155. How to make friends while living or traveling abroad

Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into the challenges and joys of making friends while living or traveling abroad. Whether you're moving to a new country for work or simply exploring as a traveler, building connections with locals and fellow expats can enhance your experience in ways you never imagined. We'll explore practical strategies to help you expand your social circle, create lasting memories, and fully immerse yourself in a new culture.

Key Takeaways:

1. Language Exchange and Classes

   • Why learning the local language, even just a little, can open doors to friendships.
   • Tips for joining language exchange programs and practicing with locals.

2. Attending Social Events & Meetups

   • Using platforms like Meetup and Internations to find events in your area.
   • How to get involved in hobby or sports groups to meet like-minded people.

3. Volunteer Opportunities

   • How giving back to the community through volunteer work can lead to meaningful connections.
   • The types of volunteer work that often attract both locals and expats.

4. Choosing Social Accommodations

   • Why hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb experiences are great for meeting fellow travelers.
   • Joining group tours or day trips for spontaneous socializing.

5. Leveraging Online Communities

   • How to find and join expat groups or local communities on Facebook, Reddit, and other platforms.
   • How social media can help you reach out to people in a new city or country.

6. Engaging in Local Culture

   • Attending festivals, local holidays, and cultural events to meet people organically.
   • The importance of immersing yourself in the local way of life to build lasting friendships.

7. Classes and Workshops

   • Joining classes (e.g., cooking, art, or dance) to learn new skills and connect with others.
   • How workshops can be both educational and social.

8. Co-working Spaces for Digital Nomads

   • Why co-working spaces are ideal for meeting other professionals while abroad.
   • The benefits of attending events and networking opportunities in these spaces.

9. Being Open and Approachable

   • The importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and starting conversations.
   • How a positive attitude and open body language can invite social interactions.

10. Building Friendships Organically

    • How to follow up with new connections and turn acquaintances into friends.
    • Why patience is key when developing friendships abroad.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

• Meetup: meetup.com – Find social events and hobby groups in your area.
• Internations: internations.org – Global network for expats to connect and attend events.
• Tandem/HelloTalk: Language exchange apps to practice with native speakers.
• Facebook Groups: Search for expat groups in the city you're living or traveling in.
• BumbleBFF or other friend matching apps

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