6 Intriguing International Dating Traditions

We’re all familiar with dating customs and traditions of the Western world – the good and the bad – but how familiar are we with international methods?-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In a dating landscape where originality is praised and cheesy chat-up-lines are scorned, we wonder if any inspiration can be taken from our international counterparts…

Be prepared – there are some wacky techniques out there, and we take no responsibility for the outcome of your dates if you choose to apply them! Remember; it’s all about the confidence!

White Day – Japan-----------------

On Valentine’s Day, Japanese women present chocolates to men, and the men don’t give anything back in return. That may sound a bit one-sided, but exactly one month later men buy the women white chocolate to let them know that the feelings are mutual – this day is known as ‘white day’. The Japanese are renowned for their stoic and patient demeanour, a stark contrast to Westerners who worry and stress about how long to wait before contacting someone after a first date.

Spin Class – China------------------

Amongst China’s ethnic group of Dai, courtship is centred round a bonfire. The women are seated in a circle spinning wool, whilst the men of the village serenade them with traditional songs – it’s not exactly Notting Hill, but we like it! If one melodically gifted man sends a particular woman’s world into a spin cycle, she places a stool next to her and invites him to sit. If one man becomes entranced by a particular woman, he’ll sit beside her and place his blanket over her shoulders – how sweet.

Spooning – Wales----------------

This odd but sweet Welsh tradition isn’t as it seems. Whether you’re the big or the little spoon, your carpentry skills will ultimately tell the tale of your affection. The man presents the lady with a heartfelt and intricately carved wooden spoon; this represents his oath to feed and provide for her throughout their lives. If the affections aren’t shared, the woman refuses the spoon, but if they are she will wear the spoon around her neck for several days afterwards.

Apples and Armpits – Austria----------------------------

It’s said the old ways are often best – but we’re not so sure with this Austrian tradition. Through history Austrian women would turn up to ballroom dances with slices of apples tucked into their armpits - this wasn’t just for fashion or before the days of deodorant. After the dance, it was tradition for the women to hand over the slices to the men who caught their eye. If the man had similar feelings, they would eat the slices. This gives the phrases “apple of my eye” a whole new meaning!

To have and to carry – Finland --------------------------------

The village of Sonkarjävi in Finland holds quite a peculiar annual event which attracts quite the crowd; Wife-carrying World Championships. Participants throw their wife or partner over their shoulders and complete a series of challenges and tasks. The winner is awarded the equivalent of their partner’s body weight in beer. It’s certainly one way to show your commitment (to beer at least) and your supportive nature.

Whale Tooth – Fiji------------------

Winning over the father-in-law can be a troublesome task but in Fiji, that task is made even trickier. When asking for permission to marry, the groom to be must present their father in law with a whale tooth to show their capability as a husband!

We wouldn’t blame you if you opted for a nice bouquet and a well-timed compliment! Whatever your preferred dating method is, Downtown Radio Dating will help you find someone to set off those butterflies - use code 'SummerLoving' to receive 20% OFF with Hallam FM Dating today!

(We only ask you to refrain from the apple-slice-in-armpits technique – it’s not particularly sanitary.)

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