Bridge is becoming an increasingly popular game and anyone of any age can learn to play. In the UK, Australia and New Zealand players usually use the ACOL system. This ought to be a clever acronym, but Acol is just the name of the road where the system was first devised.
Bridge can be played at a variety of levels, depending on your interest. For some people it becomes a serious passion and the challenge is to rise to the top of the game, becoming a bridge master and taking part in national and international competition. If that is “you”, you will find there is never a dull moment. You will travel, meet people with the same interest and find challenge after challenge.
For other people, bridge is a fun, social activity. Almost every town and village has a bridge club and new members are usually welcome with open arms. Before you join, make sure you know the standard expected to ensure you join the right club for you.
Learning to play bridge is a fantastic way of meeting people and expanding your social circle. I recall many years ago moving to a flat in the South East of England. After just a few days a neighbour stopped me in the car park to ask if I played bridge. If you are single, widowed or moving to a new area playing bridge is an easy way of meeting new people and making friends.
For many people, bridge holidays are a highlight of their year. There are a whole range of holidays on offer: weekend breaks; full weeks; classes for beginners; classes for improvers; tournaments; holidays in your own country; holidays abroad. If you are single these holidays offer a fabulous way of seeing new sights and meeting new people – and you will find many of your fellow guests are also travelling alone.
If you are looking for a new interest, nothing can beat learning to play the bridge card game. It is mentally challenging, every game is different, it’s sociable, fun and totally absorbing. If you are a beginner or improver find a class near you and start learning.