Love can hide in the darnedest places, like under rocks, hollow logs, or even in a magnetic key holder. For diehard cachers, GPS technology and the game of geocaching have given a whole new twist to looking for love in the most creative places.
The game of geocaching has been around since the year 2000 and has spread globally. Because it is such a fun and inexpensive hobby, more people have gotten into geocaching over the last few years, and some people have even met their significant others through geocaching.
For those who don’t know what geocaching is, it is a game played using a handheld GPS unit that allows a player, also known as a ‘cacher,’ to locate specific coordinates that have hidden containers called ‘caches.’ Inside these caches are logbooks for the cacher to sign, and usually items that can be traded.
Making Geocaching Special
Although geocaching may not be suitable for a first date, geocaching has become a common bonding activity for caching couples. Some couples have even met at caching events. Therefore, It should come as no surprise that sometimes marriage proposals and even weddings are made via creative caching.
One idea that met with success involved a cache overlooking the ocean. It was filled with 200 fake rings and one real diamond solitaire, and also enlisted the aid of a hidden photographer to capture the moment. Another cache masqueraded as a multi-cache, only to have the proposal written as a cipher.
Creating a Memorable Cache
So how does one go about setting up a romantic cache? Researching the location prior to the event is a good place to start. Scenic locations are great for picnic lunches or setting the stage for an important question.
Creative caches can involve multi-caches, or caches that require the help of friends or family for either placement or diversions. For caches containing an expensive item, it may be good to have a friend on hand to make sure it doesn’t get muggled if located in a high traffic area.
Short on ideas? Try one of these:
- Have a geocoin created just for him or her
- Write down the coordinates to a favorite restaurant and list a time to meet
- Hide a new GPS unit with preprogrammed coordinates to another surprise location
- Travel tickets
- Plan an Event Cache wedding and invite fellow cachers
- Gift cards or gift certificates
- Movie tickets
Caches don’t have to be limited to wedding proposals. Caches can be used as a means to deliver birthday surprises, Christmas, anniversaries, valentines, and even graduation surprises. Imagine hiding the keys to a graduate’s new car in a geocache. How many of their friends will be able to top that story?
