|
|
  | | |
|
» Features
| FEATURES Before you log on...
I have always had an open mind when it comes to trying new things — hell I'll try anything if I'm sure it won't kill me. So about a year and half ago, I decided to try the Internet Dating scene — and what a shock I got. I decided I would do some research first. Most sites offer a trial period where you can check out profiles and browse the eye-candy, but there are certain restrictions like you're not able to view full photos or contact any members. There are quite a few international sites that do offer searches within South Africa — but not many, so I opted for two local sites. Surprisingly, the costs are not high at all, and the money you spend on a three month subscription will hardly cover the cost of a round of drinks these days. This will usually get you unlimited access, viewing of profiles and the ability to contact other members. But the subscription-only option means that the member you contact will also need to have paid the subscription rates in order for you to start chatting. It can be like trying to talk to someone on the other side of plate glass window — very frustrating. There are some major advantages with meeting people this way. For one, you pretty much know that they are looking for someone else — so not much chance of embarrassing hand-offs or jealous boyfriends. Secondly, you can filter them out very quickly. Of course, they can do the same — but at least it's not like being in a club where you can waste a few hundred big ones just buying drinks for girls all evening. They have made it a little life-like, though, as most sites offer the option of buying someone else a subscription — and my advice is, as in real life, don't do it. I found very quickly that internet dating sites can be a haven for some seriously twisted people. I can only comment on the girls — and one or two guys who got really pushy. Luckily you can block people. But there is something about the desperation in a lot of the profiles that is a big turn-off. If I read about one more person that "lives life to the fullest" I thought I'd scream. A little originality goes a long way. I have met a fair number of women from the sites — and I have some horror stories. Word of advice: Never, ever meet anyone unless you have seen a picture of them. Yes, that is incredibly shallow, but there is always a reason why they don't have a photo up — and not understanding technology is just not an excuse anymore. No need to explain those stories. But there was one girl that turned into a bit of a stalker. We met up one night at a club that we both happened to be going to (I though it would be cheaper than dinner so it seemed like a good idea). I gave her the slip, but woke up the next morning with about twenty SMS's, all the to tune of, "I think we have a connection". That scared me — and I swore never to leave the house again with out a cattle prod.The biggest tip I can offer, is to have no expectations. Treat internet dating like normal dating — there seem to be way too many people expecting to find love and their "soul-mate" on the Net. The reality of it is, you are talking to someone in secure environment, e-mail offers a way to perfect your responses without any pressure. Sure, there are photos and very detailed profiles available which cover interests, hobbies and all things that are great about the person, but I took a multimedia course at varsity and with my limited knowledge even I could make a picture of Osama Bin Laden look like a ravishing blonde. Not that there isn't a certain level of honesty, but how quickly is anyone going to divulge their bad traits? At the end of the day, tread with caution — always meet in public areas, meet as soon as possible and try not to get into any "virtual" romances. I speak from experience... » Join iafrica.com's Dating Buzz | | |
| |||
