More of us are embracing the amazing benefits of solo travelling than ever before. You know, the type of trip where you’ve got the freedom to do whatever you want, when you want, how you want. And while that freedom is exciting, every so often you might find yourself feeling a tad lonely – maybe wishing you had someone to eat lunch or take photos with. Luckily, there are few simple ways to make friends when you’re solo travelling, here are my fail-safe tips…
Jump on a Contiki Tour
Since 1962, Contiki has been bringing people together from all over the world, from all walks of life. From long days on the bus together to late nights partying at some of Europe’s wildest clubs, a Contiki tour is the perfect way to meet like-minded people. Whether your tour is one week or six weeks, you’ll share some of the most memorable and life-changing experiences you’ll ever have with the people you meet on Contiki, I know I did!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BwYyd2DpxS6/
Choose hostels over hotels
Hostels might not be for everyone, but they’re a fantastic way to meet people from anywhere and everywhere. When travelling alone, sometimes you might find you’re less likely to give things a try, but the friends you make at hostels will no doubt push you to try things you never thought you’d do – I never thought I’d go kayaking in the Cinque Terre, but thanks to some great people I met, I really surprised myself.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BzPufdRJdXP/
Go on a bar crawl
Making new friends is easy over a few drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic, whichever you fancy!). Since the whole night is organised – everything from where to go, how to get there and even what to drink – you can focus entirely on having a good time and meeting people. Bars crawls offer a safe and easy way of going out at night in a foreign city, and with the rise of social media, they’re becoming even more popular.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BwQm-M3noDP/
Try walking tours and excursions
Since local walking tours tend to be free, they often attract backpackers on a budget. It’s the perfect way to meet those with similar interests, as well as those who have the same travel style. Similarly, excursions are also a fun way to make friends while doing something different and exciting.
https://www.instagram.com/p/ByhX3LYJMgy/
There’s an app for that
Social media can absolutely be the place for creating new friendships. Join a Facebook group like Girls LOVE Travel or Contiki Travel Community and connect with users in the area. Not only is it an easy way to meet people, but it’s a great forum to grab some insider knowledge, tips and tricks from past travellers and travel inspiration. If social media isn’t for you, try an app like Backpackr to connect with nearby travel buddies or even Tinder and organise to catch up with fellow travellers.
So, there’s only only one thing to do. Go make some friends!
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxb0_xrH4RL/
