In a new love story for the ages, Clara Benson tells Slate how an OKCupid date took her around the globe. Though initially convinced that they made the "World's Most Unlikely Pair," Clara agreed to adventure through eight countries in 21 days with a man she'd just met -- a lively and spontaneous (clearly) university professor named Jeff. What's more, the impromptu nature of the journey allowed for very few essentials. The pair only had the clothes on their backs, a toothbrush, an iPhone and a map.
Rather than exchange small talk over lattes, the duo got to know each other in the midst of a hitch-hiking expedition through Croatia, Bosnia, Herzegovina, Sarajevo and Budapest. Travel is certainly a catalyst that speeds up the typical getting-to-know-you process, so forgo your typical dinner date, embrace the spirit of conviviality and embark on a cross country road-trip instead. Though I don't know where these two end up, it's a bohemian fantasy come to life.
What's Driving This Trend
- Adventure Dating
- There are opportunities for dating apps to create features or partner with travel companies to promote adventure dating experiences.
- Minimalist Travel
- There is a potential market for travel products and services that cater to minimalist travelers who prefer to pack light and travel with fewer essentials.
- Impromptu Getaways
- There is an opportunity for the travel industry to create or promote last-minute travel deals for impromptu getaways that allow for more spontaneity and less planning.
Who This Affects Most
- Online Dating
- Online dating companies can explore adding adventure-themed features to their platforms to promote more exciting date options.
- Travel
- Travel companies can create tailored packages and experiences that appeal to minimalist travelers seeking to explore the world with fewer belongings.
- Last-minute Travel Deals
- Travel deal companies can offer more impromptu, last-minute deals to appeal to travelers seeking spontaneity and flexibility in their travel plans.
