My gf is my best friend. I know that sounds cheesy or whatever; but what I mean by treating her that way is: except for sex, she does not get any special treatment. Whatever the situation is, if you wouldn't do it for your best pal, don't do it for your gf either; i.e. she is not my gf and my best friend.

So isn't this just "friends with benefits"? No; that's usually more about benefits, and less about friends. You may get friendly in such cases, but you don't ever become even just good friends. On the other hand, regarding romance, I'll just say that in the past 2 years I've bought couple of presents, of course, but not once did I give her flowers. Also, the only times I told her "I love you" was during sex.

And, what more is there to it? I guess courtship rituals are also a big part of the discussion here; however, time-wise it's a very small part of any relationship. I'd share just a little tidbit here, which most of you already know already: if you go even a bit out of your way to get that girl, you will be going out of your way the whole relationship.

TL;DR: your gf should simply be your best friend.