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Solo travel can be a revolutionary way to travel. Left to your own devices, you get to do what you want, when you want and how you want. However, that sense of freedom can wear off at times. When reality starts to sink in – being alone, not un-ironically, can get a bit lonely.
How to meet people when you are travelling alone
As a twin, I’m used to having company, so entertaining myself while travelling solo can sometimes bring on the solo travel blues.
As humans, we’re (believe it or not) social creatures, and we thrive in the company of others. So, what to do if you’ve decided to embark on a solo trip but need some human interactions, laughs and the chance to share a story along the way? Try these seven tried and tested, ‘awkward-free’ ways to meet new people when travelling alone.
You’ll never travel alone with a free city walking tour in South America
City tours in South America (and many other places) are an absolute must for newcomers – and not just because they’re often free (of course you should tip the guide). From Cartagena to Cordoba, they’re available in most major cities popular with tourists and not surprisingly, most of the group is often made up of solo travellers.
They’re a fantastic way to explore the main sights, pick up a few local phrases, and discover authentic off-the-beaten-track experiences. Most importantly, they’re an easy way to make friends with fellow travellers. If you’ve ended up here on the same adventure, the chances are that you’ll have plenty of other things in common.
Solo (Couch) Surfing in the US
Not just restricted to the US, Couchsurfing is one of the best ways to save on accommodation (it’s free) when travelling and one of the easiest ways to make local friends. The premise is simple; hosts open their couches or guest beds to visitors to their city in need of a roof over their heads.
A lot less intensive than actual surfing but just as fun, couch surfing requires no core body strength. The best part of the experience is that it gives you an authentic insight into how locals live, because, well, you’re living with a local. I have made long-lasting friendships with hosts and even their friends and family, and those friendships have become one of the highlights of the trip.
For example, my Buenos Aires host Martina, not only introduced me to a lot of Porteño practices and customs but learning her grandmother’s famous empanada recipe will always be the most memorable part of my Argentinean adventure.
Couchsurfing isn’t just limited to finding somewhere to sleep. The network encourages members to message local users interested in meeting up. So if you’re feeling bored in a new city reach out to other members and put your language skills to the test, go to a gig or watch a film.
Use the power of the internet to meet awesome people
Many apps help connect you with other travellers who are nearby or heading to the same destination as you. Travello in the US does all that, and then some. Allowing you to join groups that match your interests, find nearby travellers and discover meetups happening in your vicinity,
MeetUp is another great option in Europe and further afield. And if you’re away from home for a special event, be it Christmas, New Year’s, Eid Al-Fitr, St. Patrick’s Day or Festivus, the site is brimming with events hosted by expats and other solo travellers looking for a taste of home on their travels.
As we’re already discussing apps, it’s useful to know that swiping left and right has more uses than just getting you a date. Tinder and Bumble have evolved into a friend-making platform, as well as a dating one. As long as your profile makes clear that you’re only looking to make friends, you should be in the clear.
That thing you always wanted to do? Take a class, make friends
Ever wanted to learn how to surf, make macaroons, dance salsa or speak Spanish? Classes are an easy way to meet other people when travelling solo. Book lessons locally and you’re guaranteed both authenticity and a meeting with like-minded people. You can either pay for an official class through a local school or look for a free cultural exchange through a social network like Facebook or Reddit.
Don’t be a lone wolf, sign up for a unique day trip
My travels through Latin America were all done independently, but now and then I’d go on a day trip to visit off-the-beaten-track places. Day trips are usually packed with other solo travellers, and I’ve made many friends this way. One friendship I made under the Mexican sun led to an unforgettable adventure in Cuba! The lesson I learnt? Take all the opportunities you can and make the most of them.
Visit a co-working space, digital nomad style
I’ve been blessed to have a job that lets me work from anywhere in the world. For other digital nomads like myself, renting a seat in a coworking space gives you the freedom to work from around the world, and at the same time connect with other freelancers or entrepreneurs. Most spaces have communal social activities that allow you to both work and play; making it easier to make friends while earning.
Ready for your next solo adventure? Check out KAYAK Explore to find the best places to visit from your destination.
The post 6 unique ways to meet people on a solo trip appeared first on KAYAK Blog UK.
