3rd February 2025: Ditch the dinner reservations and overpriced cocktails. New research* from travel company First Choice reveals that 18–35-year-olds spend a staggering £890 on date nights a month – making a romantic getaway abroad potentially cheaper than a night out on the town. Yes, you read that right. 

With Brits going on an average of three dates a month, splashing out on everything from staycations (46%) and theatre trips (42%) to fancy dinners (38%), music concerts (37%) cocktails (35%), the costs quickly add up. Some couples even admitted to shelling out over £1,128 on a single date night – enough for a luxury all-inclusive break. 

 With 40% of Brits citing cost as their biggest date night concern and 59% regretting their spending, it’s time for a change. Enter the “holidate”. 

Forget overpriced cocktails and overcrowded mini-golf courts. First Choice’s new interactive date night tool matches couples with incredible romantic trip itinerary  based on their dating vibe – whether you’re doing it for the plot and taking a first date international  or upgrading into your engagement era. Instead of the same old dinner-and-a-movie routine, imagine romantic picnics under the Eiffel Tower, exploring ancient ruins hand-in-hand, or indulging in authentic local cuisine – all for less than the price of a mediocre meal deal back home. 

The research shows that 85% of Gen Z and Millennials value holiday experiences more than regular date nights, and a whopping 78% believe it might actually be cheaper to jet off on holiday for an exotic date night abroad than visit a fancy restaurant in the UK. And with 49% already considering a date night abroad, and another 41% tempted if the price is right, the “holidate” is set to take off. 

Swap the same old date night for a once-in-a-lifetime experience: 

• Culture vultures: Ditch the theatre queue and embrace the vibrant arts scene in Paris. Gallery hop, catch a show, and soak up the city of love without breaking the bank. With First Choice, you can elevate your Valentine’s Day in Paris from just £346pp*.   

Pick a stay at the Hotel 18, Paris. Prices from £346* per person. Price is based on 2 adults sharing a Double Comfort Room on a Room Only basis for 2 nights, flights departing from London Gatwick on 14th February 2025.  Hand luggage only and transfers not included. For more information visit: firstchoice.co.uk 

• Foodies: Forget overpriced tasting menus. Explore the culinary delights of Italy with a romantic weekend in Lake Como. Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine and breathtaking scenery – all for less than you’d spend on a fancy dinner back home. Spend your weekend of love in Lake Como for £371pp*.  

Pick a trip to the BandB Hotel Como, Lake Como. Prices from £371* per person. Price is based on 2 adults sharing a Standard Twin Room on a Room Only basis for 2 nights, flights departing from London Luton on 14th February 2025.  Hand luggage only and transfers not included. For more information visit: firstchoice.co.uk  

• Adventure seekers: Trade the predictable for the extraordinary. Discover hidden gems, explore exotic landscapes, and create unforgettable memories together. First Choice suggests winter sun and romance in Marrakech, Morrocco from £394pp*.  

Pick a trip at the Taj Atlas Wellness Boutique Hotel and Spa, Marrakech. Prices from £394* per person. Price is based on 2 adults sharing a Basic Double Room on a Bed and Breakfast basis for 3 nights, flights departing from Glasgow on 14th February 2025.  Hand luggage only and transfers not included. For more information visit: firstchoice.co.uk  

So, this Valentine’s Day, ditch the tired old date night routine and embrace the “holidate”