If you are from the West, you might not need to cross several miles of water just to meet the Asian love of your life. It’s definitely possible that you just have to check your backyard (not literally, of course). We’re talking about dating an Asian-American woman.

You’ve probably read several How-Tos on dating Asian women from Asia, but it’s a whole other story when talking Asian-American women because they have the best of both cultures. Here’s a list of 10 things you need to know before dating an Asian-American woman:

1. To be Asian

This may come off as offensive, but it’s actually very true. There are several countries in Asia and not just the ones in the orient, but the majority of Westerners always seem to think about countries like China, Japan, Korea and the like when the term “Asian woman” is mentioned. If this is the same case with you then go ahead and proceed to the next few tips.

2. The shoes still need to come off.

When dating an Asian-American woman, you are not exempted from taking your shoes off before entering the house. You’ll know that it’s mandatory if she brought you home to meet the folks and you see a rack or a slew of shoes right after you enter the door.

3. Get used to chopsticks.

Your Asian-American date will show you how to use chopsticks in creative ways. She might use it to pick up Cheetos or she might use when eating french fries. Nevertheless, chopsticks are her weapon of choice when eating is involved (not all the time, of course).

4. She may not be fluent.

You shouldn’t worry about learning her language to impress her. Dating an Asian-American woman means that she probably isn’t as fluent. She may know phrases or sentences or she may just understand the language without having to speak it fluently.

5. You’ll probably get rejected.

You’ll probably get rejected, not by her but, by her parents. The thing that you need to understand is that Asian parents are very strict. The usual scenario is that when their daughter brings someone home for them to meet, they will see you with an evaluating eye. It’s nothing personal and it will get better in time when they see that you are “worthy”.

6. Eat what mom cooks.

There’s no greater joy to an Asian mother than seeing a guest indulge himself in the food she prepared. This is a major tip that you need to remember when you go to your Asian-American date’s house. To the mother, her dishes are made with a lot of love and a lot of effort so eating a lot means that you appreciate everything she did to make the dish perfect. Aside from eating a lot, don’t forget to pay your compliments to the chef.

To Date an Asian-American Woman (Part 1)

This is what we have for you so far but come back soon for Part 2 of our What to Know Before Dating an Asian-American woman article. It’s a fun read if I do say so myself. Don’t forget to share this with a buddy who needs a little advice in the area.