How to date smart (and safe) as an expat or tourist.
So, you’ve landed in a new city, new culture, new people. Suddenly everything feels exciting, a little overwhelming, and let’s be honest… maybe you’re secretly hoping for a little romance too. Nothing wrong with that, we all crave connection, especially when we’re far from home.
But here’s the thing: dating abroad isn’t the same as dating back where you’re from. The apps, the social cues, the way people flirt or even define a “date” can feel like you just got dropped into a game where no one gave you the rulebook. One minute you think you’re being charming, the next you’re realizing you just said something that doesn’t quite translate. (Been there, done that).
And here’s where I step in—think of me as your big sis who’s already seen a few bros crash and burn. I’m not here to kill your vibe; I’m here to make sure you don’t fumble your chance at something real—or worse, put yourself in a sketchy situation. Because dating abroad isn’t just about swiping right, it’s about learning to connect in a whole different social world while keeping your integrity (and your safety) intact.
And hey, if you’re serious about connecting—not just hooking up, but actually meeting people who could become friends, travel buddies, or maybe even something deeper—start smart:
1. Respect the cultural rhythm, dating in Latin America often moves at a different pace. People may expect more conversation, real effort, and small details before calling it a “date.” Don’t treat it like a transactional thing—you’ll get further by being curious and genuinely present.
2. Learn the unspoken rules.What’s considered “romantic” or “polite” where you’re from might not land the same here. A little Spanish (or Portuguese) goes a long way, but so does paying attention. Notice how locals interact, and adjust your approach with humility.
3. Be mindful of safety.This one’s huge. Meeting strangers in an unfamiliar city means you’ve got to stay alert. Choose safe, public spots for first dates. Share your plans with a trusted friend. Don’t overshare personal info too soon. Safety doesn’t kill the vibe—it actually helps you relax and enjoy.
4. Balance openness with boundaries.Yes, you’re here to experience the culture, but that doesn’t mean ignoring your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Protect your energy—your presence here doesn’t make you obligated to say yes to everyone.
5. Connection over collection. Don’t make dating just another “bucket list” item. If you’re serious about building something real, focus on genuine connections instead of racking up wild stories to tell back home. Trust me, the people around you will feel the difference.
6. Listen to the locals. If someone tells you not to go to a certain area because it’s unsafe or warns you against a specific behavior—like bringing a date back to your Airbnb where you’ve got your passport, cards, and valuables—don’t do it. Stay aware of the news, and remember: the idea isn’t to scare you, it’s to keep you safe. As we say in Medellín, “don’t give papaya”—don’t make yourself an easy target. There’s no need to put yourself at risk just to connect.
Bonus Tip (from your big sis):If you want to explore local dating but aren’t quite ready to dive into the chaos of nightlife or blind meetups, start slow. Try Crema Social, where you can connect through virtual dinners before you even step outside. That way, you’ll feel comfortable, safe, and already a little connected before meeting in person.
Because love (or even just a great conversation) hits different when you feel secure.
We hope this post it´s helpful for you, because at the end of the day, connection doesn’t have to mean a relationship—it can simply mean not feeling alone in a new city.
Would you like us to share some tips on how to spot a potentially dangerous person on dating apps? Drop a comment and let’s talk about it in the next post.
