Finding Your Tribe: A Guide to Friendship in Galway
Anyone who has been to Galway would be quick to describe it as a welcoming place. In fact, the Condé Nast Traveller Awards voted Galway the friendliest city in the world in 2020, and this wasn’t the first time it claimed the top spot. But for every positive survey or study, there are real people living and working here who might feel a sting reading this. Loneliness is highly prevalent among all age groups in Ireland. In 2023, a survey by the Institute of Public Health found that Ireland is the loneliest country in Europe.
“While we’re a friendly, chatty bunch in the West, many people are missing connection and friendship,”
If you’re feeling this way, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. The key to friendship is a bit like dating though: you’ve got to put yourself out there. Of course, that’s easier said than done, and many people simply don’t know where to start. Read on for some tried and true tips from people who have been there.
From strangers to besties: creating lasting friendships
One way to meet people is Bumble BFF, a friendship alternative to the popular dating app. “I joined the app because I moved back to Galway, my hometown, after ten years living in Dublin,” says Sarah Magliocco, 30. “I had amazing friends in Galway already, but was missing my Dublin crew and was interested in branching out. I met people individually, and on one occasion my mate date invited other friends of hers to join us, which was a bonus! I got to connect with more people thanks to that initial one-to-one.”
Building your tribe: making meaningful connections
Mary McGraw, 30, also used the app after moving from California to Galway. “I did just about everything you could to make friends,” she says. As well as Bumble BFF, she joined clubs including Galway Hooker Sailing Club, NUIG Mountaineering Club and Salsa dancing. “I would participate in lots of different artist workshops. I volunteered for Macnas, TULCA Festival, and I joined 126 Art Gallery. I’m a photographer, so I reached out to local photographers and asked if they wanted to photograph together around Galway or meet for coffee.”
Think about your interests and hobbies – do you prefer reading to a night on the tiles? Or big groups over one-to-one meet-ups? This can help you to make a plan of action. Mary admits that while it’s hard to start making friends as an adult, Galway was a welcoming place to do it. “It’s quite international and transient, so it didn’t take long to find other people who were also new to Galway or had been in my shoes. I found it uncomfortable and exhausting at first putting yourself out there and making the effort but it really helped me find a community,”
“Galway is quite international and transient, so it didn’t take long to find other people who were also new to the city.”
Book worms: the power of reading
Charlie Byrne’s book club has become increasingly popular over the years, and now there are five separate ones for adults. Staff member Anna Heveran says that members are mostly between 40 and 60, but people of all ages attend, and for all sorts of reasons. “There are people who have just moved to Galway and want to meet others, or people who have retired or are on leave from work. People love the book clubs and will be upset if they miss a month because they miss the chats, discussing the book and getting together in such a cosy place.” She adds that it’s a very relaxed environment, and “they’re free so it’s no loss to anyone to come one week and give it a go.”
Join the club: connect with like-minded individuals
Not everyone looking for friends wants to get involved in a specific sport or hobby, which is exactly why Sharron Lynskey and Kayte O’Malley started Cosy Club. The two radio presenters found that a large number of their friends had emigrated. They decided to set up a social club in the Galway-Mayo area.
“It was so important to create events that were fun and accessible to everyone that didn’t require buying expensive gear or equipment,” says Sharron. “Each of our events is different but loosely follows the same format – tasty food, some fun icebreaker games and a craft like painting or pottery.” All are welcome, but Sharron says it’s mostly women in their 20s and 30s.
“We try to keep costs as low as possible as it’s a not-for-profit initiative. We’re mindful that the current cost of living crisis has impacted us all and that shouldn’t be a barrier to making connections.” The club continues to grow in popularity every month. “We’re just excited to see this community building in the West of Ireland.” If you’re feeling lonely, or like your friend group is suddenly sparse, remember that it’s an incredibly common feeling and that there are lots of ways to change this. “Say yes!” is Mary’s advice.
She adds: “Put yourself out there, be open to meeting all different kinds of people. I have friends in their 20s and 30s and in their 50s and 60s! Go to events that you’re interested in and don’t be afraid to go alone. Don’t get discouraged if you go solo and don’t spark a friendship. Sometimes it won’t be the time and place to find your people and that’s okay – pat yourself on the back still for putting yourself out there.
“Galway is called the city of tribes and I truly believe there is a tribe for everyone here if you look in the right places.”
Quick fire round: 6 ways to make friends in Galway
1. Love reading?Check out Charlie Byrne’s popular book club.
2. Enjoy group events? Attend a Cosy Club with Kayte and Sharron, @sharronlynskey @kayteomalley_.
3. Prefer one-to-one meetups? Sign up to Bumble BFF to make mate dates.
4. Like helping out? Volunteer for an organisation you care about at volunteergalway.ie
5. Curious about sea swimming? Join a swim meet-up like @galwaydippers
6. Enjoy being active? Sign up for Galway’s popular running club for all levels, galwaycityharriers