Seven Creative Day Outings for Unconventional Couples

Maybe you're not the typical dinner-and-a-movie couple. Maybe you prefer something a bit more exciting, or you need to bring some unpredictability to your relationship. Or maybe you're looking for an absolutely unforgettable anniversary idea. Whatever the reason, you want more than the typical break away to get you and your loved one in the mood. Here are seven day outing ideas for couples who like a little something different.

Go sailing

Ever been on a yacht? If not, now may be the best time to try it out. Yacht sailing is romantic and exciting - and it's a far cry from the typical walk in the park. If you've never done it before, you can hire an instructor to take you out for a fun day on the water. Don't forget to take a picnic lunch - and even a bit of champagne.

Take a train ride

Ever hopped on a train just to see where you wound up? Why not take a train ride to one of Britain's gorgeous historic towns? See castles and Roman baths, have lunch at a centuries-old inn, and be back in time for dinner. If you've got a bit more to spend, splurge on an Orient Express trip and travel in the lap of luxury. There's something romantic about a train ride - something your loved one is sure to appreciate.

Play with power toys

Let's face it: fast is sexy. And nothing gets couples in the mood quite like a day of zooming across the landscape, wind in their hair. Rent a speed boat and fly across the surface of the water. Fall for each other all over again from the back of a motorcycle. Explore the coast on a jet ski - and explore each other later on. Rent something fast and powerful for land or sea, and see where it takes you.

Take a drive

We know, taking a drive in the country is too conventional for you. But what about if the car you're driving is a Ferrari or a Porsche? Put a new spin on the old Sunday drive by renting your dream car for a day. Pack a gourmet picnic lunch from a fancy restaurant - something you wouldn't ordinarily order. Drive somewhere secluded, spread a picnic blanket, and see what happens. The glamour of a luxury car and gourmet food can make you feel like you're in another world - and that's the key to romance.

Try something crazy

If none of these ideas sound quite exciting enough for you, you may be in for something a little more extreme. Ever consider jumping off a cliff or out of a plane? If this sounds more fun than frightening, you might be up for bungee jumping or skydiving for two. Nothing gets our hearts pounding quite like defying death. If your date is up for it, this is sure to be an outing neither of you will forget.

Brush up on your battlefield skills

Paintball is a challenge, both physically and mentally - it requires strategic thinking, physical exertion, and a steady hand. It's also exhilarating to compete individually or in teams, outwit your opponents, and see your plans succeed. Play on the same team and bond on the battlefield, or challenge each other on separate teams. Whatever you choose, you'll go home happy at the end of the day.

Fly high

Going up in a hot air balloon sounds like the typical romantic date - but how many couples do you know who've actually done it? There's nothing quite like drifting over the land, hearing nothing but the breeze. Traveling balloon-style is more relaxing than flying in a plane - you hear no motor and you drift where the wind takes you. But if you feel you need a bit more speed, why not try a ride in a small plane? Any small plane enthusiast will tell you it's much more exciting than flying on a jet plane. However you choose to fly, there's no doubt that getting your feet off the ground for a day is a fantastic date idea.

If you love unconventional outings, these ideas should keep you planning romantic getaways for some time to come. Whether it's an anniversary celebration, a romantic birthday for two, or a spontaneous "just because" trip you're planning, you're sure to have a memorable time.

About the author

Janette Vince is the managing director of Thanks Darling provides a wide range of days out to suit all occasions. For a range of days out as a gift for a friend of loved one or so you can do something different, visit http://www.thanksdarling.com/categories/days-out-for-two.htm