Facebook Dating allows you to match with people beyond just your immediate area. The “Match Anywhere” setting gives you the ability to connect with people in other cities or countries. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to enable match anywhere on Facebook Dating and adjust your search radius.
What is Match Anywhere on Facebook Dating?
The match anywhere feature on Facebook Dating removes geographic restrictions on who you can match with. By default, Facebook Dating shows you people who live in the same general vicinity as you. This is based on the location listed in your Facebook profile.
However, with match anywhere enabled, you can connect with people who live anywhere in the world. It gives you a much wider pool of potential matches to browse and connect with.
Why Use Match Anywhere?
There are several reasons you may want to use the match anywhere feature:
- You want to connect with people in a city before moving there
- You frequently travel and want to meet people around the world
- You’re open to long distance relationships
- You want more options beyond just your local area
The match anywhere setting significantly expands your dating possibilities on Facebook Dating. It allows you to cast a much wider net.
How to Enable Match Anywhere
Turning on match anywhere only takes a few quick steps:
- Open the Facebook Dating tab or app
- Tap on the profile icon in the top right corner
- Select “Settings” from the menu
- Tap on “Location”
- Toggle “Match anywhere in the world” on
That’s all there is to it! Once enabled, you’ll start seeing potential matches from all over in yourFacebook Dating feed.
Set a Maximum Distance
When you first turn on match anywhere, there are no geographic filters at all. However, you can set a maximum distance if you only want to see matches within a certain radius.
To do this:
- Follow the steps above to get to Location settings
- Tap “Maximum distance”
- Select a distance range from the list (e.g. 5000 miles)
This will show you matches within that distance from your current location. So for example, 5000 miles would cover most of Europe and Africa if you live in the United States.
Tips for Using Match Anywhere Effectively
Here are some tips to get the most out of the match anywhere feature:
Fill Out Your Profile Thoroughly
Give people a good sense of who you are no matter where they are located. Share your interests, what you do, personality details, and of course flattering photos.
Be Upfront About Location
If you match with someone far away, politely ask about their location first thing and let them know yours. This avoids misunderstandings about distance.
Look for Shared Connections
Common interests, employers, schools, or friends can help indicate compatibility despite physical distance.
Discuss Practicalities
If you do match far away, have an open discussion about expectations. Are you looking for something strictly online? A travel meetup? Or considering relocation?
Video Chat First
Have at least a few video chats before committing to long distance dating. This gives you a better sense of chemistry.
Pros and Cons of Match Anywhere
Enabling match anywhere brings some great advantages but also a few drawbacks to consider:
Pros
- Massively expands your pool of potential matches
- Meet people you’d never run into locally
- Connect globally with compatible singles
- Great for frequent travelers looking for romance
Cons
- Distance makes in-person dating difficult
- Time zones can complicate communication
- Cultural differences may be challenging
- Harder to verify someone is who they say they are
The opportunity to connect with amazing people worldwide has to be weighed against the practicalities of long distance relationships. But many find match anywhere worth trying.
Troubleshooting Match Anywhere
Sometimes match anywhere may not work as expected. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
Matches Still Seem Local
Double check that you fully turned on match anywhere in your settings. If it’s enabled, also make sure you don’t have a maximum distance set. Widen your age range and preferences too.
Not Getting Foreign Matches
Matching is still based on user activity and engagement on Facebook Dating. Those located far from you may simply not be as active. But expanding your search criteria can help surface more global matches over time.
Poor Chat Response Rates
People you match with may not be as invested in lengthy conversations due to the distance. Focus on those who show genuine interest. Video chat and finding common ground helps too.
Difficulty Communicating
Language and cultural barriers can be an issue. Use translation tools if needed. Find those already comfortable communicating in your language.
Is Match Anywhere Right for You?
Deciding if you should open your searches globally comes down to a few key considerations:
- Are you comfortable navigating cross-cultural dating?
- How important is physical proximity for you early on?
- Are you willing to travel to meet the right match?
- Can you maintain interest when dating long distance?
Know yourself and what would work best for your needs. For the right person, match anywhere can absolutely be worth trying.
Conclusion
Facebook Dating’s match anywhere feature lets you connect with compatible people virtually anywhere. By toggling on the setting under Location, you remove geographic limits on who you match with. You can also set a custom maximum distance cap. While long distance dating has challenges, an amazing relationship can be worth it. With match anywhere enabled, you just may find your soulmate in an exotic global location you never thought to look. Give it a try and enjoy all the excitement of worldwide dating possibilities now at your fingertips!