From Hinge to Hawaii: My Travel Social Worker Love Story
- Satasade Cobb, LMSW
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
I truly believe you can date successfully as a travel social worker. Now, I’ll admit — I had already been in my relationship for about a year and a half before I started traveling for work, so my perspective may be a little different. And if you know anything about me, you know I was previously an online dating coach. I eventually dissolved that business because of time zone challenges…but that’s beside the point.
The real point is this: I love love and if you want it, I believe it’s absolutely possible for you. Will it always land in your lap? Maybe. But most of the time, love takes effort. You have to be willing to put yourself out there and stay open to receiving it.
My Love Story
A little background… I met my husband on Hinge in December 2019. We had our first date in January 2020, went on a few more dates, and then the pandemic hit. We made things official during that time, and we got through such a difficult season together as a team.
Today, we live in California, and he joined me here while I live out my dream of being a travel social worker. I love him so much- he is supportive, kind, patient, and understanding. I couldn’t ask for a better partner. My husband is also the owner of Thicc Wick Candles, a clean candle brand where every candle is handmade. We support each other wholeheartedly, and that’s a big part of why our relationship works.
When I took my first assignment in Alaska, he helped move me there and stayed for a week. We were intentional about daily communication, Sunday movie nights, and making sure we both felt loved despite the distance. Communication has always been our foundation- especially when I’m away from home.
My most recent assignment was in Northern California, where I worked for two years. During that time, we would see each other once or twice a month. It was challenging, but we made it work. We even got married during that assignment- and after our wedding in Hawaii, I returned for one final contract before coming home for good.
How to Find Love as a Travel Social Worker
All of that to say- I truly believe that with the right person, you can experience real, lasting love as a travel social worker. While I’m no longer coaching, I’m still more than happy to support and encourage you however I can, so feel free to email me anytime.
I strongly recommend online dating, and I also recommend being upfront about your work and lifestyle from the beginning.
While you’re in a new city, get out and explore! Go to events, festivals, farmers’ markets- anywhere people hang out. Make yourself available to connection. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new friends. I met one of my good friends at a festival, and now we hang out regularly!
Dating can feel scary, but online dating can actually be fun. Even if you’re not ready to meet in person yet, spend some time on the apps chatting, getting comfortable, and working on your game. Then, when you are ready, go on dates! Lots of dates! It’s important not to lock in on one person right away-enjoy the journey.
That said, still take things slow. Even though your time in one location may be limited, you don’t want to rush into something serious too quickly. If you really like someone, see whether an extension is possible. With some agencies, like Aya, you can work an assignment for a year, take a month off, and then return. When it comes to love, there is always room for possibility.
I know the statistics. I know there are more women than men, and that dating can feel more challenging as we get older. But I am a firm believer that if you want love-it’s yours. The hardest part is keeping your heart open after failed dates, ghosting, or heartbreak.
In the words of Maya Angelou,
“Have enough courage to trust love one more time and always one more time.”
Especially as a travel social worker.
You may meet someone who says they’re okay with your lifestyle — and then change their mind once it’s time for you to leave. Dating as a traveler can feel risky. But if you want love, give it a chance.
And please — let me know how it goes. 💛
If you would like to purchase candles from my husband’s business please click here and use my code LMSW15 for 15% off!!
Please subscribe to my blog! Happy reading!
Sincerely, SC
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