Through mutual friends in Beijing of all places. Considering I am Australian and she from Panama it seems a very odd place. At the time I was working she she was studying.

Honestly just try online dating. You know what you are getting to a degree and anyone legitimately on there is looking for a partner so it saves embarrassing conversations. Failing that I suggest joining your local dance club. Salsa tends to attract a large amount of youngish unattached girls who will be sharing with you an interest. If nothing else you gain confidence and a useful skill while chatting away.