“Alexa, how do I solo travel in the US and make new friends?”
Loneliness has become a huge concern around the US, with so many craving the ease of connections others are so accustomed to in other parts of the world. “It’s hard to put a price tag, if you will, on the amount of human suffering that people are experiencing right now,” says Surgeon General Dr Vivek.
When you’ve grown accustomed to solo traveling the World, returning home to the U.S. can be a rude awakening for most travelers. Though the country is making strides towards adjusting its ways, backpackers, nomads, and those longing to meet a community of like-minded friends are often led wondering “where the hell do I begin?”
We’ve all been there. Arriving home after a jaunt in Europe, longing for the same connections we made abroad. The rest of the Globe makes it appear effortless, with hostels that feel like home, walking tours which lead to connections made, and deep chats on rooftop bars.
Be a Tourist in Your Own City
Not many people talk about the shift from their 20’s to 30’s, and how it can often feel incredibly lonely at times. While some are settled with babies, houses, and spouses, others long to cross off countries, teach English abroad, or hostel hop around the globe.
Does this sound like you? No matter your age, if you’re looking to meet new people in the US, the best thing to do is to think outside the box and work with what you’ve got!
Ever heard of romanticizing your life? Being a tourist in your own city is a surprising way to boost mental health, explore hidden nooks and crannies, and step outside of your comfort zone. When you think of it that way, it seems incredibly simple to solo travel in the US.
Take the Leap
Stepping outside any type of box can feel intimidating, but what if one small shift changed your entire idea of traveling alone or making friends in the US?
Que For The Love of Travel. A group travel company for solo travelers in their 20’s and 30’s, FTLO is bringing their international expertise to local US cities. Successfully running her business since 2016, FTLO Founder, Tara Cappel, understands the importance of experiential learning and social connection.
FTLO Local partners with small businesses around the US, for carefully curated experiences designed for travel-lovers to meet one another in their local city. “We pride ourselves on finding unique things for all of our trips.” Think exciting dinners, cooking classes, and new friends!
“Our goal is to bring the essence of travel – discovery, openness, adventure, serendipity – to people in their home city so they can reap the benefits of that mentality even when they’re not traveling,” says Cappel.
So far available in New York, the local events are open to anyone between the age of 25 and 45. Other U.S. cities are set to launch in the near future, so keep an eye on FTLO’s page if you’re looking to meet like-minded people and try something different in the New Year.
Be Specific With the Events You Choose
Watching a movie alone can be exhilarating, but it’s probably not the best way to meet people. Think outside the box with this one, and look for events that are sociable!
If I’m in the mood to meet new people in Boston, I often opt for trivia nights, watch parties, or networking events. Sometimes it can be awkward, but when you realize everyone else is in the same boat, it won’t feel so bad after all.
