In this economy, it’s no wonder young pinoy daters are all down for simple dates.

In case you missed the news, Tinder called it first! In 2021,  Tinder revealed through its Future of Dating report that young singles around the globe prefer keeping dates simple and creative because “going outside is expensive”. This year, Tinder found that its members are turning to ‘affor-dates’ (affordable dates) as frugal flirting catches on. Pinoy young daters are following suit as 73% of them prefer simple dates to fancy ones according to Tinder’s new ways of dating*.

Thanks to Tinder Explore – which by the way are great conversation starters – young adult daters have more than a handful of creative date ideas that won’t burn a hole through their pockets. Here are some protips to get you started.

Outdoor cinema who? Binge-watch at a local park

Are they up-to-date with the recent happenings in Hawkins? Do you both agree that Ross and Rachel were on a break?

Tipid tips for fellow binge-watchers out there: subscribing to a streaming platform is indeed #sulit. Not only are you updated with new shows every month, some hit classics are available for your viewing pleasure. A unique take on binge-watching: meet them outdoors like mall parks! 

Tara G? Attend local gamer conventions

The question Dota o Ako—or in today’s case ML o Ako? –has long been a nightmare for most gamers. But c’mon, it’s 2022–let’s change the name of the game! Get up to date with upcoming cosplaying events and MLBB competitions in nearby malls and invite your match! For local gaming enthusiasts, it’s exciting to meet fellow gamers during conventions. It’s a chance to connect and talk about your shared interest–for free. 

A trip to the local food market with the fur babies 

Do you both share the joys – and occasional frustrations – of being an animal parent or lover? Check out some pet-friendly food spots in the metro and invite your match on a double date–with both your furbabies. Take this experience to share all the fun and not-so-fun stories you’ve had with your pets as a #furparent. Even your furbaby will gain a new playmate by the end of the day!

The classic museum date

Make your first meeting as creative as your personalities with an art-inspired date. If both of you are into visual art and appreciation for local art and artists, invite your match to a museum date. Art museums and galleries in the country are either for free or have cheap entrance fees, so budget-wise, you’re good to go. Plus points if you’re able to recognize the art and artists on display. That would be a great conversation starter when finally meeting IRL. Don’t forget to take bomb-ass pics for the ‘gram! 

Cook-off at home

Why spend so much at a fancy restaurant when you can enjoy a meal at home? Make it even more fun by doing a cook-off with your match. Spice up the IRL date with a friendly competition ala Gordon Ramsay! Do make sure nothing is burnt or raw–we know how these first date meets can go, with the nerves kicking and all!

Go to a music gig at a local resto

Music sounds even better with good company and drinks. Some cafés or bars welcome indie artists to perform during their acoustic nights. Invite your date out for a drink at a local kanto resto and explore new music from local talents together. A little tip to get into the love vibe: go for the al fresco café setting to enjoy both the evening breeze and good music.  

Try out a weekend day hike up a mountain

If intense and staying active is your vibe, you can never go wrong with adrenaline-inducing experiences! Be one with nature and explore the great outdoors over the weekend. Explore new paths together by hiking up a mountain. Don’t forget to bring baon so you and your match can enjoy a snack with a view. Don’t forget to be home before the sun sets!

Buy one take one spa discount? G!

To keep your self-care activities on a budget, keep a close eye out for huge discounts from local skin clinics and massage spas. Best if it’s a buy one take one deal–’cause who doesn’t love hitting two birds with one stone? Take your self-care match to a much needed r&r and for sure they’ll thank you for it. Just don’t snooze or you lose–IRL dates are all about keeping the conversation going!

We’re all for #growth: Attend a local biz expo 

If both of you share a passion for entrepreneurship and are looking to start your very own business one day, attend a local business expo and be inspired by fellow entrepreneurs. Meeting with these experienced entrepreneurs will surely give you valuable learnings and guidance in starting your own business venture someday. Plus, you get to discover creative products and delicious food–not to mention the freebies! This date will be a fulfilling and learning experience for you and your match!

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Dating should be fun and safe. The rule of thumb: get to know your match first before deciding to meet them IRL. Make use of Tinder’s in-app video call feature to see if your match is in fact who they say they are before inviting them or agreeing to meet them anywhere. Don’t forget to read on and familiarize yourself with Tinder’s dating safety tips. 

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