5 tips for single female expats

It is a group less commonly discussed: the single, female expat. Though at times being a single, female expat seems very glamorous (and at times it indeed is!) the new found freedom of living and working in a foreign country is not without its own trials and tribulations, especially when you are single. Fast-forward half a decade and the concept of making friends becomes more challenging. The reality is that during post-university life it can be difficult to make friends. People now have less time, a developing career, steady partners, children, or possibly already a set friend base. How does a single, female expat, make friends in a new town? Though this can seem like an overwhelming task, never fear; I have tried and tested suggestions which can help aid in overcoming these hurdles.

Learn the language because it makes adjusting to your new culture a lot easier. The more you are able to communicate with the local population, the less you will feel like an outsider and the more doors and possibilities will open up for you — even hopefully some new potential friendships.
Make single friends: once you reach the point in life where it seems like everyone is in either a serious relationship, getting married, or already are married, life can start to get a bit lonelier and even make you feel out of place. That is why it is important to find other single friends to do 'single' things with.
Meet other foreigners who understand exactly what it is that you are “going through”; people who can relate and know what it’s like to be from the “outside”.
Find a common interest group or try something new. Doing a hobby you enjoy can be beneficial for you as an individual, as well as open up opportunities to meet others to hang out with.
Go online for some social networking and dating. Use the web to find people like you around your city, and if you live in a small town, utilize online platforms to talk to people with when you feel lonely. Make sure also to keep in contact with your loved ones at home. They will be an important support system.

Source: InterNations