When you travel, it’s easy to get caught up in comprehensive planning, keeping up with your schedule, and trying your best to hit all the must-see attractions. But when you go someplace new, one of the best things you can dedicate time and attention to is befriending the locals. Making local friends abroad offers quite a few advantages you can’t afford to miss—here are the most noteworthy ones.
Future Travel Opportunities
This might not be the first reason that comes to mind when thinking about what you can gain out of making local friends since it’s more on the long-term side of things. However, it might just be the most exciting one! With friends around the world, you’ll have a network of hosts ready to welcome you into their homes, guide you through their cities, and share their local experiences. It’ll make any future travel plans so much easier to make.
Exclusive Insider Tips
Locals know their hometowns better than any guidebook. By making friends at your chosen destination, you get unlimited access to insider recommendations on the best places to eat, visit, and explore. Hidden cafés, secret beaches, unique attractions—you name it. Plus, local friends allow you to experience the culture in a more meaningful way, gaining insights into local traditions, customs, and daily life. What other way is there to travel, really?
