The phrase "were often in" can be replaced with a variety of synonyms to add variety to your writing. Some possible options include "frequented," "regularly visited," "commonly found in," "regular haunt of," "often patronized," "frequently seen in," and "habitually present in." Choosing the right synonym will depend on the context of your sentence and the tone you want to convey. Using synonyms is also an effective way to avoid repetition in your writing and keep your readers engaged. So, don't hesitate to experiment with different synonyms for "were often in" to spice up your writing!