By A.J. Griffiths-Jones

 With recent data showing that expat resident figures in Turkiye are falling, below 10,000 across Aydin, it’s more important than ever to both support our fellow foreigners and integrate into the local Turkish community.

There are many ways to do this, through sports, classes and trips, but it’s not always easy to take on a new hobby, especially if you are single.

I’ve noticed a flurry of activity in my own local area, with many new courses being advertised for language, art and ceramic classes, the latter being something which I am very keen to take part in.

It’s a great opportunity to learn a new skill, but also a chance to improve my Turkish language, by joining locals in a new pursuit. Chatting to friends over the past week, it was encouraging to hear how many of them intend to take up a new hobby and there were also plenty of ideas for regular community get-togethers.

It’s one thing coming to the area for summer holidays year after year, but it’s not until you make a permanent move to Turkiye that you can appreciate how important it is to have local support groups.

It’s also essential to try to break the language barrier by talking to those who live around you. Undoubtedly it becomes increasingly difficult to learn a new language as you get older, but by not being afraid to practice your new vocabulary, doors will open up and great friendships will be forged.

In olden times, welcoming people was done by breaking bread, or having food together, and this is still a great way to build relationships. By learning about one another’s culture and habits, we can banish any preconceived ideas and openly accept our differences.

I have seen many ‘plogging’, environmental waste, groups happily toiling side by side on the beach as they pick up plastic and other debris, the conversation stilted between expats and locals, but everyone smiling as they work towards a very beneficial cause.

I would recommend anyone living here to consider taking up a new pursuit or joining a regular club, it’s the best way to make international friends and broaden your horizons.

Perhaps you feel unable to commit to something that necessitates a weekly or monthly commitment, but there are plenty of ways to get involved in your local area. Think about the things that you enjoy doing most. If you love reading, seek out the nearest book club.

If food is your passion, why not ask a local restaurant if they could host a cookery class or wine-tasting evening? You may be surprised to see that businesses would be happy to become involved, the seed of a plan just needs to be planted.

Imagine the feeling of satisfaction suddenly being able to create the perfect baklava or gozleme, or creating a lovely mosaic or ceramic ornament for your home with the help of an experienced tutor.

With today’s social media, it’s not difficult to arrange a fun afternoon or evening, although I would recommend sounding out other like-minded people first to ensure that there would be plenty of takers.

You might be surprised at the diverse interests of your