With summer approaching, many of us are getting ready to hit the road and enjoy some much needed vacation time. In the past, travelling meant putting your online dating life on hold. However, now that there’s location based mobile dating apps, all of that has changed. You can browse, meet and go on dates with people – wherever you are in the world.
I’ve had friends that have come back from trips and raved about meeting people on Tinder while they were in another city or country.
But, is using a mobile dating app while you’re travelling really a good idea? Well, it depends. If you’re not sure whether you should use your favourite mobile dating app while you’re on the go, here are a few things to consider.
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Are you looking for a serious relationship?
If a serious relationship is what you’re after (and only what you’re after); dating while travelling might not be the best option. If you’re hoping to go on a few dates while you’re in a new locale, meet and fall in love with your soulmate and live happily ever after – you might want to slow down for a second. True love isn’t instantaneous. It takes time to grow. Depending on how long you’re going to be in town, it’s not really fair to you or the people you’re dating to try and find a relationship while travelling – especially if you’re not going to be around to see it through.
However, if you’re not looking for a serious relationship, using a mobile dating app while you’re travelling can be great. Whether you’re looking to meet other local singles, go on some casual dates or maybe even have a fling, you can probably find what you’re looking for with your favourite app.
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You need to be very clear about what you’re looking for.
While this is a good rule of thumb in general, it’s especially important when you’re travelling. The people I know who have had success using mobile dating apps while abroad were very clear about what they were after. Whether it’s just to hang out socially with other singles, grab a drink with a stranger or have a steamy hook-up, being crystal clear about what you’re hoping to get out of the situation is crucial – for both you and the people you’re meeting. For example, saying you want a hook-up when really you just want to grab dinner with someone new (and maybe see where is goes) is only going to lead to disappointment, confusion and uncomfortable feelings for everyone involved.
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It’s a great way to get an authentic experience.
Mashable, recently wrote about how mobile apps like Tinder can be used to enhance your travel experience. What better way to find out how a local lives than go on a date with one? As long as you’re upfront that you’re just visiting (so as to not lead the other person on), grabbing a drink with someone who actually lives in the area that you’re visiting is a great way to get an insider look at local bars, restaurants and activities that are off the usual tourist path. Plus, it’s fun! You could even look for some people that you’d like to meet up with in advance, before you get to your destination.
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You can use a mobile dating app as a travel app.
While the point of location based mobile dating apps is to find a romantic match, you can also get some great travel recommendations from locals. If you’re in town, sending your matches a simple message like, “I’m just visiting from _____. What are some fun things to do around here?” might just lead to some great travel recommendations and possibly someone cute to hang out with. It’s worth a shot.
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Keep your safety in mind.
Meeting new people online always comes with some element of risk. That’s why it’s important that you always practice safer dating. This means only meeting people in public places and letting someone know your whereabouts before you go on your date. If you’re travelling alone, being safe is especially important. You’re going to be in an unfamiliar setting, so make sure that keep your wits about you, limit your alcohol consumption and if possible, let someone know where you’re going. Lastly, if a person or situation feels off somehow – leave. It’s not worth sacrificing your safety in the name of an “authentic local experience.”
