There are many pluses to online dating- convenience, simplicity and a wide array of assortment. The convenience factor alone is worth the price of admission, but there's one hazard to online dating that gets overlooked. It's a hazard that means no premeditated harm, and it's a hazard we bring upon ourselves. When we aren't totally happy with the local inventory of potential dates, online dating sites make it very easy to increase our geographical radius.

What happens when we like what's available in a town not near? Date shopping in other markets may begin innocently with a "let's see who's in Chicago!" or "wonder what the guys are like in Toronto…" You may or may not maintain willpower from reaching out to these people, even when the profiles are perfect for you. The conversation leads to a spark, and you then need to decide if you want to further investigate what could potentially be a spectacular inferno.

But the problem with window-shopping in this venue is that the merchandise can easily shop right back. If you're thinking of taking a jump into the deep end of the Travelocity dating pool, there are three basic things you need to keep in mind: Before you turn your dating life into an episode of Househunters International, think about how far is too far. If you're seriously considering dating out of your zip code, you need to think about some basic parameters that are reasonable.

The next thing you know, you'll get a message from one of those far away, drool-worthy dates. Before you know it you're having a conversation with someone that lives miles away from you. Don't ask yourself if you're willing to travel for a first date- ask yourself if you're willing to maintain repeated travel to your date's home base. Having been in a long distance relationship I can tell you that having a special someone on speed dial is a fantastic feeling.