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A foreigner’s guide to dating in Belgium.
As a foreigner, adjustment to local dating customs can be tricky. In some places, such as the United States, dating is casual and laid back.
In others, like France, it’s more traditional and formal. Then there are countries, like Belgium, where the social norms are somewhere in between.
Belgium has three official languages: French, Dutch, and German.
This means that there are three different cultures in Belgium! The best way to find out what dating customs are like in each culture is to ask someone local.
However, here are some general guidelines:
In the French-speaking parts of Belgium, it is common for men and women to go on group dates.
Friends will often double date or go out in large groups. It is also not uncommon for a man to ask a woman’s father for permission before asking her on a date, although this has become less common in recent years.
In the Dutch-speaking parts of Belgium, it is more common for people to date one person at a time. going on multiple dates with different people is not as common as it is in other parts of the world.
Asking a woman’s father for permission before asking her on a date is also not as common in this part of Belgium.
In the German-speaking parts of Belgium, dating customs are similar to those in the Netherlands.
People tend to date one person at a time and asking a woman’s father for permission before asking her on a date is not as common.
Here’s a guide to help you navigate the local dating scene.
Dating customs in different parts of Belgium.
One of the first things you’ll notice about Belgian dating is that it varies from region to region.
When it comes to dating in Belgium, certain customs are unique to each part of the country.
In Flanders, the northern part of the country, people tend to be more conservative and reserved.
They also dress formally for dates and meetings, and public displays of affection are not common.
However, it’s also common for men to ask women out on dates by sending them text messages.
By contrast, people in Wallonia, the southern part of Belgium, are generally more outgoing and enthusiastic.
In Wallonia, it is more common for men to ask women out in person.
They’re also more likely to hugging and kissing when they greet friends or family members.
Of course, these are just generalities, and there are always exceptions to the rule.
But if you’re planning on going on a date with a Belgian, it’s best to be aware of these differences so you can avoid any awkwardness or misunderstandings.
Even though Tinder has gained popularity in Belgium, online dating is not as widely accepted as it is in some other countries.
How Belgian singles meet each other.
Meeting potential partners through friends or family is still common in Belgium.
However, meeting someone at a bar or nightclub is becoming increasingly popular as well.
This is especially true for young people who often go out together in groups rather than in pairs.
Belgians are also generally very active and enjoy spending time outdoors walking or cycling together.
So if you’re hoping to attract a Belgian man or woman, being active and/or enjoying nature is a good place to start!
What people in Belgium look for in a partner.
In general, Belgians are looking for someone who will be loyal and supportive within a relationship.
They also value honesty and respectfulness towards others, so try not to boast too much about your accomplishments!
Belgians tend to be fairly independent and are used to taking care of themselves; so they don’t necessarily need a partner who will always be available to them 24/7.
However, they do appreciate quality time spent together doing things that both partners enjoy.
And when it comes to sex, Belgians are relatively open-minded about trying new things between the sheets..or wherever else you might be!
How relationships develop in Belgium.
Once two people have decided they would like to pursue a relationship, they will usually move pretty quickly from dating to exclusive commitment.
One unique aspect of dating in Belgium is that many marriages are arranged by families, so you might find yourself meeting your future spouse for the first time on your wedding day!
However, this is gradually changing as more people choose to marry for love rather than convenience..or family pressure.
Relationships in Belgium tend to progress more slowly than in other Western countries; so don’t expect your Belgian partner to say “I love you” anytime soon..or ever, depending on their family’s views!
That being said, once Belgians do commit to a relationship they are usually in it for the long haul and take monogamy very seriously…which may come as a surprise given how liberal they are about sex!
Marriage ceremonies in Belgium usually take place at city hall followed by a reception with family and friends.
However, grandiose celebrations are becoming increasingly popular as well…especially among the wealthy!
Conclusion:
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to dating customs in Belgium because just like everything else here, it varies from region to region..and even from person to person!
However, by understanding some of the basic social norms regarding dating and sex.
You should be able to avoid any awkward misunderstandings or uncomfortable situations while enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer…including its gorgeous singles!