Moving to a new city can feel daunting, but one of the first things I wanted to figure out was how to meet people and feel part of the community. Granada makes it surprisingly easy to connect, both as a local and as a foreigner. There is a rhythm here that encourages you to explore, try new things, and say yes to opportunities and I have found that the people you meet along the way make all the difference.
One of the easiest ways I have met people has been through language exchanges. There are a couple of recurring meetups: one at Sala Premier on Tuesdays, another at Restaurante D’Paula on Wednesdays, and also a Thursday session at Daly’s Irish Pub, though times and venues can change. These sessions bring together locals and internationals and it is always fun trying out my Spanish while picking up new phrases from others. Sometimes the conversations are serious, other times just silly attempts at words, but either way it is a relaxed way to meet people and practice the language.
Beyond structured events, tapas bars are social hubs in their own right. Sitting at a bar or a small table, chatting over a plate of food, it is amazing how easy it is to strike up a conversation. I have spent time at La Buena Vida which has a great atmosphere and a mix of locals and expats making it ideal for socializing. I have also discovered a friendly crowd at Hannigan’s Irish Pub, where Monday Quiz nights and Thursday karaoke sessions are perfect for casual fun, laughter, and meeting new people. Even just sharing a pint can turn into a conversation that lasts for hours.
My time at the Coworking Space ANDA CoWork has been another key part of building community. The coworking space is not just about desks, it is a hub of international and local freelancers, consultants, and creatives. Whether grabbing a coffee in the common area, chatting in the kitchen, or exchanging ideas while working side by side, ANDA naturally encourages interactions.
Outside work and coworking, I have joined Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes at GRX Jujitsu and the BeOne gym, both just a few minutes’ walk from ANDA CoWork, which has been another unexpected way to meet locals and internationals alike. The gym community is welcoming and training together makes it easy to bond. I have also started playing 8-a-side football, which has quickly become one of my favourite ways to meet people. The team is a lively mix of Irish, English, French, Spanish, and Moroccan players, making it fun, inclusive, and a little chaotic in the best way. It is a great way to enjoy exercise while building friendships across cultures.
For those who aren’t into sports or exercise, there are still plenty of ways to meet people. Granada has a variety of clubs, workshops, cultural meetups, and hobby groups, from photography and art clubs to book groups and volunteer initiatives. There is something for everyone, making it easy to find your community no matter your interests.
Overall, the key takeaway for me has been to not wait for friendships to happen. Put yourself out there, join events, and say yes to new experiences. Granada makes it easy, whether it is through language exchanges, coworking, tapas, sports, or pub nights.