How to meet queer people in a new city
Written by Julien, lead developer of cruush.
Where do you start?
Pick two or three things you will do every week, and go back to them. Familiar faces turn into friends faster than one-off visits.
What works besides apps?
- Queer bars and cafes at quiet times, when staff have time to talk.
- Community centers, which often run groups and events.
- Sports leagues and hobby clubs with queer teams.
- Pride events and local festivals.
- Volunteering for a queer organization.
How can an app help?
An app gives you a first look at who is nearby. On cruush you can move your pin to a place before you go, join a Coven for your crowd, and browse Spots to see what is around.
How do you stay safe?
- Meet in public the first time.
- Tell a friend where you are going.
- Learn how you are getting home before you go out.
- Keep your address to yourself until you trust someone.
What if it takes a while?
It usually does. Moving somewhere new means building a circle from nothing. Going to the same few places regularly is the part that works.