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Traveling alone? Here's how to double your pleasure.
If your goal while traveling solo is to be social and hook up with like-minded fellow travelers, consult our handy travel tips. You'll find yourself in entertaining company and tantalizing conversations before you know it.
1. Make eye contact and smile. This may sound obvious, but vacationers often end up looking stressed and anxious rather than relaxed and friendly. Smile at others to show you're open to making friends and, in some cases, that you're a fellow traveler. Note: In some cultures it is not very common to smile at strangers, so observe what the locals do first. Plus, exercise caution in situations where you feel threatened or harassed.
2. Be flexible--take advantage of a moment when an exciting opportunity presents itself. Exercise all ordinary cautions, but don't be timid about talking to strangers, going to public gatherings, or accepting an invitation to share a restaurant table.
3. Sport a conversation piece. Carry or wear something that starts a conversation, such as an unusual bow tie or necklace, an antique pocket watch, or an interesting slogan T-shirt. Someone is sure to comment on it and start chatting with you.
4. Use your own experience to help out a fellow traveler. If you see someone struggling to translate "sun block" into the local language, and you just learned it yourself yesterday, speak up. The shared experience will impart a sense of camaraderie.
5. If dining in a restaurant, maximize your chances of meeting people. Ask to sit at a community table, such as the chef's or captain's table, with other singles. Or, let the host know you're willing to join others. Sit with your back to the wall, facing the room, so you can make eye contact with other diners. And don't stick your nose in a book--that says: "Leave me alone, I want to be by myself."
Next: More Single Travel Tips >
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