I came across the meme below last week and I cackled so hard when I saw it. It was funny because it’s low-key true for me.
I’ve always said that I wanted to be married and be adopt my kiddos, and for the longest time, I thought that it would’ve happened by now. I’ll be 30 this year and if you asked 18-year-old me what she thought that would look like it wouldn’t have been traveling as extensively as I do. She would’ve probably told you that I’d be in a long-term relationship if not married and we’d be starting the adoption process.
Fast-forward twelve years and that’s obviously not the case, but I’m not mad. Yes, there are times when I miss the companionship of an exclusive relationship, but I’m not sad that I’m single. Because if I wasn’t single I wouldn’t be able to date when I travel and share these tips with y’all today.
We all know that I love to travel by myself. I can set my own schedule, do the excursions and activities that I want to do, eat at the restaurants I want to eat at, etc. One of the things I also like about traveling by myself is that it allows me the opportunity to date locals while I’m there. I tend not to spend more than 4-5 days in a city so it’s perfect for a vacation fling! At first, I was a bit nervous when it came to romance abroad, but it’s gotten easier the more trips I take and I wanted to share some of the tips I’ve used these past few years to help me in that department.
Don’t be afraid to go to a bar alone. I know that that’s frowned upon a bit back at home, but don’t be afraid to hit up the happy hour at a local bar, your hotel or even your hostel! You’ll find tons of solo travelers like yourself and maybe a few cute locals.
Don’t be afraid to step outside of your norm. So you usually go for the clean-shaven guys who are at least 6-feet tall, but the dark, bearded fella who’s close to your height has been chatting you up and giving you butterflies for the last 2 hours. Go for it! Have fun! No one is telling you to settle down with this man.
Stay aware. There are bad guys everywhere, so definitely remember to watch your drink and if something feels off find a crowd or local authorities.
Dating apps are your friend. I immediately jump on Tinder when I travel. Some frown at this, but I don’t care. What better way to explore a new city than with a local tour guide? Museum, dinner and gelato date? Sign me up!
Get your own room. This goes for those who love a good hostel. I don’t know about y’all, but I like my sleep and my privacy. Even when I’m doing a budget vacation I’ll spring for a hotel room or a private room in a hostel for the sake of privacy. Yes, that bunk in the all-female dorm might be half the price of a private room, but you can’t bring a cutie back to your bunk for a late-night Netflix binge on your laptop.
I hope these tips are helpful and that you use them to ease yourself into vacation flings if that’s your thing. At the very least you’ll get to explore a new place like a local and get yourself an Instagram husband for a day.