From Paris to Bali, the idea of finding that special someone while exploring a far-off land is undeniably romantic. Whether it’s sharing a sunset in Santorini, getting lost in a vibrant street market in Bangkok, or locking eyes across a crowded café in Rome, travel has a way of creating moments that feel like they belong in a love story.

But meeting new people while traveling solo isn’t always effortless — especially if it means stepping outside your comfort zone. The good news? There are plenty of ways to connect with others naturally, whether it’s through shared adventures, spontaneous encounters, or mutual passions. You don’t have to rely on luck alone to create meaningful experiences (or even a whirlwind romance) while on the road.

Let’s explore some of the best ways to meet people while traveling solo.

Sit at the Bar = Raise the Bar!

Dining alone can feel awkward, but sitting at the bar instead of a table for one makes it easy to meet new people. Bars naturally encourage conversation, and you’ll often find solo travelers and local regulars seated alongside you.

Grab a seat at Paris’ La Belle Hortense, a charming literary wine bar, or cozy up to the counter at Tokyo’s Golden Gai, where tiny bars host just a handful of patrons—perfect for striking up a conversation. If you’re in Buenos Aires, order a cocktail at Florería Atlántico, a speakeasy hidden behind a flower shop, and chat with fellow adventurers. If the conversation isn’t going anywhere, simply pay your tab and move on, no awkward goodbyes required!

Stay in Social Accommodations

Where you stay can shape your social experience while traveling. Solo travelers looking to meet others should consider hostels, co-living spaces, or boutique guesthouses known for their communal vibe. In Bangkok, the lively Mad Monkey hostel offers pub crawls and day tours, making it easy to meet other solo travelers. In Lisbon, Selina Secret Garden combines coworking spaces, city tours, and rooftop bars, attracting an energetic mix of travelers and remote workers.

Looking for a more intimate experience? In Cape Town, try A Sunflower Stop, a cozy guesthouse with a sociable poolside atmosphere. Even if romance doesn’t spark, you might leave with some amazing new friendships!

Join a Festival or Group Activity

Festivals, meetups, and group tours are goldmines for meeting like-minded people. Whether it’s a full-moon party in Thailand, Oktoberfest in Munich, or Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, these massive celebrations create plenty of natural opportunities to connect (and maybe even spark some romance!).

Not a party person? Consider smaller group activities like a paella cooking class in Barcelona, a bike tour through Amsterdam, or a guided snorkeling trip in the Great Barrier Reef. Websites like Meetup.com and Couchsurfing Hangouts can help you find local events, making it even easier to step out of your comfort zone.

Meet the Locals

Instead of sticking to typical tourist spots, explore local hangouts where residents unwind and socialize. In Rome, skip the tourist-packed piazzas and grab an aperitivo at Freni e Frizioni, a hip bar in Trastevere where locals mix with visitors. If you’re in Hanoi, share a sidewalk table with strangers at an informal bia hơi (local beer corner) and strike up a conversation about the best street food in town. In Mexico City, Cantina Tío Pepe is a great no-frills bar where travelers and locals mingle over tequila and live music. A simple chat about what to order could lead to an unforgettable night—or something more!

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Take a Dance Class (or Just Dance!)

Dancing is a universal way to connect, so why not step onto the dance floor? Whether you’re learning salsa in Medellín, tangoing in Buenos Aires, or practicing flamenco in Seville, these cultural experiences make it easy to interact with others in a naturally flirty setting. Not into structured lessons? Dive into the nightlife scene at places like Mama Africa in Zanzibar, Quinta Bar in Havana, or La Bomba de Tiempo in Buenos Aires, where live percussion sets the vibe.

Use Travel-Friendly Dating Apps

Dating apps aren’t just for your hometown! Platforms like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge can help you connect with locals or fellow travelers looking for romance or companionship. In bustling cities like New York, London, and Tokyo, dating apps expand your social circle instantly. Some apps even cater to travelers — Bumble’s BFF mode helps you meet local friends, while Tinder’s Passport feature lets you start swiping before you even land. Just be mindful of safety—always meet in a public place and trust your instincts.

You Might Also Enjoy: A Semi-Comprehensive Guide to Smart Solo Travel

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Volunteer for a Cause

Want to meet people while making a positive impact? Volunteering allows you to connect with locals and fellow travelers who share your values. Join a sea turtle conservation program in Costa Rica, help with teaching projects in Nepal, or participate in beach cleanups in Bali. Working together toward a common goal naturally builds bonds among volunteers, and who knows? Your shared passion for making a difference could spark something deeper.

FAQs: 

Q: How can I stay safe when meeting new people while traveling?
A: Always meet in a public place, let someone know where you’re going, and trust your instincts. Avoid sharing too much personal information too soon, and have a backup plan if you feel uncomfortable.

Q: What are the best destinations for solo travelers looking to meet people?
A: Cities with lively social scenes, like Barcelona, Bangkok, Buenos Aires, and Cape Town, are great for meeting locals and fellow travelers. Destinations with strong backpacker or digital nomad communities, such as Medellín or Chiang Mai, also make socializing easier.

Q: How do I approach someone without feeling awkward?
A: Start with a simple conversation starter related to your surroundings, like asking for a recommendation or commenting on an event. People are usually more open to casual conversation while traveling than in everyday life.

Q: What’s the best way to decline unwanted attention politely?
A: Keep it simple and direct. A polite “I’m just exploring on my own today, but have a great time!” usually works. If someone is persistent, firmly say no and remove yourself from the situation.

Q: How can I find local events or meetups while traveling?
A: Websites like Meetup.com, Couchsurfing Hangouts, and local Facebook groups list social events and activities in most major cities. Hostels and co-living spaces also often post events for travelers.

Q: Should I learn some of the local language before trying to meet people?
A: It helps! Even just learning a few key phrases shows effort and respect. Apps like Duolingo or Google Translate can also assist in breaking the language barrier when needed.

Q: Is it common to form temporary travel romances?
A: Yes! Many solo travelers experience short-term flings or deep but temporary connections. Whether it lasts a night, a week, or leads to something long-term, the key is enjoying the moment while respecting each other’s expectations.

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

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About The Author

An insatiable foodie, art collector, and international literature aficionado, I have traveled throughout Europe, Asia, the U.S. and Canada. For the past fifteen years, I have written about my adventures for various travel and literary publications. I am the owner of Lucidité Writing (www.luciditewriting.com) and Bouchard Design Co.