Find new friends easily

From Peoplebrokers

Activity Network

The Age

YOU may be planning the holiday of a lifetime, but either don't wish to travel alone or have friends who aren't particularly keen on trekking across the Andes or skiing in Canada. There may be an answer.

If it's like-minded new friends you're looking for, then Chris Kaine and Associates may be able to help. Kaine runs an Internet "people broking" service, where people can seek to expand their social networks in whatever areas interest them – from travelling companions to tennis partners to book clubs.

"It's OK to be single, but it's not OK to be lonely," says Kaine, who began the People Brokers website 18 months ago after successfully matching flatmates through her home share agency.

"Over the years, we've matched thousands and thousands of people through the home share agency. But I began to realise that some people moved house in an effort to expand their social networks, and not because they particularly wanted to move."

With this in mind, Kaine began People Brokers, which has attracted people from all age groups and walks of life. "People need friends to be healthy and sane. But some people, as they get older, can find it more difficult to make new friends; they're a lot more discerning about who they want to spend time with," says Kaine.

The idea works simply. Clients complete a personal profile highlighting their interests the People Brokers website. Those seeking, for example, a travelling companion can send an e-mail message and, if others share the same interests, they can correspond by e-mail, until they feel comfortable enough to meet.

"It's a safe way to meet people, as we keep records of all our clients," says Kaine.

"Who knows – there may be someone out there who also wants to go white water rafting in New Zealand, ride a camel across a desert or learn skydiving".

It costs $50 to register with People Brokers for three months. Contact www.peoplebrokers.com.au or phone Chris Kaine and Associates on 9826 6800.