Video calls are the lifeline of most long-distance relationships, but talking about your day every night can start to feel routine. Virtual dates add something to look forward to. They give you shared experiences, new things to talk about and a sense of doing life together, even from different countries.

Food and drink

  • Cook the same recipe together on a video call, ideally something from one of your home countries.
  • Order the same takeout, or something similar, and eat together.
  • Do a virtual wine, coffee or tea tasting with a few options each.
  • Teach each other a family recipe.
  • Bake something and compare the results, however they turn out.

Watching and listening

  • Watch a film at the same time using a watch-party tool or by pressing play together.
  • Start a TV series that you only watch together.
  • Make each other playlists and listen to them on a call.
  • Listen to an album from start to finish and talk about it.
  • Watch a live concert or sports event online at the same time.

Games and challenges

  • Play an online board game, card game or video game together.
  • Do an online quiz or trivia night as a team.
  • Try an online escape room.
  • Play twenty questions or "Would you rather?"
  • Do a crossword or puzzle at the same time and race to finish.

Learning together

  • Take an online class in something new, like drawing, dancing or a language.
  • Teach each other a few words in your languages.
  • Read the same book and have a two-person book club.
  • Take a virtual museum tour.

Getting to know each other

  • Give each other a video tour of your neighborhood.
  • Look through old photos and tell the stories behind them.
  • Answer a set of deep questions together.
  • Plan your dream trip together, in detail.
  • Write each other a letter and read them aloud.

Cozy and low effort

  • Fall asleep on a call, if your time zones allow.
  • Work or study alongside each other quietly.
  • Take a walk at the same time and talk on the phone.
  • Have a pajama day call with snacks and no plans.

Tips for great virtual dates

  • Schedule them like real dates, so they feel special.
  • Take turns planning.
  • Make an effort to dress up occasionally.
  • Use headphones and a stable internet connection.
  • Pick a time that is comfortable for both of you, not just one.

Keep it fun

Not every virtual date needs to be elaborate. The point is to share an experience and enjoy each other's company. A silly game or a burnt cake can become one of your favorite memories as a couple.