SPONSORED – In Bangkok, making a love connection isn’t easy. The expat scene is always changing, and locals are too busy working to look for dates. So in this concrete jungle, trysts and one-night stands are a baht a dozen. But finding someone to genuinely talk to and spend time with? That can be nearly impossible.
Now a new mobile dating app is taking on Thailand’s hook-up culture. Founded in Singapore, Paktor has made 250,000 matches in only the first two weeks of 2014. Unlike Tinder, it’s designed for people who are looking to create lasting relationships with an emphasis on helping those who aren’t social butterflies. The app’s success in Asia isn’t surprising, considering the ubiquity of mobile technology, but also its concept. It’s an effective way for foreigners to meet new people, without being limited to the cultural differences between East and West.
English-speaking guys in Bangkok know this scenario all too well. That cute girl in the coffee shop is always surrounded by an ominous group of friends, or she can’t understand enough English for you to make a smooth impression. You’re left tongue-tied, spouting bad Thai and flailing like a dying khlong fish until finally, it happens. The ultimate sign of rejection: that high-pitched and commiserating giggle.
According to Thai culture, it’s men who are expected to make the first move. For a woman to do it would be too aggressive in broad daylight. There’s a distinct art to dating in Thailand – men must be respectful and charming, without being too forward.
This can be pretty difficult for shy and awkward guys. But the truth is, it’s hard for foreigners in general trying to meet people in a new place. Anybody can feel uncomfortable navigating through cultural norms, practices and a language that they are still only learning to understand.
That’s where Paktor evens the playing field. It works by allowing users scroll through photos and either like or dislike profiles by swiping left or right. Two users have to like each other to be introduced, so rejection is not an option. The app uses Facebook to speed the application process to a mere 30 seconds, but hides profiles from Facebook friends (both within the app and on social media) for complete anonymity. Language also becomes a non-issue in getting to know someone, as the app’s chat settings are configured to translate foreign languages.
Paktor is a fun way to make new connections, whether romantic or friendly. It’s available in 18 countries worldwide, making it a useful tool for travelers too. In Bangkok, you can be in the middle of a crowd and still feel lonely. Paktor is there to take the pressure off.
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