The Best Ways to Meet New People While Traveling

One of the best parts of traveling is encountering new people along the way. Connecting with fellow travelers and locals is what transforms an ordinary trip into an extraordinary cultural experience. Use these techniques to easily meet new people while traveling and form meaningful connections on your next journey.

Stay in a Social Hostel or Guesthouse

If traveling solo or on a budget, stay in a hostel or social guesthouse. These accommodations attract other travelers looking to make social connections. Hang out in the common areas, join group activities and be open to striking up conversations with people you meet in the halls or communal spaces. Friendships often form quickly in these social settings.

Take a Free Walking Tour

Walking tours are a great way to get oriented in a new city and learn about the history and culture. They also provide an opportunity to meet other travelers with similar interests. Chat with people beside you on the tour and continue the conversation over coffee or lunch afterwards if you make a connection. Exchange social media or contact details to potentially meet up again.

Learn a New Language or Skill

Taking a class on something you’re passionate about is a perfect way to meet like-minded people. Look for opportunities to learn something new on your travels like cooking classes, language exchanges, dance lessons or craft workshops. Engage with other students and get to know people with similar interests and hobbies as yourself. These new skills and friendships will become highlights of your trip.

Dine or Have Drinks Alone

Don’t be afraid to grab a table for one. Bring a book or journal to avoid looking out of place and be open to conversation if approached by someone local or another traveler. People watching from a café is a great solo activity that often leads to interesting encounters and dialogue. Be friendly if someone chats you up and connections may develop.

Volunteer Your Time

Volunteering is extremely rewarding while traveling. Search online for local organizations in your destination that need help from volunteers. Assist with things like an animal shelter, food bank, community initiatives or wildlife conservation. Bonding over shared interests and values, and working together for a good cause is a great way to form meaningful new relationships.

Smile, Make Eye Contact and Start Conversations

The simplest way to meet new people is by being friendly and engaging strangers in conversation. Smile, make eye contact, say hello and strike up a chat with someone interesting. Comment on your shared surroundings or ask an open-ended question to get the discussion flowing. Being an engaged and interested listener will make people willing to open up to you in return.

Get Out and Explore

The more you explore a destination, the more opportunities you have to meet new people while traveling. Wander, roam and follow your curiosities. Visit lively neighborhoods, check out popular spots where locals gather, and attend cultural events or festivals. Engaging in the life of a place is how you meet the most interesting people with connections to share about their city or country.

Use Local Facebook Groups and Meetups

Do some research on Facebook Groups and Meetups in your destination focused on topics or activities you’re interested in. These online groups often arrange casual meetups, events and excursions. Join one that suits your interests and attend an event to connect with members in person. These groups are ideal for forming new friendships with like-minded people wherever you travel.

Be Patient and Follow Up

Making meaningful connections often takes time. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t become fast friends with everyone you meet. Be patient in forming new relationships and follow up with people as promised. Exchange contact details whenever you feel a spark of connection with someone and keep in touch via social media, messaging or post-trip email. Nurturing new friendships will enhance your travel experiences for years to come.

Strike a Balance Between Socializing and Solitude

While meeting new people is exhilarating, also prioritize time alone on your travels. Take moments for quiet solitude to recharge and reflect on new connections being made. Socializing and solitude balance each other out, allowing you to gain the most from encounters with others. Value each experience and the people who enrich your journey.