The cost of finding love

Ahh, new love. You’ve seen it in the movies, on television and amongst your friends – yet it seems so elusive. Meeting the right person is part luck, but often an investment of time and money as well. There’s no doubt sparks still fly at cafes and parties, yet many are turning to a variety of services for a little help. Dating websites and matchmaking services have become go-to resources for people looking for that perfect combination of attraction, intellectual chemistry and just-right caring and giving partner. In the United States, Australia, Thailand, India and parts of Europe, dating websites have grown exponentially since launching in the 1990s and the use of professional matchmakers is also gaining popularity. But getting help with finding a perfect match does not come cheaply, writes BBC on the occasion the US Valentines Day, celebration of love and relationships observed every 14th February.