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How To Meet People While Traveling Alone (From An Introvert Who Went on 58 Solo Trips)
I always make new friends in these seven places
I was 20 when I traveled abroad for the first time, and I will never forget that long flight from Paris to Washington, D.C. — I was naive, had no idea how and what to pack for a flight, and ended up being on the road for 50 hours because I missed the connecting flight.
It was such a mess. By the time I arrived in Ohio, my final destination, I was exhausted — both mentally and physically.
That’s when I caught the travel bug. Since then, I’ve gone on 48 solo trips.
And I’ve made good friends on every trip.
How and where?
It’s easy. Let me tell you.
1. Walking tours
My favorite way to meet new people. By far. Everybody is in a good mood and open to conversation, you learn new things, and most of the time, you end up having coffee or dinner with other people who sign up for the walking tour.
Honestly, I’ve never been on a walking tour where I didn't meet at least one interesting person who found their way into my schedule for the next couple of days. Years later, I’m still in touch with some of them.
And you know what’s the best thing about it? It’s very easy to start a conversation because you can literally make a comment about any place that you’re visiting during the tour.
You could also make a joke. A good sense of humor goes a long way.
2. Coffee shops & restaurants
Yes, it might not be for everybody, but the way I see it, it’s the perfect place to meet someone.
Don’t ask me how, but solo travelers can smell others of their kind from miles apart. We just recognize each other.
And that’s why we also approach each other when we’re sitting down to have a coffee or a bite.
How to do it? Break the ice by asking if they’ve tried something from the menu yet or if they’ve been to this place before.
