Putting the bins out, making the bed and putting the toilet seat down have emerged as acts hopeless modern men consider to be romantic. Researchers found that while old favourites such as a candlelit dinner or buying flowers are still on the list, helping with chores or even looking after their children to give their other half a break are also among the more modern ‘romantic’ actions.
Doing the ironing without being asked, putting a load of washing on and throwing the vacuum around the house are also among the things men think are romantic.
It also emerged seven out of ten men only ‘try’ to be romantic when they are on holiday with their partner.
A spokesman for luxury hotelier Sandals Resorts, which commissioned the research, said:
“These days it seems just helping with everyday chores or remembering their partner’s birthday is considered romantic by the modern man.
“But whilst these things are important, both parties in a relationship should also make an effort to keep the romance alive.
“Whether it’s drawing a bubble bath with rose petals and candles, making her favorite cocktail or breakfast in bed, or even just a surprise picnic of Champagne and strawberries on the living room floor when it’s raining outside, your partner will love being made to feel extra special.
“Of course nothing speaks romance more than a holiday or trip away, to enjoy some true quality time together.”
The study of 1,000 men revealed that, encouragingly, there are still some classic romantics out there who do think it’s important to say ‘I love you’, open doors ahead of their other half, write love letters or simply give them a kiss or cuddle.
But other ‘romantic gestures’ which feature on the list include looking after the kids so their partner can go out, putting the bins out and offering to wash up.
Despite this, almost three quarters of men admit they could make more effort in the romance department, whilst 85% admitted their relationship could benefit from a holiday or mini-break.
37% of men say that this is because they find it easier to be romantic when they are away from home, as they don’t have the usual day-to-day distractions.
Another quarter put it down to being in a romantic location while 24% also find it easier to turn on the charm if they are in a romantic hotel.
More than one in ten also say that simply being away from the stress and strains of home life helps to put the spark back into their relationship.
The study also found more than six in ten couples find they are more romantic with their other half after returning from a break, with the ‘holiday glow’ lasting around three weeks before they get back to their normal routine.
MODERN ROMANTIC GESTURES ACCORDING TO MEN
Putting the bins out
Doing the dishes without being asked
Offering to make a cup of tea
Saying ‘I love You’
Opening a door for her
Making the bed
Looking after the kids so my partner can go out
Listening to my partner talk or moan about her day without complaining
A kiss or hug goodbye
Leaving notes
Treating her to a day at the spa
Doing the ironing without being asked
Putting the toilet seat down
Agreeing to let them choose the film
Give her flowers or chocolates
Surprise night out or weekend away
Letting my partner take control of the TV remote
Clearing the toilets
Cleaning up after myself
Candlelit dinner
Remembering anniversaries or birthdays
Cooking dinner
Paying her a compliment
Going for a walk together
Give her a massage or foot rub
Making breakfast in bed
Running her a bath
Doing the vacuuming
Putting a load of washing on
Go shopping or on a family day out with them instead of watching/playing football
