When living abroad, one would probably like to make friends--more than usual, especially local friends, though, it is usually a challenge in the beginning. What can you do?

Usually a Home Party is quite effective from my experience. The relaxed mood, makes you feel less nervous about making mistakes in speaking English (or other languages), but you can easily show yourself as you are. I highly recommend having the home party at your place. Why? If at your place, you can control it. You have plenty of time to plan the party in the way you like. The more you know about it, the more you can control it.

But sometimes it may be difficult to have a party at your place. Then, what should you do?

Use lunch time and a Box Lunch! Everybody has lunch time at offices and at universities. You can make 2 box lunches when you make your own. Then, offer one to friends at lunch time!

Your friends may not need a full lunch from you but just bites for trial. One lunch box is enough for few friends, while one extra box lunch is not a big task for you in the morning….. And believe it, the reputation of box lunches that Japanese make is very high. Even if you are not a good cook, you will get a lot of admiration.

There are many ways to make friends, as you know! Local friends will definitely color your overseas life!