Holidating: The New Dating Trend

Staycations with your beau are passé©; holidating is the next big travel trend! While it’s bigger in Europe due to the proximity and ease of travel, it is certainly catching on in the US and Canada “ it’s even hit reality TV show!

The idea is simple: Why date for months when you can find out how much you despise the guy in one weekend? Beware of the following before jet-setting off into the sunset.

Cost

This big-risk, big-reward approach to finding love doesn’t come cheap; the dater on a budget need not apply. With service fees, airfare, and hotel you will want to make sure that you aren’t breaking your piggy bank for something that could be a big fat waste of time. Always make sure you have the cash to get home if things go awry.

Stranger Danger

If you are feeling gutsy enough to try out a holidate, do not under any circumstances set up a date with a complete stranger on your own (i.e. through facebook, craigslist, etc). Make sure to go through a reputable service or a friend who knows the guy directly. There are way too many risks involved to blindly go to a foreign city with a stranger. But you already knew that, didn’t you?

Plan B

Your holidate will surely be a success, but it’s always best to have a back-up plan! Before arrival, make sure to book your own hotel room and make a detailed getaway plan if things go sour. Planning a date in a city where you have friends or family is an extra safety-net.

Setting Expectations

Boys will be boys, so you can assume that this non-traditional method of dating will attract a certain percentage of creeps. You should always have a chance to email or chat on the phone prior to your trip (if you get a weird vibe long-distance, then it’s probably best to cancel the date). Set very clear expectations on things like intimacy before meeting up.