Embarking on a journey to find the woman of your dreams overseas is thrilling, but maintaining that long-distance connection can be a formidable challenge. Whether you’ve met someone special during your travels or through online international dating platforms, nurturing a long-distance relationship (LDR) requires commitment, patience, and strategic efforts to keep the romance alive.
This article delves into crucial strategies for maintaining an LDR, such as scheduling daily video calls, updating each other with regular messages and photos, setting definite plans for reunion, and eventually closing the geographical gap. Following my advice, you can ensure that your relationship remains strong and vibrant despite the miles separating you.
My experience as an international dating coach has taught me valuable lessons about LDRs. I have successfully maintained relationships with foreign women using these strategies, allowing me to build meaningful connections across borders. Now, I’m sharing my insights to help you navigate the complexities of long-distance love and set you on a path to a successful, enduring relationship.
Also see: The Complete Guide to Dating Women Overseas For Western Men
My Experience With LDRs
I’ve been in several long-distance relationships, one with a wonderful woman in Cebu City, Philippines, and the other with a gorgeous woman in Medellin, Colombia. I met both in their respective countries and began dating. The challenge for me was that I had to return to my home country of the United States, after a while.
Upon returning to the US, I was able to maintain a long-distance relationship for a few months. Still, both relationships fizzled out because of the challenges in this article (lack of physical touch and time zone differences). In hindsight, I may have been able to maintain the relationships better if I had stayed diligent and disciplined with my communication strategies.
Because of long-distance challenges, one of the first questions a foreign woman will ask you when you meet her is, “How long are you going to be here?” This is because she may have experienced the heartbreak of a long-distance relationship in her past or is inquiring about what type of relationship (short or long-term) you are seeking with her.
Also see: 10 Best International Dating Apps Based Off My Testing
The Most Difficult Challenges of LDRs
Long-distance relationships come with unique challenges that can test even the strongest bonds. One of the most significant hurdles I’ve faced is the lack of physical touch and connection. The absence of face-to-face interactions, eye contact, hugs, and kisses can leave both partners feeling disconnected and yearning for each other’s presence. Physical intimacy is a vital component of any relationship, and its absence can be difficult to cope with in an LDR.
Differences in time zones present another challenge for couples in long-distance relationships. Coordinating communication schedules can be tough when one partner is waking up while the other is going to bed. The disparity in time zones can lead to misunderstandings and missed opportunities for connection. Establishing a routine for communication that accommodates both partners’ schedules is essential to keep the relationship moving forward and maintain a sense of closeness.
Maintaining LDRs With Video Calls and Messaging
Consistent communication is the lifeline of any LDR. Modern technology offers various platforms to bridge the communication gap, such as WhatsApp, Line, Viber, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram, all of which support video calling. Leveraging these tools can help you maintain a visual and emotional connection with your partner.
You may remember the old days when Skype was the most popular video-calling application. However, in my experience, it is no longer used. Instead, use WhatsApp, which has become the most widely used messaging and calling application worldwide. It is free and works on WiFi. “Line” is another communication application that is frequently used in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
Strive to make daily video calls, as seeing each other’s faces and observing body language can significantly enhance the feeling of intimacy. These calls allow you to share your daily experiences and stay updated on each other’s lives. Additionally, sending regular messages and photos throughout the day can keep the flame of romance burning and reassure your partner of your commitment to the relationship.
Schedule Definite Plans To Return
Indefinite or vague plans to reunite can create a sense of uncertainty and insecurity in an LDR. I experienced this common pitfall in my long-distance relationship with my Filipina girlfriend. She would often ask, “When are you coming back?”. And I honestly could not give her a definitive answer, which was not very reassuring to her.
Without concrete plans, your partner might feel that you are not serious about the relationship, leading to jealousy and disappointment. She may also start to explore dating other men. To avoid these pitfalls, it’s crucial to establish clear and definite plans for your next meeting.
Booking a flight and setting exact dates for your return can provide both you and your partner with something tangible to look forward to. This certainty can strengthen the relationship by demonstrating your commitment and dedication. Having definite plans helps build trust and provides the relationship with the necessary means to endure the physical separation.
Close The Geographical Distance
Closing the geographical gap is arguably the most pivotal step in maintaining a long-distance relationship. Many successful LDRs involve partners who make concerted efforts to visit each other’s countries as often as possible. Regular visits help keep the emotional connection strong and provide opportunities to create shared memories.
If you are exploring a long-distance relationship from a very vast geographical distance, such as from North America to Asia, strive for visits at least every six months. And if you follow my advice about having flights booked and paid for, you can both rest at ease, counting down the days until you’ll see each other again. LDRs from shorter distances and similar time zones can often be much easier to manage and schedule visits more often. My LDR with my Colombian girlfriend was more manageable than my Filipina girlfriend because visits from the United States to Colombia were much more feasible.
Consider closing the distance permanently for those looking to take their relationship to the next level. This might involve moving to your partner’s country or bringing her to yours. Personally, I prefer spending time in foreign countries and exploring new cultures, so the idea of bringing a wife back to my home country doesn’t appeal to me as much. Regardless of your preference, finding a way to be physically present with your partner more often is essential for the longevity and success of the relationship.
Also see: The 5 Best Countries To Find a Quality Wife Overseas