Long Distance Meetings: 6 Sensible Safety Suggestions

We've come a long way, baby — literally. Fifty years ago, the idea of "courting" someone who lived in the next town over (much less across the globe) was pretty much unheard of. Today, technology has made a mud puddle out of an ocean. But long-distance first meetings pose special concerns. Always keep safety at the forefront and bear in mind the following tips:

DO stay in a hotel.
If you can't afford to stay in a hotel, don't go. NEVER stay at the other person's home on your first visit.

DO use taxis to get to and from the airport.
If the other person wants to greet you at the airport — great! It shows interest and it's polite. But DO NOT get into a personal vehicle with someone who you are meeting for the first time.

Tip: Arrange a public rendezvous location and time, then take a taxi — alone — to your hotel.

DO keep your hotel location private.
Until you are completely certain of the person's intentions, don't reveal exactly where you're staying.

Tip: To keep from disclosing your location on caller ID, contact your date on your mobile phone en route to your rendezvous.

DO keep valuables in the hotel or room safe.
Don't take them or wear them on your date.

DON'T forget to keep family and friends posted.
Always tell someone who you are meeting, where you are going and when you plan to return.

Tip: Let your date know that your whereabouts are not a secret to your friends and family.