How do you go about meeting people and making new friends?

Local markets... after buying my fruit and vegies, I stop for breakfast and a chai tea... usually reading a book. Before long, someone I know will come over to say hello and have a chat. Then someone they know comes over - we get introduced and a new conversation begins. amazing how fast networks of friends can grow like this. When the shared interests and values are strong a new friendship grows. It does take effort and time, so I choose carefully.