One of the most exciting parts of traveling or relocating to a new place is meeting new people and building connections. Whether you’re moving for work, study, or adventure, the place you choose to stay can significantly impact your social experience. The right accommodation can introduce you to like-minded individuals, help you form lasting friendships, and make your stay more enjoyable.
If you’re staying in student accommodation, for example, you’ll naturally be surrounded by people in similar situations—other students looking to make friends, share experiences, and support each other. The type of accommodation you choose can determine how easily you meet people and how social your stay will be.
Choose Accommodation That Encourages Social Interaction
Some accommodation options are naturally more social than others. If meeting people is a priority for you, consider these options:
1. Hostels
Hostels are one of the easiest places to meet fellow travelers, especially solo travelers. Many hostels have:
- Common areas where guests can relax and interact.
- Social events such as pub crawls, city tours, or group dinners.
- Shared dorm rooms that make it easier to start conversations with fellow travelers.
2. Co-Living Spaces
Designed for digital nomads, remote workers, and long-term travelers, co-living spaces offer:
- Private or shared rooms with communal living areas.
- Regular networking and social events.
- A built-in community of people from different backgrounds.
3. Student Accommodation
If you’re a student moving to a new city, choosing student accommodation can help you make friends easily.
Most student housing options provide:
- Common areas like lounges, study rooms, and kitchens that encourage interaction.
- Social events such as movie nights, game nights, and networking sessions.
- The chance to live with housemates who share similar schedules and interests.
4. Shared Apartments or Houses
Renting a room in a shared apartment or house means you’ll have built-in housemates to connect with. This option works well for both students and working professionals who prefer a smaller social circle.
5. Homestays
For those looking to immerse themselves in a new culture, homestays offer the chance to live with a local family. This provides a unique opportunity to build deep connections with your hosts while learning about their way of life.
Make the Most of Social Opportunities
Simply choosing a social accommodation option isn’t enough—you also need to take the initiative to connect with others. Here are some ways to do that:
1. Spend Time in Common Areas
Whether it’s a hostel lounge, a shared kitchen, or a student common room, spending time in communal spaces increases your chances of meeting new people.
2. Join Organized Events
Many accommodations organize activities for guests or residents. Take advantage of:
- Group outings and sightseeing tours.
- Language exchange meetups.
- Cooking nights or themed dinners.
3. Be Open to Conversations
A simple “Where are you from?” or “What brings you here?” can spark a conversation. Being open and approachable makes it easier to form connections.
4. Cook and Share Meals
Cooking in shared kitchens can lead to natural interactions. Offering to share a meal or try someone else’s cooking is a great way to bond with others.
5. Use Social Media and Group Chats
Many shared accommodations have WhatsApp or Facebook groups for residents. Joining these groups can help you stay informed about events and find people with common interests.
Building Meaningful Connections
Meeting people is one thing, but turning those encounters into meaningful connections takes effort.
Here’s how to strengthen the friendships you make:
- Stay in touch – Exchange contact details and follow up with new friends.
- Explore together – Plan outings, trips, or activities with the people you meet.
- Be a good roommate/guest – Respect shared spaces, clean up after yourself, and be considerate of others.
- Say yes to invitations – Even if an event isn’t something you’d normally do, joining in can lead to new experiences and friendships.
Your choice of accommodation can significantly shape your social experience while traveling or living in a new city. By selecting a place that encourages interaction and making an effort to connect with others, you can create lasting friendships and make your stay more enjoyable.