Have you ever felt that strong urge to explore somewhere new, but you don't want to end up on your own the entire time? Well, there’s good news! There are lots of ways (from group tours to local events) to spend time in good company while travelling solo.

BENEFITS OF CONNECTING WITH OTHERS

Making friends enriches the solo travel experience. It can lead to a lively night out or a new buddy to split costs with. The simplest of excursions, such as browsing a local bazaar , can turn into a one-of-a-kind adventure. Cultural adaptation may be less intimidating. You’ll know what to expect and how to fit in easier when a more seasoned traveller of someone local is there to show you around. You might even get tips for the next time you hit the road.

GROUP TOURS

Joining a group tour is one of the easiest ways to meet people . It’s an especially good option if you have never tried solo travel before. It’s also a great choice if you simply want an instant community of fellow explorers to share all or a part of your solo adventure.

Group tours usually have a professional guide on hand, which adds an extra layer of security. Their structured schedule also means you can focus on enjoying your destination instead of sweating the logistics. At Intro Travel, our group tours highlight both must-see sights and more immersive activities. We tailor our itineraries to help travellers bond quickly over shared experiences.

ACCOMMODATIONS THAT ENCOURAGE SOCIALISING

Your choice of accommodation shapes how easy it is to connect with others.

• Hostels are famously social. Their dorm-style rooms and common spaces foster impromptu chats.
• Some small hotels or guesthouses host communal dinners to bring travellers together. It can be a great way to share stories over a home-cooked meal.
• If you want a deeper peek into local life, consider a homestay. It is ideal because it often includes a friendly host who shares insider tips about the neighbourhood.

Always read reviews before booking. This will help to ensure you find a place where you will feel both welcome and safe.

LOCAL EVENTS AND CLASSES

Local events and short courses are great for meeting people and exploring your destination on a more personal level. Some cities offer language exchanges or photography walks that pair travellers with residents. Other popular solo-traveller favourites are cooking classes , painting sessions, and dance workshops.

Hands-on gatherings like these tend to feel way more memorable than any solo selfie spree. They can deepen your appreciation for the local rhythm while you learn a new skill. That’s how you build genuine connections with your destination.

ONLINE COMMUNITIES AND SOCIAL MEDIA

It's helpful to check reviews or member references on social platforms before you even arrive. Countless online communities are out there for solo explorers. You can make connections based on everything from favorite beaches to the best street food.

Region-specific Facebook groups, for instance, sometimes arrange casual meetups or museum visits. A quick hello in these virtual spaces can turn into a friendly face at the hostel, giving you a smooth transition into a new city and broadening your travel circle.

STAYING SAFE AND TRUSTING YOUR INSTINCTS

While meeting new people can be the highlight of your trip, it’s still essential to stay mindful of potential risks. Arrange first get-togethers in busy areas, and keep personal details private until you feel at ease. Remember, too, that government travel advisories can offer guidance on local conditions. Check out websites like those for the U.S. Department of State or the UK Foreign Travel Advice for up-to-date information.

Be sure to let your family or close friends know where you will be. Many travellers use a location-sharing app so someone they trust can keep tabs on their whereabouts. If you are in a situation where something seems off, it's always okay to excuse yourself and find a more comfortable setting.

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Travelling solo is about flexibility and the freedom to write your own itinerary. However, it doesn’t mean you have to be alone all the time. Embrace crossing paths and sharing experiences with people from all over the world. That’s the best kind of solo travelling . It’s for those who love independence but also appreciate having a crew to laugh with at the end of the day. Join an INTRO Travel group tour on your next solo journey. You might form friendships that last well beyond the final stop.