Check out Groupon for a great deal on wine tasting!  Only $16 for Wine Surfing for Two with a Cheese Plate at Gourmet au Bay in Bodega Bay!

Take some  time to relax and enjoy some quality time with your significant other and save some money at the same time!

Before the invention of wine, humans displayed olfactory prowess by sniffing out empty caves and discerning what berries were used to flavor their glasses of wooly mammoth tears. Hone nose and tongue sensors with today’s Groupon: for $16, you get wine surfing for two and a cheese plate (a $32 value) at Gourmet au Bay in Bodega Bay.

A waterside wine bar and tasting room, Gourmet au Bay offers a rotating, eclectic selection of small production, award-winning wines surrounded by majestic bayside views. Ride a tongue-pleasing wave for two by selecting 3 wines from Gourmet au Bay’s current wine list, served in 2-ounce installments on a miniature surfboard, specially developed by a focus group of surfing pixies (an $18 total value). Taste buds will also enjoy a cheese and cracker plate (a $14 value), great for insulating stomach walls and clearing the palate.

Enjoy the grape juice of the gods while feasting eyes on the Bodega Bay scenery encircling Gourmet au Bay’s outdoor deck, with occasional glimpses of frolicking sea lions, harbor seals, and ghost pirates.

LivingSocial Escapes currently has a great deal going on.  $95 for a one night stay at the Mendocino Farm House.  Regularly $190.

It was Leonardo da Vinci who said “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” And now, when you contemplate a quaint, rustic, secluded Escape, (read: simple) you’ll imagine the sophistication of Mendocino Farm House—a romantic bed and breakfast nestled in a private redwood forest, just moments away from the nearby village of Mendocino, California.

Your one-night stay for two begins with a split of local wine upon arrival (along with a furry greeting from the inn’s resident cat, Simpkin, and Sage, his canine brother), and a tour of the grounds by longtime innkeeper Margie Kamb. Take your pick of the inn’s available rooms.

Two of the rooms offer queen beds: Karin’s, located on the second floor at the back of the house, is perfect for those craving tons of quiet time. Couples looking for gorgeous views of the forest and pond will happily settle into Jim’s room.

Looking to lose yourself in sheer, spacious bliss? John’s is the property’s largest room, complete with a king bed and a cozy fireplace. Elizabeth’s abode is the inn’s newest—tucked away for blissful solitude, and featuring a private deck and seating area with a more intimate view of the forest.  Click here to read more

Married couples may want to take a page out of their kids’ book. Think about the times you have seen your kids laugh and giggle with joy. Those times are most likely when they are watching the antics of animals. Adults can also share in the fun. Take a look at some of the places spouses can go to enjoy a walk on the wild side:

Visit the Zoo

Pick a time when a nearby zoo won’t be overrun with kids; normally a weekday. You want to have a quiet, leisurely time strolling down the paths, holding hands, and watching your favorite animals frolic.

Take time to talk about the animals you see. You can even play a little game. Which animal would you be if you could? Choose one of the animals that you see and tell your spouse why you chose that particular animal. You might just learn something new about how your spouse feels about life and love.

You can also be interactive by feeding the animals you can by hand and visiting the petting zoo. Many zoos also have shows you can watch. But, the visit isn’t just about the animals. There are often cute little places to share a lunch. You’ll usually find a pretty park atmosphere where you can sit and relax while you listen to the lions roar and the birds sing. Close your eyes and pretend you’re on an exotic safari.

Visit the Aquarium

The peaceful atmosphere of an aquarium is also a perfect place to relax with your spouse. Aquariums normally have both bright sunny areas as well as the cooler, subdued tanks. The atmosphere alone of an aquarium feels soothing and romantic. Choose a day when it won’t be as crowded so you can spend quiet time together gazing at the amazing species, and each other.

You won’t want to miss the penguins, walruses, dolphins, and even whales. Take time to read the information to learn more. Simple facts about the creatures we share the earth with can open up great discussions. Consider the fact that male penguins watch over the unborn eggs. This can certainly give a young couple something to talk about!

Many aquariums have interactive displays such as petting tanks for baby sharks, skates, rays, as well as other beautiful sea creatures. This experience can give a couple something to share and laugh about. Romance, laughter, and nature often go hand-in-hand.

Go to the Circus

Want to enjoy wildlife with a bit of drama and flare? Get ready for the chills and thrills of the big top tent. Share popcorn and a soda as you watch death-defying feats. You’ll have a lot of laughs with your sweetie, along with a few screams. Sit real close and hang on tight to get ready for all those scary moments. There’s a little romance right there!

Your trip to the circus is just for the two of you to relax and communicate on an entirely new level. Enjoy each other without worrying about how the kids are enjoying the show. Get to the circus a bit early and walk around. You may even get an up close and personal moment with some of the animals. Some zoos even offer rides on the elephants. Take advantage if you can for some real fun.

Visit a Pet Store or Shelter

Snuggling with kittens and puppies can bring out the cute in anybody. There’s nothing that softens a person or a mood more than cuddling fuzzy bundles of love. Most pet stores and humane shelters will welcome the attention you give to their kittens and puppies. Watch your spouse get all mushy about a pet and your heart will get all mushy for them!

Spend time in the animal kingdom with your spouse. Laughing at their antics will lighten your heart and give you reason to fall in love with your spouse all over again.

Another great deal from Groupon:

$20 for Two Unlimited Wristbands at Scandia Family Fun Center ($39.90 Value)

The Fine Print

• Expires Sep 28, 2011
• Limit 2 per person, may buy 2 additional as gifts. Limit 1 per visit. Tax included.

Another great deal from Groupon:

$125 for a Six-Hour San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise for Two from Imagine Sailing Tours in Emeryville (Up to $250 Value.

The Fine Print

• Expires Sep 24, 2011
• Limit 3 per person, may buy 3 additional as gifts. Limit 3 per visit. Reservation required; subject to availability. 24hr cancellation notice required. Ages 10 and under are free. Tax included.

Pampering is expensive in a spa. But, who says you have to go to a spa for all that special treatment? You know what you like, and you can probably guess what your spouse likes. So, why not create a nice spa atmosphere right in your own home?

The spa treatment can include facials, massages, or foot and hand soaks. Whatever you decide to do for your spa day at home, set the mood and get everything ready ahead of time so there are no interruptions.  Here are a few suggestions for designing an inexpensive spa at home for you and your spouse:

The Atmosphere

Most spas distinguish themselves first and foremost with their personal style or atmosphere. Begin by choosing an area in your bedroom, living room, bathroom, or guest room that is cozy and quiet. Depending on the services your spa day will be providing, you’ll need to set up specific furniture and equipment. However, there are amenities common to all spas that let you know you are in for a treat.

Begin with soft, warm lighting. Draw the drapes and turn lamps on low. Set candles around the room, using candles in containers for safety. Use scented candles that you enjoy to add pleasant aroma to the room. Finally, be sure to have soft music! Silence is golden, but lovely music adds something to the hushed sounds of the spa.

The spa treatment or treatments you choose to do will be shared with your spouse. Your couple’s spa day is give and take, sort of “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” You’ll want to either swap treatments right away, or choose alternating days. Let’s look at a few basic services most pampered spa guests like to receive:

Massage

You will need a comfortable place to lay, first and foremost. Make sure the height suits the person giving the massage so the masseuse doesn’t suffer a sore back as a result of this treatment. Cover the massage table with warmed towels, blankets, and sheets. The clothes dryer works well for this. Arrange your lotions or oils so they are convenient to you. Help your spouse get comfortable on top of the warmed linens, then warm up your hands and begin.

Just use your best technique to make your partner feel relaxed. Aim for about a fifteen to twenty minute massage to give your spouse time to really relax. Be sure to include those tender feet, shoulders, neck, and back. Then, depending on what you planned, switch places and continue with the next massage.

Foot Soak

This is a popular spa treatment that both men and women enjoy. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on fancy equipment or ingredients. Choose a couple sturdy plastic bins and fill them with warm water and any gentle soap you like. You can even add natural ingredients like vanilla, honey, oatmeal, and peppermint oil for a real organic and aromatic soak. Let your spouse soak in quiet for about five to ten minutes, then use a nice scrub or a washcloth and gently scrub the feet and legs. Then pour fresh water over and dry the feet and legs with warm towels.

Now pull up a comfortable stool to sit on in front of your spouse. Choose a lotion or oil that your spouse likes and gently massage all over the feet and up the ankles and calves. Use gentle massaging movements and push gently into soles of feet with your thumbs to relax sore muscles. When finished, wrap your spouse’s feet and legs in warm dry towels to continue the relaxation. Now, when it’s your turn, your spouse will know exactly what to do for you!

This shared spa experience is a great way to share intimacy in your relationship. Learning what each other likes is the first step to creating a romantic life together.  By giving your spouse a spa treatment, you not only give your spouse a wonderful experience, but you prepare your spouse to give you the same.

Another great deal from Groupon: $59 for One-Night Stay at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott and Breakfast for Two at Black Bear Diner in Natomas (Up to $182.98 Value).

This could make for a great romantic getaway.  Think: dinner, movie, hotel, … , breakfast. 

The Fine Print

• Expires Sep 21, 2011
• Limit 1/person, may buy 2 add’l as gifts. Limit 1/table, 2/table of 6 or more. Limit 1/visit. Reserv reqd for hotel. Valid for dine-in at Black Bear Diner Natomas location only. Valid for Fairfield Inn Natomas location only. Must have breakfast at Black Bear Diner within 24hrs of hotel stay. Not valid at gift shop. No merchandise or alcohol.

DealPulp (a daily deal site) is offering a great deal today if your special someone enjoys receiving flowers.  Get $10 for $20 to Spend on Exquisite Flowers, Gift Baskets, and More from 1800Flowers.com.

Fine Print

Limit 1 per person. May buy 1 additional as gift. Expires May 15, 2011. Shipping and service charge not included and vary based on shipping method and order size. DealPulp promo codes cannot be combined with each other, but can be combined with other offers and codes. Within 24 hours after the deal ends, you will receive an email with instructions for redeeming the deal on 1800Flowers.com

Everyone loves a surprise, especially when the surprise is fresh flowers and delicious gifts for no reason at all

Groupon is currently offering a great deal on a Lake Shasta houseboat rental.  Just click HERE.   You’ll find this deal on the right hand side under “More Great Deals Nearby”

A trip into the past often produces very fond memories of activities we did for fun as we were just starting to romance each other on dates. These activities now may seem sort of corny, but often the corny and simple activities we do are the most fun, and bring out the kid in us.

We know that laughter often produces a romantic atmosphere. It’s not all about candlelight dinners. Romance can blossom when we giggle and enjoy ourselves, too. Let’s look at some old-school activities that you and your sweetheart can share:

Romantic Roller Rink Rendezvous

Roller rinks have kept their place in the dating world because they have maintained that same atmosphere of funky fun, right down to the disco ball and flashing lights. The music sets the perfect rhythm to glide across the floor with your sweetie.

It doesn’t matter if you have all the right moves, just wrap your arms around your sweetheart and enjoy your time together skating around and around the rink. A few falls may occur, but the bumps and bruises are well worth it. Many roller rinks offer ‘adults only’ skating time which makes it even easier to concentrate on each other, and your love.

Drive-In and Outdoor Movies

You will have to look around to find a drive-in or outdoor movie, but they are on the rise in many areas. In big cities and small towns alike, old drive-in movies are being revamped. The latest craze is the moving outdoor theater. Large vans pull into a town and set up their ‘theater’ in a park. All you need to do is bring your blankets and chairs and settle in for the flick.

Movie dates are always fun but they are more romantic under the stars. Be sure to have warm blankets so you can snuggle underneath and keep warm. Don’t forget to bring your favorite movie snacks like a big bag of popcorn and a giant beverage. If you are fortunate enough to find a drive-in, you’ll want to climb in the back seat so you can get really comfy. Isn’t it great to be able to recreate those first-date feelings with your spouse? That’s the best of both worlds; being with your life-mate and feeling like a kid!

Bowling

If you believe romance starts with a good laugh, then bowling is for you. From the funny shoes to the silly moves, bowling is just plain fun. Make your bowling date competitive with contests between the two of you like a special romantic reward for who gets the first ‘turkey’ (three strikes in a row).

Enjoy classic bowling alley food like hot dogs and pizza. It’s all about recreating a youthful date, so indulge like you did when you were a teenager. You say you’ve never bowled before? Maybe now is the time to let your spouse teach you a few basic moves which requires some real close hands-on methods. You may even want to pretend you can’t bowl just to get a lesson or two from your sweetie!

Ice Skating

A frosty day is romantic all on its own, but add smooth moves on sparkling ice and you have a perfect date. Between turns around the rink, warm up in your spouse’s arms with a cup of hot cocoa.

If you haven’t been on ice skates in a while, you may be spending a bit of time sitting on the ice, but that’s part of the fun, picking each other up. It’s all about having a laugh and snuggling to stay warm. Sounds like romance is in the icy air!

Activities that are reminiscent of dating days from your youth will spark the same feelings you had at that time. Even if you’ve never done an activity like this, just trying something new will make you feel like a kid again. Recreate a simpler time when you and your spouse were just learning about each other and enjoy the romance.