How to Talk to Men on Trains
#1 More Conversation Starters
"I just finished [a great book/a good movie] that reminded me of being on a train journey. Do you ever get that?"
A more abstract connection to the setting through personal experience, inviting him to relate.
"Excuse me, do you know if this train stops at [Station Name]?"
This is a low-risk, practical question that directly relates to the shared environment and invites a helpful response.
"I'm a bit confused about the connections. Do you know if [this platform/next stop] is correct for [my destination]?"
Feigning slight confusion allows him to be helpful and knowledgeable, initiating a problem-solving conversation.
"Do you ever read these anymore, or is it all digital for you?"
A conversational hook about media consumption, inviting his opinion on traditional vs. digital formats.
"What a beautiful view outside! Have you traveled this route before?"
A positive observation about the scenery encourages shared appreciation and can open up discussions about travel experiences.
"I feel like I've seen you on this train before. Do you commute this route often?"
A slightly flirty way to acknowledge his presence and inquire about his regular travel habits, suggesting familiarity.
"(Slightly bump into him with a smile) Oh, sorry about that! This train is really swaying today, isn't it?"
A light physical interaction followed by an immediate, friendly apology and a shared observation about the train's movement.
"I'm trying to figure out the best way to get to [Tourist Attraction/Neighborhood] from here. Do you happen to know?"
Asking for local knowledge is flattering and often leads to more detailed directions and discussion about the area.
"It's surprisingly quiet/loud on this train today, isn't it? Is it usually like this?"
An observation about the train's atmosphere invites his agreement and further comment on typical conditions.
"Oh, typical train stuff, right?"
A shared, light-hearted commiseration over a minor environmental annoyance, inviting a chuckle and agreement.
"Your [laptop/tablet] looks interesting. Are you working on something fun?"
Showing genuine curiosity about his activity in a non-intrusive way can lead to discussions about his work or hobbies.
"This train station is always so [bustling/calm]. What's your favorite train station you've ever been to?"
An observation about the current station leading to a question about his travel experiences.
"This journey seems a bit long. Do you have any good [book/podcast/movie] recommendations to pass the time?"
A shared experience of a long journey, leading to a request for recommendations, shows you're open to engaging and value his input.
"(Struggle slightly with luggage) Oh, excuse me! This [bag/suitcase] is heavier than it looks."
A subtle action that creates an opportunity for him to offer help, leading to a quick, natural interaction.
"I hope you're having a great day!"
A direct but non-intrusive positive greeting that acknowledges him and expresses goodwill, inviting a simple reciprocal response or more.
"I'm trying to learn [a new language/a new skill] on my commute. Do you do anything productive on trains?"
Sharing your own goal and asking about his productive habits can lead to discussions about self-improvement.
"Excuse me, do you know if there's a [restaurant car/cafe/good view] further down the train?"
A practical question about onboard amenities that can lead to him offering information or even accompanying you.
"Are you heading to [City Name/Event Name]? I'm really looking forward to it!"
A speculative guess about his destination or purpose, which can open up conversation if you're correct or lead to clarification.
"Sharing your own preference and then asking for his can create a common thread about travel habits."
"Are you [a local/traveling for work/on holiday]?"
A direct, but polite question about his reason for travel, which can open up different avenues of conversation.
"Wow, this train is crowded, isn't it? Do you usually travel at this time?"
A common observation about the train's busyness provides an easy entry point and can lead to talking about commute patterns.
"I love your [headphones/bag/jacket]! Where did you get it?"
A sincere compliment on a personal item is a great icebreaker, showing you've noticed him and appreciate his style.
"I'm starving! Have you tried any good [food places/coffee shops] near [the next stop/the train station]?"
A relatable human need (hunger!) combined with a request for recommendations can spark a conversation about local eateries.
"That's a really cool [phone case/water bottle/backpack]. Where did you find it?"
A specific compliment on an accessory that might have an interesting origin story.