A woman has sparked a debate on social media after listing 28 places she will not go to on a first date. The woman, who has asked to remain anonymous, shared the list on a dating forum.
The List
Cheesecake Factory, Applebee’s, Chili’s, Chipotle Olive Garden, The Movies, Your House, Any fast food chain, Buffalo Wild Wings, Wingstop, Red Lobster, A buffet, iHOP, Denny’s, The gym, Church, Starbucks, Coffee date, Ice cream date, Family function, Movie night at home, Somewhere that requires a long drive, Bowling, Nightclub, Hookah bar, A bar for “just drinks,” Waffle House and Sports event.
She Wanted to Skip Boring Dates
The woman said that she compiled the list because she wants to avoid first dates that are boring, unoriginal, or potentially dangerous. “I don’t want to go on a date to a place where I’m going to be surrounded by other couples or where it’s going to be difficult to have a conversation,” she said. “I also want to avoid places where I could be put in a compromising position.”
A Debate Sparked Online
The woman’s list has sparked a debate on social media, with some people agreeing with her and others criticizing her for being too picky. Some people have defended the woman’s right to choose where she goes on first dates.
It is Her Choice
Some people have defended the woman’s right to choose where she goes on first dates. “It’s her prerogative to decide where she wants to go on dates,” one person wrote. “She’s not obligated to go anywhere she doesn’t want to go.”
The Woman Was Being Too Picky
Others have said that the woman is being too picky. “This list is ridiculous,” another person wrote. “She’s ruling out so many great places to go on a first date. She should be more open-minded.”
Some Could Not Understand Her Logic
Others have pointed out that some places on the list are perfectly acceptable for first dates. “I don’t understand why she’s ruling out coffee shops and the movies,” one person wrote. “Those are classic first date spots for a reason.”
Brands Got Involved
The debate grew so large that brands got in on the action with Papa Johns Pizza chain saying “You know what’s not on this list… PIZZA” on X, formerly Twitter.
It Shouldn’t Matter Where You Go on a Date
Many men also made the valid point that the location of a first date is less important than the person you are with. Many successful relationships have begun with a simple walk and an ice cream cone, while many relationships at expensive restaurants have ended quickly.
Venue Shouldn’t Be a Concern
One person wrote online, “The first date, with my now wife of 11 years, consisted of going out for ice cream, returning to my house, and then going to East Side Mario’s. This list was created by girls who want a free fancy meal, not to get to know a guy.” Another echoed these thoughts, saying, “If you like each other, then what does it matter?”
The Larger Debate
The debate over the woman’s list highlights the different expectations that men and women have regarding dating. Women often feel that they need to be careful on first dates because they are more vulnerable to violence than men. They may also be concerned about being taken advantage of or judged by their date.
Different Expectations
Conversely, men often feel that they need to impress their dates by taking them to nice places or doing something exciting. They may also be concerned about being rejected. Men’s and women’s different expectations can lead to conflict and misunderstanding. For example, a woman may feel uncomfortable going to a bar on a first date, while a man may feel that a bar is a casual and fun place to go.
Tips for First Dates
There is no right or wrong answer when choosing a place to go on a first date. The most important thing is to choose a place to talk and get to know your date.
Here are some tips for first dates:
- Choose a place where you can have a conversation. This could be a coffee shop, a park, or a restaurant. Avoid places where it’s going to be loud or crowded.
- Be respectful of your date’s time and money. Don’t take them to a place that will be expensive or time-consuming.
- Be open-minded. Try new things and be willing to go to places you’ve never been.
- Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not just to impress your date.
If you are still deciding where to go on a first date, asking your date for suggestions is always a good idea. This will show that you are interested in their preferences and want to make them comfortable.