Ditsa RathodDating might sound like just a six-letter word, but it’s so much more than that, especially as we move to different parts of the world! Isn’t it interesting how dating manners change as we move across borders? While some countries still respect arranged marriages as set by their families, some others have moved on from the typical, “Only the men ask women out on dates.”
We thought of putting across some intriguing dating manners from around the world just so we’re all caught up in the dating world. Of course, putting them here doesn’t in any way mean to offend anyone’s beliefs. It’s just, plain, FYI!
Going out on dates is very important, by the way. Check out why, here!
10 Dating Manners Across Different Countries
1. The USA
In some countries, dating is considered a family matter. But independence plays a key role in shaping dating manners in the United States. The dating culture in America involves the personal choice of a partner rather than being driven by the influence of parents and arranged marriages. Dating manners in the United States are fun and demonstrate freedom to find love.
First, it is never considered improper for a woman to ask a man on a date, though some countries may consider it culturally inappropriate. However, if you ask someone out and the person says no, do not ask again. Second, online dating services are often used as a tool to find potential partners in the United States. The younger generation nowadays also uses technology for dating. Third, as above-mentioned, independence is an important part of the dating culture in the United States and it is essential to love yourself, be independent, and respect your partner’s personal space.
2. China
If we want to have a romantic experience in China but are stuck to our western dating culture or see more than one person at the same time, then we’re not abiding by the dating manners of China. It may not be considered a serious relationship and we may be labeled as unfaithful. Sending a note to parents announcing the decision to settle down is also not taken well in this country. Going empty-handed to a dates’ parent’s house could also lead to rejection and may be considered impolite. It is very common in China for a man to pursue a woman for a date.
Men generally start with giving flowers or gifts, a treat to a dinner or a movie, or sending flirtatious texts. But many women have a reserved attitude even if they like the man back. Arranged dates are very popular in China, which is a kind of straightforward dating. Meeting the parents in China is a sign that a couple is ready to settle down.
3. The United Kingdom
Unlike in some European countries, dates in the UK often center around drinking and heading to the local bar or pub. This is particularly true in the initial stages of getting to know someone. British people tend to be more reserved than some other cultures; therefore, they’re not fans of PDA. The general attitude in the UK is just to carry a smile or to respond with gestures.
The UK is traditional in its ways and so it’s usually the men that ask women out on dates. He then also initiatively decides the place of the date too. There is seriousness in couples dating in the UK. A salient feature of the dating manners in the UK is that they are firm believers in monogamy. People prefer giving and receiving undivided attention from their partners. Seeing multiple people would be taken as a sign that you don’t consider the person enough for you. It wouldn’t be wrong to conclude that the dating manners in the UK are more earnest than some other countries.
4. Japan
Japan’s romance begins with certain order dates. In Japan, a date is when two people go out and do some activities such as having dinner, going to see a movie, walking around a park, churning at a nice cafe, etc. but it involves romance or the possibility of romance. Dating simply means the couple is looking forward to a relationship and so it’s not casual. Japanese people do not date as Americans. Japanese don’t say, “let’s go on a date!” Instead, they will ask, “Shall we have dinner sometime? Let’s watch that movie if you are interested?”
What makes dating in Japan especially peculiar is the fact that while dating the Japanese people do not get physical- no holding hands, no kissing, nothing. At the end of the date, the couple decides if they want to take a step forward or not see each other again. Most of the time, men ask women to be their girlfriends. If the girl says yes, they become an official couple. Usually, men and women take this step within six months of seeing each other. Being in a relationship is not as big a deal in Japan as it is in western culture.
5. India
The dating manners in India are more conservative than they might be in some other countries, especially because arranged marriages are still common here. In India, it is not socially acceptable for young adults to be viewed as dating before engagement. Young couples today prefer hiding their relationships with parents and society as a whole to avoid being rebuked.
Indian couples generally prefer to eat at a local restaurant nearby the roadside. Couples walk side by side but not overly close since PDA is not looked upon as moral in the country. The Indian culture values personal space and therefore generally allows for an arm’s length distance. Touching one another in public areas is not a part of dating manners and in some cities is also an offense. Despite family influences, things are changing in India as well. Couples have started dating according to their choices and love marriages are getting accepted by some communities in the country.
6. France
The dating culture in France is much more laid-back than it is in many other countries. Unlike the USA and different western countries, the people of France practice and endorse the idea of exclusive relationships. The French usually get to know each other well before they go on a date and they never date multiple people at the same time. Picking up someone at a bar, and going on a date with them is not part of their dating manners.
Usually, a guy asks for a date as girls do not take that power in France. The French dating culture requires a certain level of familiarity. They don’t date random people. In France, the cost of the date is usually split by both, which comes across as very forward and something that supports the concept of equality. Public displays of affection aren’t taboo in France. Couples hold hands, hug, and kiss regularly. Haven’t we all heard about the French kiss? Perhaps this is the reason why the reputation for French romantic freedom is so widespread.
7. Spain
In Spain, it’s common for someone to approach anyone they find attractive, no matter a club or a disco. It is becoming increasingly common for both men and women to ask each other out, thus it is free from gender bias. In fact, Spanish women are more likely to make the first move.
Spanish men are upfront and don’t mind getting in touch with someone they like through whatever means they like, calling, texting, or emailing when the relationship is new. If that happens, it’s a sign that the man is interested. Couples usually go out for drinks, tapas, watch movies, or spend time in the park or beach.
One point that stands out about the dating manners in Spanish is that appearance matters to them. So, dressing up gracefully is part of the date plan, unsaid. Although, what’s also interesting is that the relationship doesn’t become official until the couple has kissed. That, of course, is not an issue since most couples in Spain end up kissing right after the first date if they like each other.
8. Sweden
Sweden’s dating culture is unique. Swedes also practice monogamy and stick to dating one person at a time. Being polite in Sweden is not necessary. It’s the land of equality, wherein, one doesn’t have to expect the men to pull the chairs or open the doors. Also, women pay the bills! It could probably be one of the most freeing of the dating manners from around the world. The best way to be successful at dating in Sweden is to keep it casual, don’t call it a “date.”
Swedes prefer simple coffee outings to dinners and movies and start and end the hangout with a hug, not a kiss. Exclusivity is a must in Sweden. Going out to dinner or a movie is usually activities reserved for after you’ve been dating for a while. The dating manners in Sweden are much different than of other countries.
9. Mexico
People in Mexico tend to stick to more traditional gender roles. Generally, men make the first move. Unlike some countries, in Mexico, men pay for the women on dates and they might not quite like it if women offer to share. What’s so exceptional about the dating manners in Mexico is that men follow up on the women they like after the first few dates. Mexicans are also more affectionate and prone to PDA than some other countries, which means that it’s not uncommon to see couples kissing and holding hands in public.
When dating turns into a serious relationship, the girl’s father must be consulted for marriage. With the parents’ permission, the Mexican man will then plan a grand gesture for his beloved. Typically, couples ought to get married to one another within two years of their engagement.
10. The UAE
Dating is not in the code of ethics of the Emiratis as it doesn’t align with their Muslim values and so it is not part of their dating manners. Practicing affectionate behavior in public is also condemned. It’s less like dates, and more like meeting two people who share a common interest in becoming one. It is, of course, the men who take the lead considering it is a patriarchal society.
Most people like to wear nice clothes when they go out, therefore informal wear is a little less popular. The man will almost always pay the bill, and may even take offence if a woman offers to pay. Families also meet with much enthusiasm as long as they know the relationship is going somewhere, which means relationships only mean serious in the UAE.
What do you think about these dating manners from different countries? Are there any more such patterns you find in your dating culture? Mention them in the comments below!
Although, no matter which of these dating manners, the one thing that remains common in all of them is “love.” That feeling is the same, no matter which part of the country.
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