How I Make Friends While Traveling Solo

A journey is best measured in human connections rather than miles.

I have been traveling solo since I was 14. I remember facing many fun challenges, like language barriers, during my first solo trip overseas, for example, to Macau. I didn't speak English or Chinese well at the time. It was funny, scary, but definitely a memorable experience. Luckily, I got help from a big group tour from Taiwan to cross the border (China to Macau), and we had an early breakfast at McDonald's. The lady who helped me, Kimberly, was from Kaohsiung. I remember it so well, even now.

Since I found the joy of traveling alone, I've visited many places across Southeast Asia by myself. I've also joined tours and day trips in countries like India, Central Asia, and Africa. Traveling solo lets me explore what I'm interested in, giving me the freedom to do what I want and fully enjoy experiences that matter to me..

In this blog post, I’ll share practical tips for making friends and staying approachable while traveling solo. Many people have recently asked how I manage traveling alone for extended periods without feeling bothered. I often say: know yourself first, understand what you like, and find ways to cope with loneliness by keeping yourself occupied.

Making the First Move Smiling and Stay Mindful of Cultural Differences

Growing up in Indonesia, my mom taught me the 3S rule—smile, say sorry, and say thank you.

Smiling is a universal way to communicate. It helps create a welcoming atmosphere and encourages others to approach you. Growing up in Indonesia, my mom taught me the 3S rule—smile, say sorry, and say thank you. This approach has been really helpful in my solo travels. Whenever I smile, people tend to respond positively and feel more comfortable approaching me.

When approaching others, it's essential to stay mindful of cultural differences. In some cultures, direct eye contact or physical touch is not appropriate, so respecting personal boundaries is crucial. Also, be aware of your body language and tone of voice when communicating with someone from a different culture. A little effort and sensitivity can go a long way in creating connections while traveling solo.

Cultivating The Connections: Online Friendships and Language Exchange

I make an effort to connect with them on Instagram before meeting up - to make sure they are real.

Establishing a connection is one thing; mantaining it into a lasting friendship is another. When you meet someone interesting, ask about their job or thoughts on the country you’re visiting. For example, if you meet someone from Italy while traveling, you might ask about their favorite Italian dishes or must-see places in their hometown. I also make an effort to connect with them on Instagram to learn a bit about their lives—not to stalk, but to understand their authenticity. This can ensure a safer interaction for you.

If the conversation flows well, suggest meeting up again. You don’t need to spend too long in one go, as it respects both your schedules. Propose a future activity, such as exploring a local attraction or sharing a meal, to strengthen the bond.

There were moments I felt unsafe—the best thing I did was trust my gut. If something didn’t feel right, I knew it was okay to leave. I stayed alert for warning signs, like someone being too pushy or secretive. I also made sure to let a friend or family member know where I was before meeting someone new.

How I met people?

• Photography Networking Events (Facebook Group)
• Meetup.com
• Mutual friends

Online Dating Apps for Making Friends

In today's digital world, there are many ways to make friends while traveling. I use dating apps and i see this as just not for romance; well, I must admit that using online dating to find new friends has helped me learn more about the city. People who are open to dating tend to share more about their city, town, and personal lives—how they grew up, their work, etc.—compared to those you might meet casually at a networking event. As a result, you end up learning a lot about someone just by meeting them.

Make sure:

Conclusion

By being open, friendly, and careful, you can make friends who add to your travel experiences.

Solo travel isn't just about visiting new places; it's about meeting people and experiencing different cultures. By being open, friendly, and careful, you can make friends who add to your travel experiences. Remember to smile, be genuine, and balance being open with staying safe. Every interaction can lead to growth and discovery.

Also, learning the local language can help you connect better, as people appreciate your effort. I've had many funny moments trying to speak the local language.

Feel free to share your tips and experiences in the comments below—your story could inspire another traveler. Happy travels, and may your solo adventures bring you great connections and unforgettable memories!

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This time, I am dedicated to focusing on what truly matters to me. 😃Self-reflection: By stepping away from the crowd and spending time alone, I am realigning my priorities and focusing on what truly matters to me. Life can often be overwhelming and fast-paced, but in solitude, I’ve discovered how

cindyair.comCindy Christella

We travel to learn, to grow, to challenge our assumptions and see the world through new eyes. And in the midst of all this, we find ourselves.

Explore the reasons behind a passion for travel, from the thrill of curiosity to the joy of discovering new places and cultures. Learn how traveling enriches life by stepping out of the comfort zone and into the world’s vast library of experiences.

cindyair.comCindy Christella