Life abroad is not always fun or easier than life back home. It’s just as hard, only with a different set of problems. The toughest one? Rebuilding your network. Finding real friends (not just acquaintances).
Sure, you can join meetups, go to InterNations events, or use apps like Timeleft. But most of those are designed to give you more events and more people to meet. Not actual friendships.
So I am trying something different.
Table of Contents
The Funnel
I use Internations and Timeleft as my “top of funnel.” A way to meet interesting people I’d like to know better.
Then, I host a cocktail party. Nothing fancy. Just a space to connect as humans first, not job titles.
From there, I filter again.
Game Night
I invite some guests back to my place for game night.
- Pizza on me
- Games ready
- Everyone brings their drink of choice
The result? Fun, laughter, and just the right amount of competition.
The Strategy
This is my little social playbook abroad. Not for stacking contacts. But for building friendships that actually last.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, I believe the quality of your connections determines the quality of your life. The social funnel approach turns casual meetups into meaningful friendships by intentionally moving from large gatherings to intimate settings where real connections can form.
Instead of collecting business cards or adding LinkedIn connections, this strategy focuses on creating spaces where people can show up as themselves. From first meetings at organized events, to relaxed cocktail parties, to fun game nights, each step brings you closer to finding your people abroad.
Ready to build deeper connections in your new home? Try applying the social funnel to your own life and see how quality beats quantity every time.
PS: You can read more about my social blueprint on my Substack. Click here to subscribe.