Where to go for optimum socializing?

Shyness around people. Welcome to the club.

Get some friends who are understanding about your visual impairment. I know some people who are driven practically everywhere by their friends because of various handicaps. I think as long as you don't try to abuse the situation with any one person, your friends would be willing to help you out. Plus, if they know people, they have a way of introducing you to their other friends; talk to them, and you (may) gain some new friends. Hey, you might even get some party going at your place some time if that's an option. Then they're coming to YOU.

Bars and clubs are tough as it is, even without visual impairment. I don't drink often, so sometimes it can seem a little boring if that's all your friends are doing. which is often the case at the bar and club.

However, I DO like pubs. Pubs are great because for those who "NEED" alcohol, they're taken care of (watch who's driving you home to make sure they're not drinking, though), and those of us who don't drink can get a burger or something simple to eat; you get to talk to people easier (not quite so loud), and it seems like a better ambiance at those kinds of places. Plus, if you're shy, there's usually something to talk about or watch (like the game), or something to do (billiards, etc) The only thing is that like most of those "pickup places" Some of the bars want it to be dark so others look more attractive. ;)

There are things during the day, but then most people are working, so it's trickier to do things during the week; but your best chances are as the week begins winding down; fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

One idea is to start taking classes and doing things that aren't always late at night. Take a class, etc.

Another idea is to try and keep up with what's going on in the world. I'm a big reader, but I'm also a bit busy, so I'm looking forward to the day I can get a bunch of books on CD and play them in the car.

Just a few thoughts. I hope this helps.

I think finding an activity you enjoy doing and perhaps taking a class will be a great way of meeting people that enjoy the same hobbies as you.

That's tough. I guess living in a city where you don't need to drive would help, like New York, Chicago, or Boston. Some college towns are like that too. I think you basically want to avoid sprawl, and make sure that you live near the heart of wherever you are at.