Unleashing the Solo Traveller’s Social Spirit: Top Picks for the Extroverted Explorers
- Apr 5, 2024
- 3 min read
Travelling solo? Me too! And hey, it’s great, right? You’ve got the freedom to do what you want when you want. But sometimes, you just want to chat with someone over a pint or share that breathtaking view with a new friend.
I’m about to spill the beans on where to jet off to when you’re riding solo but your social butterfly wings are itching to flap.
Remember, solo doesn’t have to mean lonely!
I've met people and made friends in almost all my solo travels, but some of those occurrences were due to circumstance - like the time in Budapest and I needed a little saving from some sketchy people. The list below are super welcoming and safe destinations, in addition to having jam-packed cool stuff to do.
*Note: These hotspots aren’t listed in any particular order, they’re my all-time favs and I love them all equally.
Ireland: The Emerald of Conversations
Ireland is like that friendly dude in the pub who insists on buying you a drink and telling you his life story. I swear, Ireland must be sprinkled with friendliness. Whether you’re tipping back a pint of Guinness in a snug Dublin pub or getting lost in the wild, windswept tales of the West, Ireland is where strangers turn into your next WhatsApp pen pal. [PS. Every town holds their own accents and it might be thick as their stew, but the stories are just as rich.]
Montpellier, France: The Friendly Scholars
Nestled in the South of France, Montpellier is the place you wished you studied abroad in. It’s where book smarts meet street smarts and everyone’s down to swap tales or help you out with your French conjugations. Before you know it, you’re arm-in-arm with locals, singing songs you don’t know the words to. Trust me when I say you’ll find Montpellier’s convivial atmosphere intoxicating.
Nice, France: The Sociable Sun-Seeker’s Dream
Alright, so Nice is stunning with a capital ‘S”, but it’s the casual convos over a glass of rose on the beach that’ll have you never wanting to leave. Feeling adventurous? There’s always a friendly face ready to explore the glitzy charm of the nearby towns with you.
Italy: A Heartfelt “Benvenuto” in Every Corner
Italy is like your grandma's house on a Sunday – everywhere you go, there's an open door and a plate of something delicious waiting for you. 'Solo' in Italy is just a word because you'll be family by the time you leave. Also, Italians will make sure you know your art from your elbow with stories that make history feel like last week's news.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Let's Get Gezellig
Amsterdam is the king of cool, the queen of cosy, and the ultimate friend-maker. Bike along the canals, take in some history, or hang out in a coffeeshop (yeah, the other kind!) – it's all about 'gezelligheid', that untranslatable Dutch word for everything warm and fuzzy.
Philippines: Beach Bum or Island Hop
Filipinos have the superpower of making everyone feel like family. It’s as easy to find a quiet white-sand beach as it is to jump into a jeepney and join a random fiesta. The Philippines serves up a blend of tranquillity and social vibrancy that’s hard to resist. The Filipino’s innate warmth turns every interaction into a celebration.
Bali, Indonesia: The Social Island of the Gods
Bali is like that trendy international hostel lounge but as a whole island. You’ll find everyone from surfers to soul-searchers. In this tropical paradise, the social tapestry is as diverse as it is inclusive, ensuring that whether you’re a yogi, a digital nomad, or simply in search of a good party, you’ll find your tribe here. This is the island where every ‘hello’ could lead to an invitation to a beach bonfire or a party at Potato Head.
Hong Kong: The City of Lights and Connections
And oh, Hong Kong, my glittering, sky-high love affair! This pulsating metropolis is a beacon for expats and travellers, each seeking the dynamism of the East with the comfort of international familiarity. From dim sum to cocktails and hiking trails, all are equally likely to lead you into new friendships. This city's heartbeat is matched only by the speed at which you’ll make connections.
So there you have it – my list of go-to places for when I want to mix solo adventures with social butterfly vibes. Remember, travelling solo doesn’t mean walking alone – it’s about choosing your own adventure. Embrace these destinations not just as places to see, but as experiences to live, with every new friend as a chapter in your story xx
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