With loved ones often scattered across the map, maintaining meaningful connections across distances can be a challenge. Luckily for you, I’m something of an expert. Having nurtured a close bond with my best friend, who lives over a thousand miles away, for almost five years, I've discovered various ways to keep relationships thriving despite the physical separation.

In today's world, technology serves as a powerful tool to bridge the gap between loved ones. From innovative apps to virtual platforms, there are tons of tools available to foster connection and create shared experiences.

Before diving into some cool apps, games, and long-distance friendly ideas, here are four essential tips to keep relationships strong across distances:

1. Prioritize Communication: Regular and heartfelt communication lays the foundation for any successful long-distance relationship. Make time for meaningful conversations, whether it's through video calls, voice messages, or, if you’re particularly dedicated, handwritten letters (pen pals, anyone?).
2. Get Creative: Think outside the box and explore unconventional ways to connect. From virtual dinner parties and lunch dates to TikTok’s viral “Presentation Night,” let your imagination run wild and find new ways to bond! Who knows, maybe you’ll end the day with a new tradition.
3. Stay Flexible, but commit: Maintaining a long-distance relationship requires adaptability and understanding. Be mindful of each other's schedules, time zones, and commitments, and be willing to accommodate one another's needs, but don’t rely on social media to keep you “close.” Set a date—even if it’s a few weeks ahead—to call and chat or spend some time together. 
4. Embrace Technology: Leverage technology to create shared experiences with your loved ones. Whether it's watching movies together using streaming platforms' group-watching features or engaging in online multiplayer games, find ways to bond virtually. 

Now, let's explore five ways you can stay connected with your loved ones, no matter where they are:

Apps and Platforms for Virtual Bonding:

Movie Night

You can always do this the traditional way: pick a movie or show and start it at the same time. You can text back and forth as the movie goes on or start a call. However, there are a few apps and websites that allow you to sync your shows and movies, and they can be great for big groups. Here are my top two picks:

• Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party): This is a browser extension that allows you to sync your favorite shows and movies with friends and family, allowing you to watch together in real-time and chat. You can use Teleparty on the following platforms: Netflix, Youtube, Disney Plus, Hulu, HBO, and Amazon.
• SharePlay: This is an iPhone exclusive feature. Using the FaceTime app , you can stream TV shows, movies, and music with friends and family while on a FaceTime call together.

Game Night

Host virtual game nights using video conferencing platforms like Zoom, with options ranging from classic board games to interactive trivia quizzes. If your friend or family group is dominantly iPhone users, you can even invite the odd Android user to a FaceTime call (https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/ios-15-lets-iphone-and-android-users-facetime/ )

Here are two games you can give a try:

• Among Us: is a popular multiplayer social deduction game. Crewmates work together to complete tasks before one or more Imposters can kill everyone aboard. It’s like the party game, Mafia, but digital and free to play!
• Jackbox Party Packs: This one is a friend-group fav. There are several different Party Packs and each contains a collection of multiplayer games that are designed to be played using smartphones, tablets, or computers as controllers, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun.

Hit the gym

Set fitness goals together and track your progress using fitness apps or wearable devices. Share workout routines and motivate each other to stay active, or, go the extra mile and hit a digital class together using an app like Apple Fitness+. 

DIY Party

Choose a DIY project to work on simultaneously and share your progress and results through photos or video calls. From crafting to home improvement projects, the possibilities are endless.

Digital Book Clubs

Start a digital book club with friends and read and discuss books together. Use e-reader apps or online book-sharing platforms to share recommendations, discuss chapters, and connect with fellow book lovers. My friends and I recently started a book club, and when we’re all done, we’ll be snapping our discussions back and forth so it can be done on our own time!

There are hundreds of ways to link-up and bond over technology. Use one of the ways above to connect with your friends and family or get creative! By embracing what technology can offer, you can strengthen the bonds that matter most to you, regardless of physical distance. While miles may separate us, technology offers endless opportunities for connection, camaraderie, and shared joy with our loved ones.