Tours

We invite you to join us on a 6-day journey in the heart of **Le Marche region**and the **Conero Riviera** on the Adriatic Sea. We will take you on outings that will be varied and show you some Italian places most tourists do not get to see! Gery, our local host has lived in **Loreto** for over fifteen years and has created the program. Furthermore, Gery graduated from the oldest university in the world, Bologna, and obtained a Master's degree in Tourism. **RETURN FLIGHT £85 very convenient timings: departing London at 13:00 and arriving back at 11:35.** **15TH MAY TO 20TH MAY 2026** We will stay at a unique location, **overlooking the Conero Mountain** and the hills of Loreto, where **the Basilica with the Holy House of Nazareth proudly perches over the Adriatic coast.** It is Italy's largest shrine to the Virgin Mary, a popular tourist destination and pilgrimage site famous all over the world. Legend has it that the House of Nazareth was carried by angels through the air to escape the invasion of Palestine by the followers of Mohammed. We will be surrounded by breathtaking views and Italian culture, cuisine and atmosphere. **Highlights:** **Small group** **Itinerary by our Local host Gery** **Italy's largest shrine to the Virgin Mary, Loreto** **Beautiful beaches of the Conero Riviera** **Sirolo, an art gem, a splendid medieval village, Blue flag from 1994** **Recanati a birthplace of famous poets and singers** **Numana village- one of Adriatic's pearls** **Day 1** Lunchtime flight from London Stansted to Ancona Private airport transfer from Ancona to our 4-star hotel in Loreto Evening with the group **Day 2** Buffet breakfast Explore Loreto and its pilgrimage significance in a licensed-guided tour Free time for relaxation and socialising Evening with the group **Day 3** Buffet breakfast Visit to Recanati and Porto Recanati Dinner in Porto Recanati village **Day 4** Buffet breakfast Sirolo - light trekking of Conero's promontory followed by beach time in Numana **Day 5** Buffet breakfast Free time or optional excursions to nearby towns **Day 6** Buffet breakfast Check out Private transfer to the airport of Ancona and flight to London Stansted Your investment **Early Bird** for this experience is £ 695 twin/double room, single supplement £160 for the entire stay **What is included:** **Airport transfer from/to Ancona airport** **5 nights in a 4-star hotel, a central location** **5 breakfasts** **Olive oil tasting experience** **Welcome drinks and Italian tapas, aperitivo on day 1** **Guided tour of Loreto** **Light trekking with a naturalistic guide** **Two day trips to Recanati, Porto Recanati, Sirolio and Numana** **Local host and tour leader** **Assistance with restaurants, reservations, and local information by the tour leader** **Financial protection according to Travel package regulations 2018** Not included: Return flight from London to Ancona (**currently £85 return**) Personal expenses, dinners, and lunches Travel Insurance \*Flights from/to different airports could be accommodated (additional charges will apply for the different pick-up times and locations) Additional info: Le Marche was voted 2nd top region to discover in 2020 according to Lonely Planet. Check out why. [https://www.italymagazine.com/featured-story/italian-region-made-lonely-planets-best-travel-2020](https://www.italymagazine.com/featured-story/italian-region-made-lonely-planets-best-travel-2020) **To secure your space,** please **email:** **[info@travelinvision.com](http://info@travelinvision.com)**

Step into the gas-lit streets of Victorian London and uncover the chilling story of Jack the Ripper. This evening walking tour takes you deep into Whitechapel, where one of history’s most notorious serial killers stalked his victims. Follow your expert guide as you: Visit the actual sites of the Ripper’s murders Explore hidden alleys and cobblestoned lanes Hear the true stories of the victims and the suspects See rare photographs and police reports Learn how the crimes shocked London — and the world Your guide will separate fact from fiction, using historical evidence and forensic insight to paint a vivid picture of life in East London in 1888. ⚠️ **IMPORTANT**: Attendance Confirmation Required To help us manage attendance, please complete the form below if you will be attending. You will only be added to the confirmed list once the form has been completed. **Confirm here:** https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfO_ujT7S1q-3EiZgkxHfPxJGgG8CnlYNCrHqQkLPNXmEC4Gw/viewform?usp=header If you are unable to join, please just send us a message to let us know.

We invite you to join us on a 6-day journey in the heart of **Le Marche region**and the **Conero Riviera** on the Adriatic Sea. We will take you on outings that will be varied and show you some Italian places most tourists do not get to see! Gery, our local host has lived in **Loreto** for over fifteen years and has created the program. Furthermore, Gery graduated from the oldest university in the world, Bologna, and obtained a Master's degree in Tourism. **RETURN FLIGHT £85 very convenient timings: departing London at 13:00 and arriving back at 11:35.** **15TH MAY TO 20TH MAY 2026** We will stay at a unique location, **overlooking the Conero Mountain** and the hills of Loreto, where **the Basilica with the Holy House of Nazareth proudly perches over the Adriatic coast.** It is Italy's largest shrine to the Virgin Mary, a popular tourist destination and pilgrimage site famous all over the world. Legend has it that the House of Nazareth was carried by angels through the air to escape the invasion of Palestine by the followers of Mohammed. We will be surrounded by breathtaking views and Italian culture, cuisine and atmosphere. **Highlights:** **Small group** **Itinerary by our Local host Gery** **Italy's largest shrine to the Virgin Mary, Loreto** **Beautiful beaches of the Conero Riviera** **Sirolo, an art gem, a splendid medieval village, Blue flag from 1994** **Recanati a birthplace of famous poets and singers** **Numana village- one of Adriatic's pearls** **Day 1** Lunchtime flight from London Stansted to Ancona Private airport transfer from Ancona to our 4-star hotel in Loreto Evening with the group **Day 2** Buffet breakfast Explore Loreto and its pilgrimage significance in a licensed-guided tour Free time for relaxation and socialising Evening with the group **Day 3** Buffet breakfast Visit to Recanati and Porto Recanati Dinner in Porto Recanati village **Day 4** Buffet breakfast Sirolo - light trekking of Conero's promontory followed by beach time in Numana **Day 5** Buffet breakfast Free time or optional excursions to nearby towns **Day 6** Buffet breakfast Check out Private transfer to the airport of Ancona and flight to London Stansted Your investment **Early Bird** for this experience is £ 695 twin/double room, single supplement £160 for the entire stay **What is included:** **Airport transfer from/to Ancona airport** **5 nights in a 4-star hotel, a central location** **5 breakfasts** **Olive oil tasting experience** **Welcome drinks and Italian tapas, aperitivo on day 1** **Guided tour of Loreto** **Light trekking with a naturalistic guide** **Two day trips to Recanati, Porto Recanati, Sirolio and Numana** **Local host and tour leader** **Assistance with restaurants, reservations, and local information by the tour leader** **Financial protection according to Travel package regulations 2018** Not included: Return flight from London to Ancona (**currently £85 return**) Personal expenses, dinners, and lunches Travel Insurance \*Flights from/to different airports could be accommodated (additional charges will apply for the different pick-up times and locations) Additional info: Le Marche was voted 2nd top region to discover in 2020 according to Lonely Planet. Check out why. [https://www.italymagazine.com/featured-story/italian-region-made-lonely-planets-best-travel-2020](https://www.italymagazine.com/featured-story/italian-region-made-lonely-planets-best-travel-2020) **To secure your space,** please **email:** **[info@travelinvision.com](http://info@travelinvision.com)**

Join us for a relaxed sketching session from 6–8pm followed by a warm drink and a chat in a nearby café 😊 We usually meet at the V&A Museum or outside in a local park when the weather allows. Please check the location listed in the event details each week, as it may change depending on rain, sun, or gallery access. This is a calm, informal, free meetup — you're welcome to draw at your own pace, chat a little, or just get into the flow. It’s open to all levels, from total beginners to experienced artists. 🖍️ Art materials: In museums/galleries, we can only use dry, non-messy materials: pens, biros, colour pencils, markers, and fine liners (no paint, pastel, or charcoal). In parks or outdoor spaces, feel free to bring paints, pastels, or whatever you like! Bring your own sketchbook and materials, and come just as you are. We’d love to draw with you. ✨✏️☕

Tat**e Britain Late** promises a perfect blend of **cultural discovery**, **meaningful connections**, and **pure fun**. Wander through the museum’s grand halls filled with masterpieces by Turner, Hockney, and centuries of British art that have inspired generations, then experience the high-energy DJ party for drinks, music, and dancing till 21:45. ### Important Details ℹ️ **Dress Code**: Smart casual; no athletic tracksuits or sports trainers. 👗 **Bring ID** for entry to the bar venues. 🆔 **More Info**: Check the event page for additional details. 🌐 **Join up now** — if we have a lot of sign-ups, we may introduce a fee for any additional new joiners (through the Meetup RSVP system). Avoid this by signing up early! ⏰ Don’t miss this chance to explore world-class British art, make new friends, and dance the night away in the heart of London. Join us for an evening that’s as enriching as it is exhilarating! 🎉 \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. 8. To encourage signing up early to events and regulate the number of attendees a late joiner/overflow fee may be applied to an event for any **additional** people wanting to join the event. This may happen on the day or even an hour before the event. So there may be people who obtained a free RSVP to network with our group and some who had to pay. If you have successfully signed up to our event on meetup paid or not then you are in. Happy networking **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.

HI EVERYONE, COST AND INFO BELOW.. Every day in Hollywood USA, you can see the homes of the Rich and Famous! Well, it's now arrived in London! Join us for a 4 mile walk to view the homes of the Rich and Famous in Holland Park! It seems every 20 years or so there is an area in London that becomes the hippest and coolest place to live for the famous! It used to be Mayfair, Belgravia, Notting Hill, South Kensington, now it is Holland Park, the new 21st Century place to live! You will see the homes of Sir Elton John (London Home), David and Victoria Beckham, Simon Cowell, Robbie Williams, Sir Richard Branson, Paul Weller, Jimmy Page from Led Zeppelin, Richard Harris, Agatha Christie, Jennifer Saunders and Ade Edmonson, the Ukrainian Embassy and the Statue of St. Volodymyr, ruler of Ukraine 980-1015 AD, Debenham House used for filming in various movies, some nice mews homes, 2 historic pubs and of course we will also visit the famous, beautiful Holland Park and its wonderful Kyoto Garden! At the end of the walk feel free to have drinks at a lovely pub to socialise. Sorry, no photography is allowed and we will respect their homes to not mingle outside. When we reach the start of a particular road or avenue, the home will be mentioned in detail, then respectfully walk passed as if we are on a normal walking tour! It's fine, I've done this event before so all good! **WHERE TO MEET** **(Please allow 15 minutes to arrive before departure time)** Please meet outside the front of McDonald's Restaurant, which is about 100 meters from Notting Hill Underground Station. The address for McDonald's is 108/110 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3QA. Organiser Kevin will be there to greet you. **COST** £10 cash/card payment by simply turning up on the day. There is no charge to RSVP beforehand on the Meetup event. Walks are normally 90% full before the day, so an early RSVP is advisable to avoid disappointment. ABOUT OUR SECRET LONDON WALKS It is a 15-year fascinating journey together to explore the whole of beautiful, enchanting Secret London. The only walking group in the World offering this unique experience! The individual walks have been created from an original route several miles in length (usually on average about 50 miles) where we have checked every nook and cranny, every hidden alleyway, lane, lost cobbled path, cul de sac, avenue, road or street in that area for you! It is then shortened, to give back to you a magical walk with all the best bits of 'Lovely London', voted the best City in the World for the 10th year running! What is given back to you is the most scenic, healthy walk (usually 3-6 miles in length) with some of the walks containing hidden cobbled lanes, lost shops, secret gems, areas lost in time, wonderful views, idyllic Instagram photo shots and all sorts! Now and then some brief local info is mentioned or something of historical importance along the way. You will have plenty of time to chat and meet new friends whilst walking the amazing lost areas of London! So we welcome you to the colourful highlights of this fascinating City of London with simply wonderful things to see! TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE ensure ARRIVAL at least 15 minutes BEFORE the start of the walk, sorry no latecomers are accepted for whatever reason. Members attend the unique walks from our different meetup groups. IF LATE, SORRY WE ARE UNABLE TO RECEIVE CALLS OR ANSWER EMAILS AS WELCOMING MEMBERS, LEADING THE WALK, AND CONCENTRATING ON THE SAFETY OF THE GROUP. PLEASE DO NOT BE LATE, YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CATCH THE GROUP UP, PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. Part Tour - Medium pace walk from 'Visit England' Award-Winning Guide and our group featured in the National Press! Please Note: Some events, being a large attended meetup group will be an organised walk only, but members are very welcome to organise their own get-togethers after the event. You are required to be fit and healthy with appropriate footwear & clothing, responsible for meeting at the correct location, own safety and to not lose the group by viewing the organiser/making the organiser aware as much as possible, or follow/not lose sight of the person(s) from the same walk in front. We advise carrying water and some snacks. The organiser is also not responsible for any circumstances that may affect the group or personally such as personal accidents, rail information, engineering works, cancellations, rail strikes or delays, heavy traffic, tours affected, weather, walk paths or routes closed, postcodes for car parks or for when we arrive back at the station, or anything else not mentioned! By joining the event you agree to all the terms and conditions. No Dogs allowed sorry We really look forward to welcoming you on the walks/tours for a wonderful, great, fun day!

Every day in Hollywood USA, you can see the homes of the Rich and Famous! Well, it's now arrived in London! Join us for a 4 mile walk to view the homes of the Rich and Famous in Holland Park! It seems every 20 years or so there is an area in London that becomes the hippest and coolest place to live for the famous! It used to be Mayfair, Belgravia, Notting Hill, South Kensington, now it is Holland Park, the new 21st Century place to live! You will see the homes of Sir Elton John (London Home), David and Victoria Beckham, Simon Cowell, Robbie Williams, Sir Richard Branson, Paul Weller, Jimmy Page from Led Zeppelin, Richard Harris, Agatha Christie, Jennifer Saunders and Ade Edmonson, the Ukrainian Embassy and the Statue of St. Volodymyr, ruler of Ukraine 980-1015 AD, Debenham House used for filming in various movies, some nice mews homes, 2 historic pubs and of course we will also visit the famous, beautiful Holland Park and its wonderful Kyoto Garden! At the end of the walk feel free to have drinks at a lovely pub to socialise. Sorry, no photography is allowed and we will respect their homes to not mingle outside. When we reach the start of a particular road or avenue, the home will be mentioned in detail, then respectfully walk passed as if we are on a normal walking tour! It's fine, I've done this event before so all good! **WHERE TO MEET** **(Please allow 15 minutes to arrive before departure time)** Please meet outside the front of McDonald's Restaurant, which is about 100 meters from Notting Hill Underground Station. The address for McDonald's is 108/110 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3QA. Organiser Kevin will be there to greet you. **COST** £10 cash/card payment by simply turning up on the day. There is no charge to RSVP beforehand on the Meetup event. Walks are normally 90% full before the day, so an early RSVP is advisable to avoid disappointment. ABOUT OUR SECRET LONDON WALKS It is a 15-year fascinating journey together to explore the whole of beautiful, enchanting Secret London. The only walking group in the World offering this unique experience! The individual walks have been created from an original route several miles in length (usually on average about 50 miles) where we have checked every nook and cranny, every hidden alleyway, lane, lost cobbled path, cul de sac, avenue, road or street in that area for you! It is then shortened, to give back to you a magical walk with all the best bits of 'Lovely London', voted the best City in the World for the 10th year running! What is given back to you is the most scenic, healthy walk (usually 3-6 miles in length) with some of the walks containing hidden cobbled lanes, lost shops, secret gems, areas lost in time, wonderful views, idyllic Instagram photo shots and all sorts! Now and then some brief local info is mentioned or something of historical importance along the way. You will have plenty of time to chat and meet new friends whilst walking the amazing lost areas of London! So we welcome you to the colourful highlights of this fascinating City of London with simply wonderful things to see! TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE ensure ARRIVAL at least 15 minutes BEFORE the start of the walk, sorry no latecomers are accepted for whatever reason. Members attend the unique walks from our different meetup groups. IF LATE, SORRY WE ARE UNABLE TO RECEIVE CALLS OR ANSWER EMAILS AS WELCOMING MEMBERS, LEADING THE WALK, AND CONCENTRATING ON THE SAFETY OF THE GROUP. PLEASE DO NOT BE LATE, YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CATCH THE GROUP UP, PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. Part Tour - Medium pace walk from 'Visit England' Award-Winning Guide and our group featured in the National Press! Please Note: Some events, being a large attended meetup group will be an organised walk only, but members are very welcome to organise their own get-togethers after the event. You are required to be fit and healthy with appropriate footwear & clothing, responsible for meeting at the correct location, own safety and to not lose the group by viewing the organiser/making the organiser aware as much as possible, or follow/not lose sight of the person(s) from the same walk in front. We advise carrying water and some snacks. The organiser is also not responsible for any circumstances that may affect the group or personally such as personal accidents, rail information, engineering works, cancellations, rail strikes or delays, heavy traffic, tours affected, weather, walk paths or routes closed, postcodes for car parks or for when we arrive back at the station, or anything else not mentioned! By joining the event you agree to all the terms and conditions. No Dogs allowed sorry We really look forward to welcoming you on the walks/tours for a wonderful, great, fun day!

This is a new walk, and another enjoyable one. We will meet at 10. 45 am at The Beehive {see map below} for a hot drink. After our hot drink at 11.15 am, we will make or way to The Brixton Windmill {as image above} this windmill is one of the few left in London. After our visit to the windmill we will walk to Brockwell Park and the cafe there for our lunch {or bring our own} where you can get a hot meal. After lunch we will walk into artists homes and look at their art, {this is part of the Dulwich Festival} ending up in to Dulwich Park, where our walk ends, and have a well earned drink. For those who want to carry on after our drink we will make our way to one of our members homes to look at her paintings. who is in the festival. {This is optional} With North & West Dulwich railway station 10 minutes walk away, and local buses just outside the park. If you have a knee problem or walk slow, this walk is not for you. Meet up cost £7 {please have the right change} Please note: If you have a knee problem or walk slow this walk is not for you. Some of the footpaths can get quite muddy, so please wear the correct footwear. If you need any more info ring Paul on 07530 675739 {this is not a smart phone.} JOIN OUR 45+ NOT GRUMPY FACEBOOK COMMUNITY <[https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/](https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/)>

This walk has been quite popular, and with a very good Sunday Roast at the end it would be a shame to miss it. Come with me on an enjoyable and picturesque walk along the River Thames. We will meet at 11 am in The London & South Western pub in Lavender Hill, { to get to the London & South Western Pub, when coming off the platform, as you come down the stairs, there are 2 exit signs, take the one to the town centre, , once you come out of the station, turn left cross the road, the pub is right in front of you]. After our hot drink at 11.20 am we will make our way to the River Thames, and walk through Battersea Park {as image above}, We will stop at the Battersea Brewery at Circus West or you can go to see the Shops in Battersea Power Station. We will end up for lunch at the Rose Pub which is opposite the Albert Embankment {please advise if you want lunch as I need to book it.} With Vauxhall main line and underground stations 5 minutes walk away. Walking distance 6 miles miles approx. This walk is mostly on the Thames Towpath, so wearing trainers would be OK. £7 meetup fee required {please have the right change}. If you need any more info ring or text Paul on 07530 675739 {this is not a smart phone} or email paulc200850@yahoo.co.uk

**VICTORIA.....not just a station** My first new tour for 2026 and surprises galore. Of course we will talk about the station and the famous theatre but once we hit the back streets there is so much more of interest. How about a forgotten wedding venue for the famous, a hidden square and a music venue many of us will remember. Also a pub that changed British comedy forever and the man who made crossing the road a bit easier! And if thats not enough we meet the most famous soldier from first world war. I enjoy the research for my tours and this one taught me much I never knew. tours cost £14 per head ...cash on the day please rsvp to book or if you have any queries send a message or contact me, Barrie,via Phone or Text 07860 911393

**Classic Jordan - Amman-Jerash-Dead Sea-Petra and Wadi Rum** **May 16-24, 2026** The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan offers a heady mix of natural wonders and ancient history. Geographically situated at the heart of a region that has influenced history and culture for over 2000 years, Jordan has been influenced by Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders and Arabs. On this tour, we will experience the highlights of this beautiful country, including touring the spectacular and extensive Roman ruins of Jerash, visiting the lowest point on the earth’s surface, the Dead Sea for swimming and floating, exploring the fabled Rose Red City of Petra, luxury camping in the desert of Wadi Rum and a chance to enjoy the modern metropolis of the capital city Amman. **Itinerary** **Day One - Amman** Arrivals in Amman. Transfers from airport to hotel. Dinner at hotel. Most flights arrive late. Overnight in Amman **Day Two - Jerash, Salt and Amman** Breakfast at hotel Transfer to Jerash to visit some of the best preserved Greco-Roman ruins in the world. Jerash gives insight to what this region was like 2000 years ago and includes archways, theatres, public baths, a hippodrome, public fountains and an amphitheater. We continue to the hillside town of Salt on the old main highway leading from Amman to Jerusalem. Salt was an Ottoman Empire trading hub and this is reflected in its Ottoman architecture. Return to Amman for a city tour. Overnight in Amman. **Day Three - Northern Jordan, Pella (Gedara) and Wine Tasting** Breakfast at hotel Full day tour to northern Jordan including a visit to a vineyard to taste Jordanian wines. We then head to Pella which was an ancient city that contains ruins from the Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Canaanite, Hellenistic and Islamic periods. A massive Bronze and Iron Age temple recently discovered in Pella is one of the best preserved temples from Old Testament times anywhere in the Holy Land. Return to Amman. **Day Four - Dead Sea** Breakfast at hotel. We travel to Al-Maghtas on the east bank of the Jordan River which is reputed to be the location of the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. We continue to the Dead Sea where we can enjoy swimming and floating in the dense salt water. This is the lowest point on earth and it overlooks the West Bank. Dinner (included) and overnight at the Dead Sea **Day Five - Madaba, Mt Nebo, Kerak and Petra** Breakfast at hotel. On the way to Petra, we will stop and visit Madaba with its Ottoman-style houses and Byzantine-era mosaics including a 6th century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land which can be seen at St George’s Church. We will travel via the King’s Highway to the historic crusader castle of Kerak and Mt Nebo where Moses was reputedly shown the Holy Land. Overnight and dinner (included) at hotel in Petra. **Day Six - Petra and Wadi Rum** Breakfast at the hotel Early morning visit to the ancient, Red Rose City of Petra. One of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, Petra is a blend of Eastern traditional and Hellenistic architecture. It is one of the seven wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Petra is the highlight of any trip to Jordan. We approach via the narrow Siq canyon until we suddenly reach the amazing Treasury. This ancient city is half-built and half-carved into the rock and surrounded by gorges and mountain passages. We will have time to explore this site at leisure. Those who wish can return by horseback or even camel. In the late afternoon we continue to the desert of Wadi Rum for dinner (included) and overnight at a luxury Bedouin camp. **Day Seven - Wadi Rum** Breakfast at the camp. Two hour 4x4 jeep tour in the Wadi Rum desert. Return to Amman. Overnight in Amman **Day Eight - Amman** Breakfast at hotel Transfers to airport Price: £1795 per person sharing (double/twin) £485 single supplement **International Flights Are Not Included** **Price includes:** 7 Nights Accommodation in 4\* hotels and 5\* luxury camp (Wadi Rum) 7 x breakfast, 7 x dinner All ground transportation (18 seater bus) Entrance Fees to all sites mentioned in the programme Private English speaking guide for Day 2 - Day 7 (6 days) Tour leader from 45+ Not Grumpy (Jo) throughout the tour 2 hour Jeep tour in Wadi Rum Standard horse ride at Petra (included in admission ticket) **Price excludes:** International flights Incidental expenses at hotels (telephone, mini bar, laundry etc) Tips and gratuities for guide, driver, horse boy (Petra), 4x4 drivers (Wadi Rum), hotel and restaurant staff Any extra meals and beverages not mentioned in programme Travel insurance

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Here is the secret of being positive and free: Thinking positively is not enough. You also have to get rid of the negative thinking. Your mind is like a garden. You can plant many beautiful flowers in it, but if you don't get rid of the weeds when you plant your flowers, the weeds will soon take over the whole garden. A positive thought is like a flower in your mental garden, and a negative thought is like a weed. You cannot expect to have a positive mindset if you continue to have negative thoughts dwelling and growing there. So, how do you get rid of the negative thoughts? That's what this Meetup is all about. Attend this local meeting and find out! The Meetup event will be led by a consultant who had helped many people live happier in life. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics & Scientology life improvement center.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

Come attend a free in-person seminar where you will find out why you: -Feel isolated -Can't express yourself openly -Get nervous or anxious in front of people -Run out of things to say or feel tongue-tied -Feel introverted -Don't feel comfortable in any social setting -Can't make more friends -Are shy and miss opportunities to connect in a meaningful way And we cover what you can do about any one, some or all of the above. This seminar is the weapon against loneliness, isolation and boredom, come join us! COME TO THIS SEMINAR AND LEARN THE SECRETS TODAY This seminar is brought to you by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center. 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215

**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.