From Paris to Bali, the thought of finding that special someone in a far off land is incredibly romantic. Though it may seem like the stuff romance novels are made of, finding love while traveling is more common than you might think. Here are some suggestions for meeting people in a low-risk way while traveling solo.[pullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””] Even if you don’t find the love of your life, you’re sure to meet some interesting people along the way if you put yourself out there.[/pullquote]

Sit at the Bar = Raise the Bar!

It can be awkward going out to eat when you’re traveling solo, but it doesn’t have to be. Opting to sit at the bar instead of a table for one can definitely increase your chances of meeting a variety of colorful characters. More often than not, you’ll find other solo travelers and single locals alongside you. With drinks and food as natural conversation starters, you’ll be chatting up a storm in no time. You never know, you could even find a love connection! Of course, if you don’t “click” with the others at the bar, it’s also very easy to effortlessly make an exit once you’ve paid your tab.

[pullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]“Travel is like love, mostly because it’s a heightened state of awareness, in which we are mindful, receptive, undimmed by familiarity and ready to be transformed. That is why the best trips, like the best love affairs, never really end.” – Pico Iyer[/pullquote]

Fraternize at a Festival

A music, art, or cultural festival can be a fun, casual way to meet fellow travelers. Scope out websites and social media to find events that fit your interests in the areas where you’ll be staying. Chances are that you’ll meet like-minded individuals and have plenty to talk about while enjoying the festival atmosphere. You might even meet that special someone. On the flip side, if you find yourself in a conversation or a situation you’d rather not be in, it’s easy to say goodbye and slip away into the crowd.

Choose to Chit-Chat on a Plane, Train, or Bus

Chances are you’ll be stuck on some form of public transportation for several hours (or more) during your travels. Why not use this opportunity to strike up a conversation with the people sitting near you? You’ll never know if your seatmate could be your soulmate unless you take a chance and get to know him or her. If it turns out you don’t really connect, you never have to see that person again after you disembark, so you don’t have anything to lose by being bold and breaking the ice!

RELATED: Nervous about traveling solo? Check out these great tips to help you wherever you may roam around the world!

Make Time for a Tour or Class

Taking a tour or class while traveling can be a great way to meet people who share your interests – from food to wine to art to biking and more! It also provides plenty of natural opportunities to strike up a conversation with an interesting stranger in the group. Dance classes are particularly great places to meet and get to know others a bit more intimately. Of course, if you don’t particularly hit it off with anyone, your conversations don’t have to continue after the tour or class comes to an end.

Indulge Like a Local

It can be nice to escape the tourist scene and spend some time where the locals hang out. Check out online discussion boards and social media sites (or simply ask around) to figure out where the local hangouts are. Strike up a conversation with an interesting local to learn more about the best things to try and do – for example, if you’re at a bar or restaurant, ask what he or she has tried before. As with any public space, it’s easy to leave an awkward situation if you need to.

Have you had a love connection while traveling? How and where did you meet? Let us know in the comments section.