Discovering a travel buddy app has completely transformed the way I explore the world, especially in Paris. What was once a solitary experience has now become an opportunity to create authentic connections with strangers who share the same passion for adventure.
Thanks to various platforms like UNBLND and Travello, we can now find travel companions with similar interests, whether it’s visiting the Eiffel Tower or exploring less touristy neighborhoods. In Paris, apps for making friends nearby are multiplying: Weezem connects people for various activities, while Frimake brings us together based on shared passions. For travelers seeking authentic experiences, a travel dating app like Couchsurfing facilitates homestay immersion, while Showaround allows you to explore the city with passionate local guides. In this guide, we’ll explore the best apps for meeting people while traveling and transform your Paris stay into an unforgettable experience.
The Best Apps for Meeting Adventurers in Paris
In Paris, several apps facilitate meetings between travelers passionate about adventure. I’ve personally tested these tools and share my findings here to enrich your Parisian experience.
1. UNBLND: Create Interest Groups
UNBLND stands out for its unique approach: it’s a global social network that connects you with like-minded people based on your interests. What makes it special? Your profile picture remains invisible at first, which encourages connections based on genuine affinities rather than appearance. The app’s sophisticated algorithm automatically suggests relevant groups, allowing you to create workshops based on your passions.
2. Travello: Social Network for Travelers
Travello has become a leading app for finding a travel buddy. It allows you to meet people who share the same passion for exploration. You can start chatting from home or discover nearby travelers once you’re in Paris. The app also offers over 30,000 discounted activities and a rewards point system that increases your traveler status.
3. Couchsurfing: Homestay Immersion
With over 14 million users in 200,000 cities, Couchsurfing transforms a simple stay into a true human adventure. This traveler-friendly app allows you to stay for free with a Parisian local, offering an authentic immersion in the local culture. Beyond the financial aspect, it’s the cultural exchange that makes this experience so rich.
4. Worldpackers: Exchange Skills
Worldpackers connects you with Parisian hosts with whom you can stay in exchange for your skills. This platform allows you to plan vacations while meeting other travelers and developing new skills. Available on the Play Store and Apple Store, it offers opportunities in over 100 countries.
5. Travel Buddy: Chat with Locals
Travel Buddy connects you with travelers and Parisian locals. You can chat with them to get valuable advice on the best places to visit and plan unique experiences together in the French capital.
6. Meetup: Join Themed Events
Meetup allows you to find and build local communities in Paris. The platform offers a variety of events, such as startups, photography, sports, and themed dinners. Ideal for those looking to join a group of enthusiasts or organize their own meetup, it’s available on Apple and Android.
7. Party with a Local: Party with Parisians
This app connects you with Parisians ready to share their favorite nightlife. A unique way to discover the capital’s authentic nightlife, far from the conventional tourist trail.
8. Showaround: Tours led by locals
Showaround allows you to find a local guide in Paris to discover the city through their eyes. You can browse guide profiles, plan and discuss activities before meeting, and then enjoy a personalized experience. Rates vary depending on the guide, with an average of €25 to €31 per hour.
How to choose the right app for your travel style
Choosing a dating app largely depends on your traveler profile. Unlike the previous sections, which detailed the different platforms, I’ll now guide you through selecting the ideal tool based on your specific needs.
Solo or group travel
For solo adventurers, apps like Backpackr allow you to find companions traveling to the same destination as you. You can post your dates and receive notifications when other travelers share your itinerary. On the other hand, WeRoad is perfect for those who prefer to travel in small, pre-established groups, always accompanied by a coordinator. This platform allows you to choose the atmosphere that suits you, whether for a few hours or a full trip.
Friendly vs. Romantic Encounters
Some apps have clearly defined their mission: to create friendships rather than romantic relationships. Bumble BFF, for example, works like its dating counterpart but focuses exclusively on friendships. Moreover, nearly a third of French people (32%) now use dating sites or apps to combat loneliness. On Frimake and Knockk, there’s even a “This isn’t Tinder” button to report inappropriate behavior, proof that these platforms want to distinguish themselves from traditional dating apps.
Communication Preferences (Chat, Video, Events)
Your communication style also influences your choice. If you prefer text exchanges before meeting someone, Travello offers a messaging service to chat with other travelers. For those who prefer in-person meetings, Meetup or Frimake offer themed events. Some apps even allow secure exchanges via integrated messaging before participating in an activity.
Compatibility with Interests
Finally, choose an app that matches your interests. Timeleft connects you with like-minded strangers who enjoy dining out. EatWith connects you with locals who are passionate about food. For partygoers, Party with a Local or Shotgun are ideal, while sports enthusiasts will find what they’re looking for on platforms like Knockk, which offers outdoor activities.
Tips for Optimizing Your App-Based Dating
To maximize your chances of making meaningful connections, careful preparation is essential before launching your search for adventurers in Paris. Here are my tips for turning your virtual interactions into authentic connections.
Take Care of Your Profile and Photos
A well-designed profile is the key to a successful first impression. According to Happn, the ideal profile contains five photos, with the first image clearly showcasing your face. Absolutely avoid group photos that cast doubt on your identity. Also, use unique images that differ from those on your social media to prevent reverse searches. Favor natural light and show yourself in action according to your interests—it’s always more attractive than a simple selfie!
Be clear about your intentions
For an effective traveler dating app, be transparent from the start. Clearly state where you’re from, the dates of your stay in Paris, and what exactly you’re looking for. If you’re only looking for friendly encounters, state this explicitly to avoid any misunderstandings. A brief but catchy description will facilitate initial exchanges and attract people who share your interests.
Use geolocation wisely
In a city like Paris, limit your search area to a radius of approximately 10 km. Also, use location settings sparingly or turn them off when not in use. This is essential, as overly precise geolocation could reveal your neighborhood or temporary accommodations.
Prepare Conversation Topics
Once you’ve found a travel buddy, don’t wait! Send a message within 24 hours of the match, or your chances decrease by 72%. Plan topics of discussion related to your shared interests and, ideally, transition from chat to in-person meeting within three days to maintain excitement.
Respect Safety Rules
Caution remains paramount. Arrange your first date in a busy public place during the day. Before leaving, inform a friend of the person you’re meeting and where you’ll be meeting. Plan your own transportation so you can leave whenever you want. If you’re drinking, respect your limits and never take your eyes off your drink. Finally, trust your instincts—don’t hesitate to leave if you feel uncomfortable.
Dating Apps to Avoid or Use with Caution
Despite their undeniable benefits, dating apps present certain risks that should not be overlooked when looking for adventurers in Paris. Here are the main dangers and some precautions to take.
Risks of Fake Profiles
Fake profiles are a real threat on dating platforms. In fact, more than 55% of users encounter suspicious profiles or messages at least once a week. Among those who have been scammed, 79% report losing money, with an average amount of €897.65.
Romance scammers often follow a specific pattern: they first establish trust, then emotionally manipulate you into transferring money. Some pose as deployed military personnel or people living abroad. Others engage in catfishing by creating entirely fictitious profiles with stolen photos.
To spot these dubious profiles, be wary of people who:
- Express intense feelings without ever having met you
- Always find excuses to avoid video calls
- Try to isolate you from loved ones who express doubts
Apps with little activity in Paris
Some apps promise legitimate matches but are seriously lacking in active users in Paris. Be particularly wary of registration questionnaires containing few personal details but many questions about your finances. If your minimalist profile suddenly attracts many messages, it’s probably a fraudulent site.
Privacy Issues
Geolocation poses a major risk, especially for certain communities. For example, during the Paris Olympic Games, apps like Grindr disabled this feature in the athletes’ village to protect those who hadn’t come out. However, this problem affects all users.
Furthermore, 61% of scam victims report having also lost personal data: 47% their email address, 40% their phone number, and 31% their bank details. To protect yourself, activate the “incognito” mode available on certain apps and disable geolocation when not in use.
Never share your banking information or send money to someone you only met online. This will allow you to take full advantage of your app to find a travel companion without compromising your security.
Conclusion
The world of travel apps at your fingertips
Finding the perfect travel companion completely transforms the Parisian experience. After testing several platforms, I can confirm that each offers unique benefits based on your specific needs.
UNBLND and Travello are excellent for connections based on shared interests, while Couchsurfing and Worldpackers allow for deeper cultural immersion. For those seeking authentic local experiences, Showaround and Party with a Local open the doors to a Paris unseen by guidebooks.
Nevertheless, caution remains essential. Fake profiles and privacy issues represent real risks that should never be underestimated. Certainly, protecting your personal information and favoring meetings in public places are essential precautions.
The key to success lies in a well-curated profile and clearly defined intentions. A good balance between open-mindedness and vigilance will allow you to have memorable adventures without compromising your safety.
Ultimately, these apps are just tools. The true human experience begins once the screen is off, when you share a coffee by the Seine or discover a hidden neighborhood of the City of Lights together. The friendships formed this way often become the best part of the trip, far beyond the monuments visited.
So, download the app that suits your style, carefully prepare your profile, and embark on your Parisian adventure. Extraordinary encounters await you around the next street corner.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best app for meeting people in Paris?
There is no single “best” app, as it depends on your preferences. UNBLND is excellent for creating interest groups, Travello is ideal for travelers, and Couchsurfing offers homestay immersion. Choose based on your travel style and dating goals.
Q2. How can I stay safe when using dating apps while traveling?
… Are there any apps for exchanging services or skills while traveling in Paris?
Yes, Worldpackers is an excellent platform for exchanging your skills for accommodation in Paris. Not only does it help you reduce your travel costs, but it also allows you to have an immersive experience and meet other travelers and locals with similar interests.
Q3. What are some recommended apps for discovering Paris with locals?
Showaround is excellent for personalized tours led by Parisians. Party with a Local allows you to experience authentic nightlife. Meetup is ideal for joining themed events and meeting passionate locals.
Q4. How can I optimize my profile on a travel dating app?
Choose recent and varied photos that reflect your personality. Be clear about your travel intentions and interests. Use a compelling and honest description. Don’t forget to include the dates of your stay in Paris to facilitate connections.
Q5. Are there any apps for exchanging services or skills while traveling in Paris?
Yes, Worldpackers is an excellent platform for exchanging your skills for accommodation in Paris. Not only does it help you reduce your travel costs, but it also allows you to have an immersive experience and meet other travelers and locals with similar intere
