Love In Toronto

Want the equivalent of a club date without all the expenses of parking, coat check, gas and a new outfit? Seeking that fun date idea that won’t have you facing any lineups in the chilly air outside? Want to see your friends and sweetheart without any noise, crowds or sweat involved? Your drinking at home with your pals and romantic companion is just the way do so. But how can you enjoy yourself as much on such a night equally or more so than during a night in the city? You will find the answer in such an event’s versatility – mix drinks to create flavours your taste buds will recognize, create your own mixed drink, play drinking games, play regular games like “Truth or Dare” while sipping on some liquor or – if you’re feeling low-energy – watch television or play board games while downing shots.

One benefit to a drink date at home is that you get to create drinks in flavours you enjoy. Similarly, you could customize a drink to reflect your personality. For instance, if you’re a wildcard, add many, different flavours to your drink – such as banana, chocolate, mango, kiwi and just a touch of vanilla icecream – then blend, and a bit of liquor. In addition, you could impress a love interest by mixing a drink with flavours that s/he enjoys. You could make smoothies and then add alcohol to them or simply mix juice – or milk – with vodka, Kahlua or rum. If you’re concerned about finances, you could always mix each drink with the same, one alcoholic beverage.

Your playing drinking games is a good way to get your guests excited. Not only will you have more fun than sitting on the couch, but you and your guests will also remain amused by doing outlandish things or simply using your energies toward a game’s goal. If you and your social circle enjoy chuckling and using your intellect, you may enjoy King’s Cup. You could also look up other, entertaining drinking games using a search engine

What’s even more fun is your creating your own drinking games. You and your pals could give the game exciting challenges or consequences depending on the rules you create. For instance, you could create a game in which one person and the person on his or her left would be required to take a shot of vodka every time the original person said a word beginning with the letter “P.” On the other hand, you could make it so that one person and the three people to his or her left could be prohibited from drinking when the first person uses the word “like” until one other person, not in the same group, uses this same word. Your completing more passive activities, like watching a hockey game or playing Monopoly with your other half and buds, while drinking is always enjoyable, too.

Your spending a night in does not necessarily have to be boring. You can make it fun – by inviting friends and/or a date to enjoy some alcoholic beverages with you. Sip on beverages you have just concocted, well-known drinks that you enjoy, play drinking games or simply recline while gulping down fluids. Whatever you choose, you will spend unforgettable moments with friends.

Exquisite Italian cuisine. A cozy – not to mention, striking – interior and patio. A T.V. playing captivating movies at the bar. Low prices. Vagabando is Torontonians’ luxury restaurant of choice for an affordable breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Not to mention, the servers are excellent. They are not careless, nor do they check up so often that they become nuisances. Moreover, the bistro is comfortable – pillows cover the couches outside, and there are cozy booths inside. In addition, Vagabondo is far from an eyesore – its dim, romantic interior, bright, lavish patio and modern, happening lounge will make diners crave interior design makeovers for their own homes.

With a wide variety of Italian food, including seafood, pasta, meat, salad, vegetables and antipasti, Vagabondo will satisfy a couple’s and all their fellow diners’ appetites. The eatery’s beverages are absolutely delectable as well. In fact, Vagabondo’s Coco Banana cocktails will delight one’s tongue to no extent. Some other alcoholic drinks Vagabondo offers are red and white wine, Caribbean Breeze cocktails, daiquiris, martinis, beer and champagne.

For a limited time, Vagabondo is offering a four-course meal, known as the Summer Fixe, for only $35. This scrumptious array of food consists of a starter bruschetta; a raspberry, strawberry and goat cheese salad or salmon served atop assorted vegetables as a second course; a choice between chicken breast, veal, ravioli and salmon next; and cheesecake for dessert.

Vagabondo is located near Toronto’s Lakeshore, just moments away from the Toronto Sculpture Garden, the Hockey Hall of Fame, Berczy park and the St. Lawrence market. Couples can fill their bellies with top-notch food and sip a few tasty drinks before catching a show at a downtown theatre. Meanwhile, singles and their love interests could enjoy the music played by the DJ anytime between 6pm and midnight on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday night.

All in all, Vagabondo is an eating place that is both upscale and inexpensive. The quality of food is outstanding, and this venue triples as a bar, lounge and restaurant. Vagabondo is a cozy place for a date or a friend’s night out. Visitors will be astounded by the excellence they receive for the low price they pay at Vagabondo.

Vagabondo is located at 32 Wellington St. East, near Wellington and Yonge St. For more information like menus and hours, visit www.vagabondo.ca. To make reservations, call (416) 862-1999 or click here.

Many people believe that a couple’s moving in together is the true test of their compatibility. This theory, however, is false. It is possible to predetermine whether or not a couple will enjoy living together by observing their everyday habits.

Although it may be hard to believe, there are many signs that a duo will bicker regularly when paired up in a living arrangement. Generally, if one is annoyed by his or her partner before the move-in, these slight nuisances will only heighten if the pair lives in the same quarters. Sometimes chemistry is just not enough to allow a pair eternal bliss.

Some things a couple planning to move in together should take into consideration are:

• Each person’s individual neediness: If one’s partner demands more attention than s/he does, then the more secure individual may be turned off or even annoyed by his or her sweetheart’s extra affection. Such combinations of people don’t mix. If such a twosome choose to live together, the person desiring more space may become frustrated with the person demanding more of his or her time.
• Each person’s patience level: Anger issues are a serious thing, and if one cannot control his or her internal rage, then s/he is a person to avoid, especially as a roommate. Because arguments can escalate to physical violence, especially with someone whose temper flares more often than not, one should steer clear of living with a partner who is easily irritable. In fact, perhaps the relationship should end when one’s angry ways are discovered, unless the often-irate person agrees to attend anger management seminars.
• Each person’s level of common courtesy: Will one’s partner volunteer to wash the dishes? Does s/he have to be coaxed into doing the laundry? Does s/he sit on the couch and never help out? These are things to consider, unless one can handle doing all the housework. If one’s other half is not very helpful around the home, then a couple may argue often because of it. In addition, a person’s level of respect for their sweetie must be thought about before the pair move in, because a person’s blasting loud music while his or her mate is asleep is bound to cause a ton of upheaval, as well.

While some couples could take the hands-on route of determining their agreeability, why spend the time and energy? All a person really needs to know is that if a partner gets on his or nerves before the move-in, one will only be more aggravated seeing his or her significant other on a daily basis. And it is best to keep these nuisances to a minimum so that a couple experiences little to no verbal or physical abuse over the course of their relationship. Besides, relationships where pairs are always fighting or complaining are no fun. Alan Herbert said, “The conception of two people living together for twenty-five years without having a cross word suggests a lack of spirit only to be admired in sheep.” While it is correct that one’s living with a partner can be difficult, it can be easy – and enjoyable – if done with a suitable person.

A 17-year-old Stephanie Delfina in front of the gondola rides outside the Venetian hotel.

The next stop on our vacation expedition is Las Vegas. Las Vegas seems like a city of flashy lights and late nights, but it can be romantic as well. Eat a French dinner, stare at the sights Las Vegas has to offer from the top of the Eiffel tower, watch the fireworks, take a walk under the twinkling lights or feed your sweetheart chocolate-covered strawberries before jumping in the hot tub. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Las Vegas can promise you.

The party city can be turned into a romantic trip for two. It takes some planning, of course. That’s why there’s a schedule listed for you below. Here’s a short synopsis:

Part 1:
A Luxury Suite

Outside the Paris Hotel

… literally. The cheapest rooms at the Paris hotel, the most chic and romantic hotel on the strip, in Las Vegas are called “Luxury” rooms ($120). That goes to show the quality of these rooms, after all. If you feel like splurging, the Red Luxury Room ($140) is much more visually appealing and not only makes a perfect backdrop for romance but is cozy as well.

More of the gondola rides

Part 2:
A Romantic Vision

It is not necessarily the place that makes romance possible, but a couple’s dreams themselves. Las Vegas, however, is a suitable place for such undertakings – the endless sights, the cuisine from various cultures and the perfect weather for a dip in the hot tub. Moreover, the tropical destination has comfortable hotels that make staying in more desirable.

Part 3:
A Break

Near the pool at Caesar's Palace

Of course romance is thrilling, but an overdose can make one sick of his or her honey. A couple’s taking breaks between romantic periods prevents them from getting tired of their sweet, doting ways. In addition, when one of the two does something sweet after taking a break from romancing, the generous gesture will be even more magical and unforgettable for the other person.

Part 4:
A Combination of Staying In and Going Out

Romance is fun, but when it happens according to the same routine, lovers may become restless in their quests for amusement. That’s why it’s important for duos to spend time in as well as away from the love nest. That way couples won’t feel lethargic or trapped in stuffy atmospheres and can truly enjoy themselves through various activities.

A view of the strip

The following schedule encompasses a 6-day voyage to Vegas. That’s assuming that a couple arrives in the evening the first night and spends it dipping strawberries in chocolate, sipping champagne and rubbing each other’s backs with massage oil. It is a relaxing treat to end a long journey, one that may leave its passengers feeling jetlagged.

All in all, Las Vegas is an enjoyable place for couples to stay. With the variety of activities available; dry, warm weather and pleasing sights, Vegas is a place where couples can make the most out of their visits. Las Vegas helps couples bring their dreams of romance to life.

If you and your sweetheart are planning on going away this summer, the Dominican Republic is a place where you can relax one day, enjoy thrilling activities the next or simply pamper your significant other. Surf, parasail, play volleyball, tan, swim, sleep, feast or curl up in a hammock together. Whatever you chose, you’ll be entertained.

A 14-year-old Stephanie in the Dominican Republic.

Not only is the climate sizzling in the Dominican Republic, but the turquoise seas are remarkable to regard. And it is the perfect setting for romance! If you feel like feeding your dearest chocolate-dipped strawberries as you sit on a balcony overlooking the ocean, you’ve chosen the right place. In addition, the DR allows you other cute methods of expressing your affection to your partner, like writing your names in the sand, painting a portrait of your mate with the island as the backdrop, having a seaside dinner or simply spending alone time with your other half.

If you’re headed to the Dominican Republic, it is probably in your best interest to go the all-inclusive route. You get to enjoy unlimited amenities – beverages and food – at a fixed price. In addition, if you choose to stay at a resort, you can wander off to sister hotels of the resort, visiting their restaurants, casinos, pools, gyms – you name it – at no extra cost. Your staying at an all-inclusive resort allows you and your honey to fully enjoy the tropical destination without worrying about overspending.

Be warned, however: Your venturing off the resort can have dangerous consequences. Because residents of the island are generally poor, you run the risk of running into troublesome company by roaming the streets. In addition, your drinking Dominican tap water, which contains different microbes than many other nations, may cause your stomach to turn. Instead, purified bottled water is available in the hotels and resorts of the country, is used to cook the food served there and is used for making ice cubes. Furthermore, many Dominican men (locals or resort employees) choose to court North American women simply so that they can have the possibility of living in better conditions. This means if you’re bringing any single companions, it would be best to forewarn them!

Overall, the Dominican Republic is a pleasant place to visit. Not only is it always sunny, but the beauty of the island will steal your attention. The landscape makes a perfect backdrop for heart-melting, couple photos. Moreover, the climate is relatively comfortable – usually ranging between 24 and 28°C. The tropical destination offers a wide range of activities from lounging in the sun to scuba diving to dancing at clubs. With flights from Toronto to the Dominican ranging from $400-$550 and hotel stays beginning at $80 a night, you can add “visiting the Dominican Republic” to your itinerary. Jewelry; sculptures; paintings; beautiful, light, breezy clothing – the souvenirs you could bring back are endless and alluring. You’ve probably already concluded that the Dominican Republic is a thoroughly enjoyable couple’s utopia.

You’ve witnessed a couple kissing away on the couch as your friends mingle, before. And you know it is customary for your friends to chat about how disgusted they were by the overly affectionate couple, after the event. In your new relationship, you want to avoid earning such a despicable reputation but don’t know how.

To be on the safe side, you may wish to forego all public displays of affection altogether. That means you’ve sworn off  hand-holding, pecks on the cheek, pecks on the lips, sitting on each other’s laps, make-out sessions, chewing each other’s necks off in public and the like. With all these elements of your relationship missing, you and your honey may feel as though you are strangers while you are away from the love nest. But the good news is that there are subtle ways of feeling connected with your partner in public without coming across as obnoxious.

So what are acceptable ways of warming up to your significant other while in public? Just some include:

Rubbing the back – This does not mean a full-out massage. Rather, your rubbing or patting your partner’s back briefly will reassure him or her of your feelings and make him or her feel desired.

Hand on the knee – Of course, it is not advisable to rest your hand there for the whole of the evening, but your placing your hand on your other’s half knee for a few moments reaffirms that you care.

Smiling – Every once in a while, your throwing a smile at your romantic companion will make him or her feel welcome around you and not merely like a stranger in your group of pals.

Eye contact – Your connecting gazes with your partner lets him or her know s/he’s on your mind and acknowledged while the two of you are in public.

The almost-arm-wrap – In this move, your arm rests on the chair next to you, nearly around your honey, but casual enough not to sicken your friends with physicality.

The wink – Your sending a playful, affectionate wink your sweetie’s way may bring a smile to his or her face.

Pet names – You can still use cutesy nicknames for your romantic companion while out in public, as long as they are not explicit.

To portray a clean image of you and your partner to your social circle, you may wish to be less affectionate while out with a group. You have to admit most people are uncomfortable watching a couple kiss and caress in public. Your being discreet about your emotions will not only earn you respect with your friends, it will spare you embarrassment.

In addition, your partner may regard you even more highly when you respect him or her enough to avoid embarrassing him or her with over-the-top PDA. And your friends will be glad you and your other half don’t physically boast about your happiness. Thus, you, your sweetie and your companions will be more comfortable when you and your significant other choose not to caress each other when you are all out together.

Men, you may be nervous to pose that big question, and the very thought of it may give you the heeby-geebies. The good news is that you are not limited to one strategy of doing so, and a more creative method of your proposing may put your nerves at ease.You can rest soundly knowing you will most likely wow your partner with your thoughtful way of asking to marry her.

Moreover, the time your other half is proposed to is one she will always remember. Thus, you don’t want it to be bland. In addition, you will express to your partner that you cherish your memories together by showing her your thoughtful side. Just some approaches you can take when planning to ask a phenomenal person to spend her life with you are:

• The Surprise Tactic. Place the ring in a bouquet of roses, in a place you know she will look or in a new purse you give her. Similarly, you could spring vacation tickets on her and make your long-awaited inquiry there, ask a jet pilot to write your proposal in the clouds or drop the question as you serenade her in a quaint café. No matter what you plan, the surprise technique will leave your unsuspecting companion speechless.
• The Sentimental Sale. A scrapbook of memories, in which the last page has that special request scrawled on it; dinner at her favourite place before asking said question; question on a piece of paper, inside a locket with a photo of you together. When you request her to be your bride in a thoughtful manner, she’ll not only be impressed that you remember countless times you’ve spent together, but she’ll also think you’re incredibly sweet.
• The Sweet Route. You could always ask your significant other that all-important question by having a painter paint the words while she thinks she is receiving a self-portrait, by writing it in the sand or by placing a note in an empty wine bottle, which she thinks is full. This approach will make your partner feel more special than if you had bluntly requested her love for the rest of your lives.

As an anonymous author once said, “I dreamed of a wedding of elaborate elegance, a church filled with family and friends. I asked him what kind of a wedding he wished for, [and h]e said one that would make me his wife.” You may recognize that the most important thing about engagement is the person whom you plan to wed. On the other hand, nowadays it is very common for men to plan extravagant displays of affection before asking women to be their brides. Thus, you may disappoint your sweetheart with a simple “Will you marry me?”

To avoid making your lover feel like chop liver next to her friends whose husbands proposed in extraordinary ways, you could prepare an out-of-this-world proposal. If you choose only one day to be romantic, your proposing in a thoughtful manner will have your partner think of you as dreamy for eternity.