h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

The key to a successful first date is hiding all of one's weaknesses. There are certain things that each participator in the date will be looking for.

Entertainment value is important, because boring your date is the beginning of a walk off a pier. How to entertain is obviously up to the individual. Those without much confidence in his/her personality can rely on a variety of activities to keep the other occupied. Anything one does for entertainment by oneself is sufficient.

Lunch or dinner may be the most expensive part of the date, but it also the most important. Buying one's date a meal hints that one will be able to provide for needs, and a willingness to cater to taste. Picking a restaurant is very important, and McDonald's or the local café usually does not suffice. A cup of coffee or tea might be appreciated, but it rarely conveys the same level of emotion that comes with a meal.

Many of the details depend on how well the two potential lovers know each other. If they had only just met, trust could be a serious issue that will hamper intimacy.

The final factor is deciding how much one is willing to risk. Extravagance only comes with a) having money, and b) strong desire. For the short-term, extravagance might be preferable for short-term impressions. On the other hand, it builds up high expectations for later on.

It is important to hide weaknesses, but without giving unrealistic expectations. In the end, what is important is a combination of confidence and compatability. The venue usually does not make-or-break the date.