Travelling solo is very encouraging and challenging at the same time, specially when you have to survive in the new city all by yourself. If you don’t know how to make friends while travelling alone, read through and understand what needs to be done to be friends with the city. It is important to befriend the locals to escape your biggest fear–solitude.
Boarded the flight/train? Great! How about starting a conversation with your co-passenger who is heading to the same place as you.
Instead of booking hotels for accommodation, stay in hostel dorms where you can network with other travellers and share your stories. We are sure there would be at least one such place that suits your taste.
Asking questions even if you know the answers is a great way of striking a conversation with the locals. Most people abroad do not talk on their own but are always ready for help whenever you ask for it. So be an extrovert and don’t forget to ask questions.
Clubs and bars are places where you can meet people who share a similar interest as you, which is partying! Shake a leg or two with the crowd; you never know, you might just find a friend you can share your travel plans with.
Volunteering is a must if you want to know how to make friends while travelling alone. It will allow to you see both sides of the city and most importantly encourage you to be friends with both foreigners and locals. Interestingly you can even earn while you travel.
Check with your friends if any of their friends are staying in the city you are travelling to. If yes, you won’t have to worry about finding new friends. Make sure you communicate with them over a call before going so it’s easy for you to connect with them once you are there.
Joining online social groups is another way of making friends in the new city. You will get to meet people who share similar interests as you. You can plan a get together or party with them by interacting more.
Heard of couchsurfing? Well, the homestay program lets you sleep free of charge not on your own bed though. Make sure you let your host know well in advance what you want (in case you plan not just to stay but explore the city with locals).
Sign up for activities or take a class with the locals as this will help you understand them in a better way. Cooking, or any adventurous activity will be a good idea.
Now that you know how to make friends while travelling alone, you won’t have to worry about anything. Just chill and enjoy your trip!
About the author:
Pritha Manchanda loves to play with words. Simplicity and creativity comes naturally to her! That sums up all.
