Meeting people while travelling can be intimidating. Between the language barrier and getting out of your comfort zone, it’s not always easy to talk to complete strangers. That being said, it’s so worth the effort when you finally connect. These friendships often become the best memories of the trip.
Here are 8 tips to help you meet people when you’re on a solo trip!
1. Choose a dorm with lots of beds
Ideally, this is a dorm with more than six people. Personally, I prefer those that are mixed for more variety!
You might also like: Top 10 party hostels in Europe
Find the best prices for your hostel on Agoda.com and Booking.com.
2. Join a table during the free dinner at your hostel
Buy your new friends the next round (beer is cheap!) or share your $2 bottle of wine from the local convenience store.
3. Sign up for the free walking tour
Most major cities offer guided walking tours or you can explore their routes on your own. Take the opportunity to spot people who look nice and spend the day with them.
Find the best walking tours on TripAdvisor.
4. Make sure you don’t miss the pub crawl
This is where the action happens (with a little liquid courage to speed things along.) If after the first 2-3 beers/shooters/cocktails nobody comes to talk to you, there might be a problem!
Find the best pub crawls on TripAdvisor.
5. Try to find a motley gang to mingle with
The more different you are from each other, the better. With experience, you’re sure to have a full day of laughter ahead!
6. Ask the reception about other solo travellers
Who knows? They might be down to go sightseeing with you or get up to a trippy activity! You can push your luck by asking if there are any other Canadians around.
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7. Participate in activities (diving, guided tour, climbing, etc.)
As they say: birds of a feather flock together! Chances are VERY high that if you already share an interest with someone, you’ll probably get along well with them.
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8. Put a beautiful smile on your face!
Let’s face it, people who look happy are more attractive! Keep your head up, put your iPhone aside and make eye contact with that cute guy or girl at the bar. Just smile! Life is beautiful!
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