Solo Travel for Introverts — Four Relaxed Ways to Make Friends in New Places
Traveling is equal parts excitement and anxiety for a lot of people.
And traveling solo is a whole other level of jitters.
Are you someone who dreams of traveling solo but can’t shake off the fear of the unknown? Or perhaps, you are an introvert and prefer it to group travel?
Many people hesitate to embark on solo trips due to safety concerns, cultural differences, language barriers, and the fear of getting lost.
And it can be spirit-crushing if you are an introvert.
Here are some practical tips that ease you into your trip with some familiarity of home and help you open up to strangers in spaces that don’t overwhelm you.
Consider going to a Co-Working Space
A lot of solo travelers are usually working on their trip. Many co-working spaces like WeWork offer day-pass options.
These spaces are designed to promote productivity but can also be your space for a while.
Working there is an excellent opportunity to meet other like-minded professionals as well as the locals. Or, if you prefer, to retreat into your work.
There is usually free coffee, and language barriers get broken quickly in a cosmopolitan environment.For introverts travelling solo this might be just the setting they need.
Your new friends can teach you the language, show you around town and help with any cultural nuances you are struggling with.
If you usually don’t take the first step in making friends, a co-working space might be the right place to let people approach you on your terms.
There is plenty to talk about without the conversation getting personal or uncomfortable. What project are you working on, what places of interest have you been to, any recommendations for good restaurants, etc.
Bring a Book
Being able to spend time with yourself is a skill. For introverts travelling solo, it may not be anything new. My go to accessory for occasions like this is a book.
And nobody seems weird reading a book by themselves. Great books transport you somewhere fantastic. You get lost in the plot, oblivious to anything around you.
Books also make wonderful conversation starters.
It is an opening for fellow book lovers to approach you, and it may lead to some great exchange of ideas, book lists and favourites.
Get a Journal
If you are a travel blogger or make journeys often, consider bringing along a journal to record observations and details, make notes about attractions, itineraries — anything you don’t want to forget in a hurry.
You will be surprised how swiftly time passes when you are enjoying yourself and writing about things you love.
Frequent a Cafeteria
If you love the food, drinks or coffee in a particular restaurant, bookmark it and visit often.
Once they know you there, you will get opportunities to ask questions and gather info to dive deeper into your destination.
And you can take you time to be ready to converse.
Familiarity and repeat business encourage the locals to make you comfortable in their city.
Besides, the positive effects of slow travel on the local economy are hugely underestimated — the more time you spend there, the more you will care.
Traveling solo can be an enriching experience, but it can be daunting for many.
You can ease some of the anxiety by preparing yourself with location research, staying in safe accommodations, and utilizing technology.
Enjoy the freedom and independence that comes with solo travel.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s travel style is different.
Whether you prefer solo or group travel, what matters most is that you’re comfortable and happy with your choices.
So go ahead, book that solo trip you’ve been dreaming of, and embrace the adventure!
Hi, I am Nalanda. I write about Adventure Travel, Personal Effectiveness and stories from the rich tapestry of LIFE! If you liked this article, you’ll love my Newsletter — Get, Set, Adventure. Get it once every two weeks.
