If you can share a common experience with a small group of people, it can be very easy to make friends. In this light, a language barrier can also be an asset.

If you can share a common experience with a small group of people, it can be very easy to make friends. In this light, a language barrier can also be an asset. I'm sure there are a lot of people in your area that are not fluent in English. Reach out to a local university and volunteer to show new students around town.