If you’re jonesing to see the world, but don’t have a partner in sight fret not. Traveling solo is perfectly acceptable and can be surprisingly a lot of fun. In fact, vacationing solo is a fantastic way to meet new people, if you know what to do and where to go. Stories abound of couples who met on the road, fell in love, and lived happily ever after. Eat, Pray, Love is the obvious example. But Elizabeth Gilbert doesn’t have the stronghold on meeting love on the road. You too can do it.
Make friends with expats and tourists.
Any good guide book or seasoned traveler will tell you to seek out the locals and do as they do. However, while it’s good to seek out authentic culture, keep in mind the locals aren’t on vacation so they’re not apt to be as excited about exploring the town as you are. The most enthusiastic people you’re going to meet on the road are other tourists. They’re on vacation as well, so they’re up for meeting different people and eager to exchange travel stories. In places like Central America or Asia, you may stand out more easily and it will be easier to meet people. In major Western cities like London or Paris it may be a little more difficult with such a diverse population. That’s the perfect time to head to a coffee shop, bookstore, or bar where you can easily chat up people.
Choose the Right Hotels
Chain hotels might offer great discounts and membership rewards, but they don’t offer easy ways to meet people. Most people in such hotels are either business travelers eager to get back to their rooms, people there for conventions, or families; not the best option for a solo traveler. As an alternative, try a trendier hotel with an active bar/nightlife scene. Or try a boutique hotel with common areas that encourage social interaction.
Go on an Active Vacation
You may be dying to hit the beach, but the idea of being surrounded by other couples may be enough to make you want to crawl into the sand. But there are plenty of non-romantic beach vacations you can take. For example, you can go to a surf camp. Specifically created for adults, surf camps let you indulge your inner Kelly Slater. You can also visit a working ranch or go on a volunteer vacation helping scientists study dolphins. The options are literally endless. The best part is you’ll be learning something new with a plethora of new and interesting people.
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