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
- $$ Kayak Camping Skills Class | Includes One Overnight CampSam Houston National Forest, New Waverly, TX
$399 per adult | $209 per child <12 y old | Max 6 participants
Includes: instruction and premium kayaking and camping equipmentCLASS INTRO: Do you hate bugs, dirt, sleeping on the hard ground and eating gruel?
It doesn’t have to be that way. With the right planning and gear, kayak camping can be enjoyed in real comfort, if not luxury. More importantly, kayak camping offers a unique sensory experience.
At remote campsites there is peace, solitude, and the sights, sounds and smells of nature. This experience allows for a connection to nature that is second to none. In this environment all food tastes like a gourmet meal. Inexpensive wine seems like the finest vintage. Sunrises and sunsets are longer and more profound and intense.
CLASS OVERVIEW: This "Kayak Camping Skills Class" is designed for participants to learn the basic skills required to plan and prepare short overnight trips in coastal environments, rivers and near shore lakes. The participants will learn about proper equipment and how it is used, how to select a camp location, food transportation and preparation, and to follow leave no trace principals throughout the trip.
CLASS GOALS: By the end of this class, you will become a more confident and skillful kayaker and camper. Principles and skills learned in this class are transferable to backpacking, mountaineering, bike touring, and other outdoor travel/primitive adventure circumstances.
Duration: Morning to next day afternoon.
Paddling Distance: 5 – 10 miles roundtrip.
Paddling Time: 2 - 4 hours each day.
Land based training: 3 - 4 hours each day.CAMPING: Primitive camping is recommended for a deeper learning experience, but multiple camping options exist including car-camping with shower, restroom, drinking water, etc.
EQUIPMENT: Premium quality kayaking, backpacking and camping equipment is included with instruction. A list of what's provided and what you need to bring, itinerary and a course syllabus will be provided once you register.
CLASS TEACHING STYLE: all hands-on deck, "challenged by choice" philosophy.
BRIEF TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Introduction, expectations, and logistics | Personal preparation | Kayak camping and touring | The paddling environment | Trip planning and leadership | Equipment | Wilderness repairs and maintenance | Loading and trimming | Getting started | Paddling on large bodies of water | Safety and rescue | Dealing with hazards | Navigation | Making camp | Environmental concerns and practices | Conclusion and wrap up.
REGISTRATION: Minimum 3 students are needed to run the course, and capacity is limited to 6 participants. This is a rain or shine event. A waiver must be signed. This class requires a moderate fitness level and the capacity to bend (body flexibility/touch your toes test). Our sea touring kayaks can accommodate paddlers up to 250 lbs. and 40-inch hip/pants size.
NOT SURE IF THIS IS RIGHT FOR YOU? Take a look at our pictures:
2019 Winter Kayak Camping Buffalo River, AR
2020 Easter Kayak Camping Matagorda, TX
2020 Summer Green River Expedition, UT
2021 Winter Kayak Camping Matagorda, TX
2021 Spring Break Kayak Camping Matagorda, TX
2021 Fall Kayak Camping Matagorda, TX
2022 Kayak Camping Everglades, FL
CREDENTIALS: This course is taught 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-2 River Canoe Instructor (Solo & Tandem)
ACA Trip Leader & Eskimo Roll Endorsements
Sierra International Wilderness First Aid
NOLS Wilderness First AidPLEASE 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: 832-686-3231Do you have in mind a different drill, date, or destination?
Want to hire us for a corporate team building, birthday party or family engagement, or a Scouting event? Let’s get in touch!
Born to Paddle!
- $$ World Ocean Day | Port of Galveston Guided Sea Kayak TourSeawolf Park, Galveston, TX
June 8, 2024: World Ocean Day.
People around our blue planet celebrate and honor the ocean, which connects, sustains and supports us all. Get together with your family and friends to learn and celebrate this day with a guided sea kayak tour of Port of Galveston to see up-close ships small and large and the activity in Galveston Ship Channel. A great opportunity to see pelicans, sea guls, herons and dolphins.
A really fun trip that's going to get you wet!
$199 per adult | 3-hour sea kayaking guided tour of Port of Galveston, TX. Small group size. Includes historical lecture and specialized sea kayaking equipment and certified instruction.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Paddling Time: 2-3 hours
Paddling Distance: 2-3 miles= = =
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-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!
- $$ Learn to Kayak Class | Bring your own kayak OR rent | Missouri City, TXMissouri City, Missouri City, TX
This hands-on class will introduce you to the fundamentals of kayaking in a comfortable setting and at a relaxed pace. You will learn about proper kayaking strokes and paddling technique and get the chance to practice these new skills on a beautiful, local, urban waterway.
ACA-certified kayak instructor will also teach the basics of water safety, trip planning, and how to have an enjoyable time on the water.
This is a great way to build a new skill set or improve upon what you already know about kayaking. Bring your own kayak to practice in the comfort and familiarity of your own gear or rent premium quality kayaking gear from us.
Class Tuition: $150 per person ages 8 and up with your own gear.
Equipment Rental: $50 includes premium quality single seat touring kayak, paddle, life jacket, dry bag and safety equipment.Class Duration: 3-4 hours
Paddling Time: 2-3 hours
Paddling Distance: 3-4 milesBring your own kayaking equipment: $150 per person.
Rent our premium quality touring kayaks: $50 (solo sit-in-kayak, paddle, life jacket and dry bags and all necessary safety equipment).A really fun trip that's going to get you wet!
= = =
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.
= = =
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.
= = =
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!