Head to Your Local Hostel

When I lived Down Under, there was a hostel in Sydney that I went to celebrate my 20^th birthday. It had a massive bar below it called Scubar - and it was the place to be on Monday nights. A large group of American friends on my program came to celebrate. We had an awesome time, and I was only vaguely aware of the fact there were hardly any Australians in the room - and those that were there managed to pick up left and right after they opened their mouths.

In most places, hostels are meccas of international travelers. London England hostels are perhaps some of the most diverse with backpackers from Latin America, Asia, Africa and the Middle East, as well as the commonly found North American, European and Pacific resident. However, ask to be introduced to a local and, well, you’re probably out of luck.

Conversely, many travelers wish they had more of an international presence in their life when they return home, especially after a long trip. A quick trip over to a local hostel might be a perfect solution. There you can meet other travelers who are looking to meet, well, you, and you can still learn about different cultures, countries and languages right in your own backyard.

In order to avoid being that freaky person that just hangs out all the time, contact your local hostel and see if they sponsor any activities. Tell them you are interested in meeting cool people and if you’re willing to host a tour of your hometown off the beaten path, tell them so.