Meeting new people is always a major highlight of any trip. Whether you got to know friendly locals at a sports game or hobnobbed with fellow tourists while sightseeing, one thing’s for sure: The memories you shared will be cherished forever.
However, making friends on the road isn’t as easy as it looks, especially for introverts. Befriending other people involves deliberately stepping outside your comfort zone and making yourself a bit vulnerable, and it can even trigger moments of mind-wracking anxiety. But rest assured, the payoff is usually worth it.
So how does one go about making friends while traveling? Here are some easy ways to do so.
Hang out at a bar
Traveling alone? Seek out a lively bar, order a drink, and chat up the person who eventually sits next to you. Start with small talk—bring up the weather or ask about the person’s drink—then proceed from there.
Join a free tour
You can find free walking tours in several cities worldwide, and the good news is that they’re usually free. It’s a lovely way to see the sights while learning interesting things about each landmark’s history. Don’t forget to give your guide a good tip!
Get active on social media
Join travel groups on Facebook and ask around for travel tips, interesting restaurants, and other fun activities in your destination. Who knows, you might even get invited to fun events!
Volunteer
Volunteering hits two birds with one stone: You’ll get to meet new people while helping out the community. It also provides you with an in-depth view of the issues surrounding your destination and gives you a newfound appreciation of the life you’re lucky enough to live.
Just strike up a conversation!
Really, it all boils down to getting out of your comfort zone and chatting up the people around you. Stuck on a bus for a long trip? Strike up a conversation with the person beside you. Taking pictures around the city by your lonesome? Don’t hesitate to a stranger to take a picture so you’re in the frame, and return the favor. Just go ahead and chat!
With the right mindset, you’ll befriend a ton of people before your trip is over. Don’t forget to take lots of photos with your new pals and display them on your Nixplay Frame!
Invite your new friends to share their photos with you so you’ll always have memories of your adventure together. Take advantage of Nixplay’s International Friendship Day sale and get up to 25% off selected frames, only until August 4!