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How to Meet People in a New City

There are very few things that we enjoy more in life than traveling- it’s our way of connecting with the world. Travelling teaches us to be humble, to be courageous, to seek adventure, and most of all, to trust our gut- especially when we find ourselves alone in a completely foreign city. So, if you’re the same, enjoy our tried and tested guide on how to meet people in a new city.

Moved to a new place? Here are a few great tips on how to meet people in a new city.

98% of the time I get very excited to be able to explore a new neighborhood, or city and learn a new language. However, it’s not all sunshine and roses- solo travel, or moving to a new city is HARD particularly if you move to a new city for a working holiday visa.  Not knowing a single soul, and having to rely on your sense of adventure to keep you from being really lonely gets tiring after a while. I mean there are so many conversations you can have with random strangers- and none of which are the ones that you be embarrassed to have taped.

We all get homesick, and we all get lonely at times- even if we’re surrounded with girlfriends. Now multiply that feeling 100x when you don’t have a friend you can call to grab a coffee with, just hang out and watch a movie with, or discuss earth-shattering things like the latest Kardashian escapades! Don’t deny it, you know you have a guilty pleasure that you love talking about! The need to connect has gotten all the greater (and more trying) while the world went into lockdown.

Luckily there are tons of way to meet new people- all it takes a bit of effort and knowing where to look. Here are a few ways to get started:

Get on Tinder

No, seriously. Tinder or Bumble is one of the best ways to meeting new people. Just be sure to make your intentions known at the onset, but if you do, it’s ideal to have a few chats and get the best local tips, while add it. If Tinder isn’t your thing, try one of the many other apps that are set up to make it easy to meet people.

Joining a club

My first introduction to the Toronto Social scene was through a charity fundraiser. There was a call-out for organizers to come help, and I was one of six would had the skills that replied. I met some of the coolest people, worked on a project that we were all really passionate about, and made some close friends. That said, you don’t need to go all nerdy- I’ve met some amazing people joining a dodge-ball team. I mean who wouldn’t want to be friends after being hit with a dodge ball in the face for an hour? All it takes a drink afterwards to make it all better.

Taking a class

Going back to school isn’t for everyone. I spent way too long in my graduate programs to want to sit in a academic class again, but there are tons of other “classes” that still interest me. I am particularly interested in web design and photography, and really enjoyed my time in those classes. While I’m not a baker, I have taken baking classes at a recommendation of a friend, and had a blast. The best class, hands down, has been paint and wine. Let’s just leave it there.

Join a Facebook Group

One of my colleagues swore that her “Irish in Toronto” Facebook group was the reason she was able to adjust a lot easier than expected. Interest-based Facebook groups are great for finding your tribe. Don’t be shy if you want to suggest meeting up for drinks or coffee. You’d be surprised how many are up for it. Maybe even find a new hiking buddy to take you on a 1,5 meter distancing adventure.

The point is that there is something for everyone. You just need to find a social activity that interests you. Meeting people can be hard, but it really doesn’t have to be work. The key is finding things that you enjoy doing anyway, and doing it a social setting.