Does Cold-Approach Work Good When Approaching Overseas?

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Traveling overseas, exploring new cultures, and dating foreign women can be incredibly exciting. For single Western men seeking romantic connections, cold-approaching women in foreign countries is a bold and effective strategy for interacting with boatloads of women, but is it the best strategy?

This article will explore whether cold-approaching works well overseas. We’ll cover the ideal places for cold approaching, the effectiveness of this strategy, why it may have drawbacks, and the importance of respecting local customs. With my experience in international dating spanning over 20 countries, I’ll share valuable insights to help you navigate the world of overseas romance.

Also see: The Ultimate Guide To Be A Pickup Artist (PUA) Overseas.

What Is Cold Approaching? (Pickup Artist Terminology)

Me with a beautiful date in Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo, DR.
Me (right), on a date with a woman in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

At its core, cold approaching involves the act of approaching beautiful women or those you find attractive while out in public. This approach can sometimes lead to meaningful connections and exciting dates, especially in countries where local women are open to meeting and dating foreign men. For those unfamiliar, a cold approach means starting a conversation with a stranger without any prior interaction or mutual connection. It is similar to the age-old “cold calling” sales strategy, meaning calling random prospective clients out of the blue and offering a sales pitch.

As an international dating traveler, I’ve seen firsthand the potential success stories that can arise from cold-approaching in various countries. These interactions can lead to short-term flings, long-term relationships, or even lasting friendships. However, it’s essential to approach this strategy with respect and an understanding of the local culture to avoid misunderstandings or negative experiences.

Also see: Why Pickup Lines & Openers Are Irrelevant Dating Overseas

Best Places For Cold-Approaches Overseas

Certain locations are more conducive to successful cold approaches. Cities with bustling shopping malls are ideal, as they offer a high concentration of people, including beautiful women, in a relaxed environment. Malls in metropolitan areas tend to attract locals and tourists alike, providing a diverse pool of potential dates.

Eric James (me) cold-approaching foreign women in the Philippines.
Me (left), buying a smoothie for a pair of women that I cold-approached overseas.

A few of my favorite malls in the world for cold-approaching women are:

  • Ayala Mall in Cebu City, Philippines
  • Envigado Mall in Medellin, Colombia
  • Terminal 21 Mall in Bangkok, Thailand

Also see: 10 Great Countries Every Pick-Up Artist (PUAs) Should Visit

Another excellent place for cold-approaching is areas with lots of cafes, parks, and busy streets. These locations are generally filled with women who are open to casual conversations and socializing. Areas near university campuses and cultural festivals are also prime spots for cold-approaching women. However, tread carefully on university campuses, as they could be very awkward if you have a significant age gap.

Is Cold Approach Good Overseas?

Yes, cold-approaching can be effective overseas because it operates on the principle of numbers. For example, if you approach 100 women, at least a few will likely show some interest in you, even though the majority may not. This strategy can yield positive results, especially in countries where local women are interested in foreign men. Countries like the Philippines, Thailand, and the Dominican Republic have a lot of women interested in having a foreign boyfriend.

An added bonus is that if you approach hundreds of women, you will grow and progress in your cold-approach skills, thus lowering your fears related to approaching and facing rejection. However, guys should be aware of when they are being a public nuisance and avoid overdoing it.

Countries in Southeast Asia, such as the Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, and Indonesia, are known for their friendly and open-minded locals. Similarly, parts of Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, and countries in South America, such as Colombia, Argentina, and the Dominican Republic, are also good places to try cold-approaching. These regions have cultures that tend to be more receptive to foreigners, increasing the likelihood of successful encounters.

Also see: Do Pickup Artist Strategies (PUA) Work Good Overseas?

Why I Don’t Like Cold Approach Overseas

American expat using Bumble dating app to meet Colombian woman from Choco, having first date in a shopping mall in Medellin.
Me, with a date in Medellin, Colombia at Viva Envigado shopping mall.

Despite its potential benefits, there are several reasons why I don’t particularly favor cold-approaching overseas:

  • Inconsistency: If an approach goes well and you get contact information, you may need to leave the area. The woman may feel offended if she sees you approaching another woman afterward.
  • Public Nuisance: Often, men who cold-approach can interrupt women who are busy working, studying, or simply enjoying their own company. Approaching a woman with headphones in or someone on the way to work can come off as inconsiderate.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Other cultures may be highly sensitive to the public spotlight on individuals, especially women. Being approached by a foreigner in public can make them feel uncomfortable as if everyone’s attention is on them.

Learn the #1 strategy for approaching which works so much better than cold approach: Using The Indicators of Interest Method To Meet Foreign Women

Respect Local Norms & Customs When Cold-Approaching

It’s crucial to remember that in some countries, cold-approaching may be seen as taboo or disrespectful. For instance, even though the subways and trains are full of people in Tokyo, Japan, I noticed they are dead silent because cultural norms discourage public conversations. Trying to start a conversation in such settings would be seen as very inappropriate.

The acceptance of age-gap relationships varies substantially depending on the country you visit. Therefore, if you approach women who are 20 or 30 years younger than you, for example, this could be taken very offensively. For instance, on one trip, I noticed age gaps to be well accepted in the Philippines; however, immediately after, I went to Vietnam, where I did not notice age gaps to be very common.

Before attempting a cold approach, it’s essential to research and understand the local customs and social norms. Respecting these traditions will not only increase your chances of success but also ensure that your actions are received positively and appropriately.

Also see: Is Daygame or Nightgame Better To Meet Women Overseas?

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