About us
CLICK HERE to see our main meetup events calendar http://www.socialfundation.com
A sometime squirrely group of folks in the Greater Washington DC area bound by the belief that life is best taken one step at a time. Events are primarily day hikes (from easy to difficult), but include other outdoor activities, including multi-day adventure trips, and occasional social ones.
We use the "It's quite a feet" hike rating system:
- Easy, less than 2 blisters
- Moderate, 2 to 3.5 blisters
- Difficult, greater than 3.5 blisters
where 1 blister = about 5 mi., or about 2500' up or down.
CPRO).
For members used to Meetup groups: There are no stupid Meetup reminders (unless I forget to check the box); instead, you'll get one or two notices per month from me about upcoming events. I've been told this is much more annoying. There aren't that many events anyway because this is a Meetup for people who have better things to do.
Finally, RSVP'ing on Wandering Soles for events is nice, but does not imply a commitment. That is, it doesn't matter if you RSVP or not, only if you show up or not. Come to think of it, that doesn't matter much either. If an event is limited in participation or requires a registration, you'll be asked to email directly a (hopefully) live human being.
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Upcoming events
8
Featured International Meetup Trips for 2027 & 2028
·OnlineOnlineThis Zoom Overseas Q & A is a monthly event.
Video Link: https://meet.google.com/irp-rnyi-fgb No software or download needed. Just open in a browser.
The date gets moved right before the event occurs. This way all the links posted to events keep working.
We have some truly EPIC Overseas events ahead. And Epic Adventure leads to Copious Questions.
To solve that . . . Let's Talk! Join us for a Q & A Zoom where you can ask all your Q's and get all your A's.
SCHEDULE
6:00 to 7:30pm Pacific Time is Q & A about our Overseas Events.What to talk about? Most of the convo will be on the following:
Feb 15, 2027 Thailand: Bangkok, Phuket and Krabi Island
Mar 06, 2027 Galapagos Expedition (1)
Mar 16, 2027 Galapagos Islands Expedition (2)
Apr 10, 2027 Everest Base Camp Yoga Trek
Apr 28, 2027 Best of Portugal with Camino de Santiago
May 13, 2027 Unforgettable Croatia! The Pearls of the Dalmatian Coast
June 30, 2027 Best of Spain with Running of the Bulls
July 31, 2027 8-Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Miami
Aug 20, 2027 MACHU PICCHU via Train or Short Inca Trail Lake Titicaca!
Aug 20, 2027 MACHU PICCHU via The Salkantay Trek, Lake Titicaca
Oct 10, 2027 Dana to Petra Trek w/ Wadi Rum. A Jordan Discovery
Oct 17, 2027 Petra to Pyramids w/ Sphinx, Nile Cruise & more.
Nov 26, 2027 Ensenada Thanksgiving Weekend Cruise
Feb 16, 2028: Northern Lights. A Scandinavian Odyssey!
May 10, 2028 Meetup on Orient ExpressWe are currently working on Italy, China, Patagonia, and Antarctica. Keep an eye on our calendar.
For more information CLICK HERE to fill out the interest form.
We will send you a detailed day-by-day itinerary for any event you request.
Our events are all very safe, fun, curated, and organized.
Questions about Hotels, Flights, Meals, Museums, Power Plugs, Converters, Money Conversion or whatever!!
All the folks currently signed on to our events are invited to come and ask all the Q's and get all the deets they want to. They will also get them in writing too, but we know a lot of folks rather a face and voice compared to an email. It's that whole human interaction thing!
*To join the zoom FILL OUT THIS GOOGLE FORM and we will email direct on the day of to remind you.
71 attendees
Vietnam & Cambodia with Angkor Wat: Ancient Kingdoms of Southeast Asia...
Dulles International Airport (IAD), 1 Saarinen Cir, Sterling, VA, USA Meetup trip in December . . . what can be a better gift for the holidays?! Join our travelers group on a captivating 14-day journey through the heart of Southeast Asia as we explore the vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam & Cambodia (Dec 04-18, 2026)
As with all our tailor-made Meetup trips, our expert guides will lead us off the beaten path to uncover the authentic charm of each destination, while comfortable accommodations and delicious local cuisine ensure a truly immersive travel experience. Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant cities and breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam, finishing with the wonders of Cambodia.
We begin in Hanoi, where history and culture come alive, then sail the emerald waters of Halong Bay. Step back in time among the imperial treasures of Hue, wander the lantern-lit streets of charming Hoi An, and feel the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City. We conclude your adventure at the awe-inspiring temples of Siem Reap, home to the legendary Angkor Wat.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
- Hanoi; explore Ho Chi Minh sites, Temple of Literature, Old Quarter cyclo ride & water puppet show
- Visit rural craft villages: conical hat & incense making, home-hosted lunch, village walk
- Ha Long Bay cruise: limestone islands, floating villages, cave visit, Tai Chi & sunset views
- Hue: Perfume River boat ride, Thien Mu Pagoda, Khai Dinh’s Tomb & Imperial Citadel
- Scenic Hai Van Pass train to Danang; explore Dragon Bridge, Cham Museum, Marble Mountain
- Hoi An Ancient Town (UNESCO), visit tailor shops, pottery village & organic farm with cooking class
- Ho Chi Minh City & Cu Chi Tunnels; War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace & Ben Thanh Market
- Mekong Delta cruise: coconut workshops, sampan ride, orchards & lunch in riverside village
- Siem Reap: dinner with Apsara dance, Angkor temples (Ta Prohm, Bayon, Angkor Wat)
- Cambodian cultural immersion: monk blessing, village crafts & cooking, Tonle Sap Lake sunset cruise
For a detailed Day By Day itinerary: Click Here to fill out our info request form
Trip Itinerary:
- Hanoi – 3 nights
- Ha Long Bay (cruise) – 1 night
- Hue – 2 nights
- Hoi An – 2 nights
- Ho Chi Minh City – 3 nights
- Siem Reap – 3 nights
Price per person, double occupancy: $4400
(we match roommates for those willing to share and save)
Price for single room: $5300RSVP with your email address to receive complete information and itinerary. To secure your spot on this trip, please submit a $450 deposit.
Click Here for Secure Deposit Link
Deposit is refundable up to 90 days before the departure (less PayPal fees)
Fill Out this FORM if you are making a deposit
Limited capacity of 24 total. This trip will fill up extremely quickly.***Airfare from/to the US not included. Contact Anna for a quote***
Click Here to Message Direct to Anna.
She can help you arrange the airfare and answer any logistics questions.We believe in good decent social. This events is cross posted to several other groups and the number of RSVPs on each is not reflective. We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too.
Click Here to see all our other fun eventsWe do a monthly Zoom with Q & A on all our overseas events.
Come to the zoom and ask any questions. Great way to get the info you want without all the other fluff. As well as meet us and other attendees.Click here for General Policies and useful info about our international trips.
Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it!
SOT 2000318-10
4 attendees
Thailand Sea Side Discovery: Bangkok, Phuket and Krabi Island
Dulles International Airport (IAD), 1 Saarinen Cir, Sterling, VA, USJoin us for an unforgettable 10-day Meetup adventure through Thailand, blending culture, temples, islands, beaches, and relaxed free time. This trip is a true Meetup - designed for those who want to travel the world and explore exotic destinations like Thailand, but don’t want to do it alone. We are traveling as a group, while still enjoying flexibility and optional experiences.
This journey blends the energy of Bangkok, the tropical beauty of Phuket, and the laid-back charm of Krabi, creating the perfect balance of culture, nature, and downtime. We will explore iconic temples, cruise through stunning islands, relax on white-sand beaches, and enjoy free time to wander, shop, or simply slow down and soak it all in.Trip Highlights
• Bangkok City & Temple Tour
• Optional Ayutthaya Day Trip
• Flight to Phuket included
• Phi Phi Islands Tour
• Big Buddha Visit
• Scenic drive from Phuket to Krabi
• 4 Island Hopping Tour with PicnicWho is this trip for
✔ Solo travelers who don’t want to travel alone
✔ People who want structure without feeling rushed
✔ Travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and free time
✔ Anyone who wants to experience Thailand with a fun, supportive groupThis adventure is ideal for solo travelers, friends, couples and even families, who want the comfort of a group while keeping the experience fun and social.
The best way to see what it's like is to check the gallery with past pix from our previous trip: https://photos.app.goo.gl/qXfrs5zQp5rULNvb9
For a detailed Day By Day itinerary Click Here to fill out the form and receive information.
Land Tour cost $2997 per person, double occupancy (we match roommates for those willing to share and save).
If you want your own room: Solo occupancy $3867The only way to secure your spot for this meetup is a $325 deposit that is refundable up to 90 days before departure.
Click here for secure deposit linkWhen you make a deposit be sure to fill out this ATTENDEE’S FORM.
As mentioned, . . . the cost is $2997. This is for the "Land" portion only. International airfare is not included. This gives you the flexibility to have a flight with timing that works best for you. Or to use points/miles.
Ekaterina can also help arrange your airfare.
To contact her for more info, CLICK HERE to send her a message.What is included in the cost:
✔ Meet & greet upon arrival at the airport
✔ 3 Nights in Bangkok
✔ 3 Nights in Phuket
✔ 3 Nights in Krabi
✔ Accommodation with daily breakfast as mention
✔ Airfare from Bangkok to Phuket
✔Transfer services in private air-conditioned vehicle
✔English speaking guide throughout program
✔Entrance fees, other boat fees where applicable
✔ Meals as listed in the program
✔Bottled water on coach during transfer
✔ Airport arrival and departure transfers in Bangkok
✔ Airport arrival transfer in Phuket (one time together for the group)
✔ Airport departure transfers in Krabi
✔ Road transfer from Phuket to KrabiWhat is not included:
- International Airfare
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Visa
- Early check-in and late check-out
- Tips, drinks, personal expenses and others
- Travel insurance
Want more info?
Click Here to fill out our info request form
OR
RSVP to the event with your email to receive additional info.
OR
CLICK HERE to send me a message
Whatever is easiest for you!Still have questions?
We do a Q & A Zoom once a month.
CLICK HERE for our Q & A Zoom. RSVP on that event to get a reminder for the zoom.We believe in good, decent social. This event is cross posted to several other groups and the number of RSVPs on each is not reflective. We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too.
Click Here to see or join our other eventsSOT 2000318-10
3 attendees
Galapagos Islands Expedition~Untouched Nature in all its Splendor! Small Group.
IAD - Washington Dulles Intl Airport (IAD), 1 Saarinen Cir, Dulles, VA 20166, USA, Dulles, VA, USIt's a Meetup . . . in the Galápagos!!
This Meetup Event is for the nature lovers, for the curious explorers and the adventurers who want to experience nature in all its splendor & diversity.
The Galápagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, considered one of the world's foremost destinations for wildlife-viewing. It's a place where lizards swim, birds walk, and humans — for once — don't take center stage. In 1835 a 26-year-old Charles Darwin introduced the Galápagos Islands to the world with his theory of evolution.
As amazing as you think the Galápagos Islands would be, they exceed all expectations of our group in 2023 and 2025! That sea lion above in our group photo is not a prop! It was very real, ready to play and pose for a picture. You can see sea lions, giant lizards and many other exotic and friendly creatures, waddling on the streets, playing in the sand or just chilling (sun bathing) on a bench!
We will explore and experience:
- The famous Galapagos penguin and blue footed boobies. Swim with sea turtles and sea lions.
- Tortuga Bay Beach for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking or surfing with unique marine life.
- Get close and personal with the giant tortoises roaming in their natural habitat
- Explore the Tintoreras islet, home of the white tip sharks and its shark tunnel.
- Visit the Charles Darwin Station, to observe giant tortoises and their babies and learn about this majestic animal.
- Snorkeling around the shore of the Tijeretas Bay
- Boat ride to Kicker Rock with snorkeling
- Sailing to Santa Cruz Island.
- Sail to Isabela Island, the largest of the archipelago.
- Boat tour to Tuneles De Cabo Rosa, a formation of series of above ocean arches, creating an unique snorkeling experience.
- Explore cavernous underground Lava Tunnels.
- Tour the Galapagos rainforest habitat
- San Cristobal Island with visit to the Interpretation Center
- Visit to Los Gemelos, a haven for bird watchers!
- Visit Sierra Negra and Chico Volcano. A 10-mile challenging hike (for those who are interested)
- El Trapiche to see the old methods of extracting cane juice, roasting coffee beans and techniques of distillery.
- Quito with a full day tour and visit to the Equator line
- Visit to the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Land Tour cost $4650 per person, double occupancy
(we match roommates for those wishing to share)
Solo occupancy additional $990
***Airfare not included***We have a second departure with the same itinerary: March 16-26, 2027
Click here to go to the eventWHAT IS INCLUDED:
· 10 Nights Accommodations – Quito & Galapagos
· 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 Dinners
· Naturalist Guide (during activities)
· All activities listed
· Galapagos National Park entrance fee
· Isabela island entrance fee
· All transportation during the tour
· 24/7 assistance in the islands
· Airport Transfers to hotel. (in – out)
· Transit control cardWHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:
- Airfare to Galapagos (unless booking the group fare from LA)
- Meals not described in the tour (approx. $15 per person, per day)
- Tips
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities
- Wet suits
RSVP with your email to receive additional info.
RSVP DOES NOT RESERVE YOUR SPOT.
A Deposit of $350 is the only way to book this trip.
Click Here to submit your deposit and guarantee your spot.
Your deposit is fully refundable up to 90 days before the departure.Click Here to fill out our google info request form to receive detailed itinerary
Click Here for the main Meetup post of this eventStill have questions? We do a monthly Q&A Travel Zoom on all our events
https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/296044209/
Come to the zoom and ask any questions. Great way to get the info you want without all the other fluff. As well as meet us and other attendees.Click here for General Policies and useful info about our international trips.
We believe in good decent social. This events is cross posted to several other groups and the number of RSVPs on each is not reflective. We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too.
Click Here to see all our other fun events
SOT 2000318-10
3 attendees
Past events
409
