How to Date a Foreigner 101

Everyone loves to travel! When you arrive in another country, it’s no secret that you often want to get to know some local people in order to better know that place. And, of course, the people. So here’s what’s important to remember on a date with a foreigner…

Let’s play a game of Did You Know. Did you know that Scandinavians prefer women to show initiative on dates? But that’s not the case for Italians! Then again, you’ll never guess what gets a Brit going… We talked to the trend director of French dating application Happn, Marie Cosnard who shared a few tips about how you should behave on a date with a foreigner. Can you add your own experiences?

Are you the Scandinavian type? If so, do not be afraid of making the first step!

In the North of Europe, gender equality is extremely important and men and women are really seen as equal, which makes it completely normal for women to start speaking to a man! If your wanting to win the heart of a Swede or a Dane, you should definitely take the initiative, and invite him to a bar in the evening. Plus, confidence is key! Do no be afraid to share your impressions of his country, or tell funny stories about Russia…

Scandinavian men are know for their “correctness”: they will not break the rules of the road, nor try to get something out of their turn, and even ask the taxi driver to stop where it is inconvenient. They are the same in relationships. If you are taking the initiative, but a Scandinavian does not like you, you will be told so politely but directly, as a man will take care of your time and emotions. If a Scandinavian became interested in you, he will court you beautifully and very tactfully. Do no use manipulation, do not disappear or hide your interest. A man all just think that you are not interested in him, and as a polite person, will stop calling you. The best will be to behave yourself naturally and opened, to be sincere, attentive, feminine and cheerful.

Top Tip when dating an Italian: Accept his compliments.

On the contrary, traditions are still strong and women are expected to be courted by men – and not the opposite – in Italy. So, if you want an Italian man to be interested in you, the best way to insinuate into his favour is to accept his courtship with dignity. But remember that in conversations with an Italian it is better to avoid politics-related subjects! For example, Southern Italy is another country, so some other rules may apply there…

Another hot tip for attracting an Italian man is to learn some basic phrases and words, or to have at least a well-rehearsed command, showing your willingness and more. You should also try to learn at least some basic events in Italian history. This way you’ll already be ten steps ahead of “competitors”…

And never fear! A proposal from an Italian man takes nearly an eternity to arrive.

Fancy some of your favourite French wine?

If you want to make an impression on a French man, you should show your interest to his country and culture. On a date, ask him questions about the country’s traditions, discuss the French cuisine. You can also memorise a couple of phrases in French. For example, you can learnt the lyrics of the popular song “On va s’aimer” (translation: “we will like each other”), which French men often share with women in Happn. Such advertence will definitely flatter him.

A Brit. Smile and laugh a lot together!

Brits rarely get to enjoy the sun, but they will enjoy the warmth of your sense of humour. On a date, be ready to joke. Laugh, smile, even mocking your date is ok! But behave with restart; it is almost encouraged to tease and laugh at your date, but do not be rude or insult them – this can be a fine line to tread. And remember, this is a two-way street: the British love girls who are ready to make fun of them if they are ready to laugh at themselves too.

Dating apps have generated a massive boom in Europe and have become an integral component for people who travel and want to meet to the locals. The idea of such application is perceived in different ways by different cultures. The concept is still universal, so whether you are Japanese, Russian or Brazilian – everyone wants to meet new people. There are often cases, when a meeting through the dating application may become the beginning of a romantic relationship. Of course, each culture requires a specific approach.

But the main thing to remember on a date with a foreigner – is to still to stay yourself! Be sincere, and any handsome foreigner will surely like you!

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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