Traveling with strangers can be an intimidating concept for many people. The idea of sharing a trip with unfamiliar faces, especially in an unknown destination, often brings hesitation. Fears of personality clashes, awkward moments, or simply feeling uncomfortable are common reasons why people avoid traveling with strangers. But sometimes, stepping outside of your comfort zone and joining a group of new travelers can lead to some of the most rewarding experiences. This is exactly what happened to three women who met during a trip to Meghalaya in 2018 and formed a lasting friendship. Their story is an inspiring example of how traveling with strangers can transform into lifelong friendships.
The Beginning of a Lifelong Friendship in Meghalaya
In 2018, Neethu, Akhila and Neeraja, all based in Bangalore, decided to embark on a group trip to Meghalaya. Although they had never met in person before the trip, they had already connected virtually while planning the trip. Meeting for the first time as strangers didn’t feel as awkward as one might expect. In fact, the bonding between them came naturally, without any forced effort. It wasn’t triggered by a specific event or situation; instead, the connection developed organically, creating an immediate sense of comfort.
The trip to Meghalaya was more than just a vacation—it marked the start of an extraordinary friendship that none of them had anticipated. Despite being strangers at the outset, they found themselves connecting on multiple levels. This shared travel experience opened the door to future adventures and a close-knit bond that would stand the test of time.
Saying Goodbye, But Not for Long
As the trip came to an end and they bid each other farewell, the goodbyes didn’t feel final. They knew that this wasn’t the end of their journey together. The fact that they lived in the same city—Bangalore—made it easier to stay connected. Even without specific plans for another trip, all three of them felt confident that they would meet again soon. Sure enough, within a short time after their first adventure in Meghalaya, they planned a lunch date, followed quickly by a spontaneous weekend trip to Pondicherry.
This ease of planning and the desire to travel together again made it clear that their bond was not limited to just one trip. Their love for exploring new destinations and their ability to enjoy each other’s company made the idea of future travels together feel natural.
Reuniting for the Next Adventure
Life often gets in the way of frequent travels, and after their initial trips, the three friends found themselves busy with work and personal commitments. Then came the pandemic, which further delayed their travel plans. But in 2024, after a long wait, they reunited for a much-anticipated trip to Vietnam with Appooppanthaadi again. Planning this trip together felt as exciting as their first journey, and it was a testament to how strong their friendship had become over the years.
Despite the time gap between trips, their bond remained intact, and they picked up right where they left off. Their Vietnam adventure was another shared memory that added to the rich tapestry of their friendship. Traveling with each other felt effortless, as if no time had passed, and this seamless connection proved that their friendship was built to last.
The Art of Travel Planning Together
When it comes to planning their trips, the Neethu, Neeraja and Akhila have developed a shared approach that makes travel easy and enjoyable. They all prefer a relaxed vacation experience, one without tight schedules or rushed checklists. This shared preference allows them to plan trips that cater to their collective desire for a stress-free travel experience. Whether it’s lounging on a beach, exploring local markets, or simply strolling through scenic landscapes, they know how to balance adventure and relaxation.
One of their favorite activities while traveling is shopping—something they all enjoy equally. From local souvenirs to unique fashion finds, they bond over their shared love for exploring markets and shops in every destination they visit. While some destinations may not be to everyone’s taste, their willingness to compromise and enjoy the experience ensures that their travel plans go smoothly.
Memorable Moments, Laughter, and Adventure to Follow Your Dreams
No trip is complete without a collection of memorable stories, and their adventures have provided plenty of those. Whether it’s sharing a funny moment at a café, getting lost in an unfamiliar city, or experiencing a new culture, each trip has given them moments to cherish. Laughter has been a constant companion on their travels, making even the most mundane situations more enjoyable.
Adventure has also played a key role in their journeys. From hiking in the hills of Meghalaya to navigating the bustling streets of Vietnam, their trips have been filled with exciting and adventurous moments. Whether they are exploring a new city or hiking through nature, the thrill of discovering something new together has strengthened their friendship.
Dreaming of Future Travel Destinations
Despite the trips they’ve already taken, the three women are always dreaming of their next adventure. For one of them, Turkey tops the list as the next must-visit destination. The thought of walking through the historic streets of Istanbul, exploring the ruins of ancient civilizations, and immersing themselves in the rich culture of Turkey excites them all. With so many destinations still on their travel bucket list, it’s clear that their friendship will continue to thrive through future trips.
Their shared love for travel ensures that they will continue planning and embarking on new adventures together. Whether it’s a relaxing vacation or an exhilarating exploration of a new country, the joy of traveling together will always be a cornerstone of their friendship.
A Message to Those Hesitant About Traveling With Strangers
For anyone who is still hesitant about traveling with strangers, these three women have a simple message: go for it. Traveling with strangers doesn’t have to be daunting, and in fact, it can lead to some of the most fulfilling experiences of your life. Not only do you get the chance to explore new destinations, but you also have the opportunity to meet new people, form deep connections, and possibly make lifelong friends.
If you’ve ever wanted to visit a particular destination but couldn’t find the right company, don’t let that hold you back. Joining a group of like-minded travelers or signing up for a trip with strangers can open the door to incredible friendships. These three women are living proof that what begins as a trip with strangers can evolve into a bond that lasts a lifetime.
