Most of us have experienced a holiday romance at some point in our lives. Whether it was a fleeting one-night-stand or a week-long blissful encounter of the minds, there is something about summer that gets us all loved up.
So, how do you make a holiday romance happen? Here are a few dos and don’ts.
What? It’s a holiday romance, which by definition means that you can’t expect them to follow you home. While it is possible for a holiday romance to grow into something more lengthy, it is not very likely. If you feel there is something worth continuing, just give him your number and leave it at that. Forget everything you know about guys. On a holiday romance anything is possible. Call it sunstroke - but it’s possible for boys to get quite romantic with their summer love. You could even get told those 3 little words.
However, don’t take it too seriously! It’s best to have something nice to remember all year than to try to drag it out into a full-blown relationship when you know it’s not going to work. Normal rules about things like age difference also go out the window. If he’s cute, who cares if he’s five years younger! You’re not about to marry him after all! Although do watch out for dodgy older men. Summer romances are not to be mistaken for back-pedalling hook-ups with ex-boyfriends or people you know. The subject of your summer fling should be a complete, preferably foreign, stranger. Don’t screw the crew - it only leads to bad news!
Where? Look around you. The beach is always a safe bet, as are parties, beach bonfires and bars. If sunbathing or having a few drinks with your girlfriends, keep an eye out for interested parties. If you’re looking for a bit of summer fun, don’t be too closed off to advances from strangers - within reason of course! And don’t be afraid to go in for the chase either - this is the summer holidays, which means if the hunter doesn’t act now, the prey can easily disappear.
Don’t take off with your new-found lover and leave your buddies stranded. This is especially true if you are going overseas with a friend. You can still have a summer fling, but make sure you hang out with your friend at least 70% of the time. No one wants to come home with a broken heart and a broken friendship.
How? New rules apply - different from the normal dating scene. You both know its not going to be a long-lasting relationship, so if you’re comfortable with getting straight into the down-and-dirty, go for it! But please, make sure you’re safe! Have protection with you whenever you go out. It might sound desperate, but no one needs to know, and you’ll be thanking yourself when you end the holiday romanced, refreshed and healthy to boot!
Watch out for stranger danger. Don’t put yourself in the position where someone could take advantage of you. Even nice guys can turn nasty. Make sure your friends know where you are and keep your wits about you - and don’t get so wasted that you pass out or can’t get back home if you need to. Pace yourself and think safe.