About us
CLICK HERE to see our main meetup events calendar http://www.socialfundation.com
Welcome to Toronto's Newcomers Community -- BIG CITY, Small World
We are the largest newcomers group in Canada, and SECOND LARGEST in the world**
* Our mandate is to offer FREE Service to Newcomers across GTA -- Together, we make Toronto a first-class city, and a model for the rest of the world :)
*** We would be happy and fulfilled to see our members blend in and enjoy their life in Toronto, as we were once newcomers too and we are all a family;)
Note: You need to be 18+ year old or older to join. (If you are under 18 you need to get permission from main organizers if you really like to participate in our events.)
Let's build a friendly community with people originally from outside Toronto or all over the world, as well as anyone who would like to meet people of different cultural backgrounds or to provide assistance to them.
Language, Job hunting, Information/Free seminars (leisure, living, immigration, legal, education, community resources...), Experience sharing (do & don't...), Settling in general, Commute assistance (carpools/rides, license tests), Expanding social circle and horizon, Tutoring/Mentoring, Health/Emergency...
A newcomer can use your help for a long list of things. Many of us were also once a "newcomer" to an unfamiliar country, city, or even a totally different culture, and we know how that feels.
It's not that easy to get people to volunteer, but I am sure there are quite a few willing to help from this group. Let's try our best and make this happen!
Your contributions in any way will be valued and appreciated!
PS: You do NOT need to be a NEWCOMER to join this group. "Native English speakers" are always among the highest demand for "community partnership" of International newcomers. You may help a newcomer learn English, and at the same time you get to learn a new culture, language, and expand/diversify your social circle... And we all like to do some good deeds:)
* More events, fun activities, and free services to be facilitated soon... Stay tuned!! \
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Featured event
Africa Great Migration Photo Safari + Zanzibar Extension! Journey of a Lifetime.
We all have seen Lion King in one form or another . . . It's now time to go to the source.
Our meetup is off to Africa for The Great Migration Photo Safari! We did this amazing trip in the summer of 2024 and everybody had a blast! (see photos in the link below)
Encounter the exotic wildlife of the Serengeti! Marvel at the lions, zebras, elephants and so many majestic animals we have only seen in the zoo or in movies.
On Serengeti's vast, treeless plains tens of thousands of hoofed animals are constantly on the move in search of fresh grassland. This is a once-in-a-life-time opportunity to experience the best game viewing in Africa!
Like every trip we do with Meetup, this one is personally crafted to offer the best places and best use of time.
The itinerary is:
July 5 Arrival Kilimanjaro Intl Airport and transfer to Arusha
July 6 Arusha to Tarangire National Park
July 7 Ngorongoro Crater full day game drive
July 8 Ngorongoro to Serengeti National Park (Central Seronera area)
July 9 Serengeti (Central)
July 10 Northern Serengeti (Kogatende)
July 11 Northern Serengeti (Kogatende)
July 12 Northern Serengeti (Kogatende) to Lake Natron
July 13 Lake Natron to Arusha
July 14 Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport
All of these locations don't mean much to you at the moment, but after the trip you will remember them forever as some of the best places you have ever visited!
How much does this cost?
African Migration Safari US$4998 per person, double occupancy.
Single supplement US$750. I.e. price for a solo accommodation US$5748
We offer roommate matching for those, wishing to share and save.
***Airfare is not included.***
RSVP to this event shows your interest, but does not hold your space.
The only way to secure your spot for this trip is a US$350 deposit:
CLICK HERE FOR SECURE DEPOSIT LINK
IF you need an airfare quote, Click here to message Anna
Land Cost includes:
- 9 nights accommodation
- 3 meals every day
- All park fees to Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
- All concession fees to Tarangire and Serengeti.
- Crater service fees.
- Professional driver guide
- Open roof land cruiser vehicles
- Drinking water during the safari
We offer an Optional Extension 5-day to Zanzibar:
Price per person, Double occupancy US$870.
Solo room - US$1285
**Airfare from Arusha (Kilimanjaro Airport) to Zanzibar is not included**
To sign up for Zanzibar, pay the $200 deposit through this secure link
For more information about this or any of our other international events, fill out this form: INTERNATIONAL MEETUPS INFO REQUEST
Have more questions?
Click here to message Anna
Click here to message Marc
AND/OR
We do a monthly Q & A Zoom: Meet others attending, be social, or come and get any questions answered.
Click Here to RSVP to our Zoom
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 other attendees.
To see pictures from our Photo Safari adventure in 2024 CLICK HERE
We believe in good decent social. We have a set of sister group we post our local free, local/reginal camping, and our overseas events too.
Click Here for our other events:
Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it!
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SOT 200318-10
Upcoming events
6
Learn to connect with anyone in 2026
·OnlineOnlineI get it, we make these bold plans and then life happens and nothing changes… health, career, social life… so much to deal with and so little time.
The good news is there is one thing you can focus on that will increase your results in pretty much every single area of your life: becoming more socially confident. It’s the most important thing for your longevity, your sense of well being, your career success, your happiness quotient.
Across the board, your ability to connect with others is your BIGGEST advantage in life.
Come check out our free workshop to help you get to know where to meet like minded people in the real world, exactly what you should say and how to keep the conversation going once you get it started.
My name is Devon Ash and I’ve been teaching this stuff for 18 years through my company www.socialfluency.com so the things I am going to be sharing are reality tested and proven, I’m not just going to be regurgitating something I read somewhere… This is the real deal!
Come join us and learn the art and science of powerful communication.
6 attendees
Cherry Blossoms in Japan - The Golden Triangle incl. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka..
Toronto Pearson International Airport, M9HC+WJ Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, Mississauga, ON, CAJoin us on this magical trip to Japan to experience the enchanting allure of spring, where nature paints the landscape with vibrant colors. We chose this season for the unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the country’s most iconic destinations at their best: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka. We will also visit the Japanese Alps with stays in Matsumoto and Kanazawa. Each city boasts unique attractions and seasonal charm that will captivate our senses and leave us with unforgettable memories. A true Meetup Experience!
What is included:
- 3 nights in Tokyo
- 1 night in Matsumoto
- 2 nights in Kanazawa
- 2 nights in Kyoto
- 3 nights in Osaka
- Arrival and Departure Airport Transfers
- Transportation throughout by Coach
- English Speaking guide throughout the itinerary
- Sightseeing tours with admissions fees per itinerary
- Breakfast Daily
- 2 lunches, 5 dinners
Experience:
- Visit to shrines, temples and castles with amazing Spring Blossoms
- The Bullet train-Shinkansen
- Sushi Making Class
- Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony
- Maiko Dinner (apprentice geisha)
- Samurai Experience
What is not included:
- International Airfare
- Tips for the guide and driver
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Items of personal nature
Japan during spring is a feast for the senses, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and urban excitement. We will enjoy it all and this promises to be an unforgettable adventure with our fellow Meetup travelers!
Land Tour cost USD$5760 per person, double occupancy
(we match roommates for those wishing to share)
Solo occupancy additional USD$1050
***International Airfare not included***The only way to guarantee your spot for this meetup is a USD$400 deposit.
CLICK HERE for secure deposit link:Upon submitting the deposit, please fill out this form
RSVP to the event with your email to receive additional info.
RSVP DOES NOT RESERVE YOUR SPOT.
Deposit is the only way to hold your spot.
Click Here for secure deposit link.Your deposit is fully refundable up to 90 days before the departure.
For airfare and other info on the trip, click here to message Anna
Click Here to fill out our google info request form to receive detailed itinerary.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.
Click Here for the main location of this event.Still have questions? We do a monthly Q&A Travel Zoom on all our 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.
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 eventsLive the adventure instead of only dreaming it!
SOT 2000318-10
2 attendees
Costa Rica Eco Adventure: Waterfalls, Snorkeling, Zip lines, Rafting, Volcanoes!
Toronto Pearson International Airport, M9HC+WJ Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, Mississauga, ON, CA¡¡¡ Pura Vida !!!
Come alone, leave with friends!
This is what Meetup is all about. Being able to join and do what you wanted to do . . just not alone.We are going to Costa Rica for 9 nights/10 days of exploration and tropical adventures. . . . Best Meetup ever!!
To see how fun it is . . . Here are photos from when we did go before https://photos.app.goo.gl/cswRyeNZp1r6WW9t9
Costa Rica is a playground for the adventurous and an eco-tourist's dream! It is an unspoiled tropical paradise.
- Beautiful beaches
- Rainforest biodiversity
- Misty volcanoes
- Roaring rivers
- Lush jungles
- Exotic flora and fauna
- And more!!
And we are going there to enjoy it, learn about it and make memories of a lifetime!
This event is a true Meetup. We are creating it from scratch, and bringing like-minded people together on this adventure. Along the way making lifelong memories and friendships.
Together . . . let’s make a Meetup to remember!
- Hike around the base of the Arenal Volcano
- Selvatura Zip Line Canopy Tour
- Guided visit to Finca Luna Nueva Farm
- Caño Negro Refuge Tour/Visit
- Rio Frio Wildlife Refuge Boat Tour
- Hanging Bridges Walking Tour
- Ecotermales Hot Springs
- Monteverde Night Walk Tour
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Tour (daytime)
- River Floating Tour
- Tamarindo Beach
- Sunset Sailing
- Snorkeling Tour
- And more!
For a detailed Day By Day itinerary Click Here to fill out our info request form
Land Tour cost USD$3350 per person, double occupancy (we match roommates for those traveling solo, and most of us are doing just that).
If you want your own room: Solo occupancy additional USD$950
The only way to secure your spot for this meetup is a USD$300 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 ATTENDEES FORM.
As we mentioned, . . . the cost is $3350. This is for the "Land" portion only. 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.
I can also help arranging your airfare. To receive an offer, CLICK HERE and send me a message.What is Included in this trip:
- 9 Nights hotel accommodation
- 9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners.
- Meet & Greet at the airport.
- Pick-up from airport to our hotel, and hotel to airport at the end of the trip
- Transportation throughout the trip
- Private naturalist English speaking tour guide
- All entrance fees and tours mentioned in the itinerary day-by-day description
- Daily water bottles for the group
- Hotel and Added Value Tax
Does not include:
x International Airfare
x Meals other than specified
x Optional Tours
x All items of personal nature (telephone calls, Laundry, room service, etc.)
x Tipping for tour guides and driversWant more info?
Click Here to fill out our info request formOR
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.Click here for the MAIN location of this event on Meetup RSVP there to post any discussion and to get notice of any comments and discussions. As well as any updates and reminders
We believe in good decent social.
SOT 2000318-10
3 attendees
Mt Kilimanjaro Trek! One of the 7 Summits ~ A bucket list adventure
Toronto Pearson International Airport, M9HC+WJ Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, Mississauga, ON, CAOur Meetup is off to another hiking adventure! Mt Kilimanjaro, as the tallest mountain in Africa, is included in the 7 Summits of the world.
It is a bucket-list item for all hard-core hikers and mountain lovers.
We did this trek with Meetup in the summer of 2024 and it was a true experience of a lifetime (see photos below)Let's get to some numbers. It is 5,895m/19,340ft
BUT . . . our starting elevation for the trek is 3795m/12541ft
As such elevation gain is 2100m/6799ft
To compare Everest Base Camp trek, is about 2754m/9035ft elevation change. And Mt Whitney is about 1828m/6000ft elevation change.
The key to being able to succeed in this endeavor lays in the route and the support system.
We are taking the Lemosho Route via the Northern Circuit. The Northern Circuit route is the longest and newest of the seven established Kilimanjaro routes. It's one of the best routes because it has the best acclimatization profile. This results in one of the highest summit success rates. Add to that stunning views, and comparatively relaxed pace. It is also much less crowded than the other Kilimanjaro routes.
As far as our support system: We will be accompanied by experienced guides, porters and cooks. They are certified, ensuring our safety and comfort. Porters will carry our gear.
We will have a high ratio of guides to hikers. Our guides will go our pace and support each and everyone of us, regardless of fitness level and pace. In other words...you go your own speed and we all get there safe.
More about our trek/trip.
As with all our international trips, we picked the best season/time of year to go for weather and wildlife. Lemosho and Northern Circuit is a scenically spectacular and varied route. At the lower elevations it has an abundance of wildlife such as elephant, buffalo, eland and lion which come over to forage during dry season.Each of our trips is personally crafted to offer the best places and best use of time.
But I don't have the needed gear?!
You don't need much more than the standard trekker's equipment. We will provide you with a list of what is already included and what can be rented there.Does this include food?
All meals on the trek potion are included and a cook travels with us!What is lodging like?
We are sleeping in new and comfortable tents (carried during the day by porters)I am new at this.
That's OK. We do plenty of prep Zooms before we depart. And in California we have a number of local outdoor day or weekend outings you can test out with us.How dangerous is this? What if I get sick or hurt?
We will be walking on an established, well used trail the entire time. Our trip INCLUDES emergency insurance. We are also Certified Wilderness First Responders and our guides are members of (AMREF) Flying Doctor.
Plain and simple, safety is our primary goal.How much does this cost?
Kilimanjaro Mountain Trek USD$3950 per person, double occupancy. Land only (airfare not included). Solo supplement USD$600Trip Cost includes:
- 9 nights accommodation
- 3 meals everyday on the trek
- All Fees & Entrances and Taxes
- Camping equipment such as tents, tables, chairs.
- Lead Guide, Assistant Guides, Porters and CookRSVP to this event shows your interest, but does not hold your space.
The only way to secure your spot for this trip is a USD$300 deposit:**
CLICK HERE FOR SECURE DEPOSIT LINK
Deposit is refundable up to 90 days before the departure (less PayPal fees).IF you need an airfare quote, Click here to message Anna
For more information about this or any of our other international events, fill out this form: INTERNATIONAL MEETUPS INFO REQUESTTo see pictures from our Kilimanjaro adventure in 2024 CLICK HERE
We do a monthly Q & A Zoom: Meet others attending, be social, or come and get any questions answered.
Click Here to RSVP to our ZoomThe MAIN location where this event is posted:
https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/302872805/
(RSVP there for any conversation and comments)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 for our other events:
Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it!
SOT 200318-10
2 attendees
Past events
253
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Members
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