How do you avoid awkward silences?

Dear Advice Girl,

I have a date with this girl this weekend, but she’s a little on the quiet side. What should I say to keep the conversation going?

Signed,
   London

Dear London,

If you’ve got a first date with someone shy – or with anyone, really – your best bet is to go somewhere fun. Meet up at a boring old restaurant, and unless one if you is Larry King, the conversation’s gonna get stale before the potato skins arrive.

The best first date spots leave no room for awkward silences: mini golf, the zoo, an amusement park, a concert, an old-fashioned video arcade. If you’re still worried, suggest inviting a couple more friends along.

When things do get quiet, remember the golden rule: ask her about herself. Then listen to what she says and respond to it. Hopefully you’ll hit on some topics that’ll give you both a lot to talk about.

But if all attempts at conversation end up bombing, then maybe you guys weren’t meant to go on date #2.