What we’re about
CLICK HERE to see our main meetup events calendar http://www.socialfundation.com
This group seeks to provide a social outlet to a variety of experiences, so that we can enjoy Austin to its fullest while interacting with new young people in the city.
So, if you are ready to get out, meet new people, and explore the unique social life and outdoor opportunities of Austin; if you are are ready to try out new locales in different parts of town; and if you are ready to experience�a fun and different way explore the vibrant arts scene, the active community, the quirky festivals, and the outdoor opportunities that Austin has to offer:�then this group is for you!
This group is a collective: we want to hear from you! If you have a suggestion, please feel free to add it to the Ideas section, and please vote for suggestions you like. We are more than willing to schedule events that the group wants. Also, we are looking to expand our membership and our outreach by co-hosting events with other social groups on Meetup and groups in the city.
We only have two rules.
1. Don?t be a Dick!
? This is simple and most of you know what this means. If you say or do anything that would make anyone feel uncomfortable�(especially the women or minority groups) you will be warned once. After that if we are approached again you will be asked to leave and are no longer welcomed in the group.
2. Take Candy from Strangers!
? We all love candy, some of us will have some to give out.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Mt Kilimanjaro Trek. One of the 7 Summits. Join us on this bucket list adventureAustin-Bergstrom International Airport, Austin, TX
Our 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.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. 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 wild-life. 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.Another thing we have done for timing is . . . the last stretch to the summit we leave camp at midnight. June 13th will be a Full Moon making it a stunning hike.
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?
Kilimajaro Mountain Trek $3850 per person, double occupancy. Land only (airfare not included). Solo supplement $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 $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 REQUESTWe 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/twofeet/events/298960441/
(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
- San Bernard River Kayak TourBates Allen Park, East Bernard, TX
San Bernard River flows some 120 miles from near Ulm, TX into the Gulf of Mexico being flanked by two major river systems: Brazos River to the east and Colorado River to the west.
MAY THE FOREST BE WITH YOU!
Gain a fresh perspective on one of the most beautiful and serene stretches of San Bernard River during our 6 miles paddling tour.
Our itinerary displays dense and aged Cypress tree canopies great for providing shade in the hot months, and plenty of wildlife viewing along the banks and sky above.
Ideal for paddlers of all levels including families with kids, you can hone your kayaking skills and learn about the surrounding ecosystem in this river basin.
We do all the planning and packing - you just have to show up with plenty of cold drinks and lunch. We can't wait to paddle with you!
Tour Tuition: $199 per person ages 7 and up
10% discount offered to families
Gear and guiding includedActivity Duration: 3-4 hours
Paddling Time: 2-3 hours
Paddling Distance: 3-6 miles
Fitness Level: Easy to Moderate
Participants: Ages 7 and up= = =
Equipment: We use professional grade kayaks designed for touring the sea. They have sit-inside cockpit seat, with long and narrow hull that makes paddling efficient at covering long distances with lesser effort. We do not use sit-on-top kayaks.
Requirements: Good balance skills and reasonable fitness level is advisable. Our sit-inside cockpit touring kayaks can accommodate paddlers up to about 250 lbs. Best for outdoor enthusiasts without motion or sea sickness, comfortable with vigorous exercise. No previous paddling or swimming experience required - instruction provided!
Itinerary tailored to guests' desire, fitness level, group dynamics, weather conditions, etc.
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Sign up early!!
A RSVP “Yes” on Meetup merely states your interest.
Seats fill up quickly - the tour is cross posted on several platforms.***TO SIGN UP & CONFIRM LOGISTICS CALL 832-686-3231 ***
***THIS TOUR CAN BE RESCHEDULED: BOOK US AT YOUR CONVINIENT TIME FOR YOUR GROUP AT 4+***
Call Constantin to confirm logistics, gear size, set up expectations, fill out waiver and to process payment.
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WHAT TO BRING/HOW TO DRESS:
Bring 2 water bottles and pack a snack to take with you in the kayak.
Bring with you a towel and a set of dry clothing to change at the end for a comfortable ride home.Dress only with synthetic clothing. Wear outdoor, fast drying, non-cotton/synthetic clothing like hiking pants and shirts. Long sleeve shirts and long pants prevent sunburn and insect bites.
Bring water shoes/closed toed sandals; old sneakers work great. No crocs, no flip-flops, no rain boots. Wear paddling gloves or cycling/ workout gloves to prevent blisters and sunburn on hands.
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CREDENTIALS: This tour is organized by Constantin Platon, an experienced outdoor educator, geology professor, and happy camper with 25+ years of experience, and the following current certifications:
ACA Trip Leader & Eskimo Roll Endorsements
ACA Level-3 Coastal/Sea Kayak Instructor
ACA Level-3 River/Whitewater Kayak Instructor
ACA Level-3 River/Lake Canoe Instructor (Solo & Tandem)
NOLS and Sierra International Wilderness First Aid= = =
PLEASE REPLY WITH YOUR PHONE NUMBER!
I am excited to share with you from my expertise, and I look forward to paddling together!
Constantin
[Call/Text: 832-686-3231]LET'S GET SOCIAL!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1022107514968636
Do you have in mind a Different Drill, Date or Destination?
We also run team building events, birthday parties, church functions, historical and geological field trips and eco tours; overnight camping excursions down the river and weekend long adventures at sea along the Gulf Coast; and advanced paddling skills courses.
Born to Paddle!
- $$ Visit Selma Concrete-Made Shipwreck, Galveston, TX | Guided Sea Kayak TourSeawolf Park, Galveston, TX
$199 per adult | 3-hour sea kayaking guided tour to historical SS Selma Shipwreck | Small group size: minimum 4, maximum 6 | Includes historical lecture and specialized sea kayaking equipment and certified instruction.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Paddling Time: 2-3 hours
Paddling Distance: 2-3 milesTHIS TOUR CAN BE RE-SCHEDULED AT A DATE CONVINIENT TO YOU.
PRIVATE EVENT, PREPAID REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
WE TAKE APPOINTMENTS.= = =
TOUR SIGNIFICANCE: Resting for 100+ years, SS Selma is a ship made of concrete reinforced with rebar and is the only permanent and prominent shipwreck along the Houston Ship Channel.
SS Selma was declared a Texas archaeological landmark in 1993 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was the largest of 12 World War I experimental ships made from concrete rather than steel because of a metal shortage. The ship was never used during the war. The day it launched was the same day Germany signed the Treaty of Versailles, which formally concluded the war. It was instead retrofitted and used as an oil tanker.
Just a couple of years into service, during a storm, a collision made a 60-foot unrepairable hole in its hull. The wreck of the SS Selma has since been the object of failed plans to convert it for use as a fishing pier, pleasure resort, and an oyster farm. Long a source of curiosity and local legend, it remains important to scientists who continue to study aspects of its concrete construction.
SS Selma was laid to rest approximately one mile north of Galveston Island. Partially submerged, is visible from both the Houston Ship Channel and Seawolf Park.
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Join us! Relaxed pace. Outstanding history learning opportunity. Small group size. Experienced trip leader. Awesome destination.
Equipment: We use professional grade kayaks designed for touring the sea. They have sit-inside cockpit seat, with long and narrow hull. We do not use sit-on-top kayaks.
Requirements: Good balance skills and reasonable fitness level is advisable. Our sit-inside cockpit touring kayaks can accommodate paddlers only up to 250 lbs. or less. Best for outdoor enthusiasts without motion or sea sickness, comfortable with vigorous exercise. No previous paddling or swimming experience required - instruction provided!
Itinerary tailored to guests' desire, fitness level, group dynamics, weather conditions, etc.
= = =
Sign up early!!
A RSVP “Yes” on Meetup merely states your interest.
Seats fill up quickly - the tour is cross posted on several platforms.***TO SIGN UP & CONFIRM LOGISTICS CALL 832-686-3231 ***
Call Constantin to confirm logistics, gear size, set up expectations, fill out waiver and to process payment.= = =
GEAR PROVIDED WITH REGISTRATION:
Single seat OR tandem touring kayak
Lightweight paddle
Adjustable life jacket
Small size dry bag for car keys, wallet, phone
Group first aid kit, safety and recue kit (bilge pump, paddle float, tow rope, lights, VHF radio, etc)= = =
WHAT TO BRING/HOW TO DRESS:
Bring 2 water bottles and pack a snack to take with you in the kayak. Bring with you a towel and a set of dry clothing to change at the end for a comfortable ride home.
Dress only with synthetic clothing. Wear outdoor, fast drying, non-cotton/synthetic clothing like hiking pants and shirts. Long sleeve shirts and long pants prevent sunburn and insect bites.
Bring water shoes/closed toed sandals; old sneakers work great. No crocs, no flip-flops, no rain boots. Wear paddling gloves or cycling/ workout gloves to prevent blisters and sunburn on hands.
= = =
UNDECIDED? Check out our SS Selma photo album:
SS Selma Shipwreck Sea Kayak Tour
= = =
CREDENTIALS: This tour is organized by Constantin Platon, an experienced outdoor educator, geology professor, and happy camper with 25+ years of experience, and the following current certifications:
ACA Trip Leader & Eskimo Roll Endorsements
ACA Level-3 Coastal/Sea Kayak Instructor
ACA Level-3 River/Whitewater Kayak Instructor
ACA Level-2 River Canoe Instructor (Solo & Tandem)
Sierra International Wilderness First Aid
NOLS Wilderness First Aid= = =
PLEASE REPLY WITH YOUR PHONE NUMBER!
I am excited to share with you from my expertise, and I look forward to paddling together!
Constantin
[Call/Text: 832-686-3231]LET'S GET SOCIAL!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1022107514968636
Do you have in mind a Different Drill, Date or Destination?
We also run team building events, birthday parties, church functions, historical and geological field trips and eco tours; overnight camping excursions down the river and weekend long adventures at sea along the Gulf Coast; and advanced paddling skills courses.
Born to Paddle!
- $$ Freedom Celebration | Kayak Galveston Bay - The Birthplace of JuneteenthPelican Island, Galveston, TX
Freedom finally came on June 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. The army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved black people in the state, were free by executive decree.
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond.
Learn more about the significance of this day at: https://www.juneteenth.com/
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Happy Juneteenth!
Join us for a special event: a guided kayak tour of Galveston Bay to see historical landmark WWI relict and learn about naval concrete ship experiment SS Selma. This is an amazing history learning opportunity!
Enjoy the comfort of premium quality paddling equipment, a small group size and the peace of mind provided by your experienced guide and instructor.
$199 per person includes premium service and outfitting.
Activity Duration: 3-4 hour.
Paddling Time: 2-3 hours.
Paddling Distance: 3-6 miles.Small group size | Relaxed pace | Beginners and Family Friendly | Includes lecture on history, geology, geography, biology, specialized touring equipment to efficiently and stealthy cover distances, certified instruction and pictures.
PREMIUM EQUIPMENT: We use professional-grade, field tested, high-quality kayaks designed for touring the sea. They have sit-inside cockpit seat, with long and narrow hull. These kayaks are designed to cover long distances fast and efficiently, so you can see more with less effort. We do not use sit-on-top kayaks.
BASISC REQUIREMENTS: Good balance skills and reasonable fitness level is advisable. Our sit-inside cockpit touring kayaks can accommodate paddlers only up to approximately 250 lbs. or less. Best for outdoor enthusiasts without motion or sea sickness, comfortable with vigorous exercise. No previous paddling or swimming experience required - instruction will be provided!
FLUID ITINERARY: Tailored to guests' desire, fitness level, group dynamics, weather conditions, etc.
= = =
SIGN UP EARLY!!
A RSVP “Yes” on Meetup merely states your interest.
Seats fill up quickly - the tour is cross posted on several platforms.***TO SIGN UP & CONFIRM LOGISTICS PLEASE CALL 832-686-3231 ***
Call Constantin Platon to confirm logistics, gear size, set up expectations, fill out waiver and to process payment.You can also book directly via our website at:
= = =
WHAT TO BRING/HOW TO DRESS:
Bring two 33 oz. water bottles and pack a snack/lunch to take with you in the kayak. Bring with you a towel to cover your car seats for a comfortable ride home. Your bottom will get wet: bring a set of dry clothing to change at the end.
Dress only with synthetic clothing (no cotton). Wear outdoor, fast drying, synthetic clothing like hiking pants and shirts. Long sleeve shirts and long pants prevent sunburn and insect bites.
Bring water shoes/closed toed sandals. Old sneakers work great. No crocs, flip-flops, rain boots or hiking boots. Wear a large brim hat with under chin strap and sunglasses. Wear paddling gloves or cycling/ workout gloves to prevent blisters and sunburn on hands. Bring sunscreen, lip balm, repellant.
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TOUR OUTCOME:
Despite being relatively close to a major city, exploring Galveston Bay and SS Selma by kayak is a unique and cool experience for most people: you will be amazed by its beauty!
By the end of this trip, you will be a more confident kayaker and have increased knowledge and appreciation for the value of Galveston Bay and coastal ecosystems.
= = =
UNDECIDED? Check out our recent photo album:
SS Selma Guided Sea Kayak Tour
= = =
CREDENTIALS: This tour is organized by Constantin Platon, an experienced outdoor educator, geology professor, and happy camper with 25+ years of experience, and the following current certifications:
ACA Level-3 Coastal/Sea Kayak Instructor
ACA Level-3 River/Whitewater Kayak Instructor
ACA Level-3 River & Flatwater, Solo & Tandem Canoe Instructor
NOLS and Sierra International Wilderness First Aid= = =
PLEASE REPLY WITH YOUR NAME AND PHONE NUMBER!
I am excited to share with you from my expertise, and I look forward to paddling together!
Constantin
[Call/Text: 832-686-3231]= = =
Do you have in mind a Different Drill, Date or Destination?
We also run team building events, birthday parties, church functions, historical and geological field trips and eco tours; overnight camping excursions down the river and weekend long adventures at sea along the Gulf Coast; and advanced paddling skills courses.
Born to Paddle!