One of the primary reasons I hear why people, particularly women, are hesitant to travel on their own is the fear of being lonely. We must remember that there is a difference between being lonely and being alone.

I prefer to think that I am alone when I travel and not lonely. You might be surprised to learn that it is my preference to travel alone, as I find it much easier to meet people from around the world.

Even if you are not an extrovert (like me), meeting people when travelling solo is much easier than you might think.  If you are one of those people who are afraid of being lonely, you might be wondering…..

How to meet people when you are traveling by yourself.

Choose Your Accommodation Wisely

If your goal is to meet other people when you are travelling solo, choosing the type of accommodation that is right for you is extremely important, so choose wisely.

Bunk at a Hostel

Staying at a hostel is the number one way to meet people whenever you are travelling alone.  Many of the travelers will have the same interests as you do so this will provide you with people to hang out with, as well as to tour your destination with.

Book an Airbnb or B&B

If being too crowded and having not enough alone time is an issue, then consider booking an Airbnb.  Many Airbnb’s have the host living right on site which provides you with instant companionship.  This will not only provide you with a person to talk to, but it will also provide the opportunity to learn all of the off-the-beaten-path places to explore.  If you are lucky and have an extremely friendly host, you may even meet some of his or her friends.

Stay at a Small Resort or Hotel

If a hostel or an Airbnb are for you, then  stay at a small, intimate resort or hotel.  The size and intimacy of the hotel will automatically bring you into closer contact with your fellow travelers, whether it be in the restaurant, at the bar, or at the pool.  Many resorts, even small ones, host get-togethers, offer different classes or sporting events.  By getting involved in these activities, you will have found the perfect way to meet like-minded people.

I have found that unless I want to get lost in the masses of people, I stay away from the larger resorts.  Besides, the service is always better at a smaller more intimate resort, hotel or inn and it is much easier to meet people when you’re travelling by yourself.

FOLLOW ALONG FOR MORE SOLO TRAVEL TIPS!

Book a Day Tour

If you feel uncomfortable venturing out on your own when travelling alone, or you simply want to be with other people, then booking a tour is the perfect way to see the sites as well as to meet other people which will provide you with company for the day.  You will all be having the same experience so striking up a conversation will be easy.  Just don’t be shy.

Climb Aboard Public Transportation

If you have ever been on a bus, you know that the majority of the time you will be in extremely close contact with other passengers.  Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation.  Ask about the places to see and the things to do.  Locals are always excited to talk about their town to tourists. Just be cautious when travelling alone not to disclose any personal information.

Use Your Apps

If you don’t feel comfortable personally chatting with somebody, use whatever app might be available to see who is out there to meet up with.  I personally don’t use this method, as I am quite comfortable talking to strangers.

Meet the Bartender

While I don’t recommend over-indulging when travelling solo, having a drink at the bar is a great way to meet people. Most people travelling alone will sit at the bar so that they will at least have the bartender to talk to. This is also another great way to learn about all of the off the beaten path places to see and things to do.

Be Chatty Cathy

This is how I meet so many people whenever I travel solo (which is always).  Don’t be afraid to talk to people.  Most people are quite open and receptive and who knows, he or she may also be looking for a friend to hang out with.

“You never really travel alone.   The world is full of friends waiting to get to know you”

When travelling solo, you will be surprised to learn that meeting people is much easier than when you are travelling with a companion.  This is one time when talking to strangers is allowed and even encouraged.  One of the greatest beauties of travelling solo is that you can meet as many or as few people as you want.

HAPPY TRAVELING 🙂

Kelly xoxo

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