Many would argue that Valentine’s Day is just another Hallmark holiday. It can be a stressful time of year with media pressure on both singles and couples as high expectations often come with little return. Don’t let it get the best of you. Face the monster. Lace up your hiking boots or runners, strap on your snowshoes, skis or boards and head for the hills. Set an intention this month to venture into unknown territory. Love is in the fresh air. Go get some!
Mark Owen, president and founder of the international social club Events and Adventures doesn't buy that Vancouver is a challenging city in which to find love.
“It’s not Vancouver itself," he says. "It's living north. Weather is a big part of why people stay inside."
Vancouver is bursting with outdoorsy individuals, many of whom are looking for love. The solution to finding your kindred spirit is simple. Get outdoors, do what you love and nature will do the rest.
Owens explains, “On a hike, rock climbing…when you are relaxed and having fun you are the most attractive to other people."
Besides, fresh air does wonders for your libido.
A tip from Owens is to leave the wingman behind with one exception: skiing or snowboarding. Although the slopes offer singles lines, having a buddy with you on the mountain makes breaking the ice a little easier.
Events and Adventures offers around 40 events in the Vancouver area each month from house parties to skiing and hiking. Owens suggests Stanley Park as the number one outdoor location to meet other singles in Vancouver.
According to a recent E-Harmony study, couples who meet in bars have the highest divorce rate. So don’t look for love in all the wrong places. Stick to sports and activities you enjoy.
Word of caution: pretending to be outdoorsy as a ploy to meet a mountain man will backfire. Be yourself.
Trails and slopes are obvious, why not shake it up. Browsing outdoor stores like MEC or Pacific Boarder are a good bet or book a night in a local hostel and take a chance on meeting an international backpacker here for a good time, not a longtime.
And what's the number one piece of advice when looking for love, according to Owen?
Put your cell phone away!
