I love my friends.

I also love going on dates.

It seems that in past a ‘date’ has only been reserved for romantic interests; only if you want to kiss someone is it acceptable to light some candles, cook them some dinner and finish the night with some star gazing.

I provoke this age-old notion with a WHY?

Whether I am single or in a relationship, my friends are and always will be one of the most important features of my life. So if I want to show them a little lovin’ of the friendship variety, and also am in the mood for a night of food, conversation and star gazing, than goddamn I am going to take my friend on a friendship date.

But wait, you say, is a friendship date only limited to a night time dinner?

No! I exclaim. A friendship date can range from a totally casual friendship hang at the beach to a full-blown air-balloon sunrise. So to give you some inspiration for you and your bestie, here is a list of our top 10 friendship date ideas.

1. Simple home cooked meal

Possibly followed by a chick flick and some cheeky dessert…

2. Picnic at a scenic lookout

Marvel at the beauty of the earth with good food and great company

3. Café hopping

Try that café you’ve been talking about going to for so long – then try another! Spend the time with your friend catching up on more than just the basics.

4. Drive in movies

Popcorn, chocolate pyjamas in public…. Need I say more?

5. Beach set up

Okay, so maybe it won’t look quite as spectacular as this – but all you need is a towel, a hat and a book to spend a beautiful day with a beautiful friend.