Discover how I make relationships while traveling alone to prove that being alone doesn’t have to imply feeling alone.My most recent solo travel adventure began with a stroll along the vibrant banks of the Guadalquivir River in Seville. The riverfront was bustling with activity, the temperature was pleasant, and the view of the towering Torre Del Oro was breathtaking. And yet, in the middle of all this beauty, there was a profound loneliness.

Even though traveling alone can be liberating, adventurous, and empowering, there is a drawback. I was surrounded by groups and couples enjoying each other’s company and I was desperate for a hug. During the first few days of my two-month stay, I felt the need to make new friends because I didn’t want to spend my time by myself in my Airbnb.

I turned to internet expat forums, identified myself as a writer, and found a plethora of happenings. Before long, I was surrounded by recently made friends at an outside cafe, having a linguistic exchange. Meetings at music venues, flamenco performances, and even membership in the American Women’s Club perpetuated the ripple effect.

Making use of social media sites such as Facebook and Meetup let me make connections with locals and other travelers. Furthermore, I widened my social contacts by signing up for neighborhood exercise courses. A fortuitous meeting in a yoga class resulted in friendship, and deciding to take up boxing brought about experiences and meal arrangements.

Relocating to an apartment building with a shared outdoor area turned into a haven. Contacts with neighbors such as Carmen on a daily basis developed into invitations to cultural events and undiscovered culinary treasures. Whenever I told friends about my travel schedule, they would frequently introduce me to other people who were either in or going to the same place.

Taking up the habit of people-watching in coffee shops and combining it with concentrated work sessions led to impromptu talks and invitations to other events. Looking for things to do that matched my interests as a writer and reader helped me strengthen relationships and open doors to chances in the workplace.

I took measured chances and immersed myself in activities like a cooking class and tapas tour, making friends over real Andalusian food and paella. My schedule was packed with invites to concerts, dinners, festivals, and other events in a matter of days.

Now that I have a toolkit of solo travel techniques at my disposal, I may visit Seville again with a full itinerary of social events, so those times of loneliness will become infrequent. Companionship is guaranteed as I go out on those lengthy treks beside the Guadalquivir River.

The author of “Knocked Down: A High-Risk Memoir,” Aileen Weintraub, discusses her humorous story about marriage, parenting, and the dangers we take