There comes a time in every man’s life when he’d like to treat his lady like the princess she is. Unfortunately this time usually coincides with the period in his life when he also doesn’t have much disposable income. Take heart young hero – us chicks are simple – all we REALLY want are grand romantic gestures and cute stories to tell our grandbabies one day. Price tags don’t matter at all (although please note that this is a situation that will not last forever, so take advantage while you can.)

Here are 5 inexpensive dates that she’ll remember forever:

1. Starry, starry night ….

Nothing beats gazing into your eyes beneath a sky filled with millions of celestial lights. But we don’t like sitting on wet grass while the cold slowly leeches through the blanket, numbing our precious derrières. A trip to the Iziko Planetarium (near Bus Stop 6 on the City Sightseeing Red City Tour) is a far more romantic. And if you catch “2012 – the end or the beginning”, which is the show currently running, you stand a good chance of having us lying helpless in your arms – Armageddon style.

2. A carriage ride through the park m’dear?
Although not super cheap, this is perfect for a special occasion or an indulgent treat.  Send her a note to meet you somewhere and surprise her with a horse drawn carriage ride through the gardens (near Bus Stop 5 on the City Sightseeing Red City Tour). Über romantic – perhaps even for a wedding proposal? Don’t forget a nice soft blanket for your knees and, of course, to hold hands under. A thermos of hot chocolate for two will take the romance to a whole new level.

3. Labia theatre
Relive the days when it took a really long time to get to first base! Like a REALLY long time. Make this one of those old school open-the-door and help-her-put-her-coat-on occasions. Nothing beats a bit of gentlemanly behaviour – we find it quite cute. The Labia in Orange Street (near Bus Stop 7 on the City Sightseeing Red City Tour and the Blue Mini Peninsula Tour) has been a vintage movie theatre for over 20 years and the atmosphere is undeniably retro. Make sure you pick a flick that will have her cuddling up to you and remember to practice the old yawn-and-stretch.

4. Whatiftheworld gallery
Impress her with your sensitive and artistic side and take her for a wander around an art gallery. There are loads in and around Cape Town, but the Whatintheworld Gallery showcases young and innovative artists. Don’t be smartass about it – if art is not your forte, feel free to ask one of the staff to show you around and explain a piece or two to you both. We’ll be impressed by the fact that you’re not afraid to ask for help AND that you’re open to experiencing new things. Major brownie points.

5. Picnic on lions head

Definitely a day time date choice. Don’t try this at sunset in winter – hypothermia is not cool (excuse the pun). Why not do it francais style – a blanket, a baguette, (not too) smelly cheese and some inexpensive pate’ (Pick ‘n Pay has a tasty range). Eating with your hands is very sensual so leave the knives at home and stare into her eyes as you tear the baguette apart and hint towards the night ahead … … …

Ahem, where was I? Oh yes. Don’t forget the corkscrew if you’re taking a bottle of wine!

 

I’m undergoing treatment for a travel addiction (if 16 world capitals and innumerable “dorpies” qualifies as a problem), but Cape Town and Johannesburg remain my obsession. Pet hates include book defacers, hot milk in tea and anything granadilla flavoured. I’m an aspiring photographer, museum nerd and die hard optimist. Find me on Twitter at @ShellsWillBe.