Jacksonville FL is a great place to live with beautiful beaches, many amazing places to eat and destinations to explore there's really no excuse not to get a potential new relationship off to a stellar start in what has been dubbed "the most popular city in Florida."
Possibly one of the most famous attractions in the area is the Fort Caroline National Memorial which memorializes the short-lived French presence in sixteenth century Florida. Here you will find stories of exploration, survival, religious disputes, territorial battles, and first contact between American Indians and Europeans.
You can enjoy realistic re-enactments and explore fascinating exhibits or just enjoy a hike along one of the many trails in this beautiful park giving you plenty of time to chat and get to know your date.
Not outdoorsy? How about arranging to meet at one of the many stylish coffee shops in the city. Take Bold Bean Coffee Roasters with cafes in Riverside, Jacksonville Beach and San Marco where not only can you enjoy amazing coffee and food but maybe even a pint of great beer inside or out, depending where you choose to visit.
Maybe you like to enjoy a traditional style date with dinner in a reasonably priced restaurant? Listed as one of the best restaurants in Jacksonville is the Black Sheep Restaurant in the historic Five Points region. Maybe enjoy cocktails on the rooftop bar with amazing views of Riverside and the St John's River.
Personally I think once you've matched online it's a good idea to chat for a while over video call or phone and then meet somewhere safe with something to look at and chat about if the conversation stalls.
You could meet at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens or the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Just make sure you let someone you trust know where you are going, what time you are meeting your date and ask them to send a subtle text to ensure you feel safe and happy.
Residents of Jacksonville are actually really lucky because there are so many fantastic attractions, bars, coffee houses and restaurants that when you are dating in Jacksonville you could discover a new favourite hangout every day.
Bear in mind your first date might not be "the one" but you'll soon learn what qualities you like in someone and hopefully soon will meet someone to make precious memories with. Even if some of your dates are less than perfect it will at least give you amusing anecdotes for your future. Check out details of some of my particularly disastrous dates which seemed terrible at the time but make me laugh now.
There's someone out there for everyone - you just have to be brave and take the first step and start looking for them.