International dating can come with a boatload of surprises—some refreshing, others full-on culture shock. As someone who’s dated in many countries, I’ve run into plenty of differences that took getting used to. The key to success? Staying open-minded and adaptable.
Every culture has its own flavor. Southeast Asia is nothing like Latin America, and even countries within regions—like the Philippines and Thailand—can feel worlds apart. In this article, I’ll break down five of the biggest cultural differences I’ve noticed when dating internationally, so you can avoid the same mistakes I’ve made.
“Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.”
Eleanor Roosevelt
Also see: The Complete Guide to International Dating For Western Men
5) Chivalry Isn’t Dead, It’s Just Different
In many parts of the world, chivalry is still expected—and appreciated. While it’s faded in the West due to shifting gender norms, things like opening doors and paying for dinner are seen as respectful gestures in Latin America and Eastern Europe. Several Latina women even told me they’d never experienced that kind of treatment until dating me.
But here’s the twist: chivalry doesn’t look the same everywhere. In Southeast Asia—especially Vietnam, Japan, and Thailand—holding the door might feel awkward. In many cases, men are expected to walk in first as a show of leadership and protection.
Bottom line: respect goes a long way. The style may change, but the intention should stay the same.
Also see: 7 Ways To Flirt With Foreign Women | In-Person & Online
4) Traditional Gender Roles Are Still Alive
In much of the world, masculine and feminine roles in dating are still clearly defined—and it works. While gender dynamics have shifted in the West, many Asian and Latin American cultures still expect men to take the lead and women to follow that lead in a supportive way. Personally, this is one of the biggest reasons I enjoy dating abroad over dating in the U.S.
In the Philippines, I constantly heard the phrase “It’s up to you.” Women naturally deferred to me on where to eat or what to do. Over time, I stopped asking and started leading with confidence: “Let’s go here,” followed by a respectful, “Does that sound good?”
If she has a preference, she’ll tell you—but most appreciate a man who knows what he wants and takes the initiative. Embracing that masculine role is often the key to building a strong connection abroad.
Interested in finding a Filipina girlfriend or wife? Check out: The Ultimate Guide to Dating Women in the Philippines
3) The Pace of Dating
In the West, dating often moves fast—casual hookups don’t always mean commitment. But overseas, the pace can vary drastically by country and culture, and this catches many Western men off guard.
In Colombia, I expected quick intimacy based on stereotypes. But the highest-quality women I met made me wait until the fifth date. In Vietnam, things were even slower—some women preferred to stay in the “getting to know you” stage for months. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, the opposite can happen. I’ve had women bring up marriage by the second date.
Understanding the pace of dating in a country helps you avoid misunderstandings and sets the tone for mutual respect.
✈️ Travel Tip: Don’t forget insurance. I use SafetyWing whenever I’m traveling long-term or living abroad. It’s affordable, built for travelers, and covers unexpected stuff like hospital visits, travel delays, or lost luggage — even if you’re hopping between countries.
2) Family Approval Is Crucial
In the U.S. and other Western countries, dating is usually an individual decision. But in much of the world, dating is a family affair. In places like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Mexico, it’s common for multiple generations to live under one roof—and for parents to be heavily involved in relationship decisions.
You’ll often hear, “Family is everything.” If her family doesn’t like you, the relationship might never get off the ground. In many cultures, dating is seen as a path to marriage, not just fun. So earn the family’s respect. Be polite, humble, and generous. If you win over her parents, your relationship will have a much better chance of lasting.
1) Public Displays of Affection (PDAs) Vary
What’s normal in one country can be uncomfortable in another. In Latin America, holding hands or a quick kiss in public is no big deal. But in more conservative cultures—like Thailand, Vietnam, or many Middle Eastern countries—public affection can embarrass your date or cause her to “lose face.”
In Southeast Asia especially, avoid kissing in public or being overly touchy. It may attract unwanted attention and make her feel self-conscious. Always follow her lead. If she seems hesitant, tone it down. Respect for local norms goes a long way in building trust and connection abroad.
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