Dating apps provide a convenient way of meeting potential dates nearby; however, they also expose you to colleagues, commuters and – potentially – family members.
The best dating apps are those designed to meet specific community needs, like HER for LGBTQ women or Garbo for Jewish-practicing Jews. Niche apps make finding suitable partners much simpler.
Happn
Onlyfwb is a location-based dating app that connects you with people you have crossed paths with. Using GPS to display profiles of singles who live nearby, ranked chronologically by proximity, you can view photos and secretly “heart” them to indicate interest without notifying them; if someone hearts back secretly you become a match! FlashNotes (messages that appear in their timeline) allow you to express interest directly; once accepted or declined they’ll start messaging you back!
Although Happn is free, premium members receive 10 free FlashNotes each day and additional features that make the platform more useful in finding dates. The cost of upgrading depends on individual preferences and dating goals; you may also certify your profile to increase matching odds with other members.
Raya
Raya works similarly to Tinder in that users can swipe, match and send messages; but unlike Tinder it also includes social networking features like video chat and the ability to share status updates and birthday reminders. Unfortunately though, due to an extensive application process only around 8% of applicants make the cut; and it can take months before hearing back from an anonymous committee who vet the app’s membership.
The app displays profiles as slideshows of photos set to music, with social features that highlight members hanging out in nearby bars and clubs, making it easier for users to meet up in person. Membership fees start at $7.99 monthly – less than the price of one drink in most cities – however some users have expressed concerns that there’s no clear way for users to delete their profiles or opt-out altogether.
Once
Once, which won the audience award at Sundance festival, is an entertaining tale about two unassuming musicians who find each other through music. Director John Carney’s potluck approach works wonderfully and keeps you hooked without resorting to obvious sentimental payoffs. Both performances of the leads were captivating while their studio recording scene had real energy that will keep viewers hooked until its conclusion. In an age where Hollywood-produced blockbusters reign supreme, Once is an impressive film with real heart and emotion and must be seen.
Downloading and installing the app are free; however, certain features require subscription.
Jdate
Jdate offers a mobile app that makes dating with Jewish culture in mind easier for members, including chatting, sending/receiving messages and viewing matches. The user-friendly design makes Jdate accessible from any location with several fun features like Secret Admirers and Profile Trackers to add extra enjoyment when using Jdate’s service. JLife magazine is another resource featuring articles relevant to dating with Jewish culture in mind.
Jdate can help you find a friend, date or life partner quickly and efficiently. With its advanced matching tools allowing you to specify age, distance, religion and relationship type preferences. Once these are set up, the website will match you with potential matches based on gender, age and physical proximity; while its browse tab shows new members with gender/age/proximity sort options; its “LookBook” also lets you view profiles one at a time!
