Frequently asked questions
Everything you might want to know about Somewhere Unfamiliar. Still have a question? Email stories@somewhereunfamiliar.com.
What is Somewhere Unfamiliar?
A community for people who have moved, or are about to, to find others who get it. It grew out of the Somewhere Unfamiliar podcast.
Who's behind it?
Alina, the host of the Somewhere Unfamiliar podcast. She built it because she has spent most of her life moving and knows how hard, and how meaningful, it can be to find your people in a new place.
Who can join?
Adults 18 and over who have lived somewhere other than where they grew up, or are planning a move. Every new member is approved before they can see or message anyone.
Is it a dating app?
No. It's for friendship and connection with people who share your experience of leaving.
Is it free?
Yes. We may add paid features later. If we do, anything paid will be clearly marked before you pay.
Where can I use it?
On iPhone, and on the web at somewhereunfamiliar.com, which works on any phone or computer, including Android. Your account works in both places.
How do I find people?
Choose a city and you'll see people who live there, are moving there, or are visiting. Whenever you have something in common, like growing up or living in the same city, speaking the same language, or being into the same things, we'll show it on their card. You can also filter by a country people grew up in or have lived in.
What if no one's in my city yet?
You might be one of the first, and that's how every community starts. Turn on notifications and we'll let you know when someone new joins your city.
Can I meet people while I'm travelling?
Yes. Add a trip and you'll appear to people in that city for those dates, and you can see who's there.
Do you use my exact location?
No. We never use live GPS. Discovery is based on the places you choose.
Who can see my profile and photo?
Only signed-in, approved members. Photos are stored privately.
Are my messages private?
Yes. Only you and the person you're talking to can see your messages. We never use them for advertising, and we only look at them if they're part of a safety report or the law requires it.
Can I react to messages?
Yes. In the app, press and hold a message. On the website, hover over it or tap the small smiley. Pick one of six reactions, and tap it again to remove it.
How do I block or report someone?
Open their profile or your conversation and use Block or Report. We review every report and can remove accounts that break the Community Guidelines.
Do you verify who people are?
Every new member is approved by us before they can see or message anyone. We verify email addresses but don't check IDs, so use the same care you would meeting anyone new.
How do I delete my account?
In the app, go to You, then Settings, then Account & security. On the website, it's at the bottom of the You page. Deleting your account removes your profile, photo, and messages.
How do I turn notifications off?
In the app, go to You, then Settings, then Notifications. You can also turn them off in your phone's settings. They're always optional.
How do I contact you?
Email stories@somewhereunfamiliar.com.