|
By, Laura Tachini Being single is all it's cut out to be except for the part about hoping to meet that special someone to fall in Love.
Toronto offers many activities in the way of entertainment yet single people are always complaining about not meeting other like-minded singles. What they often take for granted is that keeping an open mind and considering new avenues for meeting people is crucial to the success of that quest. It's hard enough to meet people as we get older let alone if you're a single parent or a divorcee. In reality, for most, it's not the busy schedules that prevent them from trying new things it's their own fears and preconceived notions. While we're quite driven when it comes to our careers many of us are comfortable with sitting back in hopes that we will meet that special someone by chance. It's a romantic notion to think that love will happen as we lock eyes with Mr. or Mrs. Right reaching over for the same cereal box, but life doesn't always happen that way. Therefore, accepting a helping nudge from those that are in the know can't possibly hurt. Here are some unconventional but fun ways to meet singles in our city:
Hungry For Dating
What better way to find that special someone than to combine the love of food with the hope of finding love? Here is a service that organizes casual dinners for professionals of ages 30 and up. Through a questionnaire people are grouped first by age then by interests. They are sat at a table with an equal number of men to women (usually 8-10 per table). This introduction service chooses independently owned restaurants throughout the city. A rep is always there to greet the group, provide icebreakers, and get the group mingling. Then it's basically 10 strangers at one table hoping to make a connection over food and conversation. This group setting can be very inviting to those who shy away from the awkwardness of blind dates. If love is not on the menu at least you might end up with some new friends. Dinner Works - special interest groups include Single Parents, Golfers, and Young Professionals.
Passion For Adventure
Have you always wanted to try rock climbing? Does skiing get you through our endless harsh winters? Always wanted to visit Machu Pichu but you can't convince any of your
friends to take this exotic trip with you? Adventure introduction services do all the activity planning for you, and all the other singles that share your same interests. There is no sign up fee. You pay as you play and costs vary depending on the type of journey you embark on. Often, people take up hobbies hoping to meet potential candidates while doing a new and exciting activity, but it rarely works out that there are available singles at these activities. With these types of introduction services the chances double because you are guaranteed to share your experience of choice with other available singles.
Perhaps you prefer something more relaxed like a nature walk, or a game of bowling? Is indoor golf your thing or even an introduction to archery? Whatever activity you choose, shoot cupid's arrow with your own bow. Take up a fun hobby and possibly fall in love. Meet Market Adventures, A Stroll In The Park, Single Horizons CREDIBLE__HUNK37
"I work with this girl who met this guy on the Internet, they totally hit it off, and now they are engaged…" We've heard variations of this story so many times it's beginning to sound like an urban myth. Realistically though, online-love success stories do exist. The Internet has revolutionized the way in which we date, and meeting people online has become the norm. If you are single in this day and age and you have not tried it you probably don't have a computer. The big fuss about online dating is that unlike walking down the street, you can spark up a conversation with a stranger and no one will think you're insane for doing so. Through a photo and profile information you get to see a little bit about each person before you decide to make contact. The best part is that if you don't hit it off or the person becomes annoying you can conveniently block them from contacting you. You never have to leave the comfort and safety of your own home so it's ideal for shy folks. Be honest and state what you are looking for right in your profile. Agree to check your inhibitions at the sign in box and cruise at your own pace because this is one pick-up joint you don't even need to get all dolled up for! Lemontonic.com - with audio and video features, Match.com - let the system match you based on your personal interests, Silverpersonals.com - for those 55 years of age and older.
Love In The Fast Lane
We try out cars or homes before we buy them and in fact there are many big purchases we wouldn't dream of making before we've had a chance to try them out first. Making a big purchase can be like choosing a mate; you could end up with the prize of a lifetime or a complete lemon. Speed dating is like a quick interview or sneak peek into what a potential mate could be like; much like a job interview you have a few minutes to make an impression and to be impressed. Speed dating enables people to sit face to face and talk for a few minutes to see if there is a connection. In a room full of people everyone gets a chance to talk to another single for approx. 7 minutes, when the buzzer rings they move on to the next person. This is done until everyone has had a chance to talk to everyone in the room. Through a card system you make comments on the people that made a lasting impression. Later, if you have a mutual match, these matches are sent to you via email and you can meet your candidates for a one on one date. Cut to the chase and get down to business, no need to talk over loud music or spend tons of money on a night out. For a fraction of the cost you can meet 20 people in less time. Single in The City Speed Dating, 25Ddates, Hurry Date
Let's Dance
Not to be confused with the everyday run o'the mill bar, singles dances are specifically organized for singles. Unlike the average night at bars that are plagued with people who are there mainly to drink or who are not necessarily single, everyone at these events is available and looking. Usually these parties do happen at clubs or bars around the city and there is a fee for the type of evening you choose. The more sophisticated can indulge in a night of dinner, dancing, and interactive games. What about dance lessons? Learn to Rumba or Ballroom Dance along with other singles. If dancing is not your thing but a night on the town mingling is, you may want to consider a group pub-crawl around town with a group of 25 people or more. The only downfall to being at these events is that if you don't enjoy the attention of a specific person, you can't use the old "sorry I already have a boyfriend/girlfriend" line. There are singles dances offered around the city geared towards different age groups and tastes. For a listing of singles dances see: Single Professional's Network, Meet Market Events, Single Horizons
On The Prowl
It started in Hollywood and now it's becoming as common as the flu, I'm talking about older women with significantly younger men, otherwise known as "cougars". It's an accepted and growing part of our society and a sign of our times, so why not cater to it? Docking from Toronto's harbour is the Cougar Cruise, a party boat with music and interactive games geared towards older ladies and their younger boy toys. This party happens only in the summer time. Wild cats with their young willing prey unite for an evening of serious pouncing and flirting, proving once again that love has no boundaries. Single In the City - Cougar Cruise |
