TL;DR: You can try dating apps with travel features; stay in hostels or co-living spaces, and wear something distinctive to strike up a conversation. When you meet a promising single, ask about the local culture and be a good listener.
Meeting singles while traveling is a great way to connect with like-minded individuals and make your journeys more memorable. One of the best ways to meet people is by joining group tours or local events, such as cooking classes, walking tours, or language exchanges.
According to a recent survey by Statista, 38% of solo travelers reported making meaningful social connections through group activities.
Be Open to Apps with Travel Features
Dating apps with travel features can help you find singles in your area who are open to new connections and experiences. Apps influence how users meet other users on trips and vice versa, and a growing number of singles are swiping their way around the world. Quite a few people feel more attractive and confident abroad.
More than half of the 5,610 Bumble users surveyed in 2023 said they hoped for romantic connections while traveling. Apps are popular among singles traveling alone, with almost a third (30%) using dating apps to meet others, particularly when traveling solo.
Apps can also be helpful if you’re open to dating after divorce and your job requires a lot of travel; some people have found love this way.
Stay in Hostels
Another effective way to meet singles is by staying in social accommodations, such as hostels, co-living spaces, or boutique hotels with communal areas. Hostelworld reported that 55% of solo travelers chose hostels specifically for the opportunity to meet new people.
Participating in local nightlife, attending cultural events, or volunteering can also lead to organic conversations and shared experiences.
Carry or Wear Something Distinctive
You could wear or carry something that relates to your passions or hobbies. It might be as simple as a sticker related to The Office or a movie you love. Someone might comment on it, and talking about something can lead to a conversation on another subject.
Many people want to meet a romantic interest, but they feel anxious about it, just like you do. Exercise caution with geographically identifiable clothing, though; it can make you a target in unsafe places.
If you’re unsure what to talk about, simply ask people where they’re from and why they’re traveling. People believe they’re grand explorers when they set out and tend to love talking about it.
Be Open to New Things
An idea might not sound fun, but it can lead to something fun. It doesn’t make much sense to travel to a distant country just to do the same things you do at home. Rise to challenges and enjoy yourself; your routine will be waiting for you when you return.
Good Listeners Make Connections More Easily than Talkers
Not being a talker is an advantage when it comes to meeting people. Being interested in listening to others helps you connect with them better than simply trying to be interesting yourself. When someone feels you truly care about what they say, they’ll feel closer to you and will be more eager to hear your stories than if you just share things they didn’t ask about.
Ask questions and listen; being a good listener is a rare and highly valued quality.
Ask About the Local Culture
Take an active interest in local culture, as people love being experts in their own country and are delighted to meet foreigners who are visiting to see more than just the touristy areas. The person you meet might complain about tourists – many locals do, no matter where you go – and that’s fun as long as you don’t take it personally.
Be open about what you’re looking for, and you’ll find that many locals are willing to go on a date. They might even take you to a cool “insider” spot away from the crowds.
Recap
- Stay in social accommodations
- Wear or carry something that relates to your passions
- Try new activities
- Being a good listener is highly appreciated
- Take an active interest in local culture.
