How to Make Friends as a Digital Nomad
Making friends as an adult is already hard. Making friends while constantly changing cities, countries, and time zones is even harder.
I’m not naturally good at making friends. I’m not the life-of-the-party type. Small talk feels awkward. But despite that, I’ve built some amazing friendships all over the world.
It didn’t happen overnight. It came from figuring out what works for me and showing up, even when it felt a little uncomfortable.
If you’re feeling stuck or wondering how to make friends as a digital nomad, this one’s for you.
Why It’s Hard to Find New Friends
You’ve left all your friends behind. You’re working remotely, maybe alone at a kitchen table or a coworking desk.
Add in language barriers, new social customs, and constantly being the “new person,” and it’s no wonder loneliness creeps in.
You’re not alone. Around a third of digital nomads say loneliness is their biggest challenge.
But here’s the flip side: digital nomads are some of the most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. Everyone’s in the same boat, and most are open to connection. You just need a way to find each other.
What Works for Me (and Might Work for You)
I’ve tried a lot of things. What consistently works for me is joining local Facebook groups before I arrive and going to meetups.
I start engaging in the group conversations early, so I’m not a total stranger when I show up in person.
One of my best friendships started during a coliving stay. We shared a kitchen, swapped travel stories over coffee, and realized we had a lot in common. Years later, we’re still in touch even though she’s in Argentina, and I’m in the U.S.
None of it was forced. It all started with showing up, saying hi, and being open to wherever the conversation went.
Online Groups Are Gold
Before you even book your Airbnb, start checking out online communities. Look for:
- Destination-specific nomad Facebook groups
- WhatsApp or Telegram groups
- Threads on Nomads.com or Couchsurfing
Get involved. Ask questions. Offer advice. Once you’re in the city, you’ll already have a few names you recognize.
Show Up to Meetups
Platforms like Meetup and Eventbrite make it easy to find local events. You’ll see everything from beach cleanups and hikes to coworking pop-ups and language exchanges.
Tips:
- Show up a little early. It’s easier to start conversations before groups form.
- Follow up with people you click with. A quick DM or coffee invite goes a long way.
You don’t have to talk to everyone. One good conversation is a win.
Coworking Spaces Can Be More Than a Desk
Some coworking spaces are just quiet places to work. Others build in real community through workshops, happy hours, or shared lunches.
Go where people linger. Kitchens, lounges, and group lunches are the spots where friendships start.
And if you find a place you like, keep showing up. Familiar faces build familiarity, and that’s what turns a nod into a real conversation.
Follow Your Interests (Even If You Go Alone)
Want to skip the small talk? Do something you love. Whether it’s yoga, salsa, painting, or rock climbing, shared interests make connecting easier.
- Ask about classes or clubs in the local Facebook group.
- Check bulletin boards at cafes or coworking spots.
- Look for hobby-based meetups or workshops.
You don’t have to be good at it. You just have to enjoy it.
Volunteering Creates Instant Connection
Helping out at a community garden, shelter, or beach cleanup is a low-pressure way to meet people who care. It also helps you feel more rooted in a place, even if you’re only there short term.
You’ll meet locals, other travelers, and people who want to give back. That’s a great mix.
Keep Long-Distance Friendships Alive
Some of my favorite people don’t live anywhere near me. We met while traveling, but we’ve kept the connection going with phone calls and quick WhatsApp messages to check in.
Friendships can live across borders. You just have to be intentional.
Can’t Find a Meetup? Start One
Seriously. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just post in a local group and invite people to join you for coffee, coworking, or a casual dinner.
Start small. A few people is plenty. Some of the best communities started this way.
Go Deep, Not Wide
You don’t need to meet 50 people in every city. A couple of solid connections can make a place feel like home.
- Follow up with people you enjoy.
- Suggest one-on-one meetups.
- Be honest about your travel style and timeline.
Most nomads understand. We’re all used to friendships that ebb and flow with our schedules. It doesn’t make them any less meaningful.
Connect Through Local Culture
Take a cooking class. Join a traditional dance night. Go to a festival. These shared cultural experiences are a natural way to meet people and understand the place you’re in.
Look for language exchanges, walking tours, or art workshops. Many of these lead to group meals or conversations that carry on long after the event ends.
Wrap-Up: Making Friends as a Digital Nomad
You don’t have to be the most outgoing person in the room to make friends. I’m proof of that.
I’m not a natural networker. But I’ve built real friendships in places all over the world because I kept showing up, even when it felt awkward.
Your people are out there. Whether you find them in a coliving space, at a language exchange, or over a shared pot of curry in someone’s Airbnb kitchen, connection is always possible.
Start where you are. Say hi. Ask a question. Join the meetup.
Friendships on the road take a little effort, but they’re worth it.
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- Digital Nomad’s Guide to Working Remotely in Mexico
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