Spoiler Alert: All it takes in one exchange!
I was so nervous to solo travel as I thought that I would have a hard time meeting people but turns out that is not the case. I have met so many people while traveling even on the first day of travel. It all just depends on you.
Story Time
This is one of my favorite meetings while traveling because it was such a simple encounter that turned into such a great day.
Setting the scene: Kyoto, Japan. I was waiting for the bus to head to a temple and a couple was also doing the same. The bus was taking a while and I can tell they were debating on walking but ultimately decided not to. I decided to ask them if they were heading to the same temple as me, turns out they were going to a cooler one. I told them I was gonna follow them to that one; the three of us got on the bus and continued the conversation we were having.
We explored the temple, moved on to the next one (the original one I was going to) and explored the area. We then ate street food; they even shared with me. Moved on to the bamboo forest and when we were done I thought we would go our separate ways; but we were enjoying each others company so much we continued on into the night. Going to one more temple on the other side of town.
Unfortunately, it was the day before they were leaving Japan, so it was our first and last day together; but I will always remember this day. This was the sweetest couple that adopted me for the day and I enjoyed learning about them and their story. It was such a random meeting but those are truly the best moments.
I could write endlessly about this day as it was one of my favorite days in Japan but this is also one of the many encounters I’ve had on my travels. They are stories just like this to tell with random meetings from simple interactions.
What to take from this
Before traveling I would have sat at the bus stop, headphones in, and never interacted with that couple but I put myself out there. Social interaction can be scary sometimes and it may not lead to anything. If they didn’t want to hangout with me I would have just continued with my day without the regret of never speaking up. I am so happy that I asked one simple question to this couple as it led to the best day.
You might be nervous to put yourself out there but just keep in mind one small interaction can lead to something greater. It is very simple!
