We love traveling and exploring new parts of the world. However; we are the happiest when we get to meet and connect with someone new.
In the beginning of our full-time journey, making friends wasn’t our number one priority. We traveled as a couple and were content with occasionally meeting people and primarily relying on each other for company. However, once we began forming stronger connections with the people we met, we realized that those became the most memorable parts of our trip.
Saying our goodbyes to our LCH family. Bali, Indonesia.
Meeting People While Traveling – Full-Time Travel Vs Short Vacation
We have found that it is slightly more difficult to connect with people on an ordinary vacation or holiday than it is while traveling full-time. This isn’t necessarily due to budget but rather because the purpose of each trip is often different.
Our willingness and desire to connect with others often differ when traveling full-time versus when going on a quick trip. For example, on a vacation or holiday, what we look forward to most is to disconnect and relax. In contrast, the goal of a full-time traveler or digital nomad is usually to connect with people and immerse themselves in a new culture.
Incredible friends we met by simply starting a conversation. Lombok, Indonesia.
◇ Tip: The best way to make a connection is simply to approach people.
Though not always the case, these differences can play a major role in how approachable you appear and how much energy you have to invest in creating a new connection. Our goal is to encourage you to connect with others, regardless of how long, or little you plan on exploring.
Best ways to meet and connect with people while traveling
1. Volunteering
Hiking with friends we met while volunteering together for three weeks! Vang Vieng, Lao.
Volunteering has been one of our favorite ways to meet people. It’s a space where people intentionally go to work together, learn, grow, and connect. Oftentimes, it’s a place where you spend weeks together, therefore have a lot of downtime to explore the area and get to know each other. It is also a perfect way to learn first hand about new cultures and connect with people from other parts of the world.
⇨ Volunteering platforms: Workaway and WorldPackers
2. Hostels
Bridal dress shopping with amazing friends I met four days prior at La Palmera Hostel. Cali, Colombia.
Hostels are designed to bring people together and create social connections. We were hesitant to give them a try, given that we were a couple and in our 30s. However, we were amazed at how much fun we had and how many friends we made along the way.
⇨ Hostel World or Booking.com
◇ Note: Not every hostel is the same! Be selective. (e.g., some are focused on partying and drinking, while others prioritize community and personal growth).
3. Co-working/Digital Nomad Community:
Lost Creator House Community Bali, Indonesia. Photo: @Joelletravels_
Co-working communities are incredible for building lasting friendships. People in these spaces are working towards a goal and are often willing to support you along your journey. We spent over three months in a villa in Bali with other digital nomads, and it was the highlight of our full-time travel adventure. When you are living, growing, and supporting each other, it’s likely that you will make lifelong friends.
⇨ Use Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or WhatsApp groups to find co-working spaces in your desired destination.
Coffee farm volunteering in Quindio, Colombia.
Other Ways to Meet People:
- WhatsApp and Facebook groups
- Workout Classes and Gyms
- Community Events
- Excursions
- Organized Group Trips and Retreats
There are endless ways to meet and connect with people around the world, but it all starts with you having the desire and willingness to do so! The benefits of safely approaching someone new often outweighs the fear of doing so. We believe that the best thing you can do in life is make meaningful, aligned connections and be part of a community. And for us, traveling has been the most powerful way to do that.
◇ Tip: We know it can be scary, but be the first to start a conversation!
What are some of the best connections you made while traveling? Let us know @THETRAVELERINUS
Disclaimer: All the information shared is based on our research and experiences. Please note that we are not travel consultants, tour guides, or financial advisors and are not held liable for any misinformation. We give suggestions, but advise each person to do their own research and make the decision that best suits them. This blog posts also contains affiliate links, by using the links we provide you are helping us at no additional cost to you. Photos on this page belong strictly to The Traveler In Us and are not allowed to be saved or used for any reason unless granted permission so by the owners.
