The dating game is tough – which kind of explains why there are heaps of websites, apps, matchmaking agencies and event organisers trying to make finding romantic prospects in Singapore a little easier. Shy? Dating apps could be your answer. Been swiping your heart out to no avail? Take part in a cool speed-dating session, or RSVP to a fun networking event. Even if you don’t find The One, you’ll make a new friend or two – someone to hit all the fancy bars and trendy restaurants with.
Tinder
The online dating app of this century (even celebs like Hilary Duff and Leonardo DiCaprio are rumoured to be on it!), Tinder is a great way to connect with people around you – or, if you prefer to go international, just pay for the premium account. One of the first apps to jumpstart the swiping culture, Tinder matches single folks when both parties swipe right on the other’s profile. We also like the fact that users can link their profile to their Instagram account – so you can take a peek at your potential date’s photos and gain an insight into his or her personal life.
Wander
Jet-setting singles, get Wander on your phone. Founded by two-time TEDx speaker and local tech entrepreneur Krystal Choo, the app helps you hook up with single travellers — but not just for love. It’s also a nifty tool for those flying solo to meet people, swap experiences and, if they like, share travel costs like accommodation.
Grindr
Sorry girls, Grindr is strictly for the boys. Using your phone’s location, this geo-social networking app picks up fellow Grindr males in your area. A good way if you’re looking to come out of the closet and meet folks of the same persuasion.
Lunch Actually
First dates are nerve-wracking, and more so if it’s after hours – it seems too rude to leave within an hour of a bad date. Perfect for time-starved lonely hearts is Asia’s premier lunch dating company, Lunch Actually, which organises short and sweet lunch dates for busy working professionals. It puts together weekend and evening affairs too.
Lovoo
Instagram addicts will love Lovoo. The matchmaking app acts like a spiffy social media tool that allows users, typically made up of beatnik millennials, to not only network, but share photos and videos – similar to Instagram. Better yet, the app is built with a live radar that scans and shows what’s happening around you in real time.
Grouvly
Great for awkward introverts who hate going on dates, this online social club arranges fun drink-dates between two groups of friends: three guys and three girls. All you have to do is pay SGD$75 in advance (per group), which will cover the first round of drinks. They also do same-sex hook-ups if you’re on team #lovewins.
OkCupid
Coined as “The Google of Dating” by The Boston Globe, OkCupid is one of the largest dating sites in the world. The free online site uses algorithms and formulas to match you up with a prospective partner.
Lovestruck
Quick, easy, and most importantly, free; Lovestruck won dating site, app, and party of the year in the UK 2014 Dating Awards. Hate online dating? Go for their awesome ‘ghost-host’ Laissez-Faire parties held at hip bars. Simply order a drink and grab a red straw to indicate you’re single – and you don’t even have to be a member to attend!
CompleteMe
Find your soul mate at CompleteMe’s 1-on-1 rotating speed-dating events. For their dinner sessions, participants get to enjoy a three-course dinner in a dreamy setting. Well-organised and bursting with good vibes, CompleteMe has earned raving reviews from happy singles. You’re informed of mutual matches within three hours through a text message, which helps clear the “are they into me?” doubts.
Paktor
Singapore’s answer to Tinder, Paktor (which means ‘dating’ in Cantonese) was conceptualised when Joseph Phua was unceremoniously thrust into the dating world once again and looking for a fuss-free matchmaking service. You’ll notice stark similarities to Tinder’s interface, though Paktor enables you to take back a swipe without any charges – great for mindless swipers.
HowAboutWe
Looking for someone who shares the same interests? You have a good shot with HowAboutWe. The wicked app lets users post their dream date ideas, and also lets them view a forum of other people’s ideas on the app. Found someone who wishes to grab a meal at your favourite Italian restaurant or catch that upcoming concert? Simply ‘favourite’ that entry to indicate your interest, or directly drop a message via the app.