Where To Meet Singles Offline By Kelly Jones (Lavalife columnist)

Online dating is an excellent way of meeting exciting new people. But connecting with someone in an everyday environment such as a shop or dog park has advantages too, namely an obvious starting point for conversation. Which public places are best for cruising unattached cuties? Read on...

Meeting singles by flirting at bars and clicking with online Lavalifers definitely has its arousing advantages, but hooking up with other spicy singles need not be limited to traditional dating venues. In fact, it can equally mischievous to connect with someone in an everyday environment--food shopping, wine tasting, frolicking at a dog park. Best, the pressure-free surroundings provide a natural conversation topic to begin interacting. Regularity is the salacious secret here: the more you bump into each other, the most comfortable you'll become. Make sure to frequent places that best reflect your interests.


1. Linen Beginnings
What's more alluring than soft bed sheets, a clean bathroom, and fluffy towels? Department store linen departments are one of the sassiest places for neat freaks to meet likeminded singles. It's probably safe to assume that if a hottie guy or girl cares about guest towels, they're likely feel good about asking you over and making you feel at home.


2. Judge a Book by its Lover
From poetry to porn, fiction to sex addiction, what can't you say about yourself by browsing in a particular section of a bookstore or library? Many of today's book superstores also provide coffee shops, comfy seating, and air conditioning, so take your time and read between the lines of other shoppers.


3. Bedding at the Wedding
Frequently and mistakenly dreaded by the dateless, nuptial events rank right up there with other pick-up hot spots. Romance is in the air, all are dressed to the nines, there's vino and dancing to be relished, and you already know everyone at the event by mere association. So usher in your enticing side and say 'I do' to those roomfuls of potential dates.

4. Food for Thought
Are you a tofu stir-fry kind of guy or a flank steak girl, a Rice Krispie square baker or a fresh parmesan grater? Shopping carts weren't constructed of wire mesh without purpose--they're ideal for snooping. Visit your grocer on the same day every week, giving yourself plenty of time to squeeze the melons, smell the strawberries, and flirt your pants off with likeminded foodies.

5. Charity Begins Alone
Want to meet that special someone while simultaneously contributing to the community? Then volunteering is for you. With so many charities needing support--from the SPCA to the Sally Ann--you'll have no problem finding a cause that sates your Good Samaritan urge. And volunteers can be counted on to be thoughtful and considerate types, usually with plenty of free time to play and cavort with other slinky singles.