"When I first moved to NYC after college, I tried a new group-oriented hobby. For me, it was an improv class at the UCB theatre. I met so many cool people, and it turned out I really loved improv and was actually pretty good at it! Now, several years later, most of my best friends are people I met through the theatre, and we're all house performers there. My hobby turned into a passion, and my casual pals turned into lifelong ride or dies." — Casey McCormick, creative strategist
"Get involved in local groups or organisations where people have similar interests. Even book groups at a local bookstore are a good way to do that. Particularly in urban areas, there are tons of options for things to do, from taking adult dance classes to knitting or crocheting groups or cooking classes and even choirs in churches for those who like to sing. These are all wonderful ways to meet people you have something in common with, which makes for a natural friendship." — Cynthia Puleo, copy editor
"Find something you're interested in and join a group. For me, that was fitness-related, so I joined a yoga studio and just recently a CrossFit box. When I was pregnant, I joined a prenatal yoga class, and once the baby was born, I joined a mommy-and-me playgroup. I also play guitar and banjo, so I joined a weeknight bluegrass jam. Do the things you love with other people who love them and you're bound to make friends!" — Jenny Sugar, editor, Fitness
"Get involved in workout classes or, if those aren't your thing, other types of classes (arts, dance, cooking, acting, etc.) around the city you live in. You'd be surprised how many regulars there are at these types of classes, and if you become a regular too, it's a great way to make new friends!" — Hilary White, editor, Living