Summarize and humanize this content to 2000 words in 6 paragraphs in EnglishSolo travelling is becoming more and more popular – but it can be daunting doing it for the first time.While safety is a big concern for many, intrepid solo travellers can also worry about feeling lonely over numerous meals for one.But Lee Thompson, co-founder of travel company Flash Pack, says holidaying on your own can actually be one of the most social types of trips.The former photojournalist has been to over 100 countries around the world and made lifelong friends on his journeys.Here, Lee reveals his top tips for connecting with others when flying solo…Immerse yourself in local life‘The trick is to be open and curious to new opportunities as they arise and say “yes” to invitations – even if you feel a bit shy about doing so,’ Lee says.‘Volunteering (e.g. teaching English) can be a great way of meeting new people as you travel alone, especially in big cities. Lee Thompson, co-founder of travel company Flash Pack, has been to over 100 countries around the world and made lifelong friends on his journeys. Above, he’s pictured in Morocco Lee reveals his top tips for making friends while travelling. Above, he’s pictured in New York‘Equally, I’ve struck up friendships with the guy busking in the park, or by saying yes to an impromptu game of Pickleball.’Sign up to community eventsLee recommends signing up to events, such as supper clubs, open mic nights, or weekly park runs, while travelling alone.He says: ‘A dash of online research will open up a world of events wherever you happen to be travelling.‘All you need to do is look them up and choose ones that speak to your personal interests and values.This is a really effective way of meeting people in a non-pressurised environment.‘Since you’re already immersed in another activity, your focus is elsewhere and conversation doesn’t feel forced.’Make the most of ‘dead’ time One of the biggest mistakes solo travellers make, according to Lee, is gluing themself to their phone while sitting in an airport or on an overnight train, rather than speaking to fellow passengers. Above, he’s pictured in Brazil Lee recommends signing up to a group trip. Above, he’s pictured on a Flash Pack tour in PeruOne of the biggest mistakes solo travellers make, according to Lee, is gluing themself to their phone while sitting in an airport or on an overnight train, rather than speaking to fellow passengers.‘These windows of dead time are a rare opportunity to down tools and connect with others,’ he explains.‘Read the room: who looks friendly, and game for a round of cards?‘Some of my most rewarding travel friendships have taken place on a seemingly endless journey somewhere random – with nothing but the views and a beer or three with strangers to while away the time.’Join a group tour‘Once upon a time, the phrase “group tour” was a byword for cringey forced banter,’ Lee says. ‘But that world has changed, and now there’s more options than ever to connect with like-minded solo travellers in a group format.‘Being together in a new place with people of a similar age and life stage means that the foundations of friendship are already set.‘Throw in a few thrilling activities to break the ice – e.g. desert canyoning or stargazing in a National Park – and the bonding process becomes second-nature.’ Lee on a Flash Pack tour in Sri LankaGo big or go homeLee finishes: ‘Striking up a conversation with someone you don’t know might feel horribly exposing.‘But the truth is, you simply can’t meet other people when you’re travelling alone unless you’re willing to be a little brave.‘Take the initiative, make the first move and don’t take it personally if the other person doesn’t respond in kind.‘I once spent a whole day in New York City asking strangers to be my friend, for a social experiment: so I know what rejection feels like. What it taught me, however, is that being direct pays off.‘Even if you don’t walk around holding a sign (as I did!), putting yourself out there as a solo traveller will reap rewards.‘Sooner or later, you are bound to meet your people – the kind you could spend all night chatting to, and it feels like you’ve known them forever.’
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