We ladies regularly complain that there’s little on, there’s no way of meeting new people or that we simply lack the confidence to try new things. Friends move away or we allow ourselves to think it’s too late to join a new club. But here’s a list of exciting activities in the Midlands to allow you to discover new thrills.
1. Cycling
The lack of a women’s event at the biggest cycling event of the year – the Tour de France – has set a worrying precedent for cycling as a man’s domain. But British Cycling is hoping to open the sport up to women of all abilities. There are as many as 28 women-only guided rides taking place just in September in the Midlands.
In addition to the adrenalin and endorphins of being outdoors and getting exercise, cycling can improve your confidence, allow you to explore new places and has a vast range of health benefits. It’s low impact and it’s a great opportunity to meet like-minded others – and enjoy cake and coffee with them!
It’s possible to spend thousands on bikes, but it’s not necessary – by buying second hand or watching out for the end-of-summer deals, you can snatch up a basic road bike for a couple of hundred.
2. Casinos
There’s not as big a difference between men and women when it comes to gambling, as stereotypes might have us believe. In fact, 41% of women (compared to 48% of men) participate in gambling. Regardless, if you’ve never attended a casino before, you might find you enjoy the thrill. The Midlands is a good place to be if it’s casinos you’re after, with three local councils authorised to issue casino premises licences.
Diving straight into the land casino may seem daunting but, today, you can try it out from home first. Online welcome bonuses save you putting your own money in as you adjust and there’s no waiting involved when you deposit with Party, so you can get started straight away. Who knows, perhaps you’ll be the next Victoria Coren Mitchell, highly successful poker player in addition to her TV presenter fame.
3. Meetup
This actually constitutes several new things you could try. Meetup, an app, presents the opportunity to share skills, network, or enjoy a hobby together with others. There are age-based social meetups, ranging from drinks and dinner to walks in the country. In Birmingham, you could learn Bhangra at a beginners’ class. There are meetups for small businesses or freelance professionals. There are sports, fitness classes, tourism – you name it. It’s a wonderful opportunity to get out there, try something new and meet new people in the process.
4. Literature
Birmingham Literature Festival is taking place between 4th and 14th October this year, beginning with a celebration of National Poetry Day. In addition to celebrating writing of all genres, there’s a Live Broadcast from Radio 4’s Any Questions and a seemingly cutting discussion between Lauren Laverne and Sali Hughes about today’s beauty products. Not to mention a selection of workshops, surgeries and even a meetup! It’s a jam-packed event that offers something a little off the beaten track if you’re looking for new experiences.
All this goes to show that our complaining is unfounded and there’s plenty for ladies to get involved in in the Midlands just now.
