One of the most intimidating things about traveling solo is.. being alone. Where should I go? What should I do? Who should I talk to? Well, everyone.. actually. You might not believe it but you will talk to so many people when you travel alone. Its one of the best parts in my (humble biased opinion)! It may be a bit intimidating at first but thats why I thought of this blog idea. Why dont I make a list of some great conversation starters for travelers to make it a bit easier when feeling scared to start the first conversation. If you haven't already I highly recommend checking out my advice from other solo travelers blog where I ask all sorts of people for their advice so readers like you can hopefully find it useful! If not well I guess writing is my therapy. win/win all around.
I've always been a visual learner type of gal so I thought the best way to write these were bullet points. Screw the norms of blogs, im just a girl trying over here. Let's get into it!
"Hey! Where are you from?" 10/10 works every single time. This is the absolute best line, don't be scared to literally sit down next to someone and ask this. Its completely normal.
"How long have you been traveling for?" People have either been traveling for quite some time or just starting their journey, make sure to ask or give any recommendations. You never know how much it'll help!
"How are you liking *insert city or country you're in*? " Honestly another great convo starter and you can learn from their perspectives.
"Do you know any good places to eat around here?" Love this one! A girl asked me this in my last hostel and started a 30 minute long conversation. Plus you can find a good food spot!
"Do you have any recommendation on what to do today? I just got here."
"I really like your *compliment*!" I once read somewhere if you like something say it, it can really have an impact on someones day and make them smile. Every time I see something I like I make sure to tell them.
"What made you decide to come here?" I have been asking this more recently in Central America since its not the most popular solo destination (like Europe) I find it fascinating what brought everyone to said country or city.
"I think im gonna grab lunch (or drink or whatever) , Do you wanna join" This is an important one, dont forget people are alone just like you. Its so nice being invited to things so why not invite people. I met girls walking to breakfast and they asked me to join.. it really made my day.
"Do you guys know about *ask question about hostel activity or amenity*" If it's a hostel activity they may even join you or invite you.
"Have you been here *country* long?" Honestly over asked but a good first convo starter and easy to remember.
"Do you have a lighter?" Its ok if you aren't a smoker (its bad for you) but it is a great convo starter and a way to almost include yourself in someones convo. Plus lighters get lost so easy you might really need one and not know its a great first line.
"What are you drinking? looks good!" Obviously it cant be something simple but if they have a cool cocktail or beer its a good convo starter at the bar.
"Can I join you guys?" This happened to me last night I was talking to my new friend at the bar and a guy who just checked in came up to us and asked to sit with us. Boom, automatically apart of the conversation. It's that easy guys.
As the weeks go by and I find myself thinking of great conversational topics I'll add on just like my advice from friends blog but until then these are some of the best I've heard/said during my past few years traveling solo. Hope you enjoyed and let me know how they work for you!
Always remember, dont be shy. Start the convo. You never know what amazing things you can learn from a stranger. That stranger might become your new best friend.. or even more.
xoxo -t