It can be hard to be single right now for more reasons than one! If you’re currently single and trying to navigate the uncharted waters of dating during a global pandemic, you are not alone! Contrary to popular belief, there actually are (at least 8) ways to meet other singles in the midst of Covid-19. Whether you opt for a virtual Tinder date or happy hour on an outdoor patio, putting yourself out there is key. Open yourself up to meeting new people however you can, and before you know it, you might just strike gold!
The Apps
Hinge, Bumble, Tinder, whatever your dating app of choice, this is by far the most popular and easiest way to meet new people during a pandemic. Zoom and Skype virtual dates are gaining traction and are a low-risk way to meet someone before taking things to the next level by meeting up for a picnic, a walk, or some outdoor dining! *Tip: Some apps (like Bumble BFF, for example) have a “meet new friends” feature. Consider broadening your current pool of friends, and then meeting their friends!
Hang Out in the Park
This strategy may require you to be a bit bolder than you might be used to, but with potentially huge payoffs! Stroll around a farmer’s market or head to the dog park with your pup and strike up a conversation with a fellow dog lover. Relax at the park in your neighborhood with a soccer ball and “accidentally” kick it over to the cutie sitting by herself and ask her to pass it back!
Join a Book Club or Other Social Group
Joining social groups that align with your interests will help you meet other like-minded people and potential love interests! From book clubs to comedy classes to volunteering, you’re bound to make a new friend, at the very least. Even if meetups are virtual now, they won’t always be virtual in the future!
Head Down to the Jersey Shore
Jersey City natives are lucky to have an entire coastline of gorgeous beaches at their disposal! Put on your trendiest swimsuit and head down to the Jersey Shore. Use the relaxed vacation environment to your advantage and strike up a conversation on the beach!
Join an Outdoor Workout Class
A great way to meet other singles, pandemic or not, is by joining a workout class! Now that many gyms and fitness studios are offering outdoor classes, it’s the perfect time to sign up for outdoor yoga or try your hand at CrossFit!
Rooftop Happy Hour and Outdoor Dining
If you’re hoping to meet someone the old-fashioned way (at a bar), you’ve still got some options! Keep an eye out for rooftop patio happy hours and enjoy some outdoor dining. Whether you’re headed out with a couple of friends or you’re going to a happy hour specifically for singles, keep an open mind and you never know who you might meet!
Lookout for Sites that Are Still Hosting Singles Events
Sites like EventBrite are still hosting plenty of pandemic-approved events for singles in the city! Keep an eye out for these outdoor events and go meet some new people in a safe and socially-distanced environment!
Embrace Outdoor Activities
Hit the driving range, head to the tennis courts, or join a biking group in the city. Any of these fun outdoor activities will not only help you soak up what’s left of summer, but they’ll also provide lots of opportunities to meet other singles looking to do the same!
