With summer in full swing, it comes as no surprise that many of us will be firing up our dating profiles in hopes of making a match. If you’re one of the millions of Americans heading overseas this summer, you may be tempted to set your profile to your international destination. Before updating your profile location, follow these handy tips so you don’t accidentally sideline your summer fling.
Tip 1: Communication is key to maximizing any connection but especially when online dating. If you find yourself in a location where English is not widely spoken, don’t let the language barrier deter you from pursuing a potential match. Fortunately, there are several excellent translator apps that will make conversing with your international paramour simple and seamless. Also, utilize a language app like Duo Lingo or Rosetta Stone to learn the language while getting to know the locals. There’s no better way to practice than by whispering sweet nothings in your lover’s ear in their native language.
Tip 2: Always, always, always meet in a public place. Just because you’re away from home doesn’t mean you can let your guard down. Matter of fact, your guard should be heightened because you’re in a foreign country where you don’t know the customs, language, or culture. Coffee shops, restaurants and lounges are always a safe bet as you will be surrounded by other people and can make a safe departure if the date doesn’t go well.
Tinder swindler Simon Leviev • Photo: Tore Kristiansen, V.
Tip 3: Share your date’s details and the location of your date with a friend, family member, or co-worker. Let them know where you’re going and who you’re planning to meet so that someone in your life is aware of your whereabouts. Safety is paramount whenever you’re meeting someone new but especially when you’re overseas and thousands of miles from home.
Tip 4: If their profile is too good to be true – it more than likely is. Catfishing is at an all-time high. Be careful of profiles with heavily photoshopped pictures. After conversing a few times, be sure to FaceTime or video chat to see one another in real time. If they refuse or find excuses, politely excuse yourself and move on. No need to waste your time with someone who cannot keep it real from the outset.
Tip 5: Never share your actual location when you arrive in your destination. It’s okay to chat with locals of the country you’re visiting but you do not need to notify anyone of what hotel or rental you’re staying in. Keep your whereabouts private until you’ve established a decent connection with someone.
Tip 6: If you happen to make a love connection while traveling and you find yourself wanting to move things from dating to the bedroom, please practice safe sex. It’s easy to get caught up in the romantic appeal of an exotic locale but that’s never an excuse to put your health in jeopardy. Make sure you bring your own protection.
The Tinder Swindler.
Tip 7: Before you embark on your international summer vacay, make sure you decide what type of relationship you’re seeking. Are you interested in a one-night stand, a casual fling, or a long-distance love affair? If you’re seeking a quick fling, most of the dating apps with international capabilities are the perfect option. If you’re interested in something more long term, you will want to add that in your profile so that locals seeking long term relationships have an easier time identifying you. Be sure to bring up what you’re looking for, so that expectations are set well in advance.
Tip 8: Never, never, never send money to anyone you’re chatting with. If someone you’re getting to know starts hinting at needing help financially or wanting you to send them money, immediately block them. There’s never any reason someone you’re getting to know should be asking for financial support. Do not send them your bank information, do not wire them money and do not cash app them anything.
Tip 9: Learn the culture of the country or countries you’re planning to visit. Its best to have a working knowledge of how people relate to one another so you’re able to make a better connection while dating overseas. For example, if Dubai is on your list of summer hot spots, be mindful of the public displays of affection with your local lover (remember Sex and the City 2?) It is highly frowned upon for couples to kiss, hug or hold hands in public. If Singapore is your country of choice, first dates will more than likely be super casual. Coffee or a walk in the park is the typical first date in Singapore.
Sex and the City 2.
Tip 10: Be yourself. No matter where you find yourself. Your biggest asset is you. Showcasing what makes you unique will give you an advantage when meeting potential international matches.
Bon Voyage!
