So back at the end of Sept, after a breakup and on the edge of trekking off again on some travels, I set myself a bit of a challenge. The challenge – 3 dates, 3 continents.
So – how did it go? Hmmm…unfortunately (for me!) not so well.
As a blogger, I guess I learned my lesson that sometimes you can’t get everything you think you can. To be fair to myself, I didn’t try too hard in Israel to get an actual date – although I was hit on a lot. In the UK, I was more interested in visiting my friends than picking up men so alas, no dates for me.
Right now I’m in Toronto and will be here for a bit longer so I have time to get my dating act together for the great north.
In the meantime, although I didn’t go on an actual date in Israel or the UK, I did do my fair share of observations and interviews.
Here’s what I found out about dating in these two fabulous countries:
Dating in Israel – hot & steamy
For those of you who’ve visited before, you know that Israel has some of the most beautiful people in the world with a hundred races blending together. Since locals do mandatory army when they are 18 (2 years for girls, 3 years for boys) they are often in good shape. The hot climate also gives good reason to stay in shape versus puting on the pounds while sitting by the fireplace.
One thing I’ve always been told is how much Israelis love foreigners – the accent especially. It is said that foreigners from near and far have good chances of getting a date in Israel and as most young people in Israel speak English it’s easy to connect.
The guys I know in Israel have mixed things to say about dating – some find it easy and some find it hard. There is a stereotype that Israeli girls are tough – they often take the upper hand in the relationship but, on the positive side, they can make great companions as they are smart, worldly and supportive. Some men from Westernized countries find the Israeli attitude refreshing as often she’ll probably let you know if she likes you (or if she doesn’t). It just depends if the man can handle a strong woman!
As for dating as a female in Israel, I’ve heard mixed reviews. Speaking from experience, I can say that Israeli men in particular are very upfront. If they like you, they’ll ask you out and you know where you stand. However, I’ve had instances (when I was dating my last boyfriend) where I told them that I wasn’t interested and they were persistent to the point that became annoying. I’m generalizing obviously but be prepared.
The best thing, from observations, my own experiences and talking with my friends, about dating in Israel is that it can be a lot of fun. You are in a dynamic and exciting country that has so much to offer – sea, sand and so much more. There is a relaxed atmosphere in Israel and a zest for living life to the fullest. Also I find Israel to be a very family oriented country – if you are fortunate enough to find your Mr. (or Mrs.) Right you will likely not have to question if he or she wants a family. This is a part of the culture and its something that makes it a special place in this day-and-age.
So where do you meet these hot & steamy Israeli guys and girls? Endless places – the beach, bars or even on the street (I’m not kidding). The openness of the culture really allows for a social wonderland. If you are into internet dating, Israel is also a great place for that as they are very connected to the online world – with wifi hotspots in almost every bar, restaurant or cafe I’ve ever visited.
Enjoy dating in Israel – I know I will (more updates to follow…hehe!).
Dating in the UK – more than just a pub crawl
In most of my time living in the UK, I wasn’t single so I’m definitely not an expert on the subject. Dating in any country can always have its fair share of ups and downs but in the UK there is a bit of a different edge.
From my observations, dating through the traditional channels – friends introducing friends, blind dates and meeting at a public place – seems to be quite the norm here.
One thing I have noticed is that a lot of my single UK friends over the years have met people at the pub or bar more than they have in other countries. Since “going to the pub” is quite the UK pastime, I guess it only makes sense that finding a date through this channel is popular.
Even in such a small (size-wise) country, the experiences of daters in the UK seem very different. Talking with my friends from big cities like London or Manchester, they have the same dating challenges as other big cities. Most people I’ve spoken to from those areas tend to meet online or through singles events. The movers and shakers in these big cities tend to settle down later in life as there is so many other things on offer for distraction – whether it be studying opportunities, work commitments or the partying scene.
In villages and towns, there is a different sense of community due to the simpler nature of life. Most places I’ve visited in the UK that fall into this category tend to have a solid sense of family. Dating can be challenging in these areas too as there aren’t as many people to pick from. In these places, meeting at the local pub or through friends is the norm.
Most of my friends would say that I somehow am attracted to British men – I’m not sure why but the accent is a definite draw. However, I also like how the British tend to work hard and play hard. At the office, they will conduct themselves in the most professional manner but they aren’t afraid to leave at 5 and let their hair down at the pub for a good game of footie or a few pints. I’ve always found that dating British men will get you a certain level of treatment too – most of the time they will be quite thoughtful and traditional. A bit of an English gentleman never hurt anyone did it? They do have their negatives too which I think most of us can guess at but I’ll leave them up to your imagination.
As much as I wish I didn’t (for various reasons) I do like dating in the UK – its a mix of fun and seriousness. I guess it takes a bit getting used to but I have.
Cheers for now, Miriam x
PS> stay tuned for my dating adventures in Toronto coming soon!
