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Traveling solo is freeing, but it can sometimes feel lonely especially if you’re exploring a place where you don’t know anyone. The good news? Making real connections abroad doesn’t require luck or being overly outgoing. With a little effort and openness, you can turn a solo trip into a social adventure. These 10 easy strategies help you meet locals and fellow travelers in ways that feel natural, meaningful, and often unforgettable.
Stay in Hostels or Guesthouses
Hostels and small guesthouses are built for interaction. From common kitchens to group events like walking tours or bar nights, they offer many ways to meet people. Even if you’re not into dorms, private rooms still give access to communal spaces. Many travelers find lifelong friends in hostel lounges, over breakfast chats, or while planning the next day’s adventure together. It’s one of the easiest ways to connect without forced effort.
Join Local Tours or Day Trips
Group tours are ideal for meeting people while exploring. Whether it’s a food walk, a historical tour, or a day hike, shared experiences naturally create conversation. It’s low-pressure and gives you something in common to talk about right away. Many solo travelers report meeting future travel buddies this way. Local guides often encourage interaction, and the group setting makes it easy to form quick, casual connections that sometimes stick.
Use Meetup Apps or Local Events Platforms
Apps like Meetup, Couchsurfing, Hangouts, and even Facebook Events help you find social events nearby. These range from language exchanges and board game nights to outdoor adventures and art meetups. The people who show up are usually open to meeting new folks just like you. It’s a great way to dive into the local scene or find fellow travelers without feeling awkward or intrusive. One event could lead to many new friendships.
Take a Class or Workshop
Signing up for a local class can lead to genuine connections through shared learning. Whether it’s a cooking class, pottery session, or salsa dance lesson, these activities bring people together in a relaxed, engaging environment. Locals and travelers both attend, giving you a chance to interact with a wider crowd. Working together or celebrating small wins in a class setting opens the door for friendly conversations and future hangouts.
Volunteer Locally
Volunteering abroad, even for just a day or two, allows you to meet people while contributing to something meaningful. Many cities have short-term opportunities at food banks, animal shelters, schools, or environmental projects. These shared efforts often create strong, honest connections. Unlike touristy meetups, volunteering draws people who care and are more open to meaningful conversation—whether they’re locals or fellow travelers.
Sit at Communal Tables or Bars
It might feel awkward at first, but sitting at a communal table or solo-friendly café counter is one of the simplest ways to meet people. Many restaurants, hostels, and bars are designed for interaction, especially in cities known for hospitality. Don’t be afraid to start small—comment on the menu or ask a question. One short chat over coffee or local beer can turn into a shared evening or a spontaneous travel tip exchange.
Learn a Few Local Phrases
Even a simple “hello” or “thank you” in the local language shows respect and openness. Locals appreciate when travelers make an effort, even if it’s imperfect. It can turn a cold transaction into a warm interaction. You don’t need to be fluent—just learn a few basics and use them with a smile. Often, this is enough to spark laughter, kindness, and conversation. It shows you’re not just passing through—you’re interested.
Join Digital Nomad or Travel Communities
Many cities now have active nomad or backpacker groups, both online and offline. Coworking spaces, Facebook travel groups, and local expat meetups are great for finding others on the same path. Whether you’re remote working or just passing through, these communities often organize social nights, hiking trips, or even local dinners. You’ll meet people who understand solo travel and are often looking to connect too.
Be Curious and Ask Questions
You don’t need the perfect icebreaker—just genuine curiosity. Ask people about their favorite places, food recommendations, or daily routines. People love to talk about their culture, city, or travels when they feel you’re truly listening. Being interested in someone’s world makes you memorable and likable. Whether it’s a hostelmate, local vendor, or tour guide, showing honest curiosity builds trust and connection fast.
Say Yes More Often
Solo travel gives you full control—but sometimes, magic happens when you say yes to the unexpected. Accept that dinner invite, go on that unplanned group hike, or join a beach bonfire. Of course, stay safe and trust your gut, but don’t let fear block the chance for fun and connection. Some of your most cherished travel memories may start with a casual “Want to come along?” The more open you are, the more the world opens up to you.