Tips
Travelling solo
It sounds kind of magical to leave everyone behind and explore the world by yourself.
And it is, if you find the right people along your journey. Sometimes that goes very easily and sometimes you have to put a little effort in it yourself. Here are some tips when you travel solo and find it hard meeting people:
GO ON FREE WALKING TOURS
Free walking tours are organized in all major cities around the world. It is the best way to meet other (solo) travellers. Ask at the reception desk of your accommodation where and when the Free Walking Tour of your destination takes place.
DONT BE STINGY WITH YOUR MONEY
All other backpackers do that already. If you order a beer by the bar and you see another backpackers, or even a local, sitting there alone, get him a beer and enjoy it together. These small gestures are highly appreciated since it is kind of the backpacker’s unwritten rule to only pay for yourself.
JOIN GROUPS
For some people this is difficult but it’s super normal to just walk to a group of backpackers in your hostel and ask them if you can join (for some drinks, to the beach etc.). Only do this to groups of more than two people btw, also couples do not always appreciate this.
TALK TO PEOPLE
When you walk out of your room in the morning say: good morning. When you leave wish everyone a good trip and don’t hesitate to ask people for advice. Simply ask them how long they’ve been at the location and if you can recommend you anything to do. For some this sounds super normal but believe me, there are plenty of people who don’t say a word and wonder why they don’t make friends on their trip.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO BE ALONE
Remember that you are travelling solo. There will be some moments that you do not meet cool people to hang out with. Your solo trip is actually about learning how to be happy by yourself. Just go out there, read your book, lonely planet, my website, write your travel experiences down or just walk around the area and enjoy these little moments.
SMILE
In my opinion this is the best way to show others you’re open to a conversation. Also, it makes both you and others happy when you smile a little bit more!
If you do all this, you’re the most friendly backpacker that exists and will probably make friends for the rest of your life 😀
