I always wanted to try speed dating in my dating years, they were just never offered at the right time but I think that would be a great idea. If they are offered in your area I’d certainly try those! Especially since it sounds you tried those before and are familiar with the concept .

Are there single meetups in your area? There are ton in mine and I know women who met nice guys on those. I’ve never tried them, I use meetups for finding female friendships only but I heard “single” ones are a good idea.

I know you said no paid sites but if you ever change your mind: eharmony wouldn’t allow anyone message you until you approve of them. And guys who just want sex unlikely would jump through the hoops to just be able to talk about sexual stuff. It feels like a much safer site than others simply because of no direct access to people

I know you were not really asking for suggestions so you can disregard it. Just thinking aloud. I am up half a night with migraine ugh so I might be talking nonsense. But I hear you on this whole dating business.