Back home in the states, where Tinder is centered around dating and hookups, the app may raise a few eyebrows. But in Europe, it's a popular and easy way to connect with locals and fellow students abroad. A few months ago, I noticed something in the Madrid Metro; everyone around me was swiping left or right on their phones.
In my mind, the red lights immediately began flashing; Are these Spanish people that desperate? Who even uses dating apps? But, after seeing more and people swiping left and right, including some of my friends, I decided to give it a go.
Pretty soon, I understood why the app was so popular. I told her that I was here for the weekend and was waiting for a walking tour to start. Let me show you the real Valencia! This was a best of both worlds scenario for me: she showed me the beautiful sites that Valencia had to offer, I tasted one of the best paellas in my life, especially since there was no tourist price attached, I got to practice my Spanish, and since we were moving so quickly, I still had time to relax at the beach.
That night, she invited me out with her friends. It was a real local experience of Valencia. On another weekend trip to Barcelona, I wanted to make sure that this was a thing, so I Tindered again.
Check out our trips page! Eventually I matched up with a local who also was excited to share her city with me.
