Hello all!
I’m seeking some advice. I’m looking to go on my first solo backpacking experinace somewhere in Europe in November for about 1-2 weeks.
I’m looking for somewhere where I’m going to meet new people. I’ve been to Amsterdam before and I live in England.
Look forward to your responses.
P.S if anyone has general advice that might be useful as first timer please let me know!
[ Edit: Edited on 15-Oct-2017, at 09:34 by Shmuco ]
99% of my trips are solo by choice. I admit I don't travel somewhere with meeting new people as a priority. I plan a trip based on my interests and in case I happen to meet someone and feel like it, I might spend a few hours with them or something, but that's it. I'm absolutely happy with my own company!
It would help if you explain what exactly you mean by meeting people. What are your expectations? How do you envision your trip? Party-central? City or countryside? One destination or more? Looking for travel buddies or someone to share a meal or a day tour? The more info your provide, the more specific the advice you'll get, although to be honest, there is no guarantee on those things.... I feel it has mostly to do with your own attitude and mindset and pure luck than with destination itself....
If you're staying in hostels, you're likely to meet lots of fellow travelers. I've made lifelong friends that way.
I don't usually stay in hostels now. But I still make friends. The important thing is to reach out. For example, last November, in a B&B near the Vatican, I met a couple on their honeymoon. We shared the breakfast table; and the couple mentioned they were going to the Vatican Museums. As it turned out, I was going there, too, so I offered to show them they way (I've been there many times). Afterwards, we exchanged contact information and, less than a year later, I visited the couple in their hometown; and they graciously showed me and a friend around.
It's easier to keep in touch these days with social media. I let friends and family know beforehand where I'm headed. That sometimes brings invitations to visit. I received several earlier this year; and visited four.
I guess I’m still trying to figure it out. I have just ended a long term relationship and I really want to explore myself. I feel a good way to explore myself is to meet new people and to have new experiences. I don’t want party central, I want city or beach.