Singles ditch dating apps for real world match ups
TECHNOLOGY-weary singles are going analog in their search for romance, turning their backs on apps such as Tinder for more traditional ways to meet a partner.
NSW
Don't miss out on the headlines from NSW. Followed categories will be added to My News.
TECHNOLOGY-weary singles are going analog in their search for romance, turning their backs on apps such as Tinder for more traditional ways to meet a partner.
Bored bachelors and bachelorettes are leading the charge against society’s app-heavy smart phone matchmakers, with wellness trends urging singles to put them down and reconnect with the world.
Sydney sexologist Dr Nikki Goldstein said many singles were “very conscious” of the hours wasted as they swiped their phones in the fruitless hunt for love. “I feel like the inevitable thing in terms of dating is going back to some of those old-fashioned roots,” she said.
Miranda Devine: Chivalry isn’t dead, it’s been criminalised
“You’ll still have a profile on Tinder and Bumble but these days people are going to be talking more (and) asking their friends more for setups.”
Psychotherapist Melissa Ferrari, who specialises in relationship counselling, said many clients were asking how to meet other singles in the real world, away from apps.
READ MORE: The dating app you want to be on
“I think people are starting to date smarter and may even begin to ... look for engagements that are a little bit more live,” she said.
Renewed interest in real-life meet-ups is spawning businesses such as Conscious Dating Co, which hosts events for singles aimed at “provoking thoughtful conversation”.
Founder Kaila Perusco said that there had been a surge in popularity over the past six months.
“I think the thing with dating apps is that you’re constantly trying to have a conversation that often doesn’t lead anywhere. It’s a lot of work for people who are busy,” she said.
READ MORE: What next for Sophie Monk and Stu Laundy post The Bachelorette
Singleton Alana Blunden, 21, of Newcastle, said she found dating apps “unnatural” and preferred real-life, face-to-face contact.
“I feel like you’re more likely to meet someone with common interests if you’re out doing things in person,” she said.