You don’t need to travel to make new friends. Meeting locals and fellow travelers is one of the most rewarding parts of any trip. Be it sharing stories over dinner or getting a glimpse into different cultures, making connections is an essential part of any traveler’s lifestyle.

The best part? You don’t actually need to travel to bond with someone from across the globe. Even if wanderlust isn’t currently on the horizon, the opportunity for meaningful connections is still very much alive with the concept of having a pen pal.

The pen pal world, a nostalgic throwback to school days, continues to thrive today. Numerous pen pal-matching platforms foster high-quality international friendships while prioritizing safety and respect. Some platforms offer messaging and video chat services, while others emphasize handwritten notes. Regardless of your preferred communication method, having a pen pal allows you to experience one of life’s greatest joys: making a new friend.

Here are seven pen pal platforms to maintain cross-cultural connections from afar.

Compatipal

Compatipal brings together like-minded individuals for engaging digital conversations on topics ranging from football to food. This platform emphasizes immediate communication (no handwritten notes required) and facilitates instant messaging. Users can search for pen pals based on shared interests and geographical locations, even forming groups centered around topics such as business, art, travel, and language learning. The site is entirely free and welcomes members from around the globe.

Conversation Exchange

Practicing a new language with a native speaker is one of the most effective ways to forge cross-cultural friendships. Conversation Exchange enables these connections by offering a global language-learning platform where users can choose from over 100 different languages—from English to Mandarin, Arabic, and even constructed languages like Esperanto. The platform matches language learners with speakers to enhance fluency through voice, video, or written communication while providing a variety of language resources. Membership is free, with a premium option available for an enhanced experience.

International Geek Girl Pen Pals Club

Since its inception in 2013, Geek Girl Pen Pals has connected self-identified nerds through both written and digital communication methods. This thriving community of over 17,000 members is inclusive of all genders, ages, cultures, and backgrounds. Pen pals are paired based on age and shared interests, including opportunities for international matches down to specific countries. The majority engage in communication through handwritten letters, with volunteers hosting digital meetups, creating a sense of belonging among members. Membership is free, though supporters on Patreon receive exclusive experiences.

PenPal World

PenPal World has been connecting millions of enthusiasts since 1998 through its reliable matching services. For safety, members converse initially on the site before transitioning to email or letters. Free membership allows outreach to up to three members daily, while a VIP membership (only 10 cents per day) permits messaging up to 50 people every 24 hours. The site’s founders carefully review each profile application and swiftly address any flagged concerns or suspicious content.

Postcrossing

Even without potential travel plans, you can indulge in the joy of sending postcards via Postcrossing. This initiative connects individuals through the gratifying practice of physical postcard writing. The premise is straightforward: send a postcard to a randomly assigned address and receive one from another “postcrosser.” To continue the conversation, simply use the postcard’s ID number on the site to reach out to the sender. Membership is free and encompasses online forums and opportunities for in-person gatherings.

Wanderful

Designed by women travelers for women travelers, Wanderful unites its vast membership through meetups, group excursions, and global events. The community is inclusive, welcoming trans, nonbinary, and genderqueer travelers, while also facilitating digital connections. Members can partake in one-on-one language-learning sessions or join virtual events like yoga classes, happy hours, and travel-themed share sessions. An annual membership starts at $300, offering valuable experiences for those looking to establish connections.

Worldwide Snail Mail Pen Pals

With more than 43,000 members, Worldwide Snail Mail Pen Pals is an active Facebook community dedicated to fostering global friendships. Interacting in the group is straightforward: members post requests for pen pals, and interested individuals respond in the comments. Moderators monitor interactions to ensure safety and kindness. Queries for pen pals are frequently posted, providing participants a lovely diversion, especially during times of social distancing. Joining the group is free, requiring only a Facebook account and a brief qualifying survey.