How did you learn to play canasta and bridge?

[Pluvia]

Asking for a friend who wants to learn this winter. She's approached her local large, busy bridge club and asked if they did lessons and they said no. She's asked friends who play if they'd teach her and they're not keen: apparently bridge takes some time to learn and keen players don't want to be bothered by beginners.

Books? Online courses?

I've learned the basics of some games (backgammon for example, or hearts) using the online version on a phone app. It's not going to get you any in depth knowledge but gives you a start on the rules and game play.

Otherwise, this sounds like a perfect Meetup group, or use local Facebook or whatever to advertise for likeminded people who'd like to learn together.

Did she ask the club who teaches their players? My club doesn't teach but there are two independent teachers who teach at the club if that makes sense. They are not affiliated to the club.

Which county is she based in?

A website called no fear bridge is very good.

My Dad taught me and has now taught my DD. Do you have any family or extended family members who play?

I was lucky enough to have friends who were prepared to play with me and teach me even though I was a slow learner. There are Bridge Schools you can go to. (Google your area). How old is your friend because most U3A groups (over 55s) have Bridge classes too.

Our local bridge club have two tutors who teach beginners. It is tricky and difficult to follow at first. I couldn't imagine learning online. Is there a club a bit further away with their own classes?

Canasta I learned as a young teen from my parents. I'd say it is relatively easy to learn.

Bridge I learned the very basics at a local club in my mid-40's, then progrossed from playing and reading.
It is a small.friedly club and the guy who runs it is keen to help people learn, the first time I went we were in a separate room and he ran through how it works, then I shadowed him, then he shadowed me over a couple of weeks.
Around the time I joined there were 3 other new people (1 experienced and 3 beginners) and the 4 of us met at my house played every couple of weeks for a while, with lots of discussion about the hands, play etc.
I now play at the same club once a week and with my bridge partner & 1 of 2 other pairs most weeks at someone's house.

I know that there are lessons locally, I'd ask at the bigger bridge clubs, U3A etc to find a teacher.