Meeting people in this day and age can seem complicated and putting yourself out there can be the most intimidating part. Connecting with people in your own city is actually the same as meeting people in another city or even in another country. Traveling doesn’t make it more difficult, in fact, in my experience it makes it even easier!
A lot of people think that when you travel solo, you're actually alone most of the time, and although that can be true, it doesn't have to be. One of the nice things about traveling is that even if you’re shy or an introvert, it's easy to make conversation with people around you because you for sure have ONE thing in common, and that is that you’re in the same place at that time which is enough to start a casual conversation.
So, get out of your comfort zone, break that routine, and put yourself out there! Here's five ways you can meet people while traveling alone.
Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide to Traveling Alone
Stay in a Hostel
Staying in a hostel is probably the easiest way to meet people. Whether or not you stay in a dorm room or get a private room in a hostel, there’ll be lots of activities available. Just go to the front desk and ask what they have. Hostels normally prepare all sorts of activities from open mic nights to walking tours. Many even have bars, restaurants, and co-working spaces where you can strike up conversation with a fellow solo traveler!
Additional Reading: Solo Travel Destinations in Asia
Attend an Event or Activity That Invites Expats and Locals Alike
Try looking for a yoga class, bar crawl, or a cooking class to attend. If that’s not for you, learn a new sport, take a language class, or go on a free walking tour. There are so many options once you get over the fear of putting yourself out there.
Use Social Media
Social media can help you meet people while traveling. Ask a friend of a friend to meet up with you or download one of the apps that connects you with travelers and locals alike. There’s Nearify, Meetup, FliptheTrip, Bumble BFF...and the list goes on. Take advantage of this technology to connect easily!
Additional Reading: Solo Travel Destinations in Europe
Do Some Volunteer Work
Volunteer work of all kinds is great for meeting others. Whether you're helping other humans, saving animals, protecting the environment, volunteering your skills, or assisting in education you are sure to meet someone. There are so many things you can do to help the world become a better place and make friends in the process. Work away is a good program to check out!
Go with a Group Travel Company!
Group travel has become a new and efficient way to make meaningful connections, and I’m sure we can all see why! We know this may sound biased, but come travel with Under30Experiences. With us you can meet 10-15 other individuals between the ages 21-35. You choose a country you’re interested in, choose your available dates, and voile, book it! You will later receive emails regarding the details of the trip and be part of the Facebook group where you can meet your other travel buddies. What's better than that?
Additional Reading: Group Travel Vs. Solo Travel. What's Best.
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