I'm thinking of taking a gap year and would love to meet some travel mates along the way. What's the best way to connect with others traveling? Are there specific groups or platforms I should check out?
Traveling during a gap year can be rewarding and might lead to some significant personal growth. For meeting travel mates during your journey, here are a few suggestions:
1. Hostels: These are prevalent in most traveler-friendly cities and might be your best bet. They're budget-friendly, often offer social events, and are designed with communal spaces, making it easier to engage with other travelers.
2. Travel Meetup Groups: Websites like Meetup can be great resources to find activities and connect with other travelers in the location you're visiting. There might be an existing group of fellow travelers, or you could create one yourself!
3. Tours and Excursions: Consider booking local tours, outdoor activities, or excursions. This is a great way to meet travel mates who share similar interests.
4. Local Events and Festivals: Attending these can also offer excellent opportunities to meet travel mates. Check out city event calendars for concerts, art festivals, food fairs and the like.
5. Language Exchanges: These events are held in many large cities and tend to attract a mix of locals and travelers. They can be a great place to meet people while also picking up some local language skills.
Remember to be open and unafraid to start a conversation. Travelers are typically open-minded and looking to meet new people as well! Be aware of safety, too. Always meet in public places and let others know where you'll be. Happy traveling!
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