Traveling solo can be a bit tricky especially when you are eager to meet other travelers yet maintain your personal safety.   Social situations when you travel are just like the social situations you encounter in your home area.  The more you get out and come into contact with new people, the more chances you have of making new friends!
 
Remember to look approachable when you are traveling.  If you look stressed and frightened, you aren’t giving of a welcoming feeling.  Sometimes travelers look a little anxious and tired instead of friendly and they tend to discourage others from approaching them.  You may not even realize that you appear that way to others, so be sure to show that you are open to conversation and making friends by meeting other people’s eyes and smiling.
 
Keep in mind that if an exciting opportunity presents itself, you should grab it.  If you don’t, you may never get the chance again.  Be cautious, but don’t be afraid to strike a conversation with strangers, head out to public gatherings or even accept invitations to join others at a restaurant table.   Use common sense and your own instinct to remain safe, but if you don’t step outside of your box, you may have the kind of opportunities you hope for to meet new people.
 
Try wearing something or carrying something with you that can strike up a conversation.  Maybe you could wear a unique piece of jewelry like ring, bracelet or necklace.  Shirts that have interesting but not offensive sayings or pictures on them are also another great way to meet people.  One person always wears a shirt or sweatshirt with the name of his hometown on it to inspire conversation with new people.   If you can find something that can brings attention to you, wear it!
 
Keep an eye out for other travelers who might be confused or scared.  You can try and help them out with any knowledge of the area you might already have. It is always nice to have someone who shares some common ground and to be able to lend a helping hand.  Speak up if you think you have something to offer and you never know, this might be the kind of friendship you were hoping for on your vacation.
 
There are many social situations available for meeting new people when you travel alone.  Try out chef’s tables, captain’s tables and other community tables that are likely to have other singles or just fun people.  Always try and make sure that your host knows that you are open to sitting with others. 

Don’t sit and wait to be invited into any activity.  Join in or ask if there is room for you!  Face the room so you can make eye contact with others! Avoid body language and activities that separate you from the crowd like reading a book or keeping you back toward any activities.  Stay pleasant and available and you are likely to meet some of the most interesting people you’ll never forget!