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The movies -

This used to be a good idea...decades ago. Think about it: how much will you get to know each other by sitting in a dark room watching a movie in silence, really?

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McDonald's -

According to a recent poll conducted in the UK, where 11,000 responses were considered, taking your date to McDonald's is one of the worst things you can do.

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Ice skating/roller skating -

This requires a degree of confidence in the person you're with, as well as actually being open to taking on the challenge (if you're new to it). There is a degree of risk in this, and people can actually get hurt. It just isn't for everyone.

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A bar -

This may have mixed results, and again you may find that a drink can help calm those first date nerves. Still, you may end up drinking more than expected, or vice versa. We're not even going to mention the possible repercussions of this...

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Their birthday party -

Do you really want to be competing for attention on this person's birthday? It's not personal, but you probably won't be able to have a decent conversation since there will be way too many distractions.

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The beach -

Getting semi naked on a first date? Not such a good idea. But how about a stroll on a cold windy beach in the winter? Well, most people would probably pass on that as well.

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A club -

"Sorry, what?" That's how about half the conversation between you two will go. Going clubbing on a first date is not a great idea. Unless, of course, you don't intend to talk at all. 

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Watching sports on TV -

Unless both of you support the same team, and actually are very much interested in watching the game, this is a bad idea. Even so, you won't really get the chance to chat with your date.

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A restaurant -

A first date doesn't have to be an elaborate affair. The idea is to keep it simple and casual. Sitting at a restaurant for at least an hour (though usually more) may be too much of a commitment for some people.

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A wedding -

This type of thing is best saved for when you're in a relationship. There will likely be friends and family there, and you don't want to be spending the day listening to the same questions, e.g. "So, how did you two meet?"

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A funeral -

"Hey, put on your best black outfit, we're going to a funeral!" How sad would that be?

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A park -

Unless you're really into feeding the ducks, a date at a park may end up being somewhat awkward and without a clear direction.

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The zoo -

Zoos can be fun...when you have children. It's also a polarizing place; some people are cool with them, while others not so much.

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An amusement park -

Unless you want to risk throwing up on your date's lap, this is a pretty bad idea.

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Your home -

Come on, make an effort! Not only is this lazy, it may also be uncomfortable for your date. After all, you don't know each other that well, right?

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The mall -

This is not acceptable. And even less acceptable is to go shopping while you're at the mall.

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Church/religious event -

This one can even be offensive if it goes against your date's religious beliefs. So, tread carefully.

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A protest/demonstration/political event -

There are plenty of opportunities for you to channel your inner activist. A first date is not one of them.

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The arcade -

There is a cool retro feel to it, but what if your date really gets into a game and you end up having to just stand there and watch? Or even consoling him/her after defeat?

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An extreme activity -

You may be an adrenaline junkie, but that doesn't mean your date will share the same passion for such activities.

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Trash picking -

We get it: you're environmentally conscious and take great pleasure in doing your bit for the planet. But don't expect your date will share the same enthusiasm for this date idea.

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A museum/gallery -

This one is a bit of a gamble. It can go well if the person is into art or whatever exhibition you're going to, but it can go horribly wrong, too, if your date really isn't into it.

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Swimming -

Taking your clothes off on your first date may be okay for you, but it may not be for your date. Plus, swimming, and indeed being in the water, is not for everyone.

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A double date -

Double dates can be fun, but only when both couples have been dating for a while. In such a scenario, you won't really have the chance to get to know each other.

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A live concert -

This is also a risky move. Especially if you're a big fan of the artist(s) and he/she is not. One person having a great time and the other trying to survive sound torture is no fun.

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Paintballing -

If you've ever been hit during a paintball game, you know how painful it can be. Your date might just not expect to come out of a first date with a few bruises...

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Camping -

It's all very well that you like to be in contact with nature, but some people don't share the same passion for bugs and canned food. Also, if it involves staying overnight, not everyone is up for that on a first date.

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A family gathering -

This is a bit awkward. For everyone. Just don't do it. 

See also: Definitive signs you should go on a second date

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