How would you cope on your own in a foreign country?

[Shicky]

Did it in South Korea for a year, man up! These people you will never see again so who cares if they think you're too forward, could pay off. I just went to bars and struck up a few random conversations

 

[Twentyone]

I'm very very shy when it comes to getting to know people but for some reason I manage just fine in other countries. Maybe as I know I will probably never see them again!

Being foreign is great when you want to get to know people though as then you already know what to talk about Especially as you are English. Most people are used to American and so they find the English accent interesting.

 

[Greenlizard0]

Did it in South Korea for a year, man up! These people you will never see again so who cares if they think you're too forward, could pay off. I just went to bars and struck up a few random conversations

You have an accent that people immediately latch onto (at least here in England). Going by the very nature of the original post, I don't think 'shy geek' has the same appeal.

OP should just go for it - you'll likely never see these people again anyway. If you fail originally think why then change your approach. Offering a round/pint is usually a good way of saying hello.