We are learning that here, as in every other expatriate community, there is a network which you have to plug into.  We have found the 'pub quiz' which operates on Wednesday evenings at the local Australian sportsbar.  It is general knowledge and operated by a Swiss guy whose English actually sounds Irish.   Anyway, we came second on our first try.  The deal at the bar is that one of the local beers is discounted by 50% for the night and pizzas are 2 for the price of one.  We may take part occasionally for the hell of it.

Similarly, on Sunday evenings at the beach, there is one restaurant/bar where the expats hang out and any musician who comes along and wants to play is welcome.   The first time was a bit noisy because there was a keyboard synthezer, two electronic guitars and a drummer, but last week there was a power cut, so there were two regular guitars, a singer and a harmonica.   Much more my style.  It begins about 5 p.m. and we leave around 9p.m.   This is not a late town (because most people have to start really early) and has closed down by 11p.m.