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Lonely Planet
Jul 1, 2022 • 5 min read
Arguably, one of the biggest anxieties for first-time travelers is the fear of loneliness – envisioning lonely evenings spent curled up with only souvenirs for company while parties are in full swing down below.
This fear is often unfounded, as travelers are generally social creatures. To help ease the often-daunting ice-breaking phase, we’ve created a list of effective ways to foster friendships on the road.
Join a Walking Tour
Participating in a walking tour is an excellent way to explore a new city while engaging in conversation. Typically free or low-cost, these tours allow travelers to introduce themselves and share their backgrounds, facilitating natural conversations with fellow participants. Moreover, stopping for a group meal presents additional opportunities to socialize.
Embrace Hostels
Hostels serve as invaluable resources for sociable solo travelers. With close-knit accommodations encouraging interaction, common areas become great venues for bonding over shared experiences. Many hostels also offer tours and communal activities, which are a fantastic way to meet fellow explorers, even if you’re not staying there.
Rent a Room
Staying with hosts through various online platforms enhances opportunities to connect with locals. Those who open their homes are typically friendly and eager to share their insights, creating a richer travel experience. Assessing reviews from past guests can help determine how sociable your host might be, leading to meaningful interactions with locals.
Connect Online
In recent years, a variety of apps have emerged to help travelers connect while on the move. For example, Backpackr allows you to meet fellow travelers heading to the same destinations. Additionally, EatWith offers opportunities to socialize over dinner parties hosted by local chefs. Some even turn to dating apps, though it’s vital to exercise caution and good judgment when doing so.
Joining online travel communities can also be beneficial. Groups like Girls Love Travel and Digital Nomads Around the World offer spaces for travelers to share experiences and advice, enhancing your travel journey.
Take Your Meal at the Bar
Dining at a restaurant’s bar provides a chance to avoid potentially awkward solo dining situations. Moreover, it creates opportunities to engage with nearby diners or the bartender, who often appreciates chatting with solo patrons. So, find a seat at the bar, order a meal, and see where the evening leads.
Join a Local Meet-Up
Participating in local classes or events such as cooking courses or dance lessons allows travelers to bond over shared interests. With the Meetup platform boasting 30 million members globally, there’s a strong likelihood of finding an event that suits your interests during your travels.
Offer to Take Photos
Offering to take a photo for someone struggling with a selfie is a subtle yet effective way to initiate conversation. This simple gesture may blossom into a delightful exchange, enriching your travel experience.
Embark on a Group Tour
Group tours, whether for short excursions or multi-day adventures, provide unique travel experiences that can be difficult to enjoy solo. Smaller group settings foster a sense of camaraderie, often leading to lasting friendships amidst shared challenges.
Volunteer on Local Projects
Volunteering offers travelers a chance to give back to the community while forming connections with locals and other volunteers. However, it’s essential to research any potential organization. Ensuring that your volunteer experience genuinely benefits the community is crucial.
Simply Say Hello
Traveling creates an environment where nearly everyone is eager to make new friends. Many other solo travelers are in similar situations, seeking connection. Make the most of your travels by approaching someone in your vicinity and initiating conversation; you truly have nothing to lose.
This article was first published Jul 2, 2019 and updated Jul 1, 2022.
