making friends while traveling solo: is it really that easy?

I’ve been on the road alone for a week now, and honestly, it’s not as simple to meet people as I thought. Yesterday, I sat in a cozy little café in Montreal for over an hour, hoping someone might strike up a conversation. Instead, everyone seemed glued to their phones or laptops, barely looking up. I tried smiling at a few folks, but it felt awkward, like I was interrupting their private world. I’ve heard people say hostels are great for meeting fellow travelers, but when I checked into one, most people were much younger than me and seemed more interested in their own groups. I felt a bit out of place, like the odd one out at a family reunion. I’m starting to wonder—am I missing something? Is there a secret spot or activity where people our age actually chat and connect? Or is solo travel just a bit lonelier than the travel blogs let on? I’d love to hear if anyone’s found a way to break the ice that doesn’t feel forced or awkward. Sometimes I think about joining a group tour, but then I worry it’ll be too structured and I’ll lose the freedom I love about traveling alone. It’s a real toss-up! #solotravel #makingfriends #over50travel #Travel