I've been single for a long time (cue the violins). Sure, I've dated a few guys here and there, but like most of us, it's never been 'quite right.' But, although I moan about it, and can often be found saying, 'I can't be bothered to go on this date tonight', I do enjoy it.
When social distancing measures were put in place, and lockdown began, obviously I thought this was it for my dating life – dramatic, I know.
But I was wrong. While we've been on lockdown, I've been on nine 'dates' in total. A lot more than I would normally go on in three weeks, that's for sure. It seems there are quite a few positives to virtual dating: money isn't an issue, no outfit dilemmas, and you can forget the spearmint gum, because kissing is off the cards. All in all, things become a lot simpler. It's a bit like reliving your teenage years, being voluntarily cooped up in your bedroom, chatting to your crush on MSN.
So, here are the best ways to 'get back out there,' figuratively speaking of course. And remember, if things are really going downhill fast, you've always got poor connection and wifi to blame...
How To Maintain Your Dating Life In A Lockdown
1 of 7Virtual Speed Dating
I recently took part in a speed dating session, cleverly coined, Isolation Rotation. Using the power of Zoom, the session started with a group conference call and then pairs would be sent into five minute 'break-out' rooms. It's a simple, but effective concept, and one that's also being replicated by London speed dating company, Date In A Dash. Being in the comfort of your own home, with a glass of wine (or two,) really takes the edge off, more so than speed dating IRL.
2 of 7The Intro
The Intro is a dating app that's fairly new on the scene. It's popular amongst young professionals in London, and previously worked by arranging a date at a nearby bar or pub, when two members match. But, adapting to the governments recommendations on social distancing, the app now schedules a video date for its members instead.
3 of 7Tinder
If you're less into video chats, voice notes and phone calls, then stick to what you know – swiping. 'Right now distance is the hottest date,' we couldn't agree more Tinder. The app has reported that conversations are now 10-20% longer worldwide. And, with the apps new 'passport' feature, you can connect with anyone, anywhere in the world, available for free to all members.
4 of 7Hinge
We're all familiar with the dating app that's 'designed to be deleted,' but all that swiping is going to get tiring without going on a single date... Fear not! Hinge have announced the launch of its new 'Date from Home' feature, where users can easily share when they're ready for a digital date.
5 of 7Bumble
Bumble has launched, not one, but a bundle of in-app features, improving the way users connect and date while in lockdown... 1) The Virtual Dating profile badge – easy to spot who is up for a video call. 2) A nationwide distance filter – meet people from across the UK.3) Audio note recording & Direct message replies – Whatsapp watch out!
6 of 7Letter Writing
If you're already dating someone, but are bored with communicating virtually, then it might be a good idea to take it back to basics. Why not give good old fashioned letter writing a go? It doesn't have to be endless pages of romantic spiel, but it's a fun alternative to sending a text. Plus, a great way to get your daily exercise in – quick walk to the postbox anyone?
7 of 7Bubble Date
And, if all else fails, and you really can't bear to not meet or see this person, you can always invest in a giant bubble...