Friends often know us better than anyone else, and it is their support that gets us through some of the toughest times in our lives. If you have managed to keep up your connections from childhood or college, you have likely experienced how difficult it can be to stay close with old friends, but many of us have found ways to maintain friendships through it all. Staying connected with your friends and also family is definitely a huge concern especially in a long-distance.
Modern technology has alleviated the logistical part of how some friends can still communicate with each other in a long-distance friendship. The technologies have made it much easier to keep in touch. They also can help us feel less lonely and more connected to people we care about. These are actually 5 fun ways to interact with far-away friends.
1) Surprise Them With Snail Mail
Grab their current address and mail them a letter. Everyone loves getting something in the mail, so it will be a fun surprise. Write about how your life is going and what you’re up to, then ask them to do the same. Send along fun things like stickers or temporary tattoos to make your letter extra special. Or, put together a care package with fun snacks and trinkets. Keep in mind that international shipping can be expensive. The smaller your letter or package is, the better.
2) Host A Virtual Club
Try a book club, fitness club, or a coffee club. Pick something that appeals to all of your friends, then meet up once a month to discuss it or do an activity. It’s a fun way to have something to talk about so you always have a new topic of conversation. You could also try a baking club, craft club, or goals club.
3) Send Spontaneous Texts
An unexpected text can brighten up someone’s day. Even if you know your friend is asleep or at work, send them a text telling them how much you miss them. They’ll see it once they get back to their phone, and they might even send one back. You could also text them pictures or videos of fun stuff that’s happening in your life. If you don’t have an international phone plan, try using a messaging app like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.
4) Watch Favorite Shows Together
Netflix and Hulu both offer watch party options. Log onto Netflix or Hulu and click on “Watch Party,” then add your friends to the party. When you all log on to your accounts, you can sign in to watch the same show at the same time. This is also a fun way to host a virtual movie night.
5) Make Plans To Visit Each Other
There’s no better way to stay connected. If you can, make plans with your friend to go and visit them overseas, or have them come to you. If you can meet in the middle somewhere, pick a spot that’s best for the both of you. Not everyone has the time or the money to travel, and that’s okay. If you can’t do it right now, just keep up with your friends online.
Sources: WikiHow.