Love is universal, but it’s also cultural. Being in love and dating can look very different depending on where you are.
While the internet has connected us globally, most people stick to their traditions and rules of engagement.
In some places, it all comes down to an 個人, while in others, the whole 家族 has a vote.
We’re all looking for connection, but let’s see what that looks like in different places around the world!
1. USA and Europe
In the United States and much of Europe, dating is largely インディペンデント. People meet through apps, in clubs, through mutual friends, and the decision to get serious is up to the couple.
Families rarely get involved until the relationship is heading for true commitment, typically after a year or so.
Parental approval of the new partner is appreciated, and it might affect your decision to settle down with them, but people typically don’t feel like they must do as their families say.
Things are kept casual at first, and courtship isn’t really a thing; we call it “hanging out.”
In the early stages of dating, it’s common to see multiple people simultaneously, go on dates, connect, and see who appeals to you the most.
The financial dynamics often lean toward the 50/50 split in the West, while in Southern and Eastern Europe, men take pride in covering the expenses.
While old-school romance isn’t dead, it’s certainly not a requirement.
People tend to keep it low-pressure and just have a good time with someone they like.
2. India
Scratch everything you just read if you’re looking to date in India.
While dating apps are growing popular in the cities, traditional arranged marriage is very much still a thing.
It’s not something that happens without the couple’s agreement; it’s more of an “assisted dating” thing. Parents and matchmakers look for someone who is the best fit for you.
Families have a huge say in your love life because marriage is seen as a merging of families, rather than your personal relationship.
It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but it works for a lot of people.
Even when couples meet independently and start dating, family’s opinions can still make or break the relationship.
Bringing a partner home to meet the family is a monumental step.
Some people claim this approach takes the pressure off and moves things along, but others wholeheartedly disagree.
3. China
In China, dating often includes clear, long-term goals. Though casual flings are a thing, there’s a strong societal pressure to settle down, especially as you approach your late twenties.
“Sheng nu” is a derogatory term thrown around, and it’s aimed at single women aged 27 and older; it means “leftover women.”
Dating is a bit more 戦略的, as people look for marriage potential right off the bat. Career stability and home ownership are discussed pretty soon, too, as people don’t dance around the subject.
Parental approval is still a massive deal in Chinese culture.
It’s not uncommon for a partner to ask for their parents’ blessing before proposing, and in more traditional circles, parents can be involved in searching for a match.
The dynamic leans toward stability more than just having a good time.
4. The Mediterranean
Dating in the Mediterranean comes with a side of drama.
Though people tend to be expressive and romantic, things can get emotionally charged and intense.
In Egypt, for instance, the hot-and-cold game is all over the place. My friend dated an Egyptian man in the past and would go from receiving luxury gifts to being ghosted in the span of days.
All across the Mediterranean, these little games are equated with romance. If things are too easy-going, it’s seen as dull.
In places such as Greece, family is also involved and close-knit, but only when you bring around a partner you’ve committed to.
Hook-up culture is alive and well, but people of the Mediterranean still tend to be 家庭的.
They’re very social, and date locations often reflect that, so people choose to meet up in bars, beaches, and often among friends.
When it comes to finances, men typically cover all the costs, as they consider it gentlemanly.
5. Northern Europe
The Nordic approach to dating is a stark contrast to the Mediterranean. The dating culture is very egalitarian.
Things are chill, no one opens doors for anyone, and all the expenses are split 50/50, down to a single cup of coffee.
People from the rest of the world tend to see this approach as unromantic, but Nordic people stick to the principle of equality.
No one wants to impose on anyone, so things can be a bit tricky in the beginning. Relationships are often super slowburn.
You might hang out together for ages before making it official. PDA is present, but not in-your-face.
Couples look for comfort, not grand gestures.
It’s practical and devoid of games. However, if you need constant validation and romance, their approach might not work for you.
6. Latin America
Down in Latin America, dating is a physical affair. PDA is not just accepted; it’s expected! The idea is that if you really love someone, you’re not able to stay away from them.
If you and your partner walk down the street without hugging or holding hands, people might assume you’re fighting or broken up.
People are 家庭的, so new partners get to meet the parents and cousins right away.
Machismo culture is still strong in these parts, but the younger generations are leaning a little bit more toward egalitarianism.
Either way, a lot of value is placed on ロマンス and having a good time together.
People love to go dancing and clubbing together, and passion is at the core of romantic relationships.
7. East Asia
In countries like Japan and South Korea, the approach to dating is much more subtle. While K-dramas might show grand gestures, in real life, things are much more discreet.
In Japan, “kokuhaku” is a thing, and it’s a formal confession of love. It’s needed to actually start dating, and before it comes, people just consider each other acquaintances.
I’d say people all over the world envy the Japanese on this, since we spend months wondering “what are we” instead of making things official with a confession.
Once you’re a couple, PDA is a no-go, as it’s considered embarrassing and rude to other people.
Couple show affection in private, and when outside, they do it in more subtle ways or acts of service.
There’s a strong sense of duty in relationships, and these countries are still weighed down by rigid gender roles that overwhelm couples, especially women.
Japan and South Korea have been experiencing a dating crisis these past few years, but the systems are slowly changing in order to make relationships and family life more appealing to everyone.
8. The Middle East
In Saudi Arabia, Iran, or Afghanistan, dating is strictly regulated.
Due to strict religious laws, relationships before marriage are often illegal or taboo. Unwed couples can spend time together only if there’s someone present to keep an eye on them.
PDA is also considered extremely rude, and can even land you in legal trouble. As such, romance is a domestic, private affair.
Not to mention, relationships start with the expectation of marriage in mind.
The cultural pressure is high, but once a couple achieves the security of marriage, they can relax and love each other freely.
Much like in the Mediterranean and Latin America, men are expected to handle all the expenses and take care of their wives.
A little Aquarius, devoted to writing and embroidery. Through my writing, I hope to empower readers to align with their true selves and navigate life’s mysteries with confidence.