Hi Ralph - you dont have to be a drinker to go in clubs and bars - how about just going and having shandy, coke or something . Presumably the "wives" of your male friends do let them off the leash for 5 mins to go out and socialize with the guys !.

Pubs can be a great place , they are in this country depending on which type of pub you choose from a country pub ,surrounded by fields little log fire and cosy little farmhouse like place you could have ploughmans lunch and a beer and chat , to the trendy type of place ..to the place with live music , jazz bar ect , great places to meet and chat , and theres also lots of places to go on for a dance too . You will be meeting people face to face , getting opportunities to speak to people face to face and enjoying the whole fun of the place , or relaxing depending if you wanted the quiet place . But remember you dont hacve to drink alcohol . Or you could try night classes at college agin your mixing bwith people who have an interest in the same thing youd be studying and usually you make friends and socialize with them . Get out and have some fun but i wouldnt advise the internet , your still alone in a room waisting time sitting on a chair not speaking (if you live alone) a lot of people on the internet are very strange or odd ...id try your local library or get some leaflets on something whats going on and around the area you live .

Also travel, book holiday , to the place you always dreamed of , if you dont want to go alone go with a singles group !! the thing is you will be with people speaking and having fun and meeting people face to face theres no substitute ..Good luck and have fun

Regards cathy