How to Build a Community Abroad

Moving abroad is exhilarating. The thought of exploring new places, embracing fresh cultures, and stepping outside your comfort zone feels like a dream come true. But if you’re anything like me, one question probably lingers in the back of your mind: How will I find my people?

When I first decided to live abroad, this was my biggest concern. I knew the freedom and excitement of being a digital nomad or luxury expat wouldn’t mean much if I didn’t have a community to share it with. So, I started early—joining Facebook groups, connecting with influencers, and chatting with expats and locals before I even packed my bags. By the time I arrived, I had coffee dates lined up and a sense of familiarity that made the transition much smoother.

Now, I want to share my playbook with you. Building a community abroad doesn’t just prevent loneliness—it enriches your experience and helps you thrive. Let’s dive into how you can create meaningful connections and a sense of belonging wherever you go.

Why Community is Essential

Being a digital nomad or luxury expat comes with incredible perks: freedom, flexibility, and adventure. But without the right connections, even the most beautiful destinations can feel isolating.

Building a community offers:

• A Support System: Whether you need advice about navigating visas, finding housing, or troubleshooting a problem, having people to lean on is invaluable.

• A Deeper Experience: Locals and experienced expats can show you sides of your new home that guidebooks never will.

• A Sense of Joy and Stability: Shared experiences and meaningful relationships make even the most transient lifestyle feel grounded.

Step 1: Start Building Your Community Before You Arrive

The key to hitting the ground running is starting early. By connecting with people before you land, you’ll feel more confident and prepared, turning strangers into friendly faces waiting to greet you.

1. Join Facebook Groups

Search for expat or digital nomad groups in your destination (e.g., “Expats in Lisbon” or “Digital Nomads in Mexico City”). These groups are treasure troves of advice, resources, and connections.

What Worked for Me: I joined several groups and started asking questions—about neighborhoods, coworking spaces, and even local customs. Not only did I get useful advice, but I also connected with people who invited me to coffee meetups once I arrived. Those initial connections became the foundation of my social circle.

2. Explore Meetup.com

Meetup.com is a fantastic resource for finding events around the world. Search for activities in your destination and join groups that match your interests, whether it’s yoga, networking, or salsa dancing. Many groups even host virtual meetups, so you can start forming connections before you board the plane.

3. Connect with Influencers

Research local influencers, bloggers, or well-connected expats in your chosen location. Follow their content to get a feel for the lifestyle and reach out if you have questions. You’d be surprised how many people are happy to help.

Example: When I was considering a move to Playa del Carmen, I followed a few local content creators on Instagram. I commented on their posts and even messaged one about their favorite coworking spaces. Their response not only helped me plan but also gave me a friendly face to connect with once I arrived.

4. Join WhatsApp or Telegram Groups

Many expat and nomad communities use messaging platforms to stay connected in real time. Ask in Facebook or Reddit threads if anyone knows of active groups for your destination.

Pro Tip: Some of my best resources for housing and local events came from these groups. Joining early meant I had advice and recommendations lined up before I even landed.

5. Volunteer for Virtual Events

Many organizations and expat groups offer online workshops, webinars, or language exchanges. Participating in these events allows you to interact with people remotely, giving you a head start on building connections.

Step 2: Immerse Yourself Once You Arrive

Once you’re on the ground, it’s time to take all those online connections and turn them into in-person relationships.

1. Find a Co-Working Space

Co-working spaces aren’t just about productivity—they’re social hubs. Many host happy hours, networking events, and workshops that make it easy to meet like-minded people.

2. Attend Local Meetups

Check Meetup.com, Eventbrite, or Facebook Events for gatherings that match your interests. From language exchanges to cooking classes, these activities help you connect with locals and expats alike.

3. Volunteer Locally

Volunteering is an incredible way to give back while meeting people who share your values. Whether it’s teaching English, working with animals, or helping with community events, you’ll forge connections that feel meaningful.

Step 3: Find Your Tribe Through Shared Passions

Shared interests are a powerful way to build authentic connections.

1. Join Hobby Groups

Look for clubs or organizations that match your interests. From running groups to photography classes, shared passions bring people together.

2. Take a Language Class

Even learning a few key phrases in the local language can open doors to deeper relationships. I joined a casual language exchange group where we swapped English lessons for conversational Spanish, and it became one of my favorite weekly events.

3. Become a Regular

Frequent the same café, gym, or market. Over time, you’ll start recognizing faces and building rapport with people in the community.

Step 4: Maintain and Nurture Your Connections

Building a community is just the start—keeping those relationships strong takes effort.

1. Be Proactive

Don’t wait for others to make the first move. Reach out to schedule coffee dates or invite someone to an event. One of my closest friendships started with a simple message: “Want to grab lunch?”

2. Host Gatherings

If you don’t see the events you want, create them! Hosting a dinner party, game night, or book club is a great way to bring people together.

3. Stay Connected with Past Friends

For digital nomads, staying in touch with people from previous destinations keeps your network alive and thriving. Use tools like WhatsApp, Zoom, or even postcards to maintain those bonds.

Step 5: Overcome Common Challenges

Building a community as an expat or nomad isn’t always easy, but the rewards are worth it.

• Loneliness: Be patient and persistent. Building meaningful relationships takes time, but every effort gets you closer to finding your people.

• Cultural Barriers: Approach differences with curiosity and respect. Locals appreciate when you make an effort to understand their traditions.

• Transient Connections: Some friendships may only last a season, but that doesn’t make them less valuable. Embrace the beauty of temporary connections while cherishing the ones that endure.

Bonus Tip: Build a Virtual Community for Remote Nomads

Not every digital nomad has the flexibility to attend in-person events. If your lifestyle is more virtual, focus on online communities:

• Slack Groups and Discord Servers: Join industry-specific or nomad-focused groups.

• Virtual Coworking: Platforms like Focusmate pair you with accountability partners for productive sessions.

Your Tribe is Out There

Building a community abroad is about more than avoiding loneliness—it’s about creating a support system, finding joy in connection, and enriching your journey through the people you meet. Whether you’re preparing to move or settling into a new home, the key is to start with intention and follow through with action.

Your adventure isn’t just about the places you’ll go—it’s about the relationships you’ll form along the way. So reach out, show up, and start creating the community that will make your new destination feel like home. Your people are out there, ready to welcome you into their world. Safe travels and happy connecting!