You “meet” someone online. You share messages back and forth. Finally, you start talking to them on the phone. And then…they invite you to “fly out” to meet in person. The big question is do you go. Is this the moment to take a chance on love?
The question of meeting face-to-face is always a big one when distance is involved. As technology moves forward more and more people are meeting online, which means that more and more people are potentially in contact with people who are not local to them.
Whether to meet someone you’ve met online really comes down to how comfortable you feel with traveling to meet a stranger. Yes, I said that correctly, a stranger. The truth is no matter how much you speak on the Internet or on the phone, until you meet someone in person, they really still are a stranger to you, which means you should always proceed with caution. However, if you do decide to fly out to meet someone here are some things you should definitely consider.
Where do you plan to stay? While I am sure you think you want to stay with the person you plan to meet, it’s smarter to secure your own lodging first. Many fly outs have ended in disaster so securing your own lodging is always a good backup plan JUST in case this “true love” moment becomes a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde one instead. Remember, you are traveling to meet a stranger. Who knows what their house is like, or what their true intentions are. Err on the side of caution. Secure your own lodging.
Who is purchasing your travel? Although the person may offer to purchase a ticket for you it is best to purchase your own transportation. Many people have been left stranded because they trusted someone they didn’t know to buy their ticket. If the person insists on buying your ticket, purchase it yourself and then ask to be reimbursed. Or, if you do allow them to buy your ticket make sure you can afford a trip home in an emergency. Basically, keep control of your travel…just in case.
Who knows you are leaving town? Tell someone close to you ALL of your travel plans…who you are going to see…who you are staying with…all addresses and phone numbers…again, err on the side of caution. Throughout your travel it is very important to CHECK IN with them. The more information you share with someone outside of your fly out, the better. That way if anything happens there is someone who is aware of your whereabouts. They can help you just in case something goes wrong. This is extremely important!
Of course if you do decide to fly out to meet your new “bae,” most of all, have fun!! You never know, you may actually make a love connection!!
~Kai
Follow me: @KaiNicole on Twitter, @KaiFlyMommy on Instagram. And, buy the best dating book for women, Date Like A Woman!
