Insider knowledge about a destination is much-prized among those travellers seeking a more authentic holiday experience.
But how best to acquire it? Guidebooks penned by locals are a solid source, but many turn to dating apps for top tourist tips.
According to a subsection of users, Tinder and Bumble are two of the best ways to discover a destination’s lesser-known delights.
They are the two largest dating apps in the world and offer gateways for tourists to make connections with locals – and tap them up for information about the best places to explore.
Caroline West, a sex and relationship expert for Bumble, said: ‘Using Bumble abroad can be helpful if you’re keen to schedule a date or two in between sightseeing, find a travel buddy or a local to show you around.
According to a subsection of users, Tinder and Bumble are two of the best ways to discover a destination’s lesser-known delights
‘Recent polling found that almost a third of people on Bumble use dating apps to meet new people when travelling alone, and over half agree that dating abroad is a fun way to learn about a new culture.’
And a Finnish study on female ‘Tinder tourism’ identified how useful the app was for women abroad.
It said that ‘solo female travellers are expanding their social network through Tinder when travelling’, saying the app is useful for ‘alleviating general safety concerns, looking for authentic travel experiences and connections with locals when travelling because of a desire to learn about the local culture, as well as seeking company’.
One such user is Anjelica (not her real name), a 38-year-old restaurant manager who lives in London.
She told MailOnline Travel: ‘I travel a lot on my own and Tinder is a great way to line up someone to have a drink with, first and foremost, but often it can lead to a really exciting way to explore.
‘For example, I matched with a local on a week-long trip to San Francisco. We met at BB’s for cocktails.
Caroline West, a sex and relationship expert for Bumble, said: ‘Using Bumble abroad can be helpful if you’re keen to schedule a date or two in between sightseeing, find a travel buddy or a local to show you around’
‘We talked about all his favourite spots in the city: where to queue to get the best fresh crab, great independent bookstores, and more cocktail spots than was healthy.
‘Suddenly, I had a full-blown itinerary mapped out for me. Some we went to together, some I hit on my own. It opened up the city for me in a way I’d never have discovered without the match… I wouldn’t have had the same experience without Tinder.’
And Chris (41, not his real name), an insurance analyst who lives in Chicago, told MailOnline: ‘I travel a lot for work and when I get to a new town I’ll swipe right on everyone. That way, instead of sitting in a hotel room ordering room service, I can have coffee with a local and find out what to see, where to go – a nice park, good food, where I can get a massage.
‘I don’t think I’ve ever had sex with a travel match, but I’ve made lots of friends. You get the best out of the city that way.’
Chris adds that he uses Bumble, rather than Tinder, when travelling: ‘People on Tinder assume you’re only after sex.’
HOW TO USE DATING APPS WHEN YOU’RE TRAVELLING
Upgrade to Tinder Plus or Bumble Premium
This way you can swipe potential matches in a foreign location, cultivating connections and setting up dates even before you land. Put your travel dates into your bio info so people know you’re a temporary guest in their hometown.
Be honest and upfront about what you want
Caroline West, relationship expert for Bumble, says: ‘Communication is key. As with any scenario, whether at home or abroad, talk about your expectations upfront before you meet your date.
‘App features like the “Looking For” profile badge can help people navigate these conversations more comfortably.’
If you’re keen for a local travel guide and fun, say so.
Use the safety features on the apps
Bumble in particular has multiple in-app protection measures.
Caroline said: ‘You can also use in-app video chat and voice calls, to get a better understanding of the person you plan to meet and so your intentions on both sides aren’t lost in translation. With these features, you con contact them without sharing your personal details.’
Put what language(s) you speak in the profile
And be honest with yourself about what you’re prepared to deal with, conversation wise. If deep and meaningful chats are important to you, stick to matches where you share a common tongue.
Meet in a busy, public place
Caroline said: ‘When you meet for a first date, find a spot that is in a public location, like a tourist attraction, museum or cafe – a day time date is always a good idea. And always let somebody know where you’re heading, whether that’s your host, hotel concierge or a friend.’
Don’t rely on Tinder dates for finding a place to sleep each night
You won’t make good decisions that way.
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