Discovering the endless possibilities and incredible landscapes the world has to offer is always a rewarding experience, but it’s even better when you share it with others. Whether you’re a solo traveller looking for company or you want to encourage your kids to make new friends, finding others who share your love for adventure is a great way to enhance your time away from home.
Here are our top tips for connecting with like-minded travellers, so you can make the most of your holiday.
Stay in Social Accommodation
A really easy way to meet others is by staying in accommodation such as hostels, co-living spaces, and guesthouses, rather than renting a private property. These places often encourage interaction between their guests by arranging social activities, and having communal outdoor and dining areas.
If you prefer a little privacy, staying in a hotel can also provide you with plenty of opportunities to meet new people. If you have children, chatting to other parents in the resort and allowing your kids to play together can be a great way to spark new friendships as a family. Or, why not strike up a conversation at the bar or reception? Confidence is key here, so try to stay authentic and find something intriguing about the other person to ask them about.
Join a Group Tour
Group tours and activities are fantastic ways to meet new people who share your interests. Whether it’s a walking tour, a cookery class, a multi-day hike, or a safari expedition, sharing an experience naturally brings people together and sparks organic conversations.
There’s also nothing wrong with trying to make connections with other people in exciting places such as tourist attractions, national parks, or scenic locations, even if you haven’t travelled there together. Sometimes, such as if you’re on a family trip, getting from A to B is safer when you can rent a car and ensure you have everything you need for the kids on board, so don’t be afraid to chat to people you meet along the way when you’re out exploring your destination.
Use an App or Join a Travel Community
Thanks to modern technology, there are quite a few apps designed to help you meet new people while travelling. For example, Travello is a social networking app for travellers looking to share experiences, while Meet-up has a number of communities dedicated to bringing people together to make new friends.
You could also join an online travel community via platforms like Reddit or Facebook groups – these are great if you have a specific passion, such as paddleboarding or hiking. Most events are free and attract a diverse crowd, ensuring you won’t feel alone.
Stay in Touch
Once you meet other like-minded travellers who you enjoy spending time with, keep in touch! Exchanging your social media handles, swapping phone numbers, or starting a group chat is a great way to arrange future meet ups and potentially align your adventures going forward. Connecting with other people while exploring new horizons is a great way to make your journey more meaningful, so it’s well worth stepping out of your comfort zone.
