But, while stylish, a zebra-print rug seems too impersonal, and a limited edition coffee table book might not suit his taste.

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Independents say that the corporates' prices are too high, and that their service is too impersonal for such a delicate business.

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KB, another New Yorker who did not want to use his full name, says the technology has radically changed the dating and cruising scene, making it too fast and impersonal.

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