10 phrases you can use when you meet new people on your travels

Meeting people while travelling

Use this to find out which country they live in. 

They might say "I'm from China, you?".

Use this to share your home country and ask them where they live.

They might say "Oh cool, I'm from France".

Use this to find out if they have visited the destination in the past.

They might say "No actually, this is my first time. How about you?".

Use this to ask them if they can recommend a good restaurant or street stall.

They might say "Oh yeah, there's a noodle stall just around the corner from here. The spicy noodles are delicious!".

Do you know anywhere good to eat around here?

Use this to find out about a popular local tourist destination. 

They might reply "No, but we're planning to go there tomorrow! Would you like to come along?".

I've heard the [tourist spot] is amazing, have you been?

Use this to find out the length of their stay.

They might reply "Oh just a few days actually. I've got to be back at work on Monday".

Use this open-ended question to ask why they are travelling.

They might say "Actually I'm just here visiting my brother for a couple of weeks. He lives here".

Are you here on holiday or business, or...?

Use this to find out who they are travelling with.

They might reply "I'm travelling solo actually. Freedom!".

Are you travelling with friends or family, or...?

Use this if you have made friends and want to keep in touch.

They might say "Sure, let me add you!".

Do you use [social media/app]? Maybe we can stay in touch!

This is a nice way of saying goodbye. To "bump into" someone means to meet them without any plan.

They might reply "Yeah, I hope so! Have a good one!".

Enjoy the rest of your trip! Maybe we'll bump into each other again!