Menu
Expat.com

The Best way to make friends abroad

Post new topic

Rodmartins

Establishing yourself abroad requires more effort but once you've done that, your efforts become more cherished and memorable. Well, it's not always very easy living abroad and when I say that, I mean, even after you have a place to live and a job. To really enjoy being abroad whether its for the short or long term, you need to be able to connect with people which is not always easy if there is a language and cultural barrier. Even though it may be a challenge, its possible. But, yes, it will require more work than if you were at home. When spending time abroad, everything requires more work and energy than it would at home in the beginning and making friends will be no different. So to make friends abroad follow these tips and please share the results, let`s go for it!

The first thing we must do is reach out to others again and again do not be shy, just do it. One of the best ways to do that is to immediately join groups or clubs that do the things that you are interested in doing. Even if you'll only be in town for a month or so, try to join anyway. Its rare that you'll be turned away if you express a genuine interest in the group.

Next, do a google search on your native expatriates in the city. Most average size cities have something like this and its an excellent way to meet people who speak your language.

English is a way to communicate and enjoy meetings with foreigners. Even if you meet people who you think you have nothing in common with, still keep them as friends as they have friends as well who may share your age, common interests etc.

Finally, have fun and enter this endeavor with an open mind and a light heart. You decided to spend time abroad most likely to broaden your horizons and meet new people? So immerse yourself in that idea and embrace it. There is nothing to lose and much to win.
-Take Initiative. It's a big mistake to passively wait for other people to do the work of befriending you.
-Find some potential friends.
-Invite potential friends to do something with you.
-Make a habit of getting people's contact information.
-Do your best to accept every invitation.
-Once you've got some budding friendships, keep in touch, and keep hanging out.
-Be persistent and try not to get discouraged by setbacks too easily.
-Don't take it personally if people seem indifferent to you
-Be nice and Be patient.

cynix008

agreed ++

Articles to help you in your expat project

All guide articles