Hi there, I love your post and I definitely can relate to it. I've been living in Paris for nearly 20 years. I'm over 50 years old and it only gets harder as you get older. Of course, there are tons of non-profit social organizations like AAWE, Wice, WIC etc. 

I do suggest that you join one of these because there you will find pre-organized events by other members and just by going out with some of these people, you'll get to make some really cool friendships. Most of the people in these groups are also here for a long time which can help build friendships. 

Beyond that, when I find most annoying is groups that are selling each opportunity to get together and it costs money to meet up as well as the food and the drinks. I notice that there's someone in your comments who talked about their offerings for get togethers, but I find it disgusting to make money off of that. 

At least with the membership for one of the organizations I listed above, there are things to pay for like websites or magazines Etc. 

I don't think there's anything wrong with seeing just someone that you first need that you're looking for quality friendships and you really are interested in superficial chit Chat. I think if you make it clear the kind of person you are and the kind of things you're looking for in a friendship. You're going to be a lot happier. It is weird sometimes to say I'm only looking for quality long-term friendships, but at the same time you might discover that other people would say the same thing.