Why it's hard — and why that's normal
Moving to a new city means resetting your social connections. Even if you're outgoing, the first months can feel like a vacuum. Old friends are far away, colleagues aren't friends yet, and approaching strangers in a café takes courage most of us don't have on a Tuesday evening.
The good news: you're not alone in feeling alone. Thousands of expats go through the same thing, and many of them are looking for company right now — just like you.
Language exchanges — the lowest barrier to entry
A language exchange is a meetup where people practice foreign languages in an informal setting. Usually it happens in a café or bar, participants split into pairs or small groups and switch languages every 10–15 minutes.
Why it works for making friends:
- There's a built-in topic. You don't need to invent conversation — the format provides structure.
- Everyone's in the same boat. Most participants are also expats or people open to new connections.
- Regularity. Many language clubs meet weekly, which lets you see the same faces and gradually build rapport.
Find language exchanges in your city through events in Prague or the events section of your city on Localisio.
Interest-based groups — from board games to running
If languages aren't your thing, look for hobby groups. Board games, group runs, book clubs, photography walks — these are all formats where connection happens naturally through shared activity.
A few tips:
- Choose recurring meetups. A one-off event can be fun, but friendship is built on repeated contact.
- Don't be afraid to come alone. Most participants also came without company — that's exactly why they're there.
- Give yourself 3–4 sessions. The first time might feel awkward. That's normal. Come back — it gets easier.
Coworking spaces — for freelancers and remote workers
If you work remotely, a coworking space isn't just a workplace — it's a social environment. Many coworkings host internal events: breakfasts, Friday drinks, workshops.
Choose a coworking with a community manager and active community. Just sitting in headphones next to other people isn't networking. But if you start attending shared events and eating in the common area, connections will form naturally.
Apps and platforms for finding friends
No, we're not talking about dating. There are platforms built specifically for finding friends and company for events. Localisio is one of them. Here you can:
- Find an event that interests you
- Join a small crew that's also going
- Meet people before the event in the group chat
- Create your own event and invite people nearby
This removes the main barrier — the fear of showing up alone to an unfamiliar place.
Tips for introverts
If you're an introvert, large events can feel overwhelming. Here's what might help:
- Start with small groups. A crew of 3–5 people is more comfortable than a party of 50.
- Choose activity-based formats. Board games, walks, workshops — when your hands are busy, conversation flows easier.
- Set small goals. Not "make friends with everyone," but "talk to one new person."
- Use online as a bridge. Write in the group chat before the event — then you'll already have a familiar face at the meetup.
What to do after the first meeting
Meeting someone is just the beginning. To turn it into friendship:
- Suggest meeting again. Don't wait for the other person to reach out first.
- Add them to contacts. On Localisio you can add someone to contacts right after an event and continue the conversation.
- Be the initiator. Suggest going to an exhibition together, trying a new café, or just taking a walk.
The main thing — just start
The hardest part is taking the first step. But remember: everyone who comes to these events was once a newcomer too. They understand what it's like to be alone in a new city. And that's exactly why they're open to meeting new people.
Open events in your city, choose something that interests you, and just show up. The rest will follow.
