Happier Abroad Forum Community

I don't recall how I came across this site, but I'm glad I did.

I've been a lurker for about a week until I finally decided to take the plunge and take a trip to the Philippines based on reviews from everyone on here. Specifically Cebu/Davao (possibly a bit of Bangkok) in late November, so if there's anyone in the area or planning on going hit me up.

I'm in my early 20's, living a young urban professional's life in Toronto, Canada...thus tired of the bullshite dating scene and need to get away for a bit before I lose my mind.

Shout outs to pete98146, Jacare & davewe who have already provided awesome answers to my stupid questions.

Welcome CJ Styles. Glad to see liked minded newcomers.

CJStyles, welcome. Nice to see you here.

Wow, even local-born Torontonian yuppies had it bad in Canada huh...

I used to be regretful that I missed out on the chance to study abroad at Waterloo - as my stepping stone to settling in Canada. Looks like it wouldn't make much of a difference in my frequently single life even if I move there. I probably fare even worse than you did since I would be a foreigner there.

Oh well, I'm still sticking to Europe, as it is.

Hey Rayn,

I won't lie and say that Canada is completely devoid of relationships, we're generally warmer than the United States (also depending where you go, Montreal will be a lot friendlier than Toronto). But we're also very North American styled, so unless you've got a lot of game or look really good it's difficult to meet women.

I've only been in a few relationships, and they all came from long term friendships (working, school). So if you're only visiting it would be difficult for the average guy.

Oh, I am good looking, I assure you. Used to be an ugly duckling as a kid, but getting the oh-so-pleasant H-word thrown at me at first glance as of now, at close to 28.

About having game, however...bah. With girls (with anyone, actually) I insist on being myself, acting respectful and not being wishy-washy about my intentions. I have no pickup line other than "Hi, my name is XXX..." with a gesture for a handshake when I meet girls in mutual activities or events. And a few other things...like standing up straight, speaking clearly, and looking at them dead straight in the eyes when I speak.

But I refuse to do any of those Neil Strauss-ish nonesense like negging, mentioning an imaginary girlfriend to induce jealousy, acting like an asshole, delaying response to calls, etc. I don't think of women as targets to be gamed upon - but as fellow people.

Even reading through that very term 'game' sickens me. It was as if to pursue a meaningful and empathic long-term relationship one must be deceitful and manipulative to women. f***ing eww.

Rayn wrote:Oh, I am good looking, I assure you. Used to be an ugly duckling as a kid, but getting the oh-so-pleasant H-word thrown at me at first glance as of now, at close to 28.

About having game, however...bah. With girls (with anyone, actually) I insist on being myself, acting respectful and not being wishy-washy about my intentions. I have no pickup line other than "Hi, my name is XXX..." with a gesture for a handshake when I meet girls in mutual activities or events. And a few other things...like standing up straight, speaking clearly, and looking at them dead straight in the eyes when I speak.

But I refuse to do any of those Neil Strauss-ish nonesense like negging, mentioning an imaginary girlfriend to induce jealousy, acting like an asshole, delaying response to calls, etc. I don't think of women as targets to be gamed upon - but as fellow people.

Even reading through that very term 'game' sickens me. It was as if to pursue a meaningful and empathic long-term relationship one must be deceitful and manipulative to women. f***ing eww.

Same with me, I hate all that PUA bullshit. I just want to act myself--and if women don't like it--f**k them.

welcome !