Hi everyone, I’m Alicia! I’m currently working as a Podcast & Event Intern at Multilingual Jobs Worldwide. I am 24 years old and originally from Sweden. 

I’ve been living abroad since 2020, starting with an au pair job in Perth, Australia. Since then, I’ve backpacked four months through Central and South America, and I’m about to graduate from a bachelor’s degree program that has allowed me to live and study across multiple countries: Spain (Barcelona), Belgium (Leuven), Indonesia (Bali), and France (Rennes). Now, I’m finally back in my favorite city, Barcelona, for the concluding internship of my program. Through these experiences, I’ve learned firsthand how exciting, yet challenging, it can be to build a life far from home.

Living abroad is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. You learn to be independent, you get to explore new places and try things you’ve never experienced before, and you grow so much as a person. The memories you create stay with you for life. But one of the biggest challenges of moving to a new country is that you’re leaving behind the familiar; your family, your friends, your routines, your comfort zone.

All of a sudden, you find yourself in a completely new environment, a new culture, strangers, and no support network. It’s perfectly normal to feel lonely or out of place in the beginning. Adapting to a new life can be difficult. But the good news? There are so many ways to meet people and form genuine connections.

From my own experience, I’ve actually found that it’s often easier to make friends abroad than back home. Why? Because many people you meet, especially other expats, are in the same situation as you. They’re also looking for friends; people to explore the city with, to go on spontaneous adventures, and build new memories. Since they are in the same “boat” as you, it makes it easier to connect and build friendships.

Here are some great tips on how to meet people when living abroad:

1. Join a Group or Activity Based on your Interests

One of the best ways to meet people is to join a group or activity based on your interests. Whether it’s a sport like soccer, yoga, dance, or something creative like art, music, or cooking; joining a class or local club is a great way to meet people through shared interests. It also gives you plenty to talk about and the conversations will feel more natural since you already have things in common. Language exchange groups are also a great option if you want to improve your skills while at the same time meeting both locals and expats like you.

2. Use Social Media and Community Groups

Social media can be super helpful too. Facebook is full of community and expat groups. Try searching for “Expats in .. (the city you’re in)” or if it feels easier at first, look for people from your own country such as “Swedes in Barcelona.” These groups often organize meetups, events, or dinners, and they’re great places to ask questions, get local tips, or just find someone to hang out with. If nothing’s going on at the moment, don’t be afraid to make your own post. Introduce yourself and ask if anyone wants to grab a coffee or go for a walk. I know it can feel awkward at first, but trust me, it’s worth it! Some of my closest friends today are people I met five years ago in Australia, simply because I took a chance and posted in a Facebook group.

3. Connect with your Coworkers

If you’re working abroad, don’t miss the opportunity to connect with your coworkers. Join after-work hangouts, sit with them at lunch, and make small talk when you can. If you’re working, that’s where you’ll be spending a big part of your week, so it’s a natural place to form friendships. Who knows, perhaps your future best friend is sitting right next to you at the office. 😄

4. Try Apps and Platforms made for Socializing

Apps like Bumble BFF can be a great way to meet people. They’re specifically designed for making friends, and just like with dating apps, you can match with others who are also looking to expand their social circle. You can also find many events and meetups through apps such as Eventbrite or websites like Meetup.com or Internations.org where you can find events depending on your location, both free events and some you have to pay for. Great way of meeting new people.

5. Volunteering

If you have the time, you could volunteer. It’s a great way to connect with people with shared values while doing something meaningful. You could for example volunteer at a local animal shelter, teach language classes, or support a local charity. It can also help you feel more rooted and give you a sense of purpose while you're still adjusting to life abroad.

6. Put Yourself Out There

It’s one of those things you hear all the time, but for good reason. Most people are more open than you think, they’re just waiting for someone to break the ice. You can be that person. Smile, start conversations, say yes to random invitations. Even if it feels scary or awkward at first, the more you do it, the easier it becomes. Being approachable and taking the initiative opens so many doors. Sometimes all it takes is one small moment of courage to start a new friendship.

Lastly, be kind and patient with yourself, it’s completely normal to feel homesick or lonely sometimes. These emotions are part of the journey and help you grow. Try to enjoy your own company too: explore your new city, do the things that bring you joy, even solo. Living abroad is a unique chance to build meaningful connections with people from all over the world. Stay open-minded, take small steps, and be a little brave. The friendships you form will help you feel more at home and become a lasting part of the memories you carry long after the experience ends. 💗