Before the advent of the internet and social media, people made foreign friends through various means, some of which are still applicable today. Here are some traditional ways people connected with others from different countries:
Pen Pals: Writing letters to people in other countries was a popular way to make foreign friends. People would exchange letters and learn about each other's cultures, languages, and daily lives.
Language Exchange Programs: Participating in language exchange programs allowed individuals to meet people from different countries who were interested in learning each other's native languages.
Travel and Tourism: Traveling and meeting people in person was one of the best ways to make foreign friends. People would interact with locals while exploring different countries and cultures.
International Events and Conferences: Attending international events, conferences, or seminars provided opportunities to meet like-minded individuals from around the world.
Cultural Exchanges: Joining or hosting cultural exchange programs allowed people to interact with individuals from other countries who were interested in understanding their culture.
Diplomatic and Business Ties: Diplomats, international business professionals, and expatriates often made foreign friends while living or working in other countries.
Educational Institutions: Students from different countries studying in the same educational institution would often form friendships during their time together.
Volunteering and Nonprofit Organizations: Joining international organizations or volunteering for global causes connected people with others who shared similar passions and interests.
Personal Connections: Friends and family members could introduce individuals to people from other countries through personal connections.
Snail Mail Magazines: Some magazines and publications offered pen pal sections where readers could find international friends.
These methods might have taken longer to establish connections compared to the instant connections facilitated by the internet and social media. However, they provided a unique and often more intimate way of getting to know people from different cultures and backgrounds. Some of these traditional methods are still in use today, complementing the modern means of making foreign friends through the internet and social media.