One of the most rewarding aspects of international travel is having the opportunity to talk to and befriend locals. If you’re a frequent traveler and are looking for foolproof ways to meet locals, simply continue reading, to discover how to meet locals whilst traveling.
How to meet locals traveling:
1. Rent an apartment, instead of booking accommodation at a hotel or resort
One way to increase your chances of meeting friendly locals whilst traveling is to rent an apartment instead of choosing to stay at a hotel or resort, which will be overrun with tourists.
If you choose to book an apartment for a week or two at an apartment complex which boasts on-site facilities such as a swimming pool and gym, you shouldn’t have any trouble being able to strike up conversations with some of the local residents. Many of whom will be more than willing to share their tips on what bars, restaurants, and cafes to visit, whilst you’re in town.
2. Choose to frequent bars and restaurants which are popular with locals
You’ll find it difficult to meet friendly locals if you spend your time your evenings in hotel bars, which will be crawling with foreign tourists. Instead, search the internet for restaurants and bars which are popular amongst locals. If you’re looking to make new friends, a great tip to follow is to sit at the bar, where you’ll find it easy to strike up a conversation with a local or a group of locals.
As an extra bonus, you should find that the prices at restaurants and bars which attract a locale clientele will be far lower than the prices, which you’ll find at restaurants and bars which cater primarily to overseas tourists.
3. Catch public transport instead of renting a car or relying on cabs to get around
Another way to mix and mingle with locals is to choose to catch public transport, in order to get around your new destination. Most cities in the world offer reliable bus systems, most of which will drop you off right in front of a wide array of tourist attractions and many cities offer fast, underground trains. The latter of which offer the fastest, easiest way to navigate a foreign city.
Who knows, one of the locals who you sit down next to might be willing to enjoy a bit of friendly conversation with you.
4. Book a ticket to a local sports match
Another way to meet locals is to attend the home game of a popular local sports team. As an example, if you travel to Europe, it’s well worth booking a ticket to a professional soccer game. While if you travel to New Zealand, you may want to attend a professional rugby match.
So what are you waiting for? Next time you fly to a far-flung destination it’s well worth grabbing some home team merchandise and to attend a local sports match!
So if you’d love to meet locals on your travels, it’s well worth following the four tips listed above.
