5 Tips to Making Friends Abroad

Updated 1/23/25

Making friends abroad can feel daunting, especially when you’re adjusting to a new culture and environment. Even if you’re naturally outgoing, the unfamiliarity of a different country can make you hesitant. The good news? Building connections abroad is possible with some effort and creativity. Here are five effective tips to help you expand your social circle while living in a new country:

1. Stay in a Hostel or Shared Accommodation

While hostels might lack the luxury of hotels, they offer a unique social environment perfect for meeting new people. Most hostel guests are travelers or expats eager to connect, making it easier to strike up conversations. Many hostels also host group activities, such as city tours, communal meals, or pub crawls, which provide casual opportunities to bond with fellow guests.

Pro Tip: Look for hostels with shared kitchens or lounges where people naturally gather. Even if you don’t stay in a hostel long-term, starting your journey there can help you make connections right away.

2. Join a Facebook Group

Before moving, join Facebook groups or forums tailored to expats or locals in your destination. Search for groups like “Expats in [City]” or “[City] Social Clubs.” You’ll find plenty of like-minded people organizing events, offering advice, or looking for friends.

What to Do:

• Introduce yourself in the group and share your hobbies or interests.
• Look out for posts about meetups, cultural events, or group activities.
• Consider apps like Meetup, InterNations, or Bumble BFF, which are specifically designed for meeting new people or expats.

Pro Tip: Be proactive—don’t just scroll through posts! Message group members or comment to start building connections.

3. Take a Language Class

Taking a class isn’t just a chance to learn something new—it’s also an excellent way to meet people who share similar interests. If you’re learning the local language, a language class can connect you with fellow newcomers. Alternatively, explore other options such as cooking, art, yoga, or dance classes in your area.

Benefits:

• Smaller class sizes foster a more personal environment, making it easier to bond with others.
• Learning something together creates a shared experience, which can serve as a natural icebreaker.

Pro Tip: Many cities have community centers or cultural hubs that offer free or low-cost workshops—perfect for meeting locals and fellow expats.

4. Through Other Friends

Before you move, reach out to friends and family to see if they have contacts in your destination. A friend of a friend can be a fantastic starting point for building connections.

Ideas:

• Post on social media to let people know about your move and ask if they have any connections.
• Use platforms like LinkedIn for professional connections, especially if you’re relocating for work.
• Ask your workplace or university if they have expat networks or buddy systems in place.

Pro Tip: When meeting a mutual friend, come prepared with a casual idea like grabbing coffee or visiting a local attraction together. It helps take the pressure off both parties.

5. Join a Sport or Hobby

Participating in sports or hobbies is one of the best ways to meet people who share your interests. Whether it’s joining a soccer league, a running club, or a book club, these activities often encourage teamwork and bonding.

How to Start:

• Search for local sports leagues or interest-based clubs through social media, local noticeboards, or apps like Meetup.
• Volunteer for community events—this is another great way to connect with locals and expats alike.
• Attend open mic nights, trivia nights, or cultural festivals, as these are fantastic hubs for mingling.

Pro Tip: Even if you don’t see your favorite activity listed, consider starting your own group. You’d be surprised how many people share your passions.

Bonus Tips: Breaking the Ice

If you’re unsure how to start conversations, here are some icebreakers:

• Compliment something specific about the other person (e.g., “I love your backpack! Where did you get it?”).
• Ask for recommendations (e.g., “What’s the best local café around here?”).
• Share your experiences of adapting to the culture—it’s a relatable topic for most expats or travelers.

Conclusion

Meeting new people in another country might seem intimidating at first, but with an open mind and a little effort, you’ll soon build meaningful connections. Embrace the diversity and different perspectives you encounter along the way—you don’t need to have everything in common to create lasting friendships.

Start small, stay curious, and enjoy the adventure of forging new relationships across borders!