Some travel memories are shaped by where we go, but in many cases what we remember most is involved in the people we meet. Whether it's a trip abroad or a local escape, forming unexpected friendships on the holidays can enhance the experience either as a solo traveler, as a couple or as a group.
Ekko CEO Samantha Pillay has first-hand knowledge of this and says many enduring friendships began through casual encounters on vacation. “The simplicity of direction that provides joking on game drives and sightseeing tours, conversations in the pool and simplicity for strangers can lead to amazing connections on holidays and beyond.”
Travel offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Some may enjoy quiet exploration and quality time with their companions, but others look forward to meeting new people along the way. But if you're not a natural extrovert, or if you're traveling solo, how do you go about it?
Pillay shares several practical approaches that can be adopted, whether in Cape Town or Croatia.
1. Break ice at the breakfast buffet
The breakfast buffet is a gold mine for casual chats, especially if you're sitting at a shared table or staying at a coffee. Whether you start with a buffet queue, you are seeking recommendations, share a friendly smile, or combine a shared love of fresh fruits and delicious pastries, you will be amazed.
2. Stay where there is action
Your accommodation can create and destroy atmosphere. Choose a location with shared spaces, such as a shared brie area, a common room, or a lounge. Resorts offering group activities in leisure estates, guesthouses with long tables, or self-selling units often have a natural touchpoint for meeting new people.
Ekko simplifies travel with its curated lifestyle portfolio, providing seamless access to thousands of hotels, self-mediated accommodation and resort holidays across South Africa and internationally.
3. Connect through what you love
If you're passionate about activities like surfing, bird watching, hiking, yoga, coffee or wine appreciation, find a local group, class or a place for like-minded people. When you're doing something you love, you will naturally attract others who feel the same thing. And that's half of the sorted conversation.
4. Frequently in the same place
If you are in a work cation, try using the coworking space or visiting the same coffee shop every day. The familiar face breeds trust and breaks ice. Then a few days later, the smile turns into a conversation. Additionally, regulars often showcase local rhythms and spots outside of business hours.
5. Seek for recommendations
Just asking the locals where to go and what to eat doesn't just give you great tips. It's a real way to induce conversation. Whether it's the best bunny chows in Durban, the little-known sunset spot in Cape Town, the best patisserie in Paris, or the hidden taverna in Santorini, people love to share insider tips about their city. It's not just about finding hidden gems – it's about starting a conversation. That simple question may lead to travel tips you will never forget, stories worth sharing, or new friends.
6. Join a group activity or tour
Forged friendships in the road have a magic that is formed outside of everyday life, caused by spontaneity, often connected by wonderful atmospheres and unforgettable shared memories and stories. The best part? I don't know who will meet. Future travel companions. Business connection. Or simply someone who laughs with local brewing.
“So, the next time you go on a trip, leave a small room in planning an unexpected encounter. The best stories often start with a simple hello and a stranger turning into a lifelong friend,” concludes Pillay.
For more information about Ekko's incredible lifestyle portfolio, offering access to luxury accommodation, travel discounts and lifestyle privileges, visit https://ekko.co.za/.
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