Meeting people through sport in Bangkok

New in Bangkok, or just want to widen your circle? Social games are the easiest way to meet people. How Americanos work and how to join one.

Making friends as an adult isn't easy, especially in a new city. Sport makes it simple: you share a court for an hour, laugh at the same missed shots and suddenly you know four new people.

In Bangkok the easiest way in is a social padel game called an Americano. You sign up alone or with a friend, partners rotate every round and everyone plays everyone. Nobody needs to bring a team, and most groups head for a drink afterwards. Bangkok Padel Community lists Americanos across the city every week.

If you're new to the game, look for beginner-friendly sessions, where levels are matched and the pace is relaxed. And if you're free on Saturday or Sunday, check what's on this weekend.

Turn up a few times and you'll start seeing the same faces. That's when sport stops being exercise and becomes part of your life.