I’m not one of those foreign women jealous of the attention the beautiful Taiwanese women get from foreign men. In fact, I’m quite relieved to be left alone. Elizabeth Gilbert had been on to something (if you have not read the mega-popular Eat, Pray, Love be sure to check it out!) when she chose a year of celibacy, though I don’t think my story will be ending with a hot Brazilian lover anytime soon. I’ve been living this monk-ish lifestyle for awhile now and will continue to do so. I find the lack of romantic entanglements freeing, enabling me to focus more on myself and my personal goals.
However, I thought I’d share a little of what it’s like being a single foreign woman in Taiwan.
On occasion the stares and finger pointing have been uncomfortable but after living here for some time, I hardly notice the attention now. I’m not complaining, it’s certainly not a hardship. It just takes getting used to, especially when you’re just an average girl in the US.
I find most people in Taiwan are merely curious.
When it comes to dating, things are a bit complicated.
Through observation I’ve learned most foreign guys are only interested in local women, which bothers some foreign women looking for serious relationships—preferably with Western men. Taiwan is not the place for this.
It is quite common in Taipei to see many foreign men with their local girlfriends. On occasion when I happen to make eye contact with a foreign guy, more often than not he’ll look away immediately, turning his attention back to his Taiwanese girlfriend. I find it rather amusing but noteworthy.
On the flip-side it is not so common to see foreign women with local men, though I have met a couple of women currently involved in happy relationships with locals and have had a few brief dating experiences myself.
Hanging out with local guys causes a bit of a stir and people will stare more than usual. I can only imagine what they’re thinking.
Many local men are hesitant to approach foreign women for various reasons. Some are afraid. Some of them are just not interested. Sometimes those that do approach have all sorts of negative stereotypes regarding what Western or “American” women are like. I’ve been lucky enough to become friends with one or two local guys and set the record straight.
I’ve also come to the conclusion certain local men may want foreign women as “trophy” girlfriends and nothing more. It’s hard to take a relationship seriously when both parties know one person will be leaving the country.
So while Taiwan may be a great place for a foreign guy to find a lover, girlfriend, or future wife, it is not so easy for foreign women in the romance department. For me, this makes living here quite perfect for my present lifestyle, even if a little lonely. Though of course, I have my secret moments of wishing someone like Wilber Pan would come declare his undying devotion…
So ladies, if you are looking for love in Taiwan, you might want to head to Italy, France, or Antarctica. Anywhere but here.