In a cozy tapas restaurant in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, a group of 80 strangers mingles, sharing drinks and conversations. At first glance, they seem like old friends, but they have only just met that evening. They are participating in a “secret dinner,” an event designed to bring strangers together in a hidden location for meaningful conversations.
A Rising Trend in Social Interaction
These secret dinners, where participants are unaware of the location or the other guests until the event begins, have grown in popularity globally, especially in Hong Kong. With social media fatigue and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, many Hongkongers are craving more genuine, in-person connections.
A New Way to Expand Social Circles
Genie Friends, one of the organizers of these events, allows participants to sign up after completing a personality test. Artificial intelligence (AI) is then used to match guests with tablemates to ensure an enjoyable and diverse experience. Angeline Yu, a regular attendee, appreciates the chance to meet people from various backgrounds, saying it’s easier to be authentic in person compared to online interactions.
Icebreakers and Open Communication
Another service, Timeleft, offers similar mystery meet-ups in over 220 cities worldwide, including Hong Kong. While Genie Friends includes hosts to facilitate conversation, Timeleft encourages guests to engage through icebreaker prompts provided via an app. Attendees are asked questions about childhood memories or life regrets, sparking open and honest dialogue.
Relationship expert Dr. Ken Fung Yat-kin notes that people are increasingly seeking alternatives to online apps, which have been misused by scammers. In-person events, despite their costs, offer a more meaningful way to connect without the frustrations of virtual dating.
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