Friendship and Dating On the Road: 5 Ways to Meet New Friends While Travelling

Being a tourist will allow you to meet some of the most interesting and engaging people. Hailing from all corners of the world these new friends offer insights on the countries and cultures they come from, while you share your time with them in a third country. In the process of building this friendship you acquire a life-long friend, and fortunately a tour guide for when you choose to make a visit to their home country.

As I have traveled over the years, many people have asked the questions: How do you meet people when you are travelling with your partner? And; how do you meet people when you are travelling alone? There are a number of answers to this question, and in fact there are dozens of ways I have met people while on the road. Below is a list of 5 of the most effective ways to meet people while travelling.

1.1) Coffee Shops – Everyone loves a great cup of coffee or tea to start their day. A number of the new friends I have made while on the road were ones I met in a coffee shop. Travelers converge to these establishments for many reasons, but chief among them is free wifi. Look for others who are there with their laptops and look dressed for a fun day exploring. This is especially good if you are travelling solo. Remember though, that free wifi is a security risk.

2.2) Hotel/Hostel Bars – After a long day exploring there is nothing like a great beer, or other cold drink at the hotel or hostel bar. If you are looking to meet friends while you are on the road travelling then heading to a hostel bar is a great place to start. At the end of the day the bar will be full of weary travelers anxious to meet other people and share their stories from the day’s adventure.

3.3) Guided Group Tours – Guided group tours can usually be arranged on the Internet or via the hotel concierge desk. Tour guides usually provide a fun and interactive day, and set the activities up so as to encourage people to get to know one another.

4.4) Online – If you are looking for a date, then you should head online to a travel dating site. There are sites designed for travelers who are already on the road and looking for a date, and those looking for a date to travel with.

5.5) Through Friends – Lastly one of the most interesting ways to meet local tour guides and friends is to ask your friends at home or on Facebook. Send out a message stating where you are planning on travelling and requesting introductions to local contacts. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can jump start a friendship when you know someone in common.