Hi pasta, don't think it is cultural, I think it just depends on the individual, some people find it very hard to say those words, I don't find it hard, the first time I said it to my then girlfriend I was so scared in case she just never said anything, but she cried, and said I have been wanting you to say that for months. but if as you say there is a silence, then a debate on, well what is love, so next time you mail them or speak to them just say it, after that it will be easy.