Business travel can get lonely. You spend a lot of time by yourself. You’ll start to miss your family back home.
For frequent business travelers, loneliness can be a serious problem. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be hard to make friends. Even if you’re only staying somewhere for a day, you can make friendships that last a lifetime.
Here are some tips on how to make memorable friendships on your next business trip.
- Talk With Strangers
Talking with strangers can be nerve-wracking.
However, everyone is a stranger until you meet them. Even your best friends were strangers at one point! And as soon as you introduce yourself, you’re not strangers anymore.
Walking up to people in the grocery store or on the side of the road probably isn’t a good idea. You need to use some judgment.
Don’t bother people who don’t want to be bothered.
Coffee shops, bars, and museums are all great places to meet people.
Maybe point something out that you think is cool. Or ask a question about the menu.
If you see someone else who’s sitting alone, ask if they’d like to join you.
Just keep in mind that they might say no, and that’s ok.
Not every stranger needs to become your friend.
- Extended Stay Options
If you’re staying somewhere for a long time, look into an extended stay.
The chances are pretty high that there are other people traveling alone. They’ll be looking for friends too.
Here’s some information on how extended stays work.
When traveling through Europe, consider staying in a hostel. They aren’t just for teenagers, and you can usually get your own room.
A lot of hotels have common living areas and kitchens. These can be great places to meet people.
Carry around a deck of cards or something fun to do with people.
If you’re staying somewhere long-term, set things up so you can invite people over. Maybe host a game night and invite your neighbors.
- Social Media
Social media platforms are a great way to meet new people.
Look up some places in your destination before you head out.
Check and see if there are any events at the place you’re going. You could meet people there or invite someone to go with you.
Look up the coolest coffee shops and restaurants.
If you’re really adventurous, get on a dating app. Just make sure you let people know you’re only in town for a little while and make it clear you’re just looking for someone to hang out with.
In today’s world, social media is the best way to figure out what’s happening and when.
For newbies to social media, it might seem strange and even awkward.
But if you use social media correctly, it can change your life for good.
- Stay in Touch
Keep in touch with friends you make while traveling.
If you’re traveling for work, the chances are pretty high that you’ll go back.
You don’t have to talk to your travel friends all the time. Just send them a text every once in a while. Check up on them and ask how they’re doing.
They’ll be glad to hear from you.
Likewise, don’t forget about your friends back home. Don’t spend so much time talking with your friends from home that you don’t appreciate the place you’re in.
But if you get lonely, it’s always good to have a list of people you can call.
Consider sending a postcard or writing an old-fashioned letter. It’s much more meaningful than sending a text.
A letter is a great way to brighten someone’s day.
- Travel With a Pet
Pets can be great companions.
They are also easier to travel with than you think. There are lots of benefits to traveling with a dog or a cat.
Taking your furry friend along will require some extra planning, but it’ll be worth it.
A pet is also a great conversation starter. Dogs like to go to dog parks.
You’re bound to run into other dog lovers at the dog park.
Conclusion
Travel can be one of the greatest experiences of your life. If you follow these tips, you could make friends whom you’ll have for the rest of your life.
