Meeting people

One suggestion: the greater the frequency of being in any place the greater the opportunity of socializing with people. You might even pick a regular time and find out that there other people who go there during that time frame. Just a suggestion. Even the shop people will get to recognize you and become more friendly with you.

Thank you for your suggestion. Much appreciated. I am already getting to know many of the locals but of course I don't know enough of the language and vice versa!! So it's a case of hanging out in bars which is not really my scene I'm afraid! But I take your point.

I've switched over to hanging out in coffee shops. At my age I end up drinking tea. I also remember an old bar trick. Drinking a clear soda with a piece of lime in it, to make it look like a cocktail. But having worked in the bar business there are many people in bars that end up as a disappointment.

Thanks Bill!