How to Make Friends In A New City: 5 ways to make meaningful connections

No one ever told you how lonely you might become once moved abroad. I've seen this common sentiment being shared by many of us you've left all your friends and family back home. Making friends as an adult is generally hard to do, especially if you moved to a new city, in a new country, and do not speak the language. Which leaves many of us feeling isolated.

When you move to a new city, it can feel like everything is working against you. You’re faced with a new environment, new people, and new ways of doing things.

Making friends in a new city isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible either. Making friends in a new city can take time – especially if you don’t know anyone there yet.

It can be challenging to meet new people when you first arrive. However, with the right approach and some determination, making friends in a new city becomes much easier.

In this blog post, we will give you five tips on how to make friends in a new city and ease the process for yourself. When I moved to Warsaw, Poland in the middle of Covid-19, it was not the time to meet up with people. Everything was closed and everyone was wearing masks and occasional hazmat suits. Most of us were working from home and learning a little too much about our spouses. s.

After 2 years, I a former caveman, have gradually made the steps to get to know the city and the people and try to make friends.

1. Go To Events Where You Can Meet New People

Meetup Groups: I use Girl Gone International and Inter-Nations. On these platforms, people can create and join groups based on their interests. There are tons of different types of meetup groups you can join, including those related to hobbies, social justice, language exchange, and more.

Charity Events: Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and help out at the same time. Many cities have events that pair up newcomers with locals who want to help out in the community.

Volunteer For City Projects: You can help ease the burden of city services by donating your time and skills. You can also meet new people who have the same interests as you.

2. Network Events & Mixers

Networking events and mixers are a great way to introduce yourself to new people and make new friends. There’s always a chance that you will meet some people who can help advance your career.

Additionally, you can also meet people who have the same interests as you. Networking events and mixers are usually for people in specific industries. If you are unsure about which event you should attend, ask your co-workers which events they attend.

Many cities have organizations that host networking events and mixers for young professionals. You can search online for networking events and mixers in your city. Make sure to check the event’s website to see if they are targeting specific industries. If you are unsure, ask your co-workers which events they attend.

"If you work in an office, there’s a high chance that your co-workers are also looking for friends in the office."

3. Find Out Where The Locals Meet

This one is tricky if there's a language barrier. But, my favorite "local" Irish Pub is Warsaw, which is a great place to meet expatriates from all over the world. Visit coffee shops; join a sports team; go to a yoga studio, or volunteer your time at a local organization. You’re bound to meet people who share your interests, goals, and hobbies.

Find events that are based on your interests. If you like yoga, look for yoga classes in your area. If you like baking, join a baking club. If you like sports, look for sports teams in your area. If you like social justice, visit organizations that work towards that goal. There are so many things to do in your area, you just have to find them!

4. Ask Your Co-Worker To Hang Out

I know you think this is a bad idea but yes, you can easily become friends with the people you work with.

You can ask your co-workers if they have any plans on the weekend, if they want to get coffee on the weekdays, or if they want to hang out during their breaks.

If you work in an office, there’s a high chance that your co-workers are also looking for friends in the office.

If you work from home, you can invite your co-worker to meet up for a coffee or a walk in real life. You have the opportunity to build friendships with your co-workers before you become friends with them.

5. Try An App

I've started using Tik Tok (I can hear your judgemental gasp)! But the app isn't just for Gen Z's to dance and lip-sync. With a billion users on the app, You can build a community with people sharing similar interests.

My small group consists of mostly expatriates living in Poland; who share stories of daily life and includes how-to tips, where to go, and how to find NB: I watched a Tik tok that said "Tik Tok isn't an app to connect with your family" so Mom if you're reading this, and wondering why you can't find my account, I've found you first and blocked you.

Other apps include Peanut, Bumble BFF, Friend Finder & Yubo.

Let's Be Friends

By following these tips, you'll find it easier to meet new people, and hopefully, make new friends in the process. It might take time, but once you find your social circle, you'll be glad you put in the effort. That being said, don't be too hard on yourself if it takes a little longer than you thought it might. Everyone has to start somewhere, even if it is in a new city! If you liked this, please subscribe to my newsletter and share this post with someone who might need some ideas.