4 Tips for Introverts Who Travel Solo

And the best ways to meet people in new places.

One of the most gut-wrenching things about travel is not knowing anybody.

Some people crave this kind of “fresh start”. They look forward to meeting new people.

But conversations with strangers can come few and far between if you don’t pursue them. The best way to fix that? Make an effort!

I know, I know. It is easier said than done.

The fact of the matter is, it doesn’t matter how extroverted we THINK we are. When placed in the situation all alone, we all become a little more skittish.

Chances are you won’t start a conversation right away. Even when a person looks approachable.

It is intimidating. Your mind will play tricks on you. You’ll begin to wonder if you’re interesting enough to entertain this stranger?

You’ll think about the possibilities that can come from introducing yourself. And by the time you’ve gumption up enough courage, the opportunity will have passed. The stranger will have left the room.

I have a few tips for you.

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People want to talk.

Always remember that most strangers want to talk to new people just as much as you do. Hell, there is a good chance that the stranger is waiting for you to approach them.

Everyone is looking for new friends.

Talk about them.

Remember to listen to the strangers you meet and ask questions! A majority of the people you will meet will like talking about themselves.

That’s because talking about ourselves feels comfortable to us. Comfort is the foundation of a friendship. Make them feel comfortable by making them the center of attention.

Be genuine.

People can tell when you are feeding them tall-tales. Just as you can pick out a liar when you are talking to one.

Don’t act interested in a conversation. Do your best to be interested. And, when all else fails, seek common ground.

Look friendly!

If you are too introverted to approach strangers, the least you can do is look approachable. This means: don’t wear headphones at all times. Get off your phone in public spaces. It could also mean putting on random smiles, or at least a “happy face” when you are out and about.

No one wants to approach a grouchy-looking person. Try to keep that in mind.

Where to find friends?

Conversing with strangers might come easy to you, but where do you meet them?

You are in a city you don’t know. Most locals are moving at 100 miles per hour. They don’t have time for one-off acquaintances. Sometimes, it is hard to find someone approachable.

Good thing there’s an app for that!

Whenever I am traveling (or at home, for that matter) I am always on the app Eventbrite. This ingenious platform allows anyone to post events, big or small.

This is a great alternative to touristy attractions. Plus, a great way to meet like-minded people.

If you are a traveler on a budget, you will also be happy to hear that many of these events are FREE. With locals as well as fellow travelers.

I also use apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Couchsurfing.

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Meeting people on the road isn’t as difficult as it seems. It just takes some effort on your part because not everyone is going to introduce themselves.

Sometimes, you have to be your own ice-breaker. But it’s worth the extra effort. The people you meet on the road will make the whole experience worth it.