What should I write in my first letter?

There is no single perfect way to write a first letter. A thoughtful and personal message, however, can make it easier for the other person to reply.

Here are a few ideas to help you get started:

1. Introduce yourself
   Share a little about who you are, where you are from or what you enjoy. You do not need to explain everything at once — just give your new pen pal a friendly starting point.
    
2. Mention why you chose to write to them
   Refer to something in their profile that caught your attention, such as a shared topic, language, hobby or experience. This makes your letter feel personal rather than copied and sent to many people.
    
3. Share something they can respond to
   Add a small story, opinion or experience related to your shared interests. A little detail often creates a more natural conversation than a simple greeting.
    
4. Ask open-ended questions
   Ask one or two questions that invite more than a yes-or-no answer. For example, you could ask what they enjoy about a hobby or what life is like in their country.
    
5. Review your letter before sending
   Read through your letter once to make sure it says what you intended. A letter cannot be cancelled after it has been sent.

Most importantly, be yourself. You do not need to make the first letter perfect — you only need to give your new pen pal a comfortable way to begin the conversation.