Make eye contact and smile. What did your parents tell you when you were young? "LOOK ME IN THE EYE!" There was a reason for that. Eye contact is a silent way of communicating honesty, integrity and confidence. For its part, a smile projects a warm, welcoming and friendly persona. Mix the two while traveling and you'll be just the sort of tourist locals will want to meet.
Make an effort to speak the local language when in a foreign place. There's nothing more arrogant than a tourist who expects locals to speak their own language. Even if your knowledge of a foreign language is rudimentary, more often than not, locals will appreciate your effort. Plus, your attempt at honoring their culture may very well spark a more extensive conversation in a common language.
Ask for directions, or advice on things to see and do. Asking a few simple questions about how to get somewhere is an excellent way to strike up a conversation. In the end, you'll likely not only learn the best route to your destination, but also about the hidden gems along the way.
Flattery will get you everywhere. Offering up some heartfelt admiration will not only open doors for you, but will spread goodwill. Love a local's garden? Tell him/her. How about that cute pet sheep? Spoon out the sugar. Think those luscious red tomatoes are the finest at the town market? Be sure to let the vendor know!
Give a little, get a lot. Bringing small, token gifts to give away to the locals is a tried-and-true way to establish friendships that pay great dividends in cultural education. Visit your local tourist board before you leave and they may give you small flags or state pins to give out on your travels. Or, buy some interesting state magnets, pens, pencils or patches to bring along. And think about making some homemade business cards on your computer so you can stay in touch with your new friends!
Hang out at the local hotspots. In a small Mexican village, it may be a town square. In Ireland, it may be a pub. In Paris, it may be a bridge over the Seine. And in Italy, it may be a fountain. And almost anywhere, it may very well be a small community church, farmers market or flea market. Wherever your travels take you, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the places the locals like to gather in their daily life-and go there and mingle.
Attend a sporting event. A great way to meet friendly locals is to check out a sporting event, where you're likely to encounter people in relaxed, upbeat moods as they cheer on their favorite teams. Every country has its athletic passion, whether it's soccer, cricket, baseball-or who knows what else!
