Master List Of Social Media Apps

Living abroad can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to staying connected and navigating life in a new country. Fortunately, there are many social media apps designed to help expats make new friends, stay in touch with loved ones, find useful local information, and integrate into their new surroundings. Whether you’re looking to join expat communities, discover local events, or simply keep in touch with friends back home, the right app can make all the difference. This master list compiles the most useful social media platforms for expats globally, making it easier to stay connected, informed, and engaged, no matter where you are in the world.

Facebook

Why it’s useful: With global reach, expats can join various groups, such as expat-specific communities in particular cities or countries. Facebook also has Marketplace for buying/selling locally and Events to stay updated on local happenings.
Key Features: Groups, Events, Marketplace, Messenger.

WhatsApp

Why it’s useful: An essential tool for international communication, WhatsApp allows free calls and texts, making it easy to stay connected with family and friends across the world. Many expat communities also use it for group chats.
Key Features: Free voice/video calls, group chats, file sharing, location sharing.

Instagram

Why it’s useful: Expats can share their experiences and connect with fellow travelers or locals through photos, reels, and stories. Instagram is also useful for discovering new places, restaurants, and activities in the area.
Key Features: Stories, Reels, DM (Direct Messaging), Hashtags for expat communities.

LinkedIn

Why it’s useful: Expats looking for work or business connections abroad can leverage LinkedIn. It’s especially useful for networking, job searching, and connecting with professionals in your new country.
Key Features: Job listings, networking groups, career advice, connections.

Meetup

Why it’s useful: Meetup helps expats find local events and social groups based on shared interests. It’s a great way to meet new people and participate in local activities.
Key Features: Event organization, interest-based groups, local meetups.

InterNations

Why it’s useful: This platform is designed specifically for expats. It offers forums, events, and a variety of city-specific groups to help expats connect and integrate into their new communities.
Key Features: Expat-focused events, discussion forums, relocation guides.

Reddit

Why it’s useful: Reddit has numerous forums (subreddits) dedicated to expat life in specific countries and cities. It’s a valuable source of information, advice, and tips on living abroad.
Key Features: Subreddits, Q&A discussions, community engagement.

Telegram

Why it’s useful: Similar to WhatsApp, but with additional features like large group chats and privacy settings. Many expat communities use Telegram for their chats and local updates.
Key Features: Group chats, channels, encrypted messaging, file sharing.

Nextdoor

Why it’s useful: Nextdoor is a neighborhood-specific social network, useful for expats to get hyper-local information, meet neighbors, and stay updated on community events.
Key Features: Local groups, neighborhood events, classifieds.

Couchsurfing

Why it’s useful: Expats can use Couchsurfing not only for finding places to stay temporarily but also to connect with locals and other travelers. The platform’s community aspect allows for meaningful cultural exchange.
Key Features: Travel hosting, local events, messaging.

TikTok

Why it’s useful: TikTok has a growing community of expats sharing their experiences, tips, and funny moments about living abroad. It’s also a great way to discover cultural trends in your new location.
Key Features: Short-form videos, live streaming, global trends.

Slack

Why it’s useful: While primarily a workplace tool, Slack can be useful for expats working remotely or as freelancers. Some expat communities use Slack to organize group chats and professional networks.
Key Features: Group channels, direct messaging, integration with tools.

WeChat (for expats in China)

Why it’s useful: WeChat is the go-to app in China for communication, socializing, and even payments. Expats living in China use it for everything from messaging to finding local services.
Key Features: Messaging, payment system, mini-programs, groups.

Twitter

Why it’s useful: Twitter is helpful for staying updated on global and local news. Many expats use Twitter to follow embassies, consulates, and local news outlets in their host country.
Key Features: News updates, hashtags, real-time conversations.

Signal

Why it’s useful: For expats concerned with privacy, Signal offers encrypted messaging and calls. It’s a secure alternative for communication with family and friends.
Key Features: End-to-end encryption, free messaging/calls, group chats.

Pinterest

Why it’s useful: Expats can use Pinterest to find ideas for decorating their new home, local recipes, and travel ideas. It’s especially popular for lifestyle inspiration.
Key Features: Pinboards, idea sharing, content discovery.

Skype

Why it’s useful: Skype offers video and voice calls, making it easy for expats to stay in touch with loved ones around the globe. It’s also commonly used for business calls.
Key Features: Video calls, chat, international calling.

Xing (for expats in Europe)

Why it’s useful: Similar to LinkedIn, Xing is more popular in Europe for professional networking. It’s ideal for expats looking for work or connections in European countries.
Key Features: Job listings, professional networking, groups.

Viber

Why it’s useful: Viber offers free messaging and calls with features similar to WhatsApp, but it’s more widely used in certain parts of Europe and Asia. Expats can join local group chats and share media easily.
Key Features: Free messaging/calls, group chats, file sharing.

Line (for expats in Japan and Southeast Asia)

Why it’s useful: Popular in Japan and Southeast Asia, Line is essential for staying connected with locals. It offers messaging, calls, and even payment services.
Key Features: Messaging, stickers, payment features, news.

Tandem

Why it’s useful: Tandem is a language exchange app that allows expats to practice new languages with native speakers. It’s great for learning the local language or improving language skills through conversation.
Key Features: Language practice, voice and video calls, text chat.

Bumble BFF

Why it’s useful: Bumble BFF is a feature of the Bumble app that helps people make friends in new locations. Expats can use it to connect with locals or other expats.
Key Features: Friend matching, chat, interest-based connections.

Patook

Why it’s useful: Similar to Bumble BFF, Patook is an app designed to help expats meet friends by connecting based on shared interests and location.
Key Features: Friend-matching, location-based connections, messaging.

Goodreads

Why it’s useful: For expats who enjoy reading, Goodreads is a great way to connect with other book lovers. It offers book recommendations, reviews, and discussion groups for literary-minded expats.
Key Features: Book reviews, reading lists, discussion forums, reading challenges.

Vero

Why it’s useful: Vero is a social media app with no ads, aimed at sharing content with a more personal, community-focused vibe. Expats can use it to share photos, videos, and connect with like-minded individuals.
Key Features: Photo and video sharing, book recommendations, music sharing, curated community.

Yubo

Why it’s useful: A social platform focused on connecting people via live streaming, Yubo is popular among younger expats who want to make friends, join live discussions, and interact with communities in their new location.
Key Features: Live streaming, video chats, community groups.

Peanut

Why it’s useful: Peanut is designed to help women, especially mothers, make friends and share advice. Expats with children can use it to connect with other moms and parents in a similar situation.
Key Features: Parent support, friend-matching, discussion groups, advice sharing.

Discord

Why it’s useful: Originally created for gamers, Discord has grown into a platform for various communities, including expats. It offers voice, video, and text chat, making it ideal for organizing groups and staying connected.
Key Features: Group servers, voice chat, video calls, community channels.

Quora

Why it’s useful: Expats can ask questions and share experiences on Quora, which is great for finding advice on everything from immigration laws to local recommendations in their new country.
Key Features: Q&A discussions, community engagement, knowledge sharing.

Foursquare

Why it’s useful: Foursquare helps expats discover new places to visit in their city, including restaurants, shops, and attractions. It’s a useful tool for exploring and getting to know your new environment.
Key Features: Location-based recommendations, check-ins, reviews.

Weibo (for expats in China)

Why it’s useful: Weibo is China’s equivalent of Twitter, and it’s a popular platform for sharing updates, news, and staying informed. Expats in China can use it to follow trends and connect with locals.
Key Features: Microblogging, news updates, real-time content.

VK (for expats in Russia)

Why it’s useful: VK is a Russian social media platform similar to Facebook. Expats in Russia or those connecting with Russian-speaking communities use it for social networking and media sharing.
Key Features: Groups, messaging, media sharing, events.

Jodel

Why it’s useful: Jodel connects people locally through anonymous posts. It’s popular in university towns and among expats who want to engage with local communities without revealing their identity.
Key Features: Anonymous posting, local discussions, location-based sharing.

Hey! VINA

Why it’s useful: Similar to Bumble BFF, Hey! VINA is an app focused on helping women connect and build friendships in new places. Expats can use it to meet like-minded women locally.
Key Features: Friend-matching, location-based, shared interests.

Waze

Why it’s useful: Waze is a navigation app that helps expats get around their new cities efficiently by offering real-time traffic updates, alternate routes, and local tips.
Key Features: Real-time navigation, traffic alerts, local recommendations.

AllTrails

Why it’s useful: For expats who enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors, AllTrails is an app that provides detailed maps and reviews of trails. It’s a great way to discover nature spots in a new area.
Key Features: Trail maps, GPS tracking, outdoor reviews.

Citymapper

Why it’s useful: Citymapper helps expats navigate public transportation systems in major cities around the world. It offers real-time updates and directions, making it easier for expats to get around.
Key Features: Public transport maps, real-time updates, alternative routes.

Happn

Why it’s useful: A location-based dating app, Happn helps expats meet people who live near them. It can be a useful tool for building social connections in a new city.
Key Features: Location-based matching, messaging, interest sharing.

Nexdoor

Why it’s useful: A neighborhood-focused app, Nexdoor helps expats stay informed about local events, services, and recommendations. It also allows them to connect with nearby neighbors for advice or socializing.
Key Features: Local news, community forums, classifieds, event postings.

Nomad List

Why it’s useful: Specifically designed for digital nomads and expats, Nomad List provides detailed information about cities worldwide, including cost of living, internet speed, safety, and local amenities.
Key Features: City guides, community forums, job postings, travel advice.

Workfrom

Why it’s useful: For expats working remotely, Workfrom helps find coffee shops, coworking spaces, and other places with reliable WiFi. It’s ideal for digital nomads and freelancers.
Key Features: Remote work-friendly locations, WiFi speed info, community networking.

Spotted by Locals

Why it’s useful: This app provides insider tips from locals about the best places to visit, eat, and explore in various cities. Expats can use it to discover hidden gems and avoid tourist traps.
Key Features: City guides, local recommendations, offline maps.

Facebook Messenger

Why it’s useful: While part of Facebook, Messenger is a standalone app that offers free international messaging and calls. Expats often use it to stay in touch with friends and family back home.
Key Features: Messaging, voice and video calls, group chats, file sharing.

Adjusting to life abroad requires the right tools to help you stay connected, find community, and explore new surroundings. Social media apps offer an invaluable resource for expats, enabling seamless communication, local insights, and the ability to build meaningful connections in a new country. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time expat, these apps provide everything you need to make the most of your experience. By integrating these platforms into your daily routine, you’ll find that navigating life in a new country becomes simpler, more enjoyable, and filled with opportunities.

For a look at an equivalent list of AI apps go here.