My Boyfriend Doesn’t Let Me Talk To Other Boys

HI I am 23 with a Salvadorian culture and my boyfriend is 21 born in egypt-christian coptic. He and I have been dating for 10 months and so far our relationship is good when it doesnt deal with me talking to guys. Basically I feel like a muslim that I cant talk or look at any guy whether at school or work. I feel I am ok with it because I think back that I will live with him so I wont argue over a guy. However before him I used to talk to guys and even chat. Now I don’t have any of that. We have talked and he doesnt understand because in his culture women do not socialize with men at all even though he was raised here since age 8.

He has decided to study abroad for a semester and I want to go to thailand for a week. He says it s warning if I go to thailand alone it will ruin our relationship. I can only go if I hang out with the old people and stay in the room once the tour is over for the day. I feel this isn’t fair because I am missing out on all the fun stuff. I guess my dilema I whether to continue on with him or not. I have been ok with it until now because I love him and dont want to look bad to his parents if we break up since they dont believe in relationships except marriage.

However I feel school is more important to me and the trip will help me with three credits as a course I dont have to take as an actual class. He is more worried aboiut me talking to guys and having fun and going out. Inside I know I miss wearing shorts show off clothes and talking to people freely. But then again I like how I will have a good home because these people would never leave their family since they don’t believe in divorce. I guess I am confused but have no one else to talk to. Please tell me what ever may help me (go on the trip or not, stay with him or not?)

-Melissa