Groups to join in a new city

Dear Reader,

So if you have ever moved abroad, you know that meeting people and making friends is hard. So joining groups can be a great way to meet like-minded people. In this post, I will tell you about the groups I have found work the best for me.

Language Exchange

This is a great one, especially if you are not entirely fluent in the language of the country you're moving to or are just interested in languages. The way these groups usually work is that there are different tables where different languages are spoken. Some groups have almost classes, while others are just about having conversations. You are expected to spend about 1/4 of your time teaching your native language and the rest you can spend learning whichever language you are interested in. Usually, the meetings are held in a bar or something so you might have to spend some money on a drink. I love these groups because there are a lot of interesting people from different places who are open-minded and want to learn new things. Definitely one of the best groups to join in a new city.

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A group for your hobby (for me dance)

Dance for me has always been a great way to connect with new people. The salsa scene is super welcoming everywhere and easy to connect with. Of course, it doesn't have to be salsa. You could do anything that you are interested in. In that group you already have something in common so why not check if you have even a bit more than that. Also if you do a class, you will see the same people every week, so a great way to build a connection.

Gym classes

This is similar to the salsa group concepts. If you have ever been to a gym class, you know how connecting it is to sweat and die with other people. You can build on that connection with just a couple of words in the locker room afterward, and make friends that way. Also if you usually go at the same time, you will see the same people and build something over time. This, of course, does not only apply for classes. Going to a gym and just exercising can have the same effect if you are a social person. This will take more active work since you have to go up to people and start conversations, but it may work for you.

Girls gone internationa group in a city

Girls Gone International

Sorry boys, this one is for girls only. Girls Gone International (GGI) is the younger version of the International Women's Club (IWC). The IWC tends to be older women, so if you're younger, GGI might be the things for you. It's girls who have moved to this country either short-term or long-term. They always organize a lot of fun events that could be anything from happy hours, city tours, or anything else. Sometimes it's just a few girls, other times it's a lot of us, but it is always a great time. I have been part of them in four different locations and always made great friends through this group. Check out their website to see if they have a group in your city.

Volunteer groups

I have not tried this much personally, but I have heard great things from friends. It may be the animal shelter, arts and culture clubs, or anything else. Volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people who have the same values as you do. Plus it also feels like you are doing something good and giving back to the community.

So those are some groups to join in a new city where you can meet people and start making friends. If you have any others that have worked for you, please share them in the comments below. These have served me well in the past 4 years with the many moves I had. It expedites the process of feeling at home a lot.

Kisses,

Juli

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