8 secrets to summer lovin'.

Do summer vacations bring out your animal instincts? Carefree, sun-drenched tourists; the scent of coconut oil; a little tequila; and skin — skin everywhere! Who wouldn’t be in heat? So if it’s been a little chilly in your romance department so far this year, try a hot summer vacation to fire things up. The opportunities are endless.

1. Let loose.
If you’re generally shy, this is the one time you may have what it takes to loosen up a bit. Think about it. You’re in a new city — a stranger among strangers and no one to pass judgement. Reinvent yourself and live it up!

2. Fly solo.
If you’re the adventurous type, traveling alone is a great way to meet people. Not only do you find yourself chit-chatting with everyone from the bellhop to the bartender, but fellow single travelers take notice when you ask for a table for one. There’s no harm in trying the old standby: Anyone sitting here?"

3. Look available.
Body language is everything, and flirtation doesn’t hurt either. Smile at everyone and invite yourself into others’ conversations. My brother-in-law once told me that all it takes for a woman to meet a man is one word: "Hi."

4. Look lost.
You’re new in town; you don’t know your way around. Play dumb (but not too dumb) and ask for directions — even if you know you’re standing right on top of your destination. Or ask someone to point out the best local hangout or place to eat; it’s a great segue into asking him or her to join you.

5. Group date.
Dating in a crowd still counts as dating and often can be easier than one-on-one. Feign the need for an extra person or persons to round out the required "group" for a deep-sea fishing trip. Or just flat out ask the little hottie and her friend on the beach to join you for an adventure at sea.

6. Board the love boat.
A singles cruise is by far the best course of action for some action. The ship just screams "available" with group gatherings and activities at all hours. And what better way to get to know someone than by exploring an exciting port together all day?

7. Hit the gym.
If you’re a fitness freak, show off that buff body at your hotel gym. The facilities are usually pretty small, so it’s easy to strike up a conversation. If you spot a cutie, and you’re staying at the hotel for an extended period of time, visit the gym daily so you can see each other again and again. Continuity will get you far.

8. Be a sport.
Summer is also a good time to sweat (and release those pheromones), so get active on your vacation with some summer sports. Here’s where the guys are, so you gals have an advantage. Take up golf; ask a stranger to be your tennis partner; get in on the beach volleyball game.