Speed dating, an exercise in zippy mate selection, is an event that everyone should experience at least once in his or her life. Whether you’re seriously looking for a romantic connection or you just want to have fun and make new friends, it’s a must-do.

Expatica’s version is probably one of the best, because the participants are so interesting! Imagine a roomful of international 20 and 30-somethings wanting to meet new people. And you only have to talk to each “date” for approximately three minutes, so really, awkward moments are kept to a minium.

Expatica’s next SpeedDate is this Friday evening, November 24, from 8-11pm at the American Hotel in Amsterdam. Tickets are available online.