Making friends on a solo trip can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some tips for meeting new people while traveling alone:
Use GlobeSisters
Social media platforms can be great tools for connecting with other travelers. On social media apps designed for travelers, you can join travel groups or follow travelers who are also visiting the same place as you. This is a great way to find travel buddies or join group meetups.
GlobeSisters is an app that emphasizes creating a female-only community to help female travelers around the world. Here you can read about others’ posts on their travel experience, you can chat with sisters to gain their advice and insights, and more importantly, you can find the best host and best homestay at your destination! Your host can help you emerge in the culture and enjoy the local events, which will help you make new friends! Don’t forget to check it out!
Attend local events
Check out local events such as music festivals, cultural celebrations or community gatherings. This is a great way to meet locals and experience the culture of the place you're visiting. You could also try attending meetups organized by expats or locals in the area. GlobeSisters has written about the best seasons to visit San Francisco if that sounds like a good destination!
Stay in hostels
Hostels are a great place to meet other travelers, especially if you stay in a dormitory-style room. Take advantage of common areas such as lounges and kitchens, where you can strike up a conversation with other guests. Many hostels also offer organized activities such as walking tours or pub crawls, which are great ways to meet people. That’s why GlobeSisters is here, to provide you with the best experience when looking for a homestay and a host. For those who are worried about the safety issue, check out GlobeSister’s article is it safe for female travelers to stay in hostels.
Join a group tour or activity
If you're interested in a specific activity or tour, sign up for a group excursion. This is a great way to meet like-minded people who share your interests. Activities could range from hiking and adventure sports to cooking classes and language exchange programs.
Strike up conversations
Don't be afraid to start a conversation with someone you meet while traveling. Whether it's a fellow traveler or a local, most people are open to chatting and sharing their experiences. Start by asking a simple question or commenting on something you notice about the person or their surroundings. For example, "Excuse me, I couldn't help but notice your accent. Where are you from?" Here’s a list of starters you can consider:
"Have you been to this place before?"
"What do you recommend doing in this city?"
"Where are you headed next?"
"What's your favorite travel destination?"
"Do you have any tips for traveling on a budget?"
"What's the most interesting thing you've seen on your travels?"
"What's the craziest thing that's ever happened to you while traveling?"
"Do you prefer solo travel or traveling with friends?"
"Have you tried any local cuisine here?"
"What's your favorite way to explore a new city?"
Take a class or workshop
Sign up for a class or workshop in an area that interests you. This could be anything from yoga to cooking, language lessons to dance classes. This is a great way to meet people who share your interests and passions.
Volunteer
Consider volunteering for a local organization or community project. This is a great way to give back to the community you're visiting and meet other like-minded individuals who share your values.
Use language exchange programs
If you're visiting a place where English isn't the primary language, consider using language exchange programs to practice your language skills and meet locals. These programs pair you with a local who is interested in learning English and you can exchange language lessons while learning about their culture.
Be open and friendly
When you're traveling solo, it's important to be approachable and friendly. Smile, make eye contact, and be open to meeting new people. Remember, everyone is on their own journey, and many travelers are in the same boat as you, looking to make new friends and share experiences.
Be safe
While making friends on a solo trip can be a great experience, it's important to prioritize your safety. Always trust your instincts and be cautious when meeting new people. Don't give out personal information or share your travel plans with strangers. Stick to well-lit and public areas, especially at night, and let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. To be more prepared, check out GlobeSister’s 5 safety tips for female travelers!
In conclusion, making friends on a solo trip can be an incredible experience that enhances your travels and creates lifelong memories. Be open, friendly, and willing to try new things, and you'll find that connecting with others while traveling solo is not as difficult as it may seem. Remember to prioritize your safety and always trust your instincts when meeting new people. In addition, don’t forget to check out the Globesisters community where you have sisters worldwide! You can definitely meet great friends there to share your experience! Happy travels!