How to make friends while travelling solo
Looking to break out of your shell? A solo trip abroad may be just what you need. It’s a common misconception that solo travellers spend most of their time alone. Follow these tips to learn how to make friends while travelling and help turn your solo holiday into a friendship excursion:
Take an interest in others
Most people love to talk about themselves–and (great news), when you’re travelling, these people usually have interesting stories. Ask others about their hometowns and their travel plans and you will be sure to find yourself the most popular traveller in the city.
Stay in hostels
Hands down, the easiest way to make friends abroad is staying in hostel dorms. It’s awkward not to make small talk with strangers here. Find travellers from around the world and explore the city together. Even if you are naturally shy, don’t be surprised if others want to know your story. Hostels also often have bars or mixer events, which are meant to be easy ways for travelling strangers to meet one another.
Couchsurf
Couchsurfing is an online community of travellers who host backpackers in their homes and is a great way to meet locals. Oftentimes hosts are excited to show travellers around the city.
Go on planned outings
Trips, activities and excursions are a great way to meet like-minded individuals. Whether you’re enjoying an adventure sport like bungee jumping (only with the proper travel cover, of course!) or taking in a local wine tasting, know that the experience is likely new for everyone. Don’t take yourself too seriously and you are sure to find other like-minded individuals.
Be flexible
Sure, you might feel more comfortable keeping with a schedule, but learning to be flexible with your plans means you can maximize your experiences and find new friends along the way. Make ‘Serendipity’ your middle name and you’ll soon find yourself on adventures you could have never imagined.
Bring an extra charger
It’s a fact of life: everyone loves the guy with an extra charger, or bottle of shampoo, or whatever. Be prepared and ready to help, and others will notice.
Learn a language
Don’t be the ugly Australian who refuses to attempt the local language. Even if your accent sounds strange or you forget phrases, when you make an effort to learn the local language, others notice. Befriend locals by asking them to teach you more phrases. Most people are excited to demonstrate their knowledge and will find your efforts adorable.
Facebook like a fiend
Have friends of friends in the area? Drop them a message. Met a new person? Send them a friendship request. Connect with people online to cultivate more substantial friendships, and give them a chance to contact you in the future.
Smile
Happiness and confidence are real key to making new friends—after all, what do you actually have to frown about?