A 44 y/o woman's perspective. I'm starting to think that the majority of men are not interested in meeting anybody.

I have traveled extensively (outside the US) for the last 20 years or so. I find that I meet the most interesting people when I'm alone, usually men. They approach me, we have a 10 minute conversation, and then they leave. (Or even try to follow me to the airport, as happened in Norway!) I used to think that I meet the men because I'm a woman, but I really think that it's because I look at people, make eye contact, and am willing to engage- even when men are grumpy and resistant to talking. I also tend to be in a position where I can strike up a conversation, even if it's just "excuse me, where is the next bus going?" I was on a train in Europe and a young couple next to me were playing cards. I asked what the game was, and they taught me how to play it. It was so much fun! I had a great time, even though I didn't speak their language (thank goodness for Google translate!) I think that there are a lot of people out there that are willing to be friendly, but are hesitant to make contact. I think that as women, we are sort of given permission to be friendly and outgoing in a way that men are not. I go through my day with more awareness of others and more willingness to engage because it's socially acceptable. I have even made close friends with people I met on trains in Europe!