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Another key factor in dating abroad is to be mindful that differences such as religion, cultural norms and background, don’t mean you can’t enjoy a conversation over coffee. I learned so much about myself from these simple conversations. The largest lesson I learned is to love yourself enough to honestly share your thoughts with others, and embrace their ideas with an open mind, Enjoy the ride. Just because she says she loves you…. remember its date 3. Just because he introduces you to his family, remember, its date 2. Some things just are a norm in other cultures and you’ll have to weed through those well.
When it comes time to embrace change, try new foods, try a new experience and even be reflective. Just because the date may be something you have never experienced or something you never would typically do, try it anyway! And know that whatever you do, you could be meeting Mr. or Mrs. Forever. The best part of dating abroad is the idea that no matter who you date, you are guaranteed to learn something new about yourself. It also is a testament that in this race of life we all belong to the same race. The HUMAN race! Every human wants similar things and one of them is to be loved. Dating abroad can be a real treat. You never know who you’ll meet or how you will meet them, but one thing that is for sure, be prepared to embrace the change.
Many of us are often stricken with dating tales within the various states from which we hail. Whether its grabbing a slice in Manhattan, heading to the pier in Santa Monica, or enjoying Café Intermezzo in Atlanta, many of our stories remain similar. This same sentiment holds true abroad. As soon as most people hit a new place they want to check out the sights, foods, and possibly ignite a romance either quickly or, for some, with a long-term goal in sight.
One of the biggest things to remember when dating abroad is what you’re accustomed to may not be everyone else’s customs. So, the first step in accepting this dating life aboard is to embrace the change. Welcome it with open arms or a nose kiss.
Some of the first things I encountered when I started dating others abroad were customs and cultural differences. Someone may only meet you for tea with friends, others may only feel comfortable if they cover all expenses and may be offended if you offer. An example of this is when I was dating a man from Kenya and he refused to allow me to pay for anything. The first thing I thought was “Wow, I’ve never encountered a man who refuses for me to pay even on date 327”. But later I discovered that he was offended that I even offered. Although, in my culture a man would readily accept this offer, in others this was highly offensive. This is one small thing that can ensure that dating culture has to be learned based upon whom you are dating and where they are from. Take time to ask them about their past and what that dating life was about. Understand their cultural background and why their norm may or may not match yours. I was talking to one of my male friends and he said he appreciated that his Filipino girlfriend was always willing to help. Regardless of where anyone is from, our cultural background can affect our dating adventures.