The Chance Meeting

There is always the possibility that you might meet someone somewhere totally unexpected, such as on a train or plane, at an art gallery, in a book or record store or even at a grocery store. In fact, some grocery stores even hold singles shopping nights to encourage people to flirt while they shop.

It can often be hard to come up with something to say at a chance meeting, but a simple "'Have you got the time please?" can often buy you a few moments thinking space. The good thing about art galleries, bookstores and music stores is that it's socially acceptable to go there on your own. There are also plenty of people around and the books, CDs or exhibits can provide a good conversational opening. If you meet someone on a bus, plane or train, ask them about the book they're reading, where they're going or what theyre listening to on their MP3 player.

If you see someone you like the look of during your next trip to the grocery store, it's always worth checking out the contents of their trolley for more clues. Diapers, family-sized portions of food and toiletries designed for the other sex are probably a sign that they're already attached, whereas a shopping basket consisting of a microwave meal for one, a candy bar and a tub of ice cream could be a signal for you to strike up a conversation. Of course, just because someone has these items or is shopping alone doesn't necessarily mean they are single, but once you start chatting with them you can see what the situation is and deal with it from there. Happy shopping!