'Don't make dates complicated': Ankur Warikoo shares 5 budget-friendly ideas to help couples connect better

Movies and shows have impacted our perception of going on a date. Young couple tend to think grand gestures, over-the-top experiences and expensive dining outings are essential elements of a memorable date. But in the era of modern relationships, what they often forget is that a date is about trying to know the other person better, checking compatibility and finding out whether you are being able to connect with each other. And for that, you do not have to spend truckloads of money. And Ankur Warikoo agrees.

Not long ago, Ankur Warikoo, an author, entrepreneur and digital creator, shared a video on Instagram, listing 5 exciting date ideas for couples that are not going to burn a hole in your pocket. The 45-year-old, who has long been married to the love of his life Ruchi, urged couples not to over-complicate dates as it is the simple moments, meaningful conversations, and shared experiences that help build genuine connections and bring two people closer.

Teach and learn

Ankur Warikoo's first suggestion is simple yet meaningful: teach each other something new. It does not have to be a complicated skill. One partner could teach a card trick, a favourite recipe, a few chords on a guitar, or even a hobby they are passionate about. They can even attend a pottery class or a clay-building session together. Learning together creates opportunities for laughter, curiosity, and conversation while helping couples discover sides of each other they may not have seen before.

Get moving together

Instead of sitting across a restaurant table, Ankur Warikoo recommends engaging in a sport together. Whether it is table tennis, pickleball, swimming, jogging, or even a casual game in the park, physical activities create shared experiences and memories. Beyond being fun, they encourage teamwork, healthy competition, and plenty of opportunities to cheer each other on, strengthening the bond between partners.

Sunset and playlists

Among all his suggestions, Ankur Warikoo described this one as the most romantic. He encouraged couples to head to a rooftop or terrace during sunset and simply listen to music together. There is no need for elaborate planning or expensive arrangements. Watching the sky change colours while sharing favourite songs can create a peaceful and intimate setting that allows meaningful conversations to flow naturally.

Watch films

Ankur Warikoo also suggested watching a movie that the other person loves but one has never seen before. The idea is not just about entertainment but about understanding a partner's tastes, interests, and emotional connections. Seeing someone enjoy a film they cherish can reveal a lot about their personality and often sparks engaging discussions long after the credits roll.

Explore somewhere new

Ankur Warikoo’s final recommendation is to take an evening walk to a place both partners have noticed but never actually visited. It could be a quiet lake, a cosy café tucked away in a corner, a museum, or any interesting local spot. Exploring unfamiliar places together adds a sense of adventure to the date while creating opportunities for spontaneous conversations and shared discoveries.