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A potential partner these days has to be all in one; funny, inspiring, good looking and have a great career. He or she must share our values, fit in nicely with our social circle and be good in bed. But above all, the other person must be a soulmate, the one. Aren’t we making too high demands on a partner? We would like to tell you in the blog about realistic expectations in love. High expectations We no longer need a partner to survive and therefore intimacy has taken on a different meaning: not an economic one, but an inner one. The other person must really add something to our lives, says psychotherapist and relationship expert Esther Perel. We also have more to choose from. We no longer have to set our sights on that nice girl next door, but can easily swipe ten potential matches together. Appearances have become much more important and dates can sometimes resemble a job interview. We don’t even give ourselves a chance to discover how nice, funny and sweet the other person might be. Nowadays, highly educated women have a hard time in the relationship market. After all, women don’t want to “downdate”. They want a partner who is at least as highly educated as they are. While men usually find downdating no problem. But looks are often their number one priority. And furthermore, many men mainly want “no hassle”. Relationship Conditions  There must be both sexual attraction and friendship. Without chemistry it quickly becomes a brother-sister relationship, but with only fireworks in bed you won’t be able to make it together. Other important relationship values include trust, attention and connection. Keep in mind that this takes time, love at first sight is rare. Although some people are a better match for you than others, there is no such thing as a soul mate, according to Esther Perel. ‘It’s about finding someone you want to build a life with and then become the one, but that can be with different people.’ So… does the one and only exist? According to American psychologist John Gottman, there is no such thing as the one. Besides attraction, he says it is important to support each other’s life dreams and to admire and respect each other. And you have to like the other person for who they are and not want to change them. After all, changing someone doesn’t work anyway. And is it so bad if the other is a bit sloppy, can’t cook very well or doesn’t like sports very much? After all, that is also possible with a friend. We never find everything in a person and we don’t have to. So think carefully about what is really important to you and what are dealbreakers, and these should not be fifteen but rather five. If you have that clear, you will start looking for the right one with the right expectations!

Little by little, the Netherlands is opening up again to foreign visitors who want to travel to our country with a Schengen Visum. This is good news for Dutch people with, for example, a foreign partner or long distance relationship. Whether you can travel to the Netherlands depends on your situation Special conditions may apply to your travel to the Netherlands, or you may need a visa. Travel from a ‘red’ country to the Netherlands is not allowed, but for people with a long distance relationship an exception is made. But there is a lot to arrange before your love can come to the Netherlands. Let us help you out. A foreign partner requiring a visa can come to the Netherlands for a short or long stay, provided he/she meets a number of conditions.  When a foreign partner comes to the Netherlands, it can be for a short stay (up to a maximum of 90 days) or a long stay (up to a maximum of 5 years or indefinitely). You are living and residing in the Netherlands yourself at the time your partner wishes to travel to the Netherlands. You and your partner have a relationship of at least 3 months. These are just three of the conditions, we advise reading the official statement from the Dutch Government on the Temporary Arrangement for Partners in a Long Distance Relationship. Perhaps even more important: how do you survive a long distance relationship in times of corona? We know this is not an easy task. In the beginning it may have been enough to video call, write cards and keep in touch every day, but now more than a year later you long for more. And that’s only natural.  Many long-distance couples were accustomed to organizing frequent in-person visits with their partners prior to COVID-19, but the closing of both state and national borders has left planes grounded and couples stranded. The capacity to communicate and sense an attachment from afar, as well as trust, are essential. It’s not the same as being physically with someone, and during COVID-19, many have shown a need for that connection, which has been referred to as “skin hunger.” You could turn on your computer and cook together, or you could listen to music. It’s as if you’re physically together, so use your imagination!

The Dutch are often labeled as stingy. But according to the research of LoveEconomy, this isn’t all that bad. It shows that the Dutch are relatively generous when it comes to dates. The research shows that the Englishman is the most generous dater, then comes the Dutchman. Contrary to popular opinion, not all Dutch women are tall and blonde, and not all Dutch guys will make you ‘go Dutch’ and split the bill, or send you a Tikkie for the extra drink you had on your first date. Despite the fact that each person is unique, Dutch people appear to have distinct behavioral tendencies. When you behave ‘normal,’ you are already crazy enough. According to a well-known Dutch proverb. When it comes to dating, the Dutch prefer to keep things lighthearted and allow things to unfold gradually Dutch flirting: you may argue that dating etiquette in the Netherlands is less formal than in the United States, Russia, or France. To begin with, there are fewer dating ‘rules.’ Also, rather than following a set of rules, people act on instinct. Playing hard to get doesn’t work in the Netherlands because Dutch men and women admire honesty and efficiency.  The Dutch have a reputation for being direct, forthright, and down-to-earth, and this extends to dating. Unlike in certain cultures, where the guy usually starts the first date, in the Netherlands, it is not unusual for women to initiate the first date. Gender equality is strong in the Netherlands. In the Netherlands dating culture, you’ll quickly notice that… The Dutch appreciate deeper, purposeful conversations far more than small talk. Because of their honest approach to dating, they may ask you personal questions or seek your opinion. Your Dutch date is curious in your thoughts on these topics in order to see if you are compatible. When dating a Dutch man or woman, you might find their honesty refreshing. Need help with the Dutch dating culture or are you ready to find love in The Netherlands? Contact Infinity Relations! 

There are various ways to meet single expats and perhaps find your soul mate if you have recently moved to the Netherlands and are wanting to date.  The Netherlands has long been one of the most sought-after expat destinations in the world. It’s hardly surprising that so many people desire to live here. If you’ve recently relocated to the Netherlands, it’s normal to want to meet new people and form new relationships. There are various ways to meet single expats. And you will both have similar interests for sure. As both of you are expats, you’re bound to share at least one shared interest: travel. Not to mention that falling in love in a different place is a fantastic experience itself. If you’re dating a local, things may get complicated. Having a different nationality and native language is very exciting indeed, but cultural differences may cause friction. Dating a local or an expat can be a rewarding challenge. Getting to know each other, and at the same time getting to know a new culture is one of the best things there is. If you wish to widen your love horizons outside the Dutch dating scene and explore the worldwide dating pool, a high end matchmaker might be a great idea!  No matter what you’re looking for, a matchmaker agency helps out In Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and The Hague, where the majority of expats live, dating apps and personal matchmakers are particularly popular. As a result, if you live in one of these cities, you may find it easier to find a mate.  In the Netherlands, there are numerous expat organisations that cater to a wide range of interests and countries. People can broaden their social circle, establish new acquaintances, and meet like-minded singles by participating in these activities. While these clubs aren’t especially for singles, they do give a great way to meet people who share your interests. This also means that if you meet your partner through one of them, you will undoubtedly share a common interest. In the Netherlands, finding a date might be difficult Whether you’ve moved to the Netherlands or are visiting for employment, the odds are you’ll start seeking for a like-minded single at some point. Fortunately, joining one of the many Dutch dating services makes finding the ideal date a lot easier!  Infinity Relations has a proven track record of assisting elite singles in finding meaningful matches and creating love relationships that last.

When dating someone that matches your personality or interests, you feel happy and you might even feel understood. There is something so magical about going out to dinner with someone you’re interested in and just have a chat. You realise that’s really all you need. You immediately feel cheerful, energetic and you radiate this feeling as well. Let’s say you have had a bad day at work, we all have! Seeing someone can help make you feel better, even if it’s just for advice, some uplifting words or a hug or a kiss. Dating means something different to each of us. What it has in common is planning fun things together. Going to the movies together or trying a new restaurant or museum. Love and friendship know no borders or nations.  Our multicultural society makes it more and more likely that while dating you will connect with someone from another culture. Cultural differences between two people in a relationship can be both, a blessing and a curse. For example: if you both have different passports and nationalities, you probably speak different languages. Which can be a lot of fun, learning a new language. But take into account that you’re probably not able to be as funny or witty in your non-mother tongue!  It sounds like a negative aspect of dating international, but it sure isn’t, getting to know each other, and at the same time getting to know a new culture is one of the best things there is. Interested in getting to know like minded singles or expats? Find a partner in The Netherlands with Infinity Relations! Intercultural and international dating can be a rewarding challenge Especially if you and your partner are willing to work through your differences. Imagine how much richer your cultural knowledge would be if you opened your heart and mind to the wonders of a foreign culture! Suppose you meet someone from Russia, Spain, The US or England and you two like each other a LOT! You might then ask yourself the following 4 questions: Are the two cultures compatible? Where will we be living? How will we raise possible children? What is the role of both of us in our relationship? It may be a little bit frightening to open up and acknowledge that you’re looking for the one, but it’s just as exciting for the person you’re dating. Approach your date with a genuine desire to get to know the other person better. Our advice? Just go for it!

In 2021, dating apps are the most common way for couples to date. But in the face of so many dating options, it is difficult to determine the most suitable dating app for marriage. Since not everyone considers weddings or marriage when downloading dating apps, more and more people are turning to digital services to find long-term relationships and even marriage. After all, if you want your next relationship to end with a big wedding, that would be great, wouldn’t it? There is absolutely nothing wrong with knowing what you want from another person. May it be marriage or a Long-Distance Relationship. However, if the only reason you decide to date is to get married, you will soon be disappointed. If you’re dating with the intention of marrying, you’re either going to succeed or fail Which implies you’ll be unhappy every time a relationship fails to work out. It means that when someone leaves your life, even if they were only supposed to be around for a short time, you’ll feel like you’ve squandered your time. And of course it’s natural to be disappointed when someone with whom you had planned to spend the rest of your life goes. However, you should not consider the experience a failure if you wind up splitting up with the wrong person for you. Because you didn’t choose to settle, you should consider it a success. You didn’t make the relationship work by forcing it. That’s where a matchmaking agency comes in It’s great if you only date people with whom you have the potential to marry, people who are serious about getting married soon, and people who won’t mess with your heart. But be careful not to place too much importance on marriage. Make sure that finding someone who fits you perfectly is more important to you than finding someone who is willing to eventually marry you. If you do find someone you love, and the marriage is predestined, the Netherlands is a great country to get married in. Getting married in The Netherlands – what to take into consideration? You can get married or enter into a registered partnership in the Netherlands, even if you are an expatriate living abroad. You are free to decide in which municipality you want to get married. To get married in the Netherlands, you must first register with the municipality of The Hague. You then inform them that you “intend to marry or enter into a registered partnership with each other”. This notification is valid for one year. The marriage or registered partnership must therefore be consummated within one year. There are a number of requirements for getting married in the NetherlandsAt least one of you has Dutch nationality. You are 18 years old or older. You are not married to another person. You do not have a registered partnership with another person. You are not too closely related to your partner. This means that your partner may not be, for example, your father, (grand)daughter, grandfather or (half)sister.  You are not under guardianship. If you are under guardianship, you need the permission of the guardian or the local court. The municipality will check whether you can marry each other or enter into a registered partnership. Marriage abroad – returning to the Netherlands Did you get married abroad and do you intend to return to the Netherlands one day? Then it is advisable to have your foreign marriage certificate converted into a Dutch marriage certificate at the registry office of the City of The Hague. However, the foreign marriage certificate must first be notarised or apostilled. If the foreign marriage certificate is not in English, French, German or Dutch, a sworn translation is also required. Once again: make sure that finding someone who fits you perfectly is more important to you than finding someone who is willing to eventually marry you. Need advice? Let Infinity Relations help you out. We are an Exclusive Matchmaking Agency for global leaders, expats and successful entrepreneurs in the Netherlands who are serious about finding lasting love

Windmills, tulips and cheese. The Netherlands is known for many things but what about the Dutch women and men? What do they do, where do they live, what are they like? And most importantly, how to date one? If you are clueless about how or where to find that lucky soulmate, no worries. We are here to help you! The Dutch may not be the easiest choice of people to chase. Welcome to the land of logically sensible and romantically realistic folk! Just like you wouldn’t describe yourself as a typical (insert your home country), same goes for the Dutch as well. Apart from some common traits that we can mention with humor, it’s better to keep in mind that your Dutchy is just as unique as you! So, sit back, relax and success with dating the Dutch! Let’s introduce your Dutch date: Honesty is the way to go This one goes for both Dutch men and women: honesty is their policy. Don’t worry if you have something stuck between your teeth after dinner, your date will tell you. This may come as a shock at first, but once you get used to it you quickly realize that ‘hey! This is actually better!’. Who would want to walk around the whole night without anyone mentioning the lipstick on your teeth, right? The Dutch believe that it is better to be honest rather than misleading someone or create high expectations. Instead, they put their cards openly on the table so that you don’t have to assume anything. So, no mind-games, no drama, no fuss! Any doubt? Just ask! Keep things casual Dutch people are casual! If you expect to go to a fancy restaurant as a first date, well, things may not turn out the way you want. Nothing beats a gezellig atmosphere of a traditional Dutch bruin cafe where you can enjoy a pint and some ‘bitterballen’ next to it. Plus, it is just too much work to try to bike with your high heels and itty bitty dress and who wants to slowly suffocate because of that stupid tie? Keep calm, you got this! *gezellig = cozy *bruin cafe = brown bar, a place usually local people hang out *bitterballen = a meat-based snack, fried and filled with roux and beef stock Flirting and romance Like we’ve mentioned before, Dutchies are always pro-honesty and that affects their flirting style as well. That’s why Dutch women and men find it a waste of time to sugar-coat everything and showering everyone with half-fake compliments. So, don’t get discouraged just because your date is not complimenting your every treat. Also don’t wait around for Dutch guys to open doors or carry heavy bags for you, because they usually won’t. They’re not the typical ‘gentlemen’ although in their opinion they are. They just don’t know better. On the other hand, you can totally be yourself with a Dutchie. Dutch people are really easy going and they don’t judge you.  The same goes for the romantic gestures. Gifts? Instead of popular ideas like a luxurious box of chocolates, you might get something you would use and enjoy more. At the end, everyone can get those cliche gifts but that Kindle he/she just got for you? That shows not only your Dutchie cares for you, but also listens to what you say and knows what you like! Marriage, mortgage and kids Okay, this is where things get a little tricky. We are all familiar with the traditional way things go once you’re in a relationship. If you think you’ve found that right person you genuinely like spending time with, first you go steady, then after a couple of years one of you pops the question and then comes the marriage, a mortgage and a kid or two – or so the media says. When it comes to the Dutch and dating things could go a little differently. Well, for some of them it got really normal to skip all that or do it in a different order. Marriage is seen as a serious commitment by many of them and should not be taken lightly. So you meet someone? Great. The relationship going well? Then let’s move in together and maybe buy a house! Cool. What’s next? How about buying a dog and becoming parents? For Dutch it really became a normal thing to say: “First comes the house, then a pet, then a kid then the marriage. I’m not going to marry someone without making sure that we can spend the rest of our lives together. What if he/she is a bad father/mother?” No taboos ‘Do you believe in God?’ ‘When was the last time you had sex?’ Surprised or maybe a little shocked by these questions? We can only imagine. Freedom and individuality is encouraged in the Netherlands. Your Dutchie is likely to be someone who isn’t afraid to tackle the trickiest subjects pretty early on in the relationship if not on the very first date. The reason? They want to know your opinion on these subjects to evaluate if you two are compatible with each other. That actually makes sense, right? Moreover, they will give their opinion whether or not it is pleasing to you, and are endlessly direct. What the rest of the world considers as rude or too blunt, the Dutch call honesty and being open. ‘Lets go Dutch!’ The Dutch are known for being frugal and this is often seen as something negative, but why? If your Dutchie knows where the best deals are and don’t want to pay extra for something you can find for less, who says that’s ever a bad thing? Also, for a Dutchie it’s pretty normal to split the bill after the first date. There’s a reason they call it ‘Go Dutch’. While some, especially ladies, find it very unusual and even a little rude, the Dutch truly don’t mean to be. Moreover, ages ago the Dutch woman brought this thing up to escape from the traditional ways. Now, years later, Dutch men don’t

Are you thinking of hiring a professional matchmaker but not sure if they are worth the money? We have put together four reasons why you should consider hiring a matchmaker. Firstly, professional matchmakers like Infinity Relations have a better dating pool Unlike dating websites and apps where anyone can sign up irrespective of their relationship goals, only singles who want serious commitment go to professional matchmakers. Most times, they build up their dating pool through referrals from happy present and past clients. What’s more, they meet their clients in person during the intake process to find out who they are and understand their dating needs.  Secondly, matchmakers offer better quality and safer dates  Aside from doing a background check before approving any membership application, they are also experts at matching like-minded people. Professional matchmakers will get to understand your personality, values, philosophies, and the qualities you are looking for in a partner and use this information to set you up with the most compatible person. Dating for long-term success Another reason why singles opt for professional matchmakers is that it saves them time and money in the long run. When you consider the cost of signing up on multiple dating sites, the money you spend on dates, and the time you waste meeting people that are far from what you want, you would agree that hiring a professional matchmaker is worth the money.  Lastly, most matchmaking agencies offer add-on services like getting you an appropriate venue for dates, relationship coaching, and following up with you after a successful match to help you build a lasting relationship with your newfound partner.  

Have you just moved to the Netherlands and looking for a perfect partner you can share your life with? Are you an elite, international orientated Dutch single struggling to find a soul mate? You are not alone. Finding long-lasting love is hard, and it is even more challenging for expats who are busy, have high taste, and don’t have the time to headhunt.  The good news is that there are still some ways to meet elite singles like you who are looking for serious commitments. In this post, we’ll share some experts tips on how expats can find long-lasting love in the Netherlands. Hire a professional matchmaker The best way for expats to find love in the Netherlands is by engaging the service of elite matchmaking agencies. They can save you the time and stress of searching for love by bringing you the ideal partner. These agencies have in-depth knowledge and experience headhunting for elite singles and bringing their clients matches that are compatible with their personality and values.  Online dating apps Online dating apps and websites are becoming more popular in the Netherlands, and lots of singles are using these platforms to find serious relationships. As an expat, we recommend that you opt only for online dating apps that verify their users’ information and offer you a lot of privacy. Though these platforms can be helpful, you should note that they can also be time wasting as you may have to surf multiple profiles and set up several dates before finding your perfect match.  Find expat groups and clubs near you If you have some time on your sleeve, you can check out expats groups and clubs in your local area. This will help you widen your social circle and increase your chances of meeting like-minded singles. Whatever your interests are, we are sure you would find a suitable expat club or group in the Netherlands.  Have any questions or need help finding love? Meet Infinity Relations! One of our professional matchmakers will meet you and help you find your dream partner!