Every week, FEMAIL asks two singletons to report back from their blind date. This time Cristina, 44, and Kamlesh, 52, recall their encounter and reveal if they clicked.
Cristina, 44
Single for a year, no children.
Dating past?
My longest relationship was a five-year one during my 20s. We broke up because we were too young to get married and he went to the US to study.
I split from my last boyfriend a year ago because he, too, was living in another country. I’m now actively looking for someone to share my life with.
Cristina’s longest relationship lasted for five years during her 20s
Pre-date nerves?
A mixture of excitement and anxiousness.
First impressions?
While waiting, I got chatting to a French girl at the bar and we really hit it off. But when Kamlesh was directed to us, he thought I’d accompanied the French girl on her date with him.
When he realised I was his date, he made a joke, asking her to join our table. It was awkward, and he seemed overwhelmed.
I thought he’d have a fitter physique considering he does a lot of sport. Still, he’s a good-looking man for his age and friendly.
Easy to talk to?
Kamlesh is an intelligent man so we covered a lot of subjects in three hours. We talked about the impact of tech on kids’ behaviour, as I used to work with children with special needs and Kamlesh spends a lot of time with his nephews.
We both love the outdoors and he showed me pictures of his last bike tour around Normandy. I told him about my last holiday in Vienna.
Embarrassing moments?
There were two! Kamlesh kept apologising for being sweaty as he had done an intense workout before our date.
Before the pretty French girl left, she said goodbye and offered to bring over the drink I’d left at the bar. Kamlesh was a bit amazed and commented: ‘I see you make friends very easily.’
Did sparks fly?
I didn’t feel any attraction, and I’d have known straight away if there was something there. Even if a guy is a bit nervous or anxious, I know if he’s for me or not.
She was disappointed Kamlesh did not compliment her appearance during their date
See him again?
No. We didn’t exchange numbers. I’d have expected him to ask for mine, but I get why he didn’t – we just didn’t have that spark.
What do you think he thought of you?
That I’m not his type. He did say I had a soothing presence, which was nice. But it’s good manners to compliment a woman on her appearance and he didn’t.
On the plus side, he was gentlemanly enough to wait until my cab arrived and we said goodbye with a kiss on the cheek.
Would your friends and family like him?
My friends would because he’s an intelligent, curious man.
Kamlesh, 52
Single for three years, no children.
Dating past?
I’ve had a few long-term relationships – my longest one was during my late 30s and we were together for five years. When I was younger, I was extremely focused on my career in IT. Now my work/life balance is a lot better and my time is my own.
Kamlesh focused heavily on his career in IT when he was younger, but now has a better work/life balance
Pre-date nerves?
No, generally I’m not the sort of person who gets nervous.
First impressions?
Cristina had made a friend while she was waiting for me to arrive and immediately introduced us.
I almost joked: ‘Is this a threesome?’ But in the end stuck with: ‘I hope you’re not joining us!’
Cristina struck me as a personable, smiley woman and very well-presented.
She was wearing heels, though, and I was a bit worried she’d be visibly taller than me.
Easy to talk to?
Yes, we had loads in common. We’re both analytical thinkers who take care of ourselves physically.
Cristina works in the wellness industry and when I mentioned I hadn’t had breakfast, she wanted to know why. That led to an exchange of recipes as we both enjoy cooking.
We touched on our relationship history, too. Cristina is soothing company, which I liked.
Embarrassing moments?
Not really. I liked that Cristina was very polite towards the staff.
Did sparks fly?
It’s difficult to tell; I mean, we were both pleasant and polite towards one another. As you get older, you realise there’s an over-reliance on ‘chemistry’.
Cristina is an attractive woman, and when I was younger I’d have thought: ‘Cute! That’s what I want!’ But I did notice she was 6ft in her heels when I walked her to her taxi – I was definitely shorter than her.
Kamlesh thought his date Cristina was personable and smiley
See her again?
It would be nice to see Cristina again in a more natural environment. I didn’t ask how she felt the date had gone as that would have been weird. I intentionally didn’t put her on the spot and ask for her number, either. I didn’t want her to feel obliged.
What do you think she thought of you?
I’m not sure; I couldn’t get a vibe from her. If I’m not right for her, it’s possibly because she wants a taller guy. On the plus side, we agreed we’re both critical thinkers with a lot in common. But does she want to jump into bed with me? I’ve got no idea.
Would your friends and family like her?
Definitely. Cristina is a very calming and thoughtful person.
Cristina’s verdict: 5/10
Liked? The stimulating conversation.
Regrets? No, I had a good time.
Coffee or cab? Cab.
Kamlesh’s verdict:
Liked? Cristina is clever and thoughtful.
Regrets? No, it was a nice afternoon.
Coffee or cab? Coffee.
Would you like us to find you a date? Are you a singleton, or is there someone you’d like to send on a blind date? Email your details and a photo to blinddate@dailymail.co.uk
