Cyberspace in general is imperfect and international cyberdating could hold the potential for danger and disappointment. It's next to impossible to know that the person you are communicating with is, indeed, an unmarried man who is truthfully looking for a female partner. From so far away it's hard to check this man's credentials and emotional stability. You'll find it's a good idea to move forward slowly.

It's common knowledge that for for some men a marriage to a woman living abroad is considered their ticket to a coveted visa from that country. From his point-of-view it may have nothing to do with romance and everything to do with leaving his country and moving into a more prosperous one.

Be careful about revealing personal information to anybody you are networking with.

It is wise to never sell all of your belongings and give up your lease in anticipation of a union that may never happen.

This is important enough to repeat. How this man's culture views issues such as women's rights, custody of children and premarital sex might be very different from what you're used to. Not informing yourself completely could lead to extreme problems at a later date. Talk to women who were born in the country you'll be travelling to. Listen to their stories and advice. Research, research, research.

We suggest you travel with a return ticket, enough money to stay in a hotel and, should problems arise, knowledge of how to contact your country's consulate or embassy at your destination.

EDITOR'S NOTE: In fact, Ginny, a Journeywoman in California writes, 'A male friend was in Romania to marry his wife, and found that one could NOT get into the Embassy without one's passport! I think he had left it at the family's home. Always carry a colour copy of your passport with you so you have the details available should anybody in authority ask for them.

It's always best to meet your possible partner on neutral ground, perhaps in a busy place like a cafe or a museum. On a second or third meeting ask him to introduce you to his friends. Take the extra precaution of leaving a note in your hotel room describing who you are meeting and where this rendez-vous will take place. Include a photo of this man, if possible.

Safeguard your ticket, your money and most importantly, your passport. Don't divulge information concerning personal bank accounts and how to access these accounts.

Get to know this man and his family and friends slowly; return to your home and make your decisions from there. If he is Mr. Right and if he loves you he will wait for you to make up your mind. He should also be happy to visit your family and get to know them before he makes his own decision.