The best way to meet cute boys on vacation is not to consider the vacation only a chance to meet cute boys. Boys should be the dessert, not the main course. You are on vacation to have fun, relax, let go of your worries and kick up your heels. Men are attracted to women who shine from the inside with confidence and a solid sense of self.

People often miss the signals that a man is interested in them because they assume they are not worthy of a man’s interest. Be aware of how a guy is talking to you. Does he square his shoulders when he talks to you? Look you in the eye? Tell you what his plans are later? If so, he may be interested in you. Don’t assume he is being polite. Assume he is interested.

Vacation is about new experiences and memories. If you have the chance to try something new, whether it’s windsurfing at the beach or ice-skating at the ski resort, go for it! Don’t worry about whether you will excel or how you will look doing it. Enthusiasm looks good on everyone.

Remember that on vacation, you can take chances that you might not at home. If you see a cute guy, take the initiative – especially if that is something you would never do at home. Ask for directions or advice on what to do in the area, or just smile brightly and say “Isn’t this place great?”

Being friendly is a good quality and one that people notice. Smile. Make eye contact. Be animated. Shine. It doesn’t mean you have to spend all night talking to any guy who looks in your direction. It just means treating every person as a human being worthy of basic courtesy and consideration. If a guy approaches who doesn’t strike your fancy, chat with him for a minute and then excuse yourself. Who knows, the guy you are not interested in may be friends with the guy you are dying to meet.

There is no easier way to start talking to a guy you find attractive than saying “Hey, would you mind taking my picture?” Make it a silly shot and you’ll have him laughing before you’ve even exchanged names. Laughter is one of the best aphrodisiacs.

Don’t forget basic common sense: Don’t talk too much about your ex (better yet, don’t talk about your ex at all). Don’t pretend to be someone you’re not. Stay present. Remember the line between conversation and interrogation. Pay attention to your hygiene, your manners and your communication skills.