookstore steeped in nostalgia – spend the afternoon browsing and building your personal library.

4. Take a scenic drive to a nearby town and explore it.

5. Visit a local farmers’ market and savour the vibrant colours and flavours of seasonal produce. Pick out fresh ingredients for a tasty homemade meal.

6. Try a yoga, tai chi or meditation session.
7. Take yourself to a romantic candle-lit bistro or boujee restaurant, treat yourself and order everything you fancy. 

8. Book a taxi to visit a wine farm, brewery or distillery for a tasting. (Don’t drink and drive!)

9. Go to a live theatre or musical performance.

10. Take a walk and capture the beauty of your surroundings by taking photos.

11. Go on a movie marathon and watch a two films back-to-back at the cinema while munching on the biggest bag of popcorn.

12. Learn to scuba dive – it will open up a whole new world.

13. Visit a landmark or museum to learn about local history.

14. Attend a fitness or dance class... shake your booty, let your body express itself and get those endorphins flowing.

15. Explore a new neighbourhood in your city and discover its hidden gems.

16. Go on a camping (or glamping) trip and spend a quiet night under the stars.

17. Expand your intellectual horizons – attend a workshop or lecture on a topic that interests you.

18. Attend a self-defence class and leave feeling empowered!

19. Take a drawing, painting or pottery course and immerse yourself in the creative process.

20. Experience a local festival or cultural event. (If you’re in Cape Town or Joburg, start with First Thursdays in the CBD.)

21. Embrace nostalgia by visiting an amusement park or fun fair for the rides, or an arcade to play old-school video games.

22. Take an animal communication course to better understand your pet.

23. Treat yourself to a spa day; choose a treatment you’ve never tried before.

24. Sign up to volunteer for a cause you believe in.

25. Head to a live stand-up comedy show and laugh out loud.

By: Robyn Maclarty
Photo & illustrations: Gallo/Getty Images