When we talk about travel, it’s easy to focus on the destination — the sights we’ll see, the food we’ll try, the bucket-list moments we’ll capture. But more often than not, it’s the people we meet along the way who turn a good trip into a great one.
Whether you’re exploring solo, adventuring with a partner, or heading out as part of a group, the social side of travel can be one of its most rewarding aspects. From chance meetings in line at breakfast to bonding over a shared sunset view, the connections we make on the road can linger far beyond our return home.
“The best travel stories often start with a simple hello,” says Samantha Pillay, CEO of ekko, a lifestyle travel brand that’s all about making travel more enriching — and more connected. Pillay has seen firsthand how the smallest encounters, like a laugh shared on a tour bus or directions offered with a smile, can grow into genuine friendships.
But what if you’re not the type to strike up conversations with strangers? Whether you’re introverted or simply new to solo travel, there are simple, practical ways to open the door to meeting new people — no awkward icebreakers required.
Here are six smart ways to build friendships while travelling, wherever your next adventure takes you:
1. START AT THE BREAKFAST BUFFET
Don’t underestimate the power of the breakfast queue. It’s one of the easiest places to start a conversation — over coffee, fresh fruit, or which pastry is worth the calories. Shared tables, lingering glances, and light chats are often all it takes to break the ice.
2. CHOOSE SOCIAL STAYS
Your accommodation sets the tone for your experience. Look for places that encourage interaction — resorts with shared spaces, guesthouses with communal dinners, or leisure estates with braai areas. ekko’s curated travel portfolio includes properties designed with connection in mind, giving travellers more opportunities to meet and mingle organically.
3. LET YOUR HOBBIES LEAD THE WAY
Love surfing? Obsessed with wine tasting or yoga? Seek out local classes, tours, or gatherings based on your interests. These kinds of shared experiences naturally bring like-minded people together — making it easier to strike up a conversation and form meaningful bonds.
4. BECOME A REGULAR
If you’re in one place for a few days (or longer), drop by the same café or workspace regularly. Familiar faces become conversation starters, and before you know it, you’re getting local recommendations or chatting about last night’s music at the bar.
5. ASK FOR INSIDER TIPS
One of the easiest ways to spark a conversation? Ask a local for a recommendation — the best place to eat, where to catch the sunset, or what not to miss in the area. Not only will you discover hidden gems, but you might also make a new friend in the process.
6. JOIN A GROUP TOUR OR ACTIVITY
There’s something about shared experiences that creates instant connection — especially when you’re outside your daily routine. Whether it’s a food walk, a kayaking trip, or a cultural tour, group activities are rich ground for spontaneous friendships and memorable moments.
7. TRAVEL WITH AN OPEN HEART
“Friendships made on the road have a magic all of their own,” says Pillay. “They’re sparked by spontaneity, formed outside of routine, and built on stories you’ll talk about for years to come.” So next time you pack your bags, don’t just plan your itinerary — leave room for the people you haven’t met yet.
After all, sometimes the best part of travel isn’t where you go, but who you meet along the way.
About ekko:
ekko offers lifestyle travel portfolios with access to thousands of hotels, resorts, and self-catering stays both in South Africa and abroad. Members also enjoy exclusive travel discounts and lifestyle perks.
Learn more at https://ekko.co.za
