Looking for love

By relationship expert, Simone Bienne

20 years after we were told that men are from Mars there\'s a shocking new revelation in the dating world. According to academic research, statistically there\'s as much chance of aliens existing in our galaxy as there is of finding your perfect match. While it may sound bonkers - or depressing - depending on which side of the bed you got out of, it is a reminder that when it comes to finding love, you need to start looking where you least expect to find it.

How to get the guy: a man\'s view

How to find love

Top tips for online dating

Your building

Just like in the heart-warming, thinking woman\'s rom com, Adam, love could be right on your doorstep. Literally. If you live in a shared building like the characters in the movie, you will no doubt regularly bump into the same people. As you will be comfortable in your surroundings, conversation will flow more easily. Just make sure if there\'s a communal laundry room, he doesn\'t see your underwear before the first date!

Adam is available on DVD on 15 February from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.  

Bookshop

Fact. When we\'re single, we have more time to read. So spend time in your local bookshop and see if there\'s more than a bestseller you fancy devouring. Men who hang out here are likely to be thinkers. Which is always good in my book. Excuse the pun. Also, go to evening events arranged by the store. These are a great opportunity for you to glam up and start up a conversation.

Supermarket

Supposedly, blokes have been aware of the pulling potential of supermarkets for years. When you give it a try, avoid any man pushing a trolley which screams well-trained husband. Instead keep your eyes on the men carrying baskets. They\'re more likely to be single. Also, spend time loitering around the section that has microwave meals for one.

Aeroplane

An American friend of mine found true love like this. Really. Next to her in 33B was an English guy. After chatting for seven hours, they realised how much they liked each other. Today they are married with a kid on the way.  To maximise your chances, pick the unpopular middle seat then start a conversation.  At least he won\'t be able to escape, giving you more time to connect.

Rehab

Chances are it won\'t be long before this trend from across the pond catches on in the UK. In a strange way you can see the appeal. In group therapy, you talk. A lot. You cry. A lot. And you share everything. Meaning when you start dating, there will be no nasty surprises. You already know about each other\'s demons. Then again, aside from these, you might find you don\'t have a lot else in common.

Dog Walking

If you haven\'t got a dog, don\'t let that hold you back. Take the lead and maximise your dating chances by borrowing a friend\'s. Better still, walk one from your local rescue centre. Dog owners talk to each other. Often you can bond instantly over your passion for pooches. Years ago, I could have found love this way. If the hot guy in the park wasn\'t gay.    

Tube & Bus

In London, one in 10 commuters have been asked out on the tube. If you live elsewhere in the country, keep your eyes peeled on the bus. If you see someone you like, chances are you will see them again. Most people tend to take the same route to work, at the same time. If you make a move and you get stonewalled, don\'t worry. You can always change jobs. Or apply for flexitime.

Dance Class

Most classes have a policy of asking every one to alternate partners, giving you a good chance to get up close and personal with different men. Relax and let your body do the talking. If there\'s chemistry between you, you\'ll know about it. It will feel like foreplay. Just with your clothes on. When it\'s time to leave, ask who wants to go for a drink. Most of the singles will say yes.

Coffee Shop

Thanks to Wi-Fi people are spending more time in coffee shops. Drinking a lot of coffee means the man you fancy will need to pee. As a lot of cafes have unisex toilets, you can literally bump into him and say hi, just by waiting for the loo. And there\'s your ‘in\'. But if he has left the toilet seat up, get your coat and leave.

Set up your own singles night

Choose a pub where you can section off an area. Then ask your single mates to send details of your get together to their extended circle of friends. There\'s nothing to lose, and everything to win. This shameless drive to be proactive is exactly how I met my husband. And who knows, it could be how you meet yours too.

How to get the guy: a man\'s view

How to find love

Top tips for online dating