You’ve pumped your morning weights, you’ve downed your protein shake and you’ve rolled into work on a high. The mid-morning snack calls and you’re after a protein-rich snack to hold you over till lunch.Enter the nut. As Schwarzenegger once proclaimed, “put that cookie down!” – or in this case, put the nut bowl down. It’s a common misconception amongst today’s fitness freaks that nuts are awesome – don’t get us wrong, they are, but just not for muscle building protein purposes.Like avocados, nuts contain healthy fats and micronutrients which our bodies need.But according to New York Times’ leading health and science journalist Max Lugavere, “the idea that nuts are a good source of protein is silly.”“Almonds for example are 73% fat and only 14% protein,” Lugavere explains in his latest post.

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A post shared by Max Lugavere (@maxlugavere) on Jan 12, 2019 at 10:00am PST

Lugavere says that his definition of a good source of protein is when the food possesses relatively high protein while not having many tag-along starches and fats.Based on this scale, nuts are considered a weak source of protein.“I’m not talking about the quality of protein in almonds vs chicken breast, but how much protein you can get without consuming a lot of extra calories,” says Lugavere.“There’s nothing wrong with the protein in nuts and seeds. You just have to be aware that it will take up A LOT of your fat macros if you try to consume most of your daily protein through nuts.”“Nuts are awesome. Not really a protein source though.”Robbie Clark, an Australian dietician and director of digital health company Healthbank agrees.“Nuts are a great source of mono and polyunsaturated (healthy) fats, essential trace vitamins and minerals and fibre. They also contain protein but as an incomplete source,” he says.“For a food to be a complete source of protein, it must contain the nine essential amino acids, meaning we have to source them from our diet because our body can’t make them itself.”So what are ‘complete proteins’?

“Think animal proteins, from things like meat, poultry, dairy, eggs and fish. They provide all the amino acids needed to make new proteins in our bodies.”

“Vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds tend to lack certain specific amino acids, making them incomplete protein sources when consumed alone.”

Clark says that balance is the key here as a meat-only diet can still be bad for you.

“Vegetarians or vegans who don’t eat meat or fish simply need to be mindful of eating a balanced plate of various vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds to ensure they’re getting all the essential amino acids needed for the body, which isn’t hard to do.”

So the next time you’re after a quick protein hit, try a hard boiled egg or low-sugar protein ball instead. You can also check out the protein to carbs to fat ratio of some of the most popular nuts on the market today, according to Naturalstacks.Almonds – 15% carbs, 13% protein, 72% fatCashews – 22% carbs, 11.5% protein, 66.5% fatPeanut Butter – 13% carbs, 17% protein, 70% fatWalnuts – 8.5% carbs, 8% protein, 83.5% fatPecans – 8% carbs, 5% protein, 87% fatFlax seeds – 22% carbs, 12% protein, 66% fatPumpkin seeds – 13% carbs, 16% protein, 71% fatSesame seeds – 17% carbs, 11% protein, 72% fatSunflower seeds – 17% carbs, 11.5% protein, 71.5% fatRELATED: Special Forces Commandos Eat Like This To Build Muscle & Drop Fat

The post The One Snack You Should Avoid If You’re After A Protein Hit appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

The lapel pin is a classic men's accessory that's made a real run-for-it in fashion this season (and we don't just mean come race day). But, unsure of how to wear a lapel pin, not all gents are prepared to place their bets on the striking suit decoration.
Yes, the wrong pin has the potential to loo...

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The post Lapel Pins Can Take Your Suit Game To The Next Level; Here’s How To Wear It appeared first on D'MARGE.

Since the launch of Qatar Airways Qsuite business class product, we had waited patiently for a chance to try it.Fully enclosed cabins in the 1-2-1 format was a formula never before seen in business class. Since its launch, Delta has also launched a similar product which will hopefully see this become the norm in business class travel. On our way to the annual Swiss watch conference SIHH, we decided to book with Qatar and experience this great new product.

Flight Facts

Route: Sydney – DohaFlight Number: QR 907Aircraft: 777-200Flight time: 14:30minsSeat: 10APrice: AU$6,700 (SYD – ZRH return)Here’s our review of what’s hot and what’s not with the Qatar business class Qsuite.

1. You can start your flight in the QANTAS first lounge, providing you’re a One World Emerald or QANTAS Platinum member.

2. Onboard the Qatar 777-200, the Qsuite is as impressive as it looks in the press photos. Spacious and modern. We didn’t want to jump the gun but this could be business class heaven.

3. We jumped on SeatGuru and took their advice of the rear facing 10A for its additional privacy. On comparison, I feel there was not much difference between the forward or rear facing window / aisle seats.

4. High walls ensure the Qatar Qsuite is private, very private…even without the door closed. Unfortunately my door was broken so it required a folded pyjama bag to keep it closed throughout the flight.

5. Don’t expect to see anyone the entire flight. It may pay to keep it open when you want to catch the flight attendant’s eye for a top up. Facing rear on the window is the best seat and most private. Sitting backwards is no big deal when you’re on the window.

6. The Qatar amenities kit was one of the better ones. Earplugs, eye-mask, moisturiser and lip-balm all provided by Monte Vibiano. Essentials for a long flight in the air conditioning.

7. Under counter storage is useful for books and headphones.

8. Under the left arm offers an adjustable arm rest and storage with a complimentary bottle of Evian. The arm rest is also adjustable based on your height.

9. Tray table was a little annoying; my long legs had a tendency to bash into it during the flight. It was no problem, however, when I was laying down or sleeping.

10. The reading light is well protected by the QSuite’s enclosure, so there’s little risk of annoying your neighbours (or being annoyed by theirs).

11. Ergonomics of power, plugs and controls is better than most business class seats. Easily reachable yet far enough away without knocking or turning them on in the night.

12. The 21.5” entertainment screen is huge and has matte finish. The touch screen is super responsive, UX is very intuitive and well thought out. It’s a step above those of Emirates, Qantas and Singapore.

13. Turning the small control screen off during night was a bit confusing, so I gave up and buried it under a blanket.

14. Qatar’s business class menu is extensive and includes signature dishes from Melbourne’s George Calombaris. We highly recommend the Beef Short Rib. The convenience of Qatar’s ‘Dine On Demand’ service can’t be faulted.

15. The beverage list is respectable but lacked big names in the wine and Champagne categories. Three reds on a wine list was a touch limited with only a Bordeaux, Brazilian Cab Sav and Barossa Shiraz on offer. Do not expect any mainstream Champagne brands; Lallier is their bubbles of choice.

16. Not only do you get a set of The White Company pyjamas, Qatar offer mattresses which takes the bed from good to bloody amazing. This also includes a pillow case cover. Holy sh*t.

17. The Qatar 777 bathrooms whilst only used sparingly during flight are well appointed. There’s an alarming amount of light to do your make-up or spruce your hair.

18. Storage for clothing and sneakers was a problem. You can place belongings next to you, however the storage bins in the A380 are quite handy to have.

19. The staff are really attentive. Small things like asking how I slept, was everything okay with the bed and seat (it was broken, but let’s ignore that for now) and finally making the effort to find a vacant toilet before landing to get changed.

20. Transit in Doha is a breeze and the airport dumps on Abu Dhabi. The Al Mourjan lounge is for business travellers only and free of Oneworld economy travellers with screaming kids.

The Wrap Up

• The Qatar Qsuite is not available on all routes, so do your research on which Boeing 777 and A350-1000’s.
• Key routes thankfully include Sydney to Heathrow.
• My biggest disappointment would be that we only got to experience the Qsuite on one leg of this work trip.
• Value for money in comparison to Qantas and Emirates, Qatar Airways is a real player in the premium travel market.
• Oneworld partnership is great for earning QANTAS status credits.

RELATED: How To Get More From Your Qatar A380 Business Class Trip To Europe 

The post 20 Things We Loved & Loathed About QATAR Airways QSuite Business Class appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

Strikingly masculine from every angle – if you don’t lose it in the sand. That’s one way to describe one of the most impressive timepieces to come out of IWC’s latest Pilot’s Watch collection at SIHH 2019.

The Swiss watchmaker debuted a four tier line-up which included the Spitfire model, “Le Petit Prince” models, “Antoine de Saint Exupéry” models and our pick of the bunch, the latest TOP GUN watches.

The 2019 hero piece under this banner is the Pilot’s Watch Double Chronograph TOP GUN Ceratanium – the first pilot’s watch from IWC to feature the brand’s proprietary Ceratanium case which boasts the lightweight properties of titanium alongside the scratch-resistant hardness of ceramic.

Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition “Mojave Desert”

Reference: Ref. IW389103
Case: 44.5mm sand-coloured ceramic with titanium caseback
Movement: Mechanical chronograph movement
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, day/date, chronograph function for hours, minutes and seconds
Power reserve: 46 hours
Dial: Dark brown with sand coloured hands
Strap: Sand-coloured rubber strap with textile inlay
Waterproof: 60m

Pilot’s Watch Double Chronograph TOP GUN Ceratanium

Reference: Ref. IW371815
Case: 44mm matte black Ceratanium case
Movement: Mechanical chronograph movement
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, day/date, chronograph function for hours, minutes and seconds
Power reserve: 44 hours
Dial: Black with black hands
Strap: Black rubber strap
Waterproof: 60m

The post IWC Goes Full Military Spec With A Camouflage Top Gun Timepiece appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

Sometimes you’re after a full-bodied red to accompany a thick, juicy steak. Other times you might be after a refreshing white, to go with fish and carefully cooked vegetables. Of course: you should stock your cellar accordingly.

However, if you’re after a safe bet for all occasions, look no further than a quality Pinot Noir. Although it has a reputation for being delicate, Pinot Noir is no less complex than any other varietal of red wine. Its fragility however, has led to some popular misconceptions such as: “You can have good Pinot Noir wine or cheap Pinot Noir; but you can’t have both.”

We’re pleased to say that this is no longer the case: with its increasing popularity, Australia’s Pinot Noir makers are planting more, and have access to better technology and skills than ever before, thus lowering the financial ‘barrier to entry’ to this notoriously hard to grow wine. In other words: you no longer have to sell a kidney to get your hands on one of the sultriest, silkiest wines around.  

So what makes Pinot Noir so special? Why does it have (relative to say, Shiraz) a small, cult like following, while being undervalued by the rest of us? Why is it so romanticised? 

One reason is that Pinot Noir is one of the oldest grapes in the world, belonging to a family that has been around since Roman times. As such, it is related to Muscat Blanc (a rare white grape with only 50 acres around Piedmont Italy) and the nearly extinct Gouais Blanc (allegedly the grape of middle age Europe).

Also: it’s a little more subtle, lending itself to people who appreciate (or who like to pretend they can appreciate) the delicate, micro-aspects of a vintage. Instead of jumping out at you, Pinot’s cool-climate acidity, low tannins and a tasteful spattering of red berries, dance together on your palate to create a gentle “wow” factor rather than an overpowering “bang.”

Bearing that in mind, don’t buy Pinot Noir expecting the full-on flavour of a big red; with this varietal, you should be searching for delicacy, length, harmony and finesse. To that end, we asked some of Australia’s leading sommeliers for their picks for (and thoughts on) Australia’s top seven Pinot Noir vintages (and makers). 

From “guaranteed crowd-pleasers” to “hidden gems,” allow this list to guide your tastebuds (and reputation as a dinner party host) in the right direction.

Under $20

Take It To The Grave Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2018

Dan Murphy’s two cents: Take It To The Grave Pinot Noir is blood red in colour with a lifted and varietal nose of wild strawberries, ripe plums and cherries. The palate is rich and expressive with supple cherry and red berried fruit, a beautifully lush mouth-feel matched by fine tannins and soft acidity that provide structure and length.

“Simultaneously sweet and savoury with red/black cherry, anise and boysenberry providing plenty of juicy flavour. That’s the thing: it serves fruit sweetness but then tempers it beautifully. Spice notes add to the show. Fantastic value in a pinot noir context.” (Expert reviewer, Wine Front).

Shop Now $15.99

Ninth Island Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2018

Dan Murphy’s two cents: Ninth Island Pinot Noir is a sensational cool-climate Pinot Noir from the makers of Piper’s Brook. Tasmania is now recognised as a world class Pinot region and with wines of this quality one can see why!

“Ninth Island does fragrantly pretty pinot noir better than most. Perfumed, filled with cherries, plush redcurrants and plums. A lick of strawberries with a hint of smoky oak and fine acidity. Delicious.” (Dan Murphy’s wine panel, expert reviewer).

Shop Now $18.10

Josef Chromy Pepik Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2017

Dan Murphy’s two cents: True to the [Pinot Noir] variety this one is fresh and fruit-driven, dripping with cherries, plums and strawberries. Drink with duck cassoulet with sweet spice!

“This is a lovely drink, with some sous-bois complexity, sappy tannins and bright red fruit.” (Expert reviewer, Max Allen).

Under $30

Silent Way Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2017

Picked by: Mark Willoughby, head honcho at Esoterica Wine & Food.

Mark’s two cents: Macedon Pinot doesn’t come for this price…good pinot noir doesn’t get sold for this price…and yet.  Made by the great Matt Harrop of Shadowfax and now Curly Flat fame, a super keen price for a wine that shows all the tricks…Cherry and cranberry meet spice, clove and vanilla.  Sure it’s not great Burgundy, but it doesn’t need to be for the money.

Shop Now $24

Payten & Jones VV Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2018

Vino Mofo’s two cents: This Payten & Jones Pinot Noir from Melbourne’s Yarra Valley is like one of those light-and-bright, innocently fruited pinots usually found in this price bracket has come of age in grand style. It’s not too heavy, nor too dark, but there’s a depth of flavour enough to lose yourself in for hours. The fun label belies the complexity within, and there’s serious cellar potential here, without doubt. Raspberries, cherries and exotic spices, dusted with very fine white pepper and a back palate hint of vanilla yoghurt. Simply divine!

Shop Now $26.50

Coldstream Hills Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2018

Dan Murphy’s two cents: With its fruit sourced from cool climate Tasmanian vineyards, this wine is bright cherry red with the nose showing vibrant primary fruits of sour cherry and pomegranate that meld with subtle spicy char aromas of French Oak. The palate shows lively primary red fruits, supported with a hint of stalk influence giving a linear structure that is long and defined.

Shop Now $22.99

Under $50

Bay Of Fires

Vintage: 2016

Picked by: Dan Murphy’s wine panel.

Dan Murphy’s two cents: It isn’t hard to see why Tasmania is quickly gaining a reputation as one of Australia”s greatest cool-climate Pinot regions with wines like this. However: Bay of Fires Pinot Noir is always produced is such limited quantities, you need to get in quick to secure some.

“Cherry, Turkish delight, spice, meaty whole bunch funk, pepper. Medium bodied, spicy, meaty, plenty of ripe jubey fruit, silky feel yet firm through the mouth, pulling almost stalky and strict on the finish,” (expert reviewer, Gary Walsh).

Shop Now $39

Penfolds Max’s Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2018

Dan Murphy’s two cents: Enticing aromatics, with exotic fruits of the forest leaping from the glass. Raspberry, black cherry, olive tapenade and oolong tea are framed by a subtle char-toast character. Hints of sea spray and a distinct Campari note linger.

Shop Now $32.99

Saint Clair Block 14 Doctor’s Creek Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2016

Booze Bud’s two cents: Full-bodied with Morello cherry flavours and a fine silky structure showing fresh vanilla pod, blackberry and blueberry with spice on the finish. Aromatic floral notes combined with red berry notes and a slight earthy richness.

Shop Now $40

Under $100

Paringa Estate

Vintage: 2015

Picked by: Dan Murphy’s wine panel.

The wine panel’s two cents: This wine shows superb varietal aromas of cherry, plum and spice, and the palate is long, textured and complex. With the ability to be cellared for the medium to long term, Lindsay McCall”s Estate Pinot is a certainty to be included in any cellar of a great Pinot Noir lover.

“One of the richest, plushest and most enjoyable Pinots in the land; Paringa still makes one of the best in the business.”

Buy @ Dan Murphys  $64

Sinapius “The Enclave” Pinot Noir

Vintage 2016

Picked by: Sean McManus, Sommelier at French restaurant Hubert in Sydney’s CBD, and Italian restaurant Alberto, Surrey Hills.

Sean’s two cents: 2016 saw temperatures well above average, and larger quantities of clean excellent fruit grown. That being said Tasmania generally works off very low yielding fruit on regular vintages. Which means this 100% dry grown (no irrigation) vintage, on 10 million year old soils, is a cracker. This enclave Pinot noir is hand picked and wild fermented for nearly 24 days resulting in sweet red fruits with seductive whispers of smoke and game. A palette that is long and layered almost ethereal with fruit spices and melting tannin that is built for ageing whilst showcasing its balance and purity; it screams red burgundy.

Buy @ Sinapius  $80

Farr Farrside Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2016

Picked by: Chris Sheehy, Champagne Ambassador at Pernod Ricard.

Chris’ two cents: fruit forward and rich with lovely balance; a real crowd pleaser. Campbell Mattinson, from Wine Front adds: “It’s cut with acid, plump with fruit, spicy, svelte and silken. It’s simultaneously tangy, plush and long. Some wines get a lot of mileage out of an inherent tension, and this is one such wine.”

Shop Now $80

Bindi Original Vineyard Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2017

Picked by Nick Stamford.

Nick’s two cents: From a beautiful site in Macedon, planted in 1988. The 30 year old vines are now producing a silky textured pinot of great length and intensity but in a beautifully elegant frame. This pinot is one of Australia’s somewhat hidden gems. Unlike many Australian pinots, it has an ability to age effortlessly for 10-20 years and remain delicious and intriguing throughout the journey.

Buy @ MW Wines  $89

Tolpuddle Vineyard Pinot Noir

Vintage:  2017

Picked by: Chiara Danieli, head sommelier at Matteo Downtown.

Chiara’s two cents: Intensely aromatic, balanced with savoury spice notes from whole bunch fermentation, along with purity of varietal expression, fresh acidity and firm tannins. The 2017 vintage is very perfumed, medium bodied and approachable.

Pinot Noir FAQ

Read Next

• The Best Australian Merlots 
• The Best Australian Cab Savs 
• The Best Australian Shiraz
• The Best Online Wine Stores To Satisfy Your Inner Sommelier

The post The Best Pinot Noir In Australia, According To People Who Drink It For A Living appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

You’ve got the Ferrari. You’ve got the Rolex. You’ve got the bank account to rival a Russian yacht collector; but do you have any real friends?

That’s the question researchers from the University of Michigan and Singapore wanted to find out, so they conducted their own studies. The general consensus is that rolling around in a nice car or rocking expensive brands will cause people to turn their heads and give you more attention.

It’s the very same lofty status symbol which often influences others into aligning with your opinion or wishes – think personalities like Kim Kardashian and Donald Trump who have championed this to great effect. There’s a slight difference to gaining attention and making new friends, though.

During the study the researchers posed a hypothetical situation to participants: If they owned both a standard car and a luxury car, which one would they drive to a wedding reception to make new friends?

A solid 66 percent of participants chose the luxury car as an effective means of attracting new friends.

The question was then flipped to a different group of participants run by different researchers: Imagine being at a wedding reception where they noticed a person rolling up in either a standard car or a luxury car. Which person would they be more interested in becoming friends with?

The subjects opted for the person in the standard car as opposed to a luxury car.

The study’s take away concludes that whilst people think that a high status symbol through a means of driving a luxury car will enhance their friendship circle, it in actual fact causes potential friends to be deterred.

Need proof? Check out some of the comments on Floyd Mayweather’s latest Instagram ‘flex’ posts.

 

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@FloydMayweather takes his #TMT jet from Las Vegas to LA to watch the @laclippers vs @hornets game and flies back, while wearing a @Versace sweatsuit & #versacechainreaction sneakers, and @patekphilippe watch. #upscalehype #floydmayweather #versace #patekphilippe

A post shared by UpscaleHype (@upscalehype) on Jan 10, 2019 at 8:20am PST

From pyrex908: “Seems lonely at the top”

From coltencharles: “dude looks so bored lol”

From basketballstudios: “Materialism is to hide insecurities, I feel for this man”

This is a concept which the researchers Stephen Garcia, Kimberlee Weaver and Patricia Chen call the “Status Signals Paradox”, an effect which has also been proven in case studies beyond just cars. One particular study looked at the effect of expensive wristwatches.

Based on a similar study model, participants were asked what kind of watch they’d wear to a social event with most opting for a pricier TAG Heuer piece over a cheaper generic watch. A separate group was then asked who they’d more likely want to be friends with at the social event.

The participants once again opted for the person wearing a cheaper watch over the expensive watch purveyor.

According to Garcia, psychologists boil this down to the “difference in perspective in social comparison”.

“When we are deciding what to wear, we are in ‘presenting roles’ where want to put our best foot forward, so to speak; we want to look better than others,” Garcia explained in Psychology Today.

“However, we do not take the perspective of the would-be friends. They too would also like to look good and do not want to be out-shined by others. In other words, while we want to compare favourably to others in our appearance, we do not realise that others also want to compare favourably too – or at least not be overshadowed.”

So what’s a high status man with a penchant for designer labels, expensive watches and flashy cars to do?

The study simply says to be aware that it could harm your chances of making new friends dow the line.

The post Status Seeking Could Be Costing Your Friendships appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

Fact: Men love the colour black. And our shopping habits say so. According to retail analyst Edited, black was the most popular colour in menswear back in 2015, accounting for 32% of total clothing sales. Since then it's been on the rise thanks to big ticket streetwear names like Off-White and Y-3...

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Whether you’re there for a 48 hour stopover, are on a year-long university exchange or have emigrated indefinitely to the land of separatists and siestas, you’ll meet many different people in Barcelona.

However, unless your cliché game is on point, you won’t end up making out in the Sagrada Familia. Nor will you sip wine demurely in Park Güell and happen upon the chica/chico of your dreams (it’s cheaper to buy beer from the corner store). And you’re more likely to be pick-pocketed walking along Las Ramblas than you are to be invited into the VIP section of one of the beachfront clubs.

But you didn’t come to us for a Barcelona fantasy. You came to us for the nitty gritty. The burnt espresso truth: a breakdown of Barcelona’s dating scene. And while (obviously) not everyone you meet will fit into these categories, if you spend long enough swiping Tinder in El Barrio Gotico, you’ll come across some of them…

The Vegan

Most likely American: in his/her eyes the American Vegan is more ‘local’ than anyone. They’ve been here six months, after all. Hobbies include: sneering at your super spicy chicken wings while booking a ’round the world’ ticket, complaining about the environmentally disastrous tin foil their takeaway toast came wrapped in (while everyone else eats sitting down at a table), and showing off his/her Spanish. Any and all dates will take place at either Federal or Flax & Kale. You have been warned…

The Good Time Merchant

If you like free watered-down shots, discounted trips to Ibiza and hanging round night-club promo tables The Good Time Merchant is the perfect date for you. Bored of their 9-5 marketing gig in Australia they decided the best way to “find themself” would be living in an apartment with 10 other Aussies in Earl’s Court. Then they got sick of the London Rat Race, “And now, I’m here!” they’ll tell you, before showing you the epic wetsuit tan they got in Morocco. Hobbies include: “working” at a party travel company, lighting up boat parties “on the reg”, and blogging to 12 “highly engaged” followers.

The Separatist

This girl or guy, despite living in one of the most economically prosperous regions of Spain (and your several attempts to change the topic), will spend most of your date explaining why Catalonia should receive EU funding to become a sovereign state. If you could get them off politics maybe they’d be good in la cama, but good luck on finding that out…

The One That Goes To The Beach Clubs

The only thing this Barcelona bachelor/bachelorette likes to do more than party, is to get super dressed up and party. Favourite drinks include Malibu, Tequila and Cava. They also like to wear white faux fur coats and ‘ankle breaker’ heels. We’d warn you off but we know you won’t listen…

The Dude With An Undercut

Listens exclusively to Drake. Works in a bar. Hangs around El Raval and Moog. Is studying Spanish but refuses to speak it in front of you. Texts “u up” bi-monthly at 2am.

The One That Goes To City Hall

Strangely proud of their beer pong skills. Likes top 40 music. Is most likely an exchange student. Suggests you get Salsa lessons with them—and is actually really fun to hang out with.

The One You Met On Tinder

You don’t speak each others’ language, but hips (and emojis) don’t lie. If all goes well they might even take you up to Bunkers for a panoramic view of the city and a cheeky romantic picnic.

The Metal Head

While the whole “heavy metal” and “goth” scenes died out quite a while ago in Australia and America, in Spain (from my statistic-less observations) they are still hanging around. In light of this, don’t be surprised if you come across more 27 year olds with long hair, beards, tattoos and a Guitar Hero fetish than you’d expect back home.

The One You Met At The Language Exchange Event

You’re not sure if he/she is only into you because they want to practice their English, but if you’re being honest: you don’t mind: a date’s a date.

The Football Fan

Do you know the words to Barcelonale!? Do you know why the fans at Nou Camp chant exactly 17 minutes and 14 seconds into each game? Date a die-hard Barcelona football fan; you’ll soon find out.

The One With A Jealous Partner

You lost count of how many kisses you were supposed to give on greeting, went for one too many, and ended up with your lips awkwardly close to theirs. In front of their partner. But you got the feeling they were kind of flattered? Your head tells you one thing, your heart another. Probably best to leave this one be though…

The post Interesting Dating Experiences That Are Unique To Barcelona appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

You’d think it would make it easier, but asking out someone you already know (or kind of know) is actually more fraught than hitting on a stranger.Matching with your barista on bumble, for instance, is like running into a friend with an identical late-night Mc Donald’s soft-serve: it’s not the sexiest way to be spotted, but you’re both clearly thirsty. Matching with (or asking out) a stranger is stressful enough. But when it’s someone you are guaranteed to run into, the stakes are even higher.What if they didn’t realise it was you when they swiped? What if they swiped ironically? What if they’re actually into you? Random thoughts turn to elaborate scenarios: “Can we casually date, or do I have to start a relationship with them?” Of course: the simplest solution is to just remain friends.However, if you actually want to try and hook up with your barista (or a non-close friend) we’d recommend arming yourself with our tried and tested advice; a) to maximise your chances, and b) to minimise any potential awkwardness. And tread carefully, because—as one Reddit thread recently revealed—the consequences can be disasterous.CardCardNot only might you have to find a new cafe (if things get ugly), but, as one unfortunate dater found out—your crush might have only swiped right in a sort of friendly, mutual acknowledgment, only to be highly confused when you reveal you’ve been lusting after them for months… Or if you’re asking them out in real life, they might just… well… say no.Suffice to say: as well as helping you work out exactly where you stand, your opening line needs to go down as smooth as a Macadamia Macchiatto. If you find this tricky: we’ve compiled a list of tips for you.

Panic

When your phone first informs you that your bearded crush (or tattooed crush-ette) is interested in more than just your bizarre taste in caffeine, you should take a second to panic. While this may seem counter intuitive to generating a solid plan, taking a moment to absorb the gravity of the situation will help you come up with a realistic strategy.

Make Up Your Mind

Unlike matching with a stranger, you can’t just ignore or block your barista (or casual acquaintance) if you change your mind on seeing them once you’ve already matched or asked them out. So make sure you’re attracted to them. Are you willing to put your friendship at risk for the sake of a one night stand or (potentially) short lived relationship?If not, it’s crucial that you defuse any sexual tension. Fast. If you’re on a dating app, try a light hearted joke like: “How many dick pics have you gotten so far, lol” (but make sure it comes off as a joke, not a pick up line). On the other hand, you are willing to give it a shot, we suggest you keep reading…

Think Of A Plan

If you are ready to add some ‘spice’ to your pumpkin latte, you need a plan of action. Are you going to play it cool, or take a leading role? Consider your interactions so far. Have they been flirty? Do they expect you to be flirty? Do they even know how to spell your name? Use this as your guide to picking an appropriate ice-breaker…

Come Up With Some Humorous Ice-Breakers

If you are looking for a balanced approach—not too strong, not too weak, “Come here often?” is a good choice. It starts the conversation, has a touch of humour about it, and is fairly straightforward (consider this the flat white of openers).Other options are the “Monkey covering eyes emoji,” which is perfect for when you’re wanting to signal interest but still allow them to make the first move (the latte of openers) and, “I always had a mini crush on you”—for when you want to make your intentions perfectly clear, and get things moving as quickly as possible (the double espresso of openers).

Take It To The Next Level

If your ice-breaker goes well, casually suggest going out for a few beers. Or better yet: that they teach you their “coffee” skills. At your place. On the coffee machine you just oh-so-coincidentally bought.Oh and for those of you that have a crush on your barista (or anyone you ‘sort of’ know), but haven’t matched with them on Bumble, we hit up Chris Manak, one of Melbourne’s leading dating coaches, for his top tips. This is what he had to say.

“Personally, I suggest to my clients to add them on Facebook in this situation. If she works in the same office building, or at the local café, or is the bar hostess of your regular, etc. these are examples of situations where if your attempt goes well – great! But if it does not – awkward (for both of you).”

And.

“If you’ve got the balls to go for it, well done you, but if you haven’t, just watch how she reacts when you find a reason to add her on Facebook. This reaction will tell you a lot, about her interest in you, and it will also open the door for a future chat and getting to know each other more.”

Happy swiping!RELATED: Important Dating Rules You Need To Know Before Hooking Up In France 

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