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5 romantic summertime dates on the cheap

Dinner and a movie can set you back a pretty penny these days but the amount of romance you have on a date should not be determined by the thickness your wallet. There are ways to have a fun, romantic date without breaking the bank. It just takes a little more planning and thought than just making a reservation on opentable.com. Save your money while upping the romance factor by going on one of these five romantic summertime dates on the cheap.

 
1. Day at the beach
There's no better way than spending the day at the beach to get your date in the mood. Hit the beach for a day of fun in the sun. With the rhythmic waves hitting the shore and the beautiful scenery, the beach is the perfect setting for lovers. You both get to see a lot of skin and massages are mandatory since you'll need to apply sunscreen to each other's unreachable places. Don't forget to reapply your SPF because sunburns are not sexy and could ruin your evening plans of snuggling up to each other. 
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2. Stargaze
Since it's warm enough to be outside at night during the summertime, stargazing is a romantic way to spend the evening. Drive to an isolated spot, or just go for a stroll in your neighborhood, and look up at the stars. Impress your date by researching constellations beforehand making sure to point out Orion and Cassiopeia.  
 
3. Picnic in the park
Instead of dropping a hundred dollars on a dinner date, plan a daytime or sunset picnic in the park. You can shop for all the fixings at your local grocery store and pick out food that will get your date in the mood. A bottle of wine paired with cheese and crackers or a baguette are essential. A deli sandwich and a pre-made salad are two no-fuss options. Chocolate covered strawberries are the perfect hand-held dessert to cap off your al fresco dining experience. Remember to bring a large blanket to lay out unless you want the ants enjoying your lunch with you.
 
4. Museum free day
This will take a little more preplanning than the other dates but nearly every museum holds at least one day a month where admission is waived and patrons can enjoy the art for free. Check the museum website to find out when the free day is and schedule your date for then. All the museums don't do it on the same day so check all the schedules and line up a few free museum dates. 
 
5. Hike in nature
Mother Nature sets an incredible scene for romance. Plan a day hike with your lover for a truly enjoyable date. You'll both get some exercise and breathe in some fresh air while getting away from all the hustle and bustle of your busy lives. Choose a hike with some scenic views and make sure to stop along the way to take in Mother Nature's beauty. Views of the ocean or bodies of water are great but if there aren't any in your area, a long walk in a romantic forest conjures up feelings of being in a fairy tale.
 
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If you have a dating and relationship advice question, please send an email to examineradvice@gmail.com.

, Relationship Advice Examiner

Jennifer Tjon is your resident relationship advice guru. To have Jennifer answer your questions on dating, romance and relationships send an email to examineradvice@gmail.com.

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