How to make friends in a Nigerian hotel

Is it your first time visiting Nigeria or staying at a Nigerian hotel? Or perhaps you have traveled around Nigeria before but this is your first time staying at a particular hotel and you are suddenly overwhelmed by the feeling of boredom and you wish you had a friend around. Well, this post is your salvation!

Below is a list of the easiest ways on how to make friends in a Nigerian hotel, even if you are the introverted or shy type.

Sign up for group activities

One of the easiest ways to meet people in a hotel and eventually make friends with them is to join in with group activities. Depending on the hotel you are visiting, there is usually a number of group activities going on. In a lot of the hotels in the major cities in Nigeria, it is common to find conferences going on in the event halls and conference rooms of the hotels, as well as parties, outings and excursions. Ask the concierge or the receptionist at the front desk for any information on such group activities and sign yourself up. This is a great way to meet more people, some of whom may be new to the city like you too.

Stay in a small hotel

Many travel journalists agree that is easier to meet people and strike up friendships when you stay in a small hotel, as against staying in a large hotel. While 4 and 5-star hotels offer a certain kind of luxury for guests, these comforts serve to cause the guests to mainly stay indoors or within their rooms. In smaller hotels, guests tend to come out more often. You would have a greater chance meeting someone and striking up a friendship at a smaller hotel than a large one.

Go to the central areas

Central areas in hotels include poolsides, bars, restaurants, lounges, buffet sections etc. Visiting those areas often affords you a chance to meet more people. Some of the people you meet may not even be guests of the hotel, but you get a chance to mingle and make friends.

Strike up conversations with fellow tourists

“Hi, I’m visiting this area. Do you know where I can get a decent lunch place?” is one of the many questions sure to break the ice and start a conversation with a fellow hotel guest and possible tourist and bam! Friendship!

Trying out any of these things is sure to help you make a lot of friends at any Nigerian hotel. If you have any other insights on how to do this, please share in the comments section below.