Summer is the perfect time to develop a low-key romance. The steamy weather, the carefree attitude, the long days … it is the perfect setup for a little lovin’. All that is missing, of course, is the guy. So where do you meet this tanned, muscular boy toy? Her Campus has the answers! We have listed five places you may find yourself this summer with advice on how to meet guys while you’re there. Based on three types of flirting styles (shy, confident, aggressive,) we also give you easy ways to make the first move. So make sure to add “Meet tons of new guys” to your summer to-do list, collegiettes™! And, trust us — you’ll be checking it off in no time!
Amusement Park
Since there are times during the summer when you are bound to be a little bored, plan a day trip with a few friends to a local amusement park. If there isn’t one in your area, there is bound to be an arcade, water park, etc. Amusement parks (and places similar to them) are great places to meet cute guys since they are filled with them! Plus, everyone is having a fun time and practically guaranteed to be in a good mood.
How to Meet a Guy if You Are…
Shy: While standing in line at the entrance, for a ride, for a game, etc., ask him what his favorite ride is, then continue the conversation by saying what your favorite ride is.
Confident: Start a conversation with him, such as the one above, and then challenge him to a contest. For example, whoever can use ‘no hands’ on the roller coaster the longest, whoever has the highest score, etc. wins. It’ll give you the chance to get to know him and show him your fun side.
Aggressive: Use the shy technique to again start a conversation (or create your own) and involve your friends/his friends. Then, before your groups go your separate ways, ask if they want to go with you to the ____________ .
On a Run
While it may seem as though you already know all of the cute boys in your area, chances are there are still more to meet. With more outdoor jobs available during the summer months, you may jog past a cute working guy you’ve never seen before. If working men in your area do not seem likely, there is a good chance you will see other guys running, too—who doesn’t love to be in shape? So, throw on a cute tank and shorts, and take a jog through your neighborhood. You are bound to meet a hot guy with muscles and a tan. Bonus!
How to Meet a Guy If You Are…
Shy: Cheesy as it is, casually mention how hot it is outside. The shared pain of exercising (or, if he is working) in extreme heat will instantly bond you for an easy conversation.
Confident: While running, stop him and ask if he knows a good jogging area. Explain that you are bored with your regular route.
Aggressive: If he works outside/runs in the same area daily, bring an extra bottle of water one day and offer it to him since ‘you are heading home.’
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Public Transportation
Since tons of you will be in a major city for the summer, I can bet you will become very familiar with public transportation, whether it is through the bus, the subway, the train, etc. Use it to your advantage! No one, and I mean no one, likes to travel with 50 other sweaty strangers — that is, of course, unless one of them is a gorgeous college guy. Plus, if you see him once, there’s a good chance you’ll see him again. People tend to stick to the same route during the workweek. “I met my current boyfriend on the subway in New York last summer,” says Gina, a student at Syracuse University. “We saw each other daily, and eventually I had to say hello.”
How to Meet a Guy If You Are…
Shy: If you are standing or sitting close to him, try to make eye contact with him and make a small observation, such as “It’s so hot today,” or, “I can’t believe how many tourists are in the city.” See if he responds, and, if so, try to strike up a conversation.
Confident: Whether you are familiar with the city or not, explain to him that you are new to the area, and ask if he knows how to get from _____ to _____. Hey, transportation maps/schedules can be complicated!
Aggressive: Since you are new to the area, politely ask him if he has a restaurant recommendation for lunch/dinner. Before you exit at your stop (or he does), say, “Thanks again for the recommendation. I’ll have to try it today – maybe I’ll see you there!”
Visiting Friends
I am sure you know of at least one or two people who are either staying at school or living in a different city during the summer months. Jump at the chance to visit them! It’s a guarantee that they have met at least a few new guys, whom — at your prodding — they would love to introduce you to. “If you have any friends staying at school over summer, visit them,” says Jessica, a student at Ohio University. “Chances are they will be hanging out with everyone else stuck at school, and you can meet their new guy friends.”
How to Meet a Guy if You Are…
Shy: Ask if he is from the area. If so, see if he has any ‘must-do’ recommendations. If not, ask if he has seen any good movies recently or been to any good concerts in the area.
Confident: Head to the quad, park, grassy area, etc. with a few friends and start up a game of Frisbee. If he’s alone, say you need one more; if not, start a game of guys vs. girls.
Aggressive: Ask him for any recommendations… and then when he gives you one, ask if he wants to take you there!
Ice Cream Shop and/or Truck
Whether it is at an ice cream shop or the ice cream truck, guys love to get sweet treats during the summer. It’s a quick and easy way to beat the heat, and, as any intelligent guy knows, most girls love ice cream. So he’s looking for some summer lovin’ himself! Ice cream is readily accessible during the summer and generally affordable, so you really have no excuse not to try to meet guys this way. “One of my favorite unexpected places to meet guys during the summer is getting ice cream,” says Jessica.
How to Meet a Guy if You Are…
Shy: Stand next to him, looking perplexed. Ask for a quick decision: Cookie Dough or Mint Chocolate Chip? He’ll be happy to help.
Confident: Point to his selection and tell him that you had it last time, and it was the best. Then, laugh and say, “But I’m getting something new this time.” It opens the door for him to start a conversation.
Aggressive: Start a casual conversation; then, before you both go your separate ways, ask, “Do you want to sit outside with me while we finish our ice cream?” Summer nights are typically cooler than the days, and many ice cream shops have outdoor seating— perfect for sitting outside and talking.
Guys are everywhere, collegiettes™, and they want to meet you! Don’t be afraid to make a move — enjoy your summer love!