All of this is spurring a revolution in cross-border romance. Between January and June in France, for instance, 51 percent of Match daters sent e-mails to potential dates in other countries, says Joe Cohen, vice president of Match.com’s international service. The numbers are comparable in Germany, Italy and Spain. Why not join the fun? Here are some tips from some of NEWSWEEK’s most skilled Casanovas:
SPEAKING IN TONGUES: If you’ve got the language skills, don’t be shy. Take the time to write your profile in the language of your potential love. It will put possible mates at ease–not to mention impress them with your worldly nature.
BE CLEVER, BUT NOT TOO CLEVER: Wit goes a long way. But alas, humor doesn’t always translate well. Make sure to consider the cultural relevance. (If you’re Italian, comparing government officials to Nazi Fascists won’t go over so well in Germany.)
NO PIC, NO PROBLEM: Conventional wisdom says if they don’t post a picture, don’t bother responding. But the most beautiful men and women sometimes just don’t want their mugs up on the Net. Best to respond to interesting profiles, then ask them to send you a picture privately.
In the end, Internet dating may just be a numbers game. The more people you try out in the more countries, the better your chances. Happy hunting.
