Social and Cultural Outings

Come for Socializing. Stay for the Music 🎶 Socialize, meet new people, make friends, before easing into party mode for a night of fun and dancing. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-social-meetup)** **💬 Social Mixer: Meet & Connect** Begin the evening by mingling with like-minded people in a sophisticated setting. Engage in meaningful conversations, have fun and make new friends. Take advantage of the relaxed atmosphere to make new friends or enjoy with your existing ones. Whether you're looking to share experiences, or simply enjoy engaging conversations, this social is the perfect place for you. **🎶 Afterparty & Live DJ Performance** As the night progresses, ease into party mode with the dynamic beats of live DJ. From smooth lounge music to high-energy tracks, the DJ will create an irresistible ambiance that keeps the energy flowing and the dance floor alive. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-social-meetup)** Let loose, dance the night away, and enjoy the afterparty. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails in an elegant venue with the infectious energy of the DJ, ensures a night to remember. **👔👗 Dress Code: Elegant & Party** Embrace the occasion with your most stylish and sophisticated outfit. Gentlemen, opt for sharp smart casual wear. Ladies, dazzle in chic dresses or elegant evening attire. Let your fashion reflect the elegance of the evening. **Join an evening where nobody left behind, stand on side or feels lonely.** Let new friendship flourish and celebrations abound. Socialize, make new friends and enjoy the vibrant energy of the evening in a beautiful and elegant setting. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-social-meetup)** Dress your best for a fun evening at the best venues in Dubai and get ready to pose for an #instaphoto 📷 **How many people attend?** We get 100 people on average in all our events and invite our members on Meetup and other platforms. Members of other groups who RSVP are included as guests to give an idea of expected numbers. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-social-meetup) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Social 😊

**Peru, oh Peru. You really do have to see it to believe it.** Open your eyes - you’re in Machu Picchu, the eternal city in the clouds, renowned as one of the seven wonders of the modern world. **It’s the kind of dream everyone should have at least once – preferably while awake.** **It may top bucket lists around the world, but Machu Picchu is just the beginning**. Peru is a country with over 10,000 years of history, once the proud seat of the Inca Empire. And long before the Incas, it was home to a series of ancient civilizations that left their marks, ones that we still marvel at today: Caral, the oldest city in the Americas; the tombs of Sipán; the giant Nazca lines only fully visible from the sky; and the mountain fortress of Kuélap. In Peru, the past isn’t hidden in museums. It’s carved into cliffs, etched in desert sands and hidden high on Andean ridges. Nature lovers, this one’s for you: Peru is also one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Out of the planet’s 117 known life zones, Peru has 84. That means you can go from dry, dusty desert to icy peaks to rainforests teeming with life, all in a single trip. **The Amazon River Basin alone could keep explorers busy for a lifetime, but let’s not forget the condors, llamas, alpacas or the surreal rainbow-striped slopes of Vinicunca, the Mountain of Seven Colors.** **And then there’s the food.** Once considered “just” local food, Peruvian gastronomy now has the world’s attention, with chefs turning ancient flavors into haute cuisine. Imagine potatoes in every possible color, the freshest ceviche, jewel-toned corn and a national love for pisco that turns every gathering into a party. Pair that with a rich living culture expressed through music, dance and traditional festivals, and you’ll find that Peru offers an atmosphere as vibrant and layered as its landscapes. **Machu Picchu: The Inca’s Enigma** At 2,400 meters above sea level, tucked away in the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu is the jewel of the Andes. Built without wheels, iron tools, or cement, its granite stones fit together so precisely you can’t even slip a credit card between them. Was it an astronomical observatory, or a royal retreat for Pachacuti, the Inca emperor with 150 children and possibly even more secrets? Was it built by an engineering genius, or as conspiracy enthusiasts like to claim, the handiwork of aliens? Take your pick – the mystery is half the fun. What we do know is this: the Spanish conquistadors never found Machu Picchu, which is why it survived as the best-preserved Inca city. Whether you arrive by train, bus or the legendary Inca Trail, nothing dulls the awe of standing among its terraces and temples, as clouds drift across the mountains. Some places are overhyped…but Machu Picchu isn’t one of them. The city rises from the Sacred Valley of the Urubamba, a fertile basin once central to Inca agriculture. Stretching nearly 150 kilometers, the valley gets just the right mix of sun, water, and breezes. No wonder the Incas carved terraces here that still cling to the slopes in perfect formation, turning steep mountainsides into productive farmland and picture-perfect landscapes all at once. Part of Machu Picchu’s magic is that no one really knows how it was built. Without wheels, draft animals, or cement, the Incas managed to shape and fit massive granite blocks with a precision that still baffles engineers today. Astronomical temples line up with the solstices, making the site part observatory, part sanctuary, part royal getaway – and entirely mind-blowing. (Theories about alien contractors are still optional.) Why the Incas abandoned such a masterpiece remains one of history’s enduring questions, especially as we still don’t know its exact purpose. Maybe it was Pachacuti’s summer palace, a spiritual sanctuary or even the Inca world’s version of a secret hideout. Some say it was left behind deliberately to protect it from the invading Spaniards. Whatever the truth, its temples – especially the famed Intihuatana, or “Hitching Post of the Sun” – still glow with mystery…and offer us a rare glimpse into a civilization that, for a moment, built a paradise in stone. **The Rainbow Mountain: Where Geology Went Wild** About 100 kilometers southeast of Cusco, at 5,200 meters above sea level, it looks as if a rainbow crash-landed into the Andes. The slopes and peaks of Vinicunca, the Mountain of Seven Colors, dazzle with stripes of red, turquoise, lavender and gold, thanks to mineral sediments dating back millions of years. Only revealed about 10 years ago, due to a melting glacial, it has already become one of Peru’s most photographed icons. It seems that nature still has surprises up its sleeve! **Lake Titicaca: Myths on the Water** Then there’s Lake Titicaca, straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia, its sparkling waters sitting at nearly 3,900 meters above sea level. Fun fact: It’s both the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world. Even more interesting? According to legend, Titicaca is the birthplace of the sun itself. The Aymara people say the creator god Viracocha rose from these waters to bring light and humanity into the world. The Incas believed their first ruler, Manco Cápac, emerged here too. This is a place with legends and mysteries at every turn, and one its most intriguing concerns an ancient city known as Wanaku, or the City of Spirits, which is supposedly submerged somewhere in Titicaca’s chilly waters. Apparently, Wanaku was an important cultural and spiritual center, before a great earthquake struck and it was swallowed by the lake, leaving no trace. Still more exciting are the rumors of Inca gold that have long sparked the imaginations of treasure hunters around the world. Legends speak of riches sunk beneath the lake’s waters to keep them safe from the Spanish conquistadors. No one has struck it rich (yet). But through the years, Titicaca has continued to reveal its secrets – for example in the 1970s, when Jacques Cousteau explored the lake and discovered giant, never-before-seen frog species in its depths. Gold may be elusive, but most visitors would agree that the true treasure is the lake itself. Scattered across its vast surface are islands which indigenous communities call home, both those using the pre-Inca language of Aymara and Quechua, the official language of the Incas. On Titicaca’s Peruvian side, floating islands made of reeds – home to the Uros people – bob gently in the water. Further out, Amantani and Taquile islands welcome visitors into traditional communities where, over centuries, their resourceful people learned to make the most of their surroundings and live in harmony with nature. And in case you’re wondering about the name: ask a Peruvian and a Bolivian who owns which part of Lake Titicaca’s name, and you’ll get two very different answers. In Quechua, *titi* means puma and refers to the lake’s shape. *Caca*, in Spanish, means…something less impressive. Since most travelers set sail from the Peruvian side, locals will cheerfully tell you the noble *titi* is theirs – and the other half belongs to Bolivia. **A World of Discoveries** Peru is so much more than a tick on the bucket list. It’s the Andes and the Amazon, Inca ruins and Spanish plazas, mystery and myth, ceviche and pisco…the softness of alpacas, rainbows painted onto mountains and temples that touch the sky. And perhaps best of all, it’s the people…generous, resilient and proud to share their culture with anyone curious enough to discover it. Peru has fascinated travelers for centuries. Once you experience it, you’ll understand why. **Let’s go!** **Day 1 // ARRIVAL** Arrival in Lima, transfer from the airport to our hotel in the Miraflores neighborhood. In the evening, we’ll gather for a group dinner at the Larcomar Center to kick off the trip. **Day 2 // PARACAS** Breakfast and an early departure to make our way from Lima to Paracas, hopping on a boat to explore the largest peninsula in Peru. We’ll admire the famous "Candelabro" geoglyph and then head to the Ballestas Islands, spotting sea lions, Humboldt penguins, crabs, pelicans, cormorants, boobies and maybe even dolphins as we go. After about 2.5 hours we’ll return to port and continue to Ica, known for its wine production. We'll enjoy a tasting of wine, pisco and local liqueurs such as chirimoya. After the tasting, transfer to Nazca for dinner and overnight. **Day 3 // NAZCA** After breakfast we’ll head to Nazca airport for a flight over the famous Nazca Lines and geoglyphs – still a mystery to this day. During the 30-minute flight we'll marvel at these mysterious and incredible artworks and dive into the ocean of theories surrounding them. Then, we head to the Huacachina Oasis for a thrilling buggy tour through the Peruvian desert, the gateway to the Atacama. After a day of adventure, we return to Lima for overnight. **Day 4 // LIMA CITY TOUR** Today we explore the capital city of Peru. We’ll visit the famous Park of Love in our neighborhood, Miraflores, followed by a city center tour including Plaza San Martin, Plaza de Armas, the cathedral and the catacombs in the Church of San Francisco. After lunch, transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Juliaca in southern Peru, near Lake Titicaca. From Juliaca, we transfer by bus to Puno and check into our hotel. **Day 5 // TITICACA** The lake of myths and legends, the great Titicaca, is calling us! We’ll embark on a boat trip to the famous Uros floating islands, made from Totora reeds. There, we will meet the community’s leader, who will explain how the islands are constructed, and what daily life is like there. We’ll continue to Taquile Island, to experience a showcase of local dress, music and dances. While we feast on a delicious lunch of local trout, we’ll learn more about life on this island, and the traditions which have been preserved for centuries. Those looking for souvenirs will have the chance to purchase some local handicrafts before we return to Puno. Optional evening outing to Los Balcones restaurant for a traditional dance show. **Day 6 // JOURNEY TO CUSCO** After breakfast we’ll hit the road to Cusco, making several stops along the way. First we’ll visit Pukara, home to award-winning Peruvian coffee, and then brave the La Raya high-mountain pass. A hearty lunch buffet will energize us before our visits to Raqchi Temple and the Church of Andahuaylillas, known as the Sistine Chapel of Peru. Later, arrival in Cusco and check-in at hotel. **Day 7 // SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS** Today we explore the famous Valle Sagrado (Sacred Valley of the Incas). We'll begin with the massive archaeological complex in Pisac, visiting the craft market where we'll have the opportunity to purchase various souvenirs, typical Peruvian clothing and other characteristic regional products. We'll head to a restaurant in Urubamba for lunch, where a buffet awaits us. In the afternoon we'll head to the very end of the Sacred Valley, to the town of Ollantaytambo, where we'll visit the beautiful archaeological complex. Afterward, we'll head to the train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) for our overnight stay. **Day 8 // MACHU PICCHU** After fueling up for a day of discovery, we’ll hop on a local bus and head to one of the wonders of the world – the famous Machu Picchu. We'll also climb to the summit of one of the most important Apu Picchus, where the most important ceremonies and rituals took place. We'll be treated to one of the most beautiful views of Machu Picchu below and a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks – including Apu Salkantay, weather permitting. After exploring the complex, we'll head to Aguas Calientes for lunch and return to our hotel in Cusco. **Day 9 // CUSCO CITY TOUR** This morning we’ll take a tour of the high-altitude city of Cusco, taking in sights such as Plaza de Armas, its largest and most important square, and the famous Coricancha – the site of Inca gold, where Inca rulers were crowned and their mummies were kept. From there, we will visit Saqsayhuaman, a monumental 15th century Inca fortress and ceremonial complex located on a hill overlooking the city, and then Quenquo, where mummifications were performed. We will have lunch at a restaurant in Cusco and then transfer to the airport for our return flight to Lima. **Day 10 // RAINBOW MOUNTAIN** We’ll start the day enjoying a scenic drive with a local breakfast on the way, before hitting a short trail to Rainbow Mountain, soaking in the stunning colors around. Optional horse riding available. Continue with few viewpoint stops of the breathtaking Red Valley. After well-deserved lunch, we’ll relax on the drive back to Cusco, evening at leisure. **Day 11 // DEPARTURE** Breakfast at the hotel, then some free time to relax or do some last-minute souvenir shopping, followed by a transfer to the airport for our return flight. **Trip starts and ends in Lima MAY 20-30.** 2 domestic flights are included in trip budget. **Grade:** Moderate High altitude ahead! (5200 masl) **Activities:** Hiking, boating, encounter one of the worlds wonder, sightseeing. **Duration:** 11 days. **Accommodation & meals:** Hotels 3-4 star - double sharing. Meals except breakfasts, excluded. **Cost: 8,810 AED** incl 2 domestic and NAZCA flights, excl. international flight. **Cost valid until MAY 10.** **Recommended international flight** cost (KLM): approx. 7750 AED. **Specifically excluded:** meals, visa, international flights to Lima. **Visa:** most nationalities get free tourist visa upon arrival / visa waivers. **More info:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Peru](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Peru) See yah in Peru xx Trekkup Crew Whatsapp 00971504848238 / [docs@trekkup.com](docs@trekkup.com) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

​Step into a vibrant dining gathering where great people, exceptional cuisine, and effortless conversations come together in a stylish and welcoming setting. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-dubai-foodies)** ​Our dining socials are curated experiences bringing together ambitious, curious, and socially intelligent people. * ​Stylish setting designed for social energy. Room full of great and interesting people. Environment where connections happen effortlessly. ​Because the best nights happen when the right people come together. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-dubai-foodies)** ​Expect a diverse mix of interesting people including entrepreneurs, ambitious professionals, and creatives. ​👥 **Who you’ll meet** * ​People who enjoy meaningful conversations. Individuals open to meeting inspiring personalities. A socially intelligent and vibrant crowd. ​But more importantly, they share something in common: Curiosity, ambition, and great social energy. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-dubai-foodies) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Dining 😊

Join us this Friday for a 90-minute padel session! Everything is provided for you: ✔️ Balls ✔️ Rackets ✔️ Water ✔️ Towels ✔️ Energy drink 🎾 **Beginners (D**) –🎾 **Intermediate (C**) – AED **90** **📍 Location**: Nad al hamar **🔔 Confirmation & Payment** To secure your spot, **please confirm and complete your payment by Wednesday** BOOKING: 055 577 856

Get ready to groove to the rhythms of Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, and Zouk spun by our talented DJs. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/salsa-club-meetup-event)** With a playlist curated to keep you on your toes, you'll find yourself lost in the magic of the music. 🎉 **Social Dance Fiesta** 🎉 Connect with fellow dancers and make new friends as you share the dance floor. We welcome dancers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Whether you're leading, following, or simply swaying to the beat, there's a place for everyone. 🌟 **Breathtaking Location** 🌟 Nestled in the heart of the city, this venue offers panoramic views that will take your breath away. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/salsa-club-meetup-event)** Dance amidst the twinkling lights and starlit sky, surrounded by the beauty of nature. **🎭 No Loneliness, Just Fun! 🎭** Come solo or with friends, you'll find yourself embraced by the warmth and camaraderie of our dance community. Spread the word, bring your friends, and let's dance the night away together! See you on the dance floor! 💃🕺 Whether you're looking to polish your dance skills, unwind after a long day, or simply soak in the vibrant energy of the Latin dance scene, this party offers something for everyone. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. [✅](https://jo.my/latin-party-meetup) **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/salsa-club-meetup-event)** *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Dancing 💃🕺 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- *Sending unsolicited messages to WhatsApp group members is NOT allowed and will get you removed immediately.*

your midweek Latin fix 🤩 - Every Tuesday starting at 10PM and ending at 3AM Let’s dance the night away to the charming tunes of Latin & Afro music while enjoying a drink or a bite with friends and peers in the outstanding venue - Twenty Rooftop Bar at Movenpick Grand Plaza, Dubai. Take advantage of the special offers on food & drinks Organized by MOOVnation

Step onto the sand and start your Saturday with intention. Soumya Collective invites you to our inaugural free outdoor yoga class on the beautiful shores of Jumeirah Beach. Together we'll move through a dynamic vinyasa flow focused on backbends and heart-opening postures — a practice designed to counteract the hunching and tension of modern life and reconnect you with joy, breath, and presence. The session wraps up in time for you to enjoy the rest of your morning. **What to bring:** · Yoga mat or beach towel · Water bottle · Comfortable clothes you can move in · Something to cover your eyes with **This event is:** · FREE — no charge, no catch · Limited to 20 participants for an intimate experience · Suitable for complete beginners through experienced practitioners · Outdoors on the beach— weather permitting RSVP to save your spot. Join the Whatsapp Community for the exact meeting point and further updates: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GZfGNsimutBC2ltibXbyxh

**Sitting at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe, the Balkans are a region that has been shaped by movement, exchange and conflict**. From the Ottomans to the Austro-Hungarians, over centuries empires have risen and fallen here, leaving behind a layered cultural identity that is still visible today. While the 20th century brought a more turbulent chapter, particularly during the breakup of Yugoslavia, what stands out now is this resilient region’s incredible cultural and natural richness. Travel through **Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia and Croatia** reveals a constantly shifting cultural landscape, each country offering its own distinct character while sharing deep historical ties. You’ll find Ottoman-era mosques alongside 19th century Austro-Hungarian façades, socialist-era architecture next to lively café-lined streets, and a shared love of hospitality that runs throughout. Food is a highlight: hearty, flavourful and rooted in tradition, whether it’s grilled meats, slow-cooked stews, fresh breads or strong coffee lingered over in a busy square. Our journey begins in **Belgrade**, Serbia’s cool and slightly gritty capital city. Set at the meeting point of the Danube and Sava rivers, its historic Belgrade Fortress offers sweeping views and a sense of the city’s strategic importance through the centuries. From here, we’ll head into the Serbian countryside, where villages like historic **Mokra Gora** show us what rural life was like in days gone by. In tiny Bosnia, **Sarajevo** is often described as a place where East meets West. Ottoman bazaars sit nearby colorful Baroque squares, and the city’s tragic recent history adds another layer to its story. The city is also known as the **"Jerusalem of Europe"**, due to the fact that the four major faiths of Islam, Catholicism, Eastern Orthodox Christianity, and Judaism have coexisted here for centuries. Further south, **Mostar** offers one of the region’s most recognisable sights in the elegant Stari Most, a UNESCO-listed bridge that brave divers leap off in the summer months. Crossing into Croatia, the landscapes shift from forest to dazzling Adriatic coastlines. Towns like Šibenik provide a gateway to some of the country’s best national parks, including **Krka National Park** and the lake-filled **Plitvice Lakes National Park**. Wooden walkways will lead us past waterfalls and through turquoise waters, offering a refreshing break from the city. The final stretch takes us into under-the-radar Slovenia, a land of pristine lakes, towering mountains and tranquil alpine meadows. The compact and picturesque capital, **Ljubljana**, is perfect for a riverside stroll, while nearby we’ll find highlights like Kranjska Gora’s jagged peaks and **Lake Bled**, with its iconic island church and clifftop castle, a must on every traveler’s bucket list. Taking in four countries and countless epic sights, this is the Balkan adventure of a lifetime. **Let’s go!** **Day 0 / SER: Flight & Arrival in Belgrade** Meet at DXB for a direct flight to Belgrade. Upon arrival in Belgrade, immigration and transfer to the hotel to get a good night’s sleep before the adventure begins. **Day 1 / SER: Belgrade** We start things off with an exploration of Belgrade, an underrated European capital that offers incredible culture, history and gastronomy, without the crowds. This morning we’ll tour the city’s highlights, including the iconic Belgrade Fortress. Built on a ridge above the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, and dating back to the 2nd century, the fortress has been destroyed and rebuilt countless times over 16 centuries. Today, it stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s long and often turbulent history. In the afternoon, we’ll head out of the city center for some nature and views, visiting the Avala Tower, a 205-metre-high structure atop Avala Mountain offering panoramic vistas across the region, and Košutnjak Forest, often referred to as the city’s “oxygen factory”. Overnight in Belgrade. **Day 2 / SER-BOS: Belgrade – Mokra Gora – Visegrad - Sarajevo** Today we leave the city behind and head into the mountains towards Mokra Gora, a picturesque traditional village sitting between the Tara and Zlatibor ranges, offering a glimpse of life in rural Serbia. Here we’ll take a ride on the famous Šargan Eight, a narrow-gauge railway that loops in a figure-eight through 22 tunnels, revealing expansive views of forested hills and valleys. Crossing the border into Bosnia, we’ll make a stop at Visegrad to see the Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge, one of the region’s most striking architectural landmarks. Spanning the Drina River, this 16th-century Ottoman bridge is UNESCO-listed and offers a picturesque spot for photos. We’ll continue to Sarajevo, where we spend the night. **Day 3 / BOS: Sarajevo – Mostar** We’ll start the day with a tour of Sarajevo, a city defined by its cultural and religious diversity. It’s one of the few places where a mosque, Catholic church, Orthodox church and synagogue can all be found within walking distance, reflecting centuries of coexistence. In the old bazaar of Baščaršija, Ottoman influences remain strong, from the architecture to the tradition of slow-brewed Bosnian coffee, showcasing the city’s reputation as a place where “east meets west”. Later, we’ll take the gondola up Trebević Mountain, rising 1,627 metres above the city, which once hosted events for the 1984 Winter Olympics. We’ll enjoy the views before continuing our journey south. En route to Mostar, we’ll stop in Jablanica to visit the Neretva River battle museum, a memorial to the pivotal WWII battle of 1943. Overnight in Mostar. **Day 4 / BOS-CRO: Mostar – Kravice – Šibenik** Today we discover Mostar, the historic capital of Herzegovina, developed as an Ottoman frontier town in the 15th century. Its beautifully restored old town centres around the iconic Stari Most, a 16th-century bridge that was destroyed during the Bosnian War and later rebuilt, now standing as a symbol of reconciliation. We’ll wander the UNESCO-listed Old Town, explore the narrow streets of the bazaar, and soak up the blend of Islamic and European influences. We’ll continue on to Blagaj Tekke, a 16th-century Dervish monastery set at the base of a cliff beside a spring, combining Ottoman and Mediterranean architectural styles. Our next stop is the lush Kravice Waterfalls, a wide cascade on the Trebižat River, close to the border. Crossing into Croatia, we’ll continue to the Šibenik area, where we spend the night. **Day 5 / CRO: Šibenik – Plitvice** Today we get a dose of stunning nature as we explore Krka National Park, a majestic, protected landscape of cascading waterfalls, emerald pools and rich biodiversity shaped by the Krka River. Wooden walkways and trails make it easy to experience the scenery up close, including the impressive Skradinski Buk falls. Afterwards, we’ll stop in the historic riverside town of Skradin, a settlement with over two millennia of history. We’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch before continuing inland to the Plitvice region. Overnight in the Plitvice area. **Day 6 / CRO-SLO: Plitvice – Ljubljana** Today we visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s oldest and largest national park. Its 16 interconnected lakes, linked by waterfalls and natural limestone barriers, are famous for their constantly shifting colours, from deep azure to vivid green, caused by mineral-rich waters. Wooden boardwalks wind through the landscape, offering an immersive way to explore this UNESCO-listed site. Later, we’ll visit Rastoke, a picturesque village where traditional houses and historic watermills sit among a network of small waterfalls at the meeting point of two rivers. We’ll hit the road again and cross the border into Slovenia, continuing to Ljubljana, where we spend the night. **Day 7 / SLO: Ljubljana – Kranjska Gora – Bled** This morning we’ll set off into the Julian Alps towards Kranjska Gora, a charming alpine town near the borders of Austria and Italy. Known as a gateway to Triglav National Park, Slovenia’s only national park, it offers a pristine landscape of mountains, forests and glacial valleys, perfect for hiking and scenic drives. Next we’ll explore the most iconic of Slovenia’s sights: the fairytale-like Lake Bled. This glacial lake, known for its striking blue-green waters, is centred around a small island topped by a 17th-century church and overlooked by a dramatic cliffside castle dating back over 1,000 years. This incredible destination offers stunning views from every angle, and once we’ve had our fill (and taken hundreds of photos), we’ll head back to the city. Overnight in Ljubljana. **Day 8 / SLO-CRO: Ljubljana – Zagreb** This morning we’ll hit the road first thing, crossing the border back into Croatia. We’ll make our way to Zagreb, the country’s capital and main transport hub, where Central Europe, the Mediterranean and Southeast Europe meet. Setting out on a tour, we’ll take in the city’s chic café culture and the beautiful architecture in its charming Old Town, passing by highlights such as Zagreb Cathedral, St Mark’s Church, the Lotrščak tower, offering one of the most beautiful views of the city, and the Gric Tunnel, built as a refuge during WWII and used again during the Croatian War of Independence in the early 90s. Overnight in Zagreb. **Day 9 / CRO: Departure** Free morning to explore and do some last-minute souvenir shopping, before we head to Zagreb Airport to catch our return flight. Bye bye Balkans x **Duration:** 9 days **Activities:** trekking, boating, swimming, sightseeing, cultural immersion. **Grade:** Easy **Room & Meals:** 3 and 4\* hotels, double sharing. Meals excluded. **Cost:** **6,950 AED excl. flights** until MAY 20. Past this date cost will change. **Visa:** Schengen visa rules apply. See yah in Balkans x Trekkup Crew [050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238)/[docs@trekup.com](mailto:docs@trekup.com) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

Meet amazing people, discover new cultures, and have an unforgettable conversations 🎉🥂 Register and get more details! No late confirmation **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-language-society)** We’re bringing together curious minds, language lovers, and fun-seekers for a social evening like no other. 💬 Meet new people 🌎 Exchange languages 🎶 Enjoy music & vibes 🥂 Make new friends Let's meet, chat, and sip on their your drinks 🍷🍹 while smooth background music sets the mood. **🎉 What’s happening?** * Social hour 🕒 * Chat, mingle & sip drinks 🍷🍹 * Fun icebreakers 💬 * Practice English, Spanish, Arabic + more 🌍 * Connect with curious, open-minded people 🤝 Think bold conversations 💬, big energy ⚡, and friendships waiting to happen. Register and get more details! No late confirmation **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-language-society)** 🎉 One magical night. One elegant lounge. Countless connections **🌟 Why join?** ✔ Meet people from all over the world 🌍 ✔ Practice & improve your language skills 💬 ✔ Discover new cultures & perspectives 🌸 ✔ Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with drinks, music & views 🍸🎶 ✔ Leave with new friends, new words, and new memories 💛 **Come practice your favorite language, explore new ones, or simply enjoy great company — you’ll walk away with something special. 💫** 👉 Come alone, leave with friends. 👉 No apps. No pressure. Just real people, real fun. 🎉 Drinks + Conversations + Music = One unforgettable night. Register and get more details! No late confirmation **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-language-society)** 📅 Save the date & join us for this unforgettable cultural and social evening!

Escape Dubai's summer heat and spend the weekend with us camping in beautiful weather at Jebel Jais (@1770m altitude), the highest summit in the UAE, and rejuvenating with a sunset short hike, meditation and a sunrise yoga class. You won’t believe it, but yes, in the UAE, only on top of Jebel Jais and specifically in Camp 1770, you can be outdoors in the middle of summer without air conditioning, with temperatures expected to go down to 16 degrees at night. The private venue offers a 180 panoramic view of the hajar (rocky) mountains covering Oman and Ras Al Khaimah. **Day 1: Road trip, sunset hike & meditation, BBQ, games, bonfire & camping** We will leave Dubai at **2:15 p.m.** and Sharjah at **3:00 p.m.** and Ras Al Khaimah at **4:00 p.m.** *(Timings might shift a little with sunrise and sunset. Don't worry we'll share the exact plan with you in a Whatsapp group before the trip)* to head on a beautiful 2 1/2 hours road trip to Camp 1770, Jebel Jais, the highest camp in the UAE @ 1,770m altitude where the temperature is \~12 degrees less than the city. Upon arrival, we will have a beginner friendly hike from to Camp 1770 where we will have a meditation session and watch the sun as it sets in the Arabian Gulf's Sea. We will then have the usual best bbq in town, drinks, campfire games, music, have some melting marshmallows on camp fire and camp under the clear skies full of stars. **Day 2:** Sunrise walk, sunrise, yoga & breakfast We will start the day with a walk to the top of Jebel Jais to see the sun rising from the Indian Ocean from the highest point of Jebel Jais. Then, we will do a sunrise yoga session, to give the day a blissful start. After yoga, breakfast will be served, after which we will head back to Dubai to start the week. **Price without transport**: 600aed **Price with transport**: 760aed **Including:** * A total of 2 meals, including the famous best BBQ in town for dinner (mixed grill with meat and chicken, falafel, hummus, moutabbal, tabbouleh salad, fattoush salad, bread, and snacks) and breakfast. * Beverages (Soft drinks, tea, coffee, water) * Exclusive access to the top of Jebel Jais * Accommodation in Camp 1770. 2 toilets are available. * Camp setup (Chairs, lights, private tents, mattresses, Fire pit & wood for bonfire) * Campfire games * 1 meditation session * 1 yoga session * 1 sunset hike * 1 sunrise short hike * Adventure leaders - fun guides who know the ins and outs of Jebel Jais * Great people and great fun! **Available Extras:** * A sleeping bag with a temperature rating that is 5 degrees less than the expected lowest temperature or a heavy comforter is required, we recommend to buy a high quality one from Adventure HQ to have a good night sleep or you can rent one from us for 50aed (available upon checkout) * Transportation from Arabian Wanderers' meeting point in Dubai to Jebel Jais and back (Available optionally for 160aed if you choose the option with transport) **Notes:** * **Important note**: Your booking will only be confirmed once you've completed the process on the following link: https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/jebel-jais-camping-weekend-getaway-from-dubai-s-heat-on-uae-s-peak RSVP on Meetup serves as an expression of intent to attend the event and does not guarantee your place, as spots are limited and tend to fill up rapidly. * **If booking our transport**: * Dubai at 2:15pm: [Artisan Bakers - https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5) in Al Barsha. RTA parking is available if you want to come with your car. * Sharjah at 3:00pm: ADNOC Service Station \| Al Sharjah \(564\) \- [https://maps.app.goo.gl/MqvsZgiraPLjhRzB8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/MqvsZgiraPLjhRzB8) * Ras Al Khaimah at 4:00pm: ENOC \| 1444 \| Ras Al Khaima \- [https://maps.app.goo.gl/6BKeFyt4jZ9AbQHH6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/6BKeFyt4jZ9AbQHH6) * **If not**: * Jebel Jais at 5:00pm: [Jebel Jais - https://maps.app.goo.gl/J1cdkoCmDLebnm4b7?g_st=ic](https://maps.app.goo.gl/J1cdkoCmDLebnm4b7?g_st=ic). Any car can reach the meeting point in Jebel Jais where you will follow us in a convoy until our camp (10 mins drive) and free parking will be available. There is no need for a 4x4 vehicle. * **Physical rating:** Beginner level - Light physical activities are included. * **Group size:** Small group experience - Avg. 12, Max 25. * **Nature calls:** Toilet will be available in the camp * **Solo & women friendly:** Solo and female travelers are more than welcome; 70% of our participants are usually solo adventurers and women. * **Not pet-friendly:** Due to the sensitivity of the area near Oman's border, Camp 1770 does not accommodate pets or animals. * **Health and travel insurance**: It is mandatory to have a health and travel insurance in the country where this experience is happening. If you don't have insurance or your current insurance doesn't provide coverage, you can obtain one [here](https://explore.safetywing.com/nomad-insurance-complete?referenceID=26286700&utm_source=26286700&utm_medium=Ambassador) ! * **Tipping Information:** If you'd like to show your appreciation to your guide, please bring cash in AED for tipping. * **Instagram:** Follow us on instagram for our latest adventures: [arabian.wanderers](https://www.instagram.com/arabian.wanderers/) * **Sunset Hike details:** * Duration: \~1 hour * Distance: \~2kms * Elevation gain: \~100m * Difficulty level: Beginner For further info, you can WhatsApp message by clicking on this link [https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1](https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1) or call us on: [+971522067219](+971522067219)

This Eid … don’t just take time off! Go on a journey with new friends. ​Let's escape into a world where mountains touch the clouds, waterfalls flow through valleys, and the Arabian Sea meets dramatic cliffs. \-\-\-\- Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** \-\-\-\- ​An unforgettable experience for adventure lovers, explorers, and people craving something real this holiday season. * 🏔️ Exploring the misty mountains of Jabal Samhan 🌴 Walking through coconut plantations and local souqs 🌊 Watching powerful ocean blowholes at Mughsail Beach 💦 Discovering waterfalls and turquoise lakes at Wadi Darbat 🏰 Visiting ancient castles and hidden coastal towns 🚍 Bonding during scenic road-trip moments across Oman ​From overnight desert drives under starry skies to tropical landscapes that feel nothing like the Gulf … this is the kind of trip that surprises you every single day. \-\-\-\- Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** \-\-\-\- ​Salalah is unlike anywhere else in the region! ​One moment you’re driving through endless desert highways … the next you’re surrounded by lush green mountains, coconut plantations, ocean viewpoints, and cool mountain air. ​🌄 **ATTRACTIONS INCLUDED** * ​**Wadi Darbat**: Explore the most famous valley in Dhofar, featuring seasonal waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and lush greenery. * ​**Jabal Samhan**: Stand at the highest mountain range in the region for a dramatic "above the clouds" canyon experience. * ​**Taqa Castle**: Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 19th-century fort and heritage site. * ​**Anti-Gravity Point**: Experience a fascinating optical illusion where vehicles appear to roll uphill on their own. * ​**Ittin Mountain**: Enjoy panoramic mountain views and visit the sacred Nabi Ayub (Prophet Job's) Tomb. * ​**Ayn Jarziz**: Relax at natural limestone springs nestled within the misty landscape of the Khareef season. * ​**Mughsail Beach**: Witness the powerful natural geysers at the Blowholes and explore the historic Marneef Cave. * ​**Mirbat Town**: Discover the ancient port city known for its historic architecture and scenic coastal views. * ​**Al Haffa Souq**: Immerse yourself in the scent of authentic frankincense and shop for traditional Omani handicrafts. * ​**Nabi Imran Tomb**: Visit one of the world's longest tombs, a site of significant spiritual and historical importance. ​This trip blends nature, culture, scenic road journeys, adventure, relaxation, and social vibes all together. ​Everything is organized for you — transportation, accommodation, guided experiences, and local exploration — so you can simply enjoy the trip 🚍🌴 **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

If there is anything the Japanese know how to do perfectly, it is to **fuse tradition with modernity**. Japan needs no introduction, as it is perhaps one of the most emblematic places on this planet, where **authenticity is still sacred – be it ancient or modern**. Japan is a place where the future entwines with the past – from neon lights and **ancient temples, to manga, geishas and samurais**. A land of stark contrast, renowned simultaneously for its dangerous natural phenomena and cherry blossoms, unmatched in beauty by the rest of the world. **A festival for any traveler’s senses, Japan awakens the soul to maximum** expression with the elegant beauty of its temples, laying hidden away from the bustling streets of its metropolises. The idyllic backdrop for an aromatic journey spanning gardens to gastronomy. For centuries, Japan was closed to the world. Until the mid-nineteenth century it did not have much contact with civilisation beyond its borders, as the Japanese were banned from traveling abroad. Isolation meant that when the preservation of native culture and tradition met modernity, they produced an eclectically unique blend of past and present, in a way like no other. **Day 01: ARRIVAL** Welcome to Japan! Today we clear immigration at Haneda Airport and check into the hotel. Following a short briefing, you can choose to either rest or hit Tokyo’s famous nightlife scene. **DAY 2: TOKYO** After breakfast we head out to explore Tokyo by train. Following a quick look at the Imperial Palace, we’ll make our way to the Sensoji Temple. **Today we grab a lunch watching a sumo match!** Next, a walk down Odaiba, a high-tech entertainment hub... **DAY 3: TOKYO – Mt. FUJI – KISO** Today we take a coach for a scenic ride from Tokyo to Oshino Hakkai, a beautiful village known for its crystal-clear spring water pools and traditional thatched-roof houses. We will take our time to stroll around, visit the shops, and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Further on we move to Mt. Fuji 5th Station. This is the starting point for many climbers and offers stunning panoramic views of Mt. Fuji.... **Day 04: KISO VALLEY TREK** Today we stretch the legs on legendary Kiso Valley trail to enjoiy its natural beauty and numerous historical sites of the valley sandwiched between the Central Alps and the active volcano Mt Ontake. From there we transfer to Kyoto – to witness the Japanese fusion of tradition and modern culture. **Day 05: KYOTO & GEISHAS** Starting city tour from Arashiyama Area. The iconic Togetsu Bridge can’t be missed. Also, Bamboo Forest is a must-visit. Next is Kinkakuji Temple, the golden pavilion. Its picturesque scene is come from the muddy lake under the building that emphasizes the beauty of gold. We will then meet with Maiko lady and experience traditional tea ceremony. After learning about Japanese green tea, we will move to Nishiki Market. Besides many local food stores, there are many tea stores. Try finding your favorite one if interested. Going back to the hotel and spend your time for own leisure. **DAY 6: HIROSHIMA** Today we take famous bullet train “Shinkansen” to Hiroshima. Riding faster than a plane during take-off, at almost 300kmh, we will reach in about 1.5 hrs. We will start heading to Peace Memorial Park. This park is dedicated to the memory of the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. **DAY 7: NARA – Mt. KOYA** From Kyoto, we head to Nara, which is just a short ride away. Nara is famous for its free-roaming deer in Nara Park, where you can feed and interact with them. Don't miss the Todaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, one of the world's largest bronze statues. **DAY 8: Mt. KOYA - OSAKA** Early morning service at the temple in Mt. Koya. This will give us a unique opportunity to witness a traditional Buddhist ceremony and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the mountain. After the service, you can participate in zazen meditation, which involves seated meditation to help calm the mind. Head to Okunoin Temple, the most sacred site in Mt. Koya. In the evening, board a coach for the transfer to Osaka, conveniently located near Mt. Koya. Osaka is a vibrant city known for its modern architecture, bustling shopping streets, and delicious street food. Once we arrive on our last evening we can explore popular areas like Dotonbori or Minami (Namba), known for their vibrant nightlife and iconic food signs. Sadly we have to say Sayonara Japan, but hey - until we see you again! Airport drop off to Osaka airport for return flight home. **Duration:** 8 days **Level of difficulty:** Easy - available for everyone. **Activities:** Trekking, boating, sightseeing, cultural immersion. **Cost: AED 9,930** **excl. flights until MAY 20th.** **Flights:** by Emirates, DXB-NRT + KIX-DXB. **Visas:** Most passports receive visa upon arrival, simplified visa for UAE residents. **Accommodation & meals:** Breakfasts included, accommodation in 3-star hotels, double sharing. Single room at extra cost. **Excluded:** Visas, insurance, lunches and dinners. **Visa support:** Available via third party agency for UAE residents of any passport, approx. 1000 AED. 日本でお会いしましょう xx Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/) [Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

**Summary** We will play TV-style game shows at [Game Show Battle Rooms](https://gameshowbattlerooms.com/columbus/) ("GSBR"). These will include *Family Feud*, *Wheel of Fortune*, and *The Price is Right*, and we will play them over the course of an hour. We ran this event for the second time back in October, and it was an even bigger hit than it was the first time we ran it the February prior. GSBR has nearly 10,000 reviews on Google and a 5-star rating. If there were any event where you were just about guaranteed to have a good time, it's this one. GSBR changes their questions and answers every month, so if you attended in October (or even if you went with another group as recently as April), you will not see any of the same questions you saw before. **The Date and Time of This Event** Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. However, if someone books the 3:00 p.m. time before I do (meaning before I have enough paid attendees), well, that's the way the cookie crumbles and we'll have to move to Plan B. That might involve trying for either one of GSBR's 1:30 p.m. or 4:30 p.m. slots, or just cancelling the Meetup altogether. We'll cross that bridge if we get to it, but be aware of these possibilities. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to whatever our actual showtime ends up being. (Hence, this meetup's 2:45 p.m. start time.) **Cost** The cost to play, per person, is $36.95 plus 8% sales tax of $2.96, plus a refundable 8% gratuity of $2.96 (see the next section for more details), for a total cost of $42.86 per person. **Mandatory Gratuity (If 20+ Participants)** If we have 20 or more participants in this event, GSBR will assess a mandatory gratuity of 8%, or $2.96 per person. If we have 20 or more attendees, GSBR will give our group an extra 15 minutes of playing time. I am collecting the gratuity up-front to prepare for the case in which we have at least 20 people. However, in the event that we do not, I will refund this $2.96 to you. In the event we have fewer than 20 people and your gratuity is refunded, your cost for the event will end up being $39.91 (instead of $42.86). I will say more below on the actual exchange of money for this event. **Drinks** GSBR does allow beverages into the game room, and they also sell some on-site. These include bottled water, soft drinks, and some alcoholic beverages. You can bring your own bottled water, too, if you want. **Cancellations and Refunds** Per GSBR's [website](https://gameshowbattlerooms.com/questions/): *If you cancel your show 5 or more days in advance of your booking time, you will receive a full refund.* *You may reduce the number of tickets and receive a refund if you provide at least 5-days’ notice.* More on this in a moment. **Number of Participants** GSBR does not run events for fewer than 6 people. I will not purchase tickets for this event with fewer than 10 paid, and I will not send out a solicitation for money without at least 12 signed up for this Meetup. More on this below. **The Actual Exchange of Money** Tickets for GSBR events are not purchased piecemeal. I will need to book our GSBR event as a bloc. This means that everyone will need to send me his or her entrance fee via either Venmo or Paypal prior to me booking our time. Anyone failing to send me his or her money will be removed by me from this event. Once 12+ people are signed up here for this Meetup, I will send out a DM through the Meetup messaging system to those 12+ participants with my Venmo/Paypal information. You will then have 72 hours to wire me your share of the money. After 72 hours, if I don't have money from you, I'll remove you from event. If I don't have money from at least 10 people, I'll refund everyone's money, and we'll either re-start the process or I'll just cancel the event. I'm not going to book any event with GSBR unless I'm reasonably certain we're going to be able to run it. Assuming I have money from 10+ people, then I will book the event through GSBR's website. If you decide to cancel and you want a refund, you ***must*** give me time to contact GSBR with at least 5 days notice. Since the date of this event is Saturday, June 27, you have to let me know not later than Sunday, June 21, to allow me time to call GSBR not later than Monday, June 22, in order to get a refund for your share. Once I have confirmation from GSBR for the refund, I will Venmo/Paypal the money back to you immediately from my account. (There will probably be a 3-5 day delay before GSBR actually processes the refund, but I will absorb the cost of the float and get your money back to you right away.) **"Hey, Eric! I just saw this event! Can I sign up late?"** Yes, but you still need to Venmo/Paypal your share of the booking fee to me, which will be $40.55. If I don't get it within 72 hours after you sign up (or time permitting for me to book you in with GSBR if you sign up last-minute), then I'll remove you from the event. **Mandatory GSBR Waiver Requirement** GSBR policies *require* that each attendee signs a liability waiver prior to the event. You can find the waiver [here](https://gameshowbattlerooms.com/questions/) (on the right-hand side toward the bottom of the page under the section "Do I Need To Sign A Waiver Form?"), and you should also be able to skip directly to the form [here](https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/5c473bb934d6a/web/). *You must fill out this waver in order to participate in the event*. The form is short and this really shouldn't take you more than 2 minutes, but please send me a DM if you have any issues filling out the document. **Denouement** Afterward, for those who are interested, we'll drown our sorrows or celebrate our exultations at [Crooked Can Brewing](https://crookedcanohio.com/) in Hilliard. They also have extensive food options. The actual address of the brewery is [5354 Center St, 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/5354+Center+St,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@40.0339813,-83.1623519,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x883893f9f30108a7:0xbe4c8919aa69e3e7!8m2!3d40.0344541!4d-83.1598828!16s%2Fg%2F11gxsh9f_0?entry=ttu).

**✨ Real One-on-One Rounds Online for Burnaby Singles Done Swiping** As a participant, you'll experience quick private Zoom rounds with Burnaby singles matched to you by age and personality, as a friendly host guides every transition. Once you register, you fill in a quick matching survey — your personality profile from that quiz to curate your Burnaby matches by quiz results and age, meaning your rounds are curated and not random. After the session closes, mutual match details are distributed — contact details flow only on mutual selection — and what happens next is entirely up to you. **Age-grouped registration — select yours:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Burnaby&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Burnaby&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Burnaby&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Burnaby&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=55+&face_v=4.0) **⚠️ Heads up:** Your rsvp here is not a registration confirmation, so select your bracket link, complete the registration form, and finish the personality quiz — places are capped so do this promptly, and your spot is held only when both steps are done. --- **What to expect** 1. **Grab your spot** – via your age group registration link, then complete the short matching survey, as both steps are required and neither can be skipped. 2. **Log in** – using the video link shared before the session, any device with a camera and mic is all you need, and round management is all on the host from there. 3. **Date** – short Zoom speed dating rounds with Burnaby area singles in your age range, as the host signals round starts and ends, because the format is built so every round is worth having. 4. **See your results** – after the event you will receive any mutual match details, and only confirmed mutual matches receive each other's contact details, and everything from that point is on your schedule. **Best suited to:** - People within Burnaby wanting to escape matches that fade out before meeting and want to meet real locals without the faff. - Singles calling Burnaby home moving beyond dating apps that go nowhere and are serious about meeting someone. - Someone based in Burnaby wanting to escape conversations that fizzle before a first date and are ready for a genuine first impression. ⭐ *"Not what I expected at all — better than every app I have tried"* – Burnaby local who came sceptical 💡 **Good to know:** check your Zoom setup in advance, because good audio is just as important as good video, and the host handles everything else from that point. --- ✨ Real conversations from home — register via your age group link and we will set the rest up for you in your own time. Can not wait to see you there. 💘 ✨

For the last 5 years, Central Ohio Friends and Columbus Social Connection have teamed up for some incredible nights out and some of the biggest social events in Columbus with our biggest combined event bringing out 80+ people. ⚠️ Please only RSVP through ONE group to help keep headcount accurate. Now we’re celebrating where it all started. On Friday, May 22, we’ll be joining Central Ohio Friends 🍻 **Starting at** Brothers Bar & Grill in the Arena District the same place their very first event was held back in 2021. Whether you’ve been to one of our events before or **have been waiting for the right one to come out to,** this is a great one to jump into. Stop scrolling. Start doing stuff. If you find value in these events consider contributing Link can be found in comments!

**💫 Speed Dating from Home for Vancouver People Done with Apps** Joining means you'll cycle through short private video dates with Vancouver singles age-grouped and personality-curated, while everything stays on track thanks to a live host. When you sign up, a personality questionnaire is built into the sign-up — that information feeds the matching to organise compatible Vancouver locals for your session, which makes every round worth having. After all the rounds, mutual connections are confirmed and shared — with privacy guaranteed for all non-mutual picks — and you take over from there entirely. **Click your age bracket to register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Vancouver&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Vancouver&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Vancouver&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Vancouver&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=55+&face_v=4.0) **⚠️ RSVP is not enough:** This rsvp alone will not confirm your attendance, so use your age group link above to register and complete the short personality quiz — spots are kept small by design so register promptly, and your seat is only secure once registration is complete. --- **How the night runs** 1. **Find your age group** – by selecting your age group and following the link, then fill in the personality questions as part of registration, as both are needed to secure your spot. 2. **Join the video call** – by clicking the Zoom invite at the event time, works anywhere with a camera and internet, and everything from that point is handled by the host. 3. **Connect** – live one-on-one video rounds with Vancouver people matched to you by age and quiz, as the host keeps everything smooth and well-timed, as each round is with a Vancouver local matched to your profile. 4. **Check your results** – after the event you will receive any mutual match details, with unmatched selections never disclosed to anyone, and you are in control of everything that happens next. **Who shows up:** - Professionals around Vancouver bored of profiles that never convert to actual dates and want to try something that actually works. - Those living in Vancouver looking beyond unread messages and dead-end conversations and want actual face-to-face conversation. - Someone within Vancouver ready to move past the app treadmill that goes in circles and want to meet real locals without the faff. - Locals based in Vancouver looking beyond digital dating that never converts to anything real and value real conversation over curated profiles. - Members across Vancouver who have had enough of conversations that fizzle before a first date and need a better way to meet people. **Event Overview** - **Format:** Dedicated and hosted over Zoom with back-to-back private rounds per pair, paired by age bracket and quiz results throughout. - **Where:** All online — from your laptop or mobile device, the only requirement is a device with a camera and internet, and you can join from wherever feels comfortable. - **Host:** An engaging host runs the session from the opening to the final round, which makes the whole thing feel effortless — the host owns the evening so you can simply enjoy it. - **Vibe:** Refreshingly easy individual rounds with Vancouver area people who prefer real conversation, and the conversation always feels more real than an app date. - **Duration:** Roughly an hour and a half including the welcome, and the format keeps things moving. 💡 **Useful tip:** close unnecessary browser tabs before the event, because background and lighting matter more than you would think, since small prep leads to a noticeably better experience. --- ✨ Vancouver singles worth meeting are in this event — book your spot above and we will set the rest up for you while places last. See you in the first round. 🥰 ✨