Buzz
First dates are inevitably nerve-wracking. Will they like me? Will I like them? Should I mention my parole status now, or save it for later? Adding to the tension is the challenge of choosing the perfect setting for those initial moments of connection.
Recently, the UK bingo platform Tombola conducted a survey among its users to identify the least desirable first-date locations. With over 11,000 responses, here are the places they flagged as problematic:
- Movie Theaters
- McDonald’s
- Staying In
- Visiting a Parent’s Home
- Dining at a Restaurant
- Hitting a Bar
- Swimming Outings
- Watching a Football Match
- Attending a Funeral
- Park Visits
Approximately 20% of survey participants consider movie theaters the least suitable option for a first date due to the limited opportunity for conversation. McDonald’s secured 13% of the votes, primarily because of its uninspiring ambiance for romantic encounters. Surprisingly, it ranked even lower than attending a funeral.
Inviting someone to stay at home might come across as overly forward and is best avoided. Interestingly, dining at a restaurant—a common first-date choice—was also met with disapproval. The pressure of maintaining conversation throughout a meal can feel overwhelming if the chemistry isn’t there.
So, what’s the ideal option? Relationship professionals interviewed by TODAY in 2022 recommend keeping things relaxed and uncomplicated—such as meeting for coffee or a drink. Alternatives like a walk, a hike, or browsing a bookstore are also excellent choices, as they foster natural conversation and eliminate the stress of being judged for your McNugget sauce preferences.
