Travel Tips

Ready to sweat it out on the hills? Join us for a HIIT-style hill training hike This hike is part of the **HikeFit Series**, a collection of fitness-focused hikes designed to build strength, endurance, and overall hiking fitness. We’ll challenge you with steep climbs, rugged terrain, and a high-intensity workout. This isn’t a fast-paced hike, but it is **intense**. We’ll tackle multiple **very steep hills** in intervals, with plenty of chances to catch your breath, recover, or skip hills if needed. This hike is designed for intermediate hikers, but it’s **beginner-friendly** since you can skip as many hills as you need. It’s perfect for anyone looking to **get stronger, improve endurance, and boost their hiking fitness** at their own pace. **Weather-Dependent Notice:** The hike is a go, **(light)** rain or shine; However, if there's a risk of excessive mud making the hills too slippery, the hike will be canceled with around 24 hours’ notice. **Distance & Duration:** * **Length of hike:** \~4 km * **Event duration:** \~1.5 hours * **Trail maps:** Random hill at Earl Bales park * **Difficulty level:** L3 (Level 3/Moderate) * Terrain: L4 * Pace: L2 * Distance: L1 **What to Bring:** * **Water:** 1\~2 liters * **Extras:** Hiking pole (Highly recommended) * **Required Gear:** Hiking boots or Trail Runners with good grip, Headlamp, and [Microspikes](https://kahtoola.com/traction/microspikes-footwear-traction/?srsltid=AfmBOoqq-URDFRgNAISoLYH1l1cSLKeXOTSuU6EqUC6VupfLNZAGRg8P) **Costs:** * **Member Event fee:** FREE EVENT **Travel Coordination:** * No Travel Coordination for this Event, Meeting at Starting Point **Event Guidelines:** * **Punctuality,** Please arrive on time so we can start promptly. We won't be able to wait for more than 5min past the start time * **Pack out everything you bring** (including nut shells, fruit peels, etc.) to help keep our trails clean. * **RSVP:** Only those marked as “Going” and have confirmed travel details (if requested) are eligible to attend the event. * If your **plans change** and you are no longer able to attend, please update your RSVP as soon as possible. * **No-shows** without prior communication may result in removal from future events. * **Weather Considerations** The hike is a go (light) **rain or shine**, so please be prepared for the conditions. for example, If it’s expected to rain, waterproof gear (like a jacket or shoes) * **Pets:** please check with the organizer for details before bringing your pet. Looking forward to seeing you on the trail

🎉 **Bingo Night at Birroteca – Limited Spots!** 🎉 Looking for a fun (and slightly competitive 😄) way to spend your Tuesday night? Join us for **Bingo Night** on **Tuesday, April 7** at **Birroteca in Eataly (55 Bloor St West)**! 🕢 **Bingo starts at 7:30 PM** 👋 **Colleen will be there earlier** — just ask for her table when you arrive and come say hi! Get ready for a lively evening of laughs, great food, and maybe even a little beginner’s luck 🍀 if you haven't signed up for trivia with colleen before, pls. e-transfer a $5 deposit to tommills@rogers.com,and notify me right away, on this page, or the personal msg. page. NOTE - everyone MUST spend at least $10, plus tax and tip. 🍝 Check out the menu here: [https://www.eataly.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ETO_Birroteca_Menu_Main_2026.03.26-1.pdf](https://www.eataly.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ETO_Birroteca_Menu_Main_2026.03.26-1.pdf) ⚠️ **Very limited spots available** — please respect your RSVP so everyone who signs up can enjoy the night. Come for the bingo, stay for the food, and leave with bragging rights (and maybe a win or two 😉). See you there!

Practice and improve your English through conversation at St. Andrew Centre (73 Simcoe St, downtown Toronto), while making new friends! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- How to Get to the Event: By TTC, exit at St. Andrew Station. Walk west on King St. West to Simcoe St. Do not enter through the church building; the large church front doors will be closed. At the corner of Simcoe St. and King St. West, turn south and walk on Simcoe St. Enter through St. Andrew Centre, which will be behind the church building.

We are following our favourite trivia host, Simon from Are You Smarter than a Scottish Guy, to one of his other weekly locations: One-Eyed Jack's at 287 Richmond Road (between John and Peter Streets). The beer selection at this location is quite minimal but their food menu is good - https://www.oneeyedjackpub.com/torontomenu. They have a $0.95 wing special with lots of flavours. The trivia starts at 7:00pm with first question at 7:15 pm. We have a pair of tables (12 people) reserved under Steve so far. Serious RSVPs only as no-shows prevent us from fielding a complete team. Top prizes is a gift certificate for the next visit. Other prizes are a free round for the table and nachos. There is also a small prize for best team name, so put on your creative hat; the host seems to like puns and prefers short team names. Let's have some fun, eat some wings, and hopefully win!

⚠️ **Important:** RSVPs on Meetup **do not guarantee a spot.** To secure your complimentary experience, you **must call or text us at 416-900-9679** to confirm your qualification and booking. Please don’t attend without confirmation – space is limited and unconfirmed arrivals cannot be accommodated. Experience what it feels like to train at Toronto’s most advanced **fitness and longevity studio** — where science meets community. In this small group session, you’ll build functional strength, endurance, and mobility while learning how to move and recover like an athlete. Each class blends: * **Short bursts of cardio** (yes, even if you hate it) * **Targeted functional strength training** to build lean muscle * **Mobility, mindfulness, and breathwork** to finish strong and centered All levels are welcome — from beginners to seasoned gym-goers. Our coaches lead every step and correct your form in real time to ensure maximum results and safety. 📍 **Location:** Telomere Fitness, 518 Yonge Street (Yonge & College) 🚇 Easy access by subway – minutes from College Station ### 💥 **Special Complimentary Offer (Limited Spots)** We’re currently offering for **qualified downtown Toronto residents** a *free* full fitness experience, including: ✅ **InBody Scan** (body composition & fat/muscle analysis) ✅ **Personal Fitness Assessment** ✅ **Small Group Training Session** ✅ **Nutrition Consult** *(Total value: $200 – complimentary for qualified individuals)* ### 🔹 **How to Qualify** To reserve your complimentary session, you must **live or work in downtown Toronto** and **call or text us first** at **416-900-9679** to confirm eligibility. Spots are limited to maintain our small-group focus. ### 🏋️‍♂️ **How to Prepare** * Wear athletic clothing and indoor footwear. * Bring a water bottle – we have a no-touch filling station. ### 🕓 **Event Schedule** * We offer 5 sessions per day - Morning, After you and then this is where I had an issue I couldn't just make it. It's weird.noon and Evening * Spots fill up fast so call us to see if we have a spot available at your preferred day/time! * RSVP + confirmation required before attending 📍 Google Maps: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/6jMKrTvr4Lk5aUna7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/6jMKrTvr4Lk5aUna7) 📞 Questions? Call or text us anytime: **416-900-9679** ### ⚠️ **Final Reminder** Meetup RSVPs **alone do not** secure a space. Please **call or text 416-900-9679** after RSVPing to confirm your booking. Unconfirmed arrivals **cannot be admitted** due to limited capacity.

Event Type: (In‑person & Virtual) Admission: Free In-Person Capacity: Maximum 20 guests Embark on a captivating exploration of some of the world’s most iconic rivers and the cultures that have flourished along their shores. Rivers of the World: Journeys Through Time and Culture is an immersive session designed for curious travelers, culture lovers, and anyone dreaming about their next extraordinary getaway. Join hosts Tony Lee and Cathy Paul as they guide you through rich stories, stunning imagery, and unforgettable experiences from legendary waterways—from the Danube to the Mekong, the Nile to the Amazon. Discover how river journeys offer a unique perspective on history, heritage, and local life, and learn how to choose the perfect river cruise that matches your travel style. Whether you attend in person or tune in online, you’ll enjoy: * Engaging presentations highlighting global river destinations * Sharing Cathy Paul's memorable river cruise experiences * Exclusive insights from Cathy Paul * A relaxed environment to ask questions and explore upcoming travel opportunities Bonus: Each attendee will receive a copy of "Your Guide to Planning River Cruises & Tours in 2026 & 2027". Seats for the in-person experience are limited to 20 participants, so early registration is encouraged. Call to Action: If you’re curious about river cruising—or simply looking for fresh inspiration for your next getaway—this is the perfect opportunity. Take a moment now to secure your spot before space fills up. Even if you are not available on April 11, we still encourage you to register. A recording of the session will be shared with all registrants after the event, so you won’t miss out on the insights and inspiration. Register [here](https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/mc03jG3mQ4-gM5En3jba1w): [https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/mc03jG3mQ4-gM5En3jba1w](https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/mc03jG3mQ4-gM5En3jba1w) We look forward to exploring the world’s most fascinating rivers with you—one journey at a time.

Featuring: Cara Matthew, Regional Sales Director Discover the magic of the Galápagos Islands—a destination unlike any other. After the overwhelming turnout from our Antarctica Info Sessions, we’re thrilled to welcome Cara Matthew back to share expert insights, incredible visuals, and insider tips on experiencing the Galápagos with National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions. Whether you’re a nature lover, a curious explorer, or planning a memorable family getaway, this session will help you understand what makes the Galápagos a once‑in‑a‑lifetime journey. 🌿 What You’ll Learn What makes the Galápagos one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations How National Geographic–Lindblad expeditions provide safe, comfortable, and enriching experiences What a day on expedition looks like—from guided walks to snorkeling with sea turtles Best times to travel, what to expect, and how to choose your ideal itinerary Your questions answered live by Cara Matthew 👨‍👩‍👧 Who This Event Is Perfect For Adventure travelers & nature enthusiasts Families & multigenerational groups National Geographic fans Anyone looking for a meaningful, educational, unforgettable travel experience 🏛️ Attend In Person OR via Zoom You can choose the format that works best for you: 📍 In‑Person Location Expedia Cruises 2035 Danforth Ave, Toronto (Just a 2‑minute walk from Woodbine TTC subway station) 💻 Join Online via Zoom Simply register using the link below and select your preferred attendance option. 🎥 Can’t Attend Live? RSVP and choose “Yes, send me the recording”—we’ll email you the video after the session. 📍 RSVP / Register [Here](https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/o9d3hgfzQ2WEd5Wj0yd-8Q) 👉 [https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/o9d3hgfzQ2WEd5Wj0yd-8Q](https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/o9d3hgfzQ2WEd5Wj0yd-8Q) Attend in person or online—the choice is yours.

**[PORTUGAL SLOWCATION!](https://globe-drifters.com/trip/portugalslowcation/)** **• Dates:** April 9 - 19, 2026 *(11 days / 10 nights)* **• Cost:** $4450 *(per person, excluding flights)* **• Single supplement:** NONE! *\*Room upgrades available for solo travelers.* **• Details:** [https://globe-drifters.com/trip/portugalslowcation/](https://globe-drifters.com/trip/portugalslowcation/) Check out pictures from previous trips to see what we do, where we go and who goes on the trips: **[PORTUGAL PHOTOS!](https://www.flickr.com/photos/155293978@N02/albums/72157720194979221)** If you have any questions, please email [info@globe-drifters.com](info@globe-drifters.com). What is a slowcation? Click here to find out: [https://globe-drifters.com/slowcations/](https://globe-drifters.com/slowcations/) ***Experience the magic of Portugal at your leisure on our slowcation…*** Explore Sintra’s fairytale castles, verdant hills, and charming cobblestone streets returning each day to a dreamy 19th-century estate. Then, head to Porto for wine tasting, golden sunsets aboard private sailboats, and strolls through colorful, lively neighborhoods. With hands-on experiences, unforgettable meals, and time to truly connect with each place; this is Portugal at your pace! **Portugal like a local**: Step off the tourist trail into authentic Portuguese traditions. Learn the art of cheese making at a family-run dairy farm, paint your own *azulejo* (traditional tile), and wander through the unique landscapes of a working cork plantation. **Fairytale castles:** Roam through Sintra, where enchanting palaces, lush gardens, and picturesque streets reveal centuries-old legends and hidden gems at every turn. **Douro Valley delights:** Sail in style down the Douro River and indulge in the finest wines at exclusive *quintas* nestled in the scenic, rolling hills of Portugal’s award-winning wine country.

**[PORTUGAL SLOWCATION!](https://globe-drifters.com/trip/portugalslowcation/)** **• Dates:** April 9 - 19, 2026 *(11 days / 10 nights)* **• Cost:** $4450 *(per person, excluding flights)* **• Single supplement:** NONE! *\*Room upgrades available for solo travelers.* **• Details:** [https://globe-drifters.com/trip/portugalslowcation/](https://globe-drifters.com/trip/portugalslowcation/) Check out pictures from previous trips to see what we do, where we go and who goes on the trips: **[PORTUGAL PHOTOS!](https://www.flickr.com/photos/155293978@N02/albums/72157720194979221)** If you have any questions, please email [info@globe-drifters.com](info@globe-drifters.com). What is a slowcation? Click here to find out: [https://globe-drifters.com/slowcations/](https://globe-drifters.com/slowcations/) ***Experience the magic of Portugal at your leisure on our slowcation…*** Explore Sintra’s fairytale castles, verdant hills, and charming cobblestone streets returning each day to a dreamy 19th-century estate. Then, head to Porto for wine tasting, golden sunsets aboard private sailboats, and strolls through colorful, lively neighborhoods. With hands-on experiences, unforgettable meals, and time to truly connect with each place; this is Portugal at your pace! **Portugal like a local**: Step off the tourist trail into authentic Portuguese traditions. Learn the art of cheese making at a family-run dairy farm, paint your own *azulejo* (traditional tile), and wander through the unique landscapes of a working cork plantation. **Fairytale castles:** Roam through Sintra, where enchanting palaces, lush gardens, and picturesque streets reveal centuries-old legends and hidden gems at every turn. **Douro Valley delights:** Sail in style down the Douro River and indulge in the finest wines at exclusive *quintas* nestled in the scenic, rolling hills of Portugal’s award-winning wine country.

Welcome to Open Coffee! Hey friend! Open coffee meetup in downtown Toronto Wednesday at 8 AM at Boxcar Social in Waterworks. The event will be hosted by myself, Trevor Carlson. You can find out more about me here -> https://www.youtube.com/@trevor-carlson I am new in town and looking to start a meetup group to make new friends and meet like minded people. Open Coffee was started in Cedar Falls, Iowa and grew to over 500 members. I’m bringing the same concept to Toronto. The format is you show up, share what you’re working on or excited about, and we all have a discussion around it and share ideas. Pretty simple but can be very fun and beneficial.
I look forward to talking about adventure travel and writing.
Hope to see you there!

🚆🦜 **GO Train Adventure to Niagara Falls – Bird Kingdom & Lunch!** 🌊🍔 Bird is the word. I love birds and we're lucky enough to have Bird Kingdom to visit, one of the largest indoor aviaries in the world! Join us for a fun Saturday day-trip adventure as we hop on the GO Train and head to Niagara Falls for birds, burgers, and beautiful views! **📅 Date:** Saturday, April 11 **⏰ Meet Time:** 8:15 AM **📍 Meeting Spot:** Outside the Fairmont Royal York Hotel (across from Union Station) We’ll walk into Union Station together to catch the **9:04 AM GO Train** to Niagara Falls. ⚠️ **The train departs exactly at 9:04 AM and the doors close one minute earlier**, so please arrive on time! **🚆 Train Schedule** • Depart Union Station: **9:04 AM** • Arrive Niagara Falls: **11:30 AM** **Update/change due to larger group size:** Upon arrival at the station we’ll walk over to **Chuck's Roadhouse** and start with a group meal first. **Bar & Grill** for a relaxed and affordable lunch. 👉 Menu: [https://chucksroadhouse.com/menu/](https://chucksroadhouse.com/menu/) Note - everyone is responsible for their own food/drink bill Following lunch, we’ll do some **sightseeing around Niagara Falls**, take photos, and hit our final stop. Before we leave we'll stop at **Bird Kingdom**, the **world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary**, home to hundreds of tropical birds inside a lush multi-level rainforest environment. ([Bird Kingdom](https://birdkingdom.ca/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) 💳 **Bring your PRESTO card for 20% off admission!** 👉 More info: [https://www.birdkingdom.ca/](https://www.birdkingdom.ca/) **🚶 What to Expect** • Lots of walking • Rain or shine – the trip happens regardless of weather • Great scenery, good food, and fun company **🚆 Return Train** • Niagara Falls → Union Station • **4:00 PM departure. Doors close one minute earlier.** There are later trains and buses if you wish to stay longer. 💰 **Travel Deal:** The **GO Transit Weekend Day Pass is only $10** for unlimited travel that day. 👉 Details: [https://www.gotransit.com/en/partners-and-promotions/weekend-passes-with-go](https://www.gotransit.com/en/partners-and-promotions/weekend-passes-with-go) NOTE - do not purchase your $10 GO pass yet. tracks still not repaired. may have to reschedule this event Look for **Nick and the Meetup sign** at the meeting spot. Let’s ride the rails, see amazing birds, grab a great lunch, and enjoy one of Canada’s most iconic destinations together! 🚆🦜🌊 [WhatsApp for the trip](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FDfbPqh5Xc3Kh39eFcQWsB?mode=gi_t)

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Join WTA for a magical trip to the Netherlands during the most beautiful time of the year—Tulip Season! Discover Amsterdam’s artistic heritage, charming canals, and world-class museums like the Van Gogh Museum. Stroll through vibrant tulip fields at the famous Keukenhof Gardens, a true feast for the eyes. Venture to The Hague and Delft to explore historic churches, canal-laced streets, and iconic blue-and-white pottery. Savor authentic Dutch cuisine, sample local cheese, and experience the country’s timeless charm at every stop. **To view the full ITINERARY & REGISTER visit:** **[WTA AMSTERDAM 2026](https://womentravelabroad.com/trip/amsterdam/)** **ITINERARY** **Day 1 – April 7** – Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). Private transportation will take you to your accommodations for the week. After settling into your hotel, your group will get to know each other over a local welcome dinner. **Note:** We recommend your flight from the US arrives before 11 am on April 7 to allow adequate time to join the day’s activities. If you wish to arrive one day early, on April 6, charges for the additional night’s stay can be added to your invoice. **Day 2 – April 8** – Today, you will take a memorable tour of the Anne Frank House. Discover Amsterdam’s WWII history and follow in the footsteps of Anne Frank as she went into hiding in the Secret Annex. Jewish Anne Frank hid in 1942 from the Nazis during the occupation of the Netherlands; two years later, she was discovered and died in 1945 at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. Afterward, continue your cultural journey with a visit to the renowned Van Gogh Museum. Home to the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, the museum offers a profound look into the artist’s life, featuring iconic paintings, sketches, and personal letters that reveal the struggles and brilliance behind his art. **Day 3 – April 9** – FREE Day. Enjoy shopping throughout the city, or take a scenic bike ride through the countryside. Cycling in Amsterdam is the most authentic way to travel. There are around 515 km (320 miles) of dedicated cycle lanes in Amsterdam, making it the perfect setting to cycle the city or beyond. The countryside area is famous for its quaint villages, historic towns, farms, nature reserves, and lakes. You will have many opportunities to stop and take one-of-a-kind photos of the picturesque sights. **Day 4 – April 10** – Your group will spend today at the famous Keukenhof Garden, known as the Garden of Europe. This is one of the world’s largest flower gardens and is found to be the most beautiful in spring. Keukenhof Park covers an area of 32 hectares and has approximately 7 million flower bulbs planted annually. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture all of the vibrant colors and unique displays at the Keukenhof Garden! Transfer from Amsterdam to begin your adventure in The Hauge as the fun continues. **Day 5 – April 11** – Begin your day with a walking tour of the Hague! Today you will visit notable sites include Binnenhof Court of Parliament, the Royal Palace Noordeinde and its lush gardens, and many local monuments. Have a free afternoon to explore on your own before joining your group to indulge in a delectable group dinner. **Day 6 – April 12** – Day trip to Delft for a walking tour of this charming and historic Dutch town. Stroll along picturesque canals, cobbled streets, and tree-lined squares as you explore landmarks such as the Markt, the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), and the Royal Delft pottery factory. Admire the town’s rich artistic heritage, famously tied to painter Johannes Vermeer, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere that defines Delft’s small-town charm. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café before returning by train to your accommodation in The Hague. **Day 7 – April 13** – Depart The Hague via train for your return to Amsterdam. You will depart back to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) for your connecting flight to the US. Your departure flight needs to leave after 12 pm to allow time to return to Amsterdam. \*Please note that this is a tentative itinerary and is subject to change. **WHAT’S INCLUDED:** ▪️ 7 days & 6 nights’ accommodations ▪️ Single occupancy, boutique hotel ▪️ Airport transfer ▪️ Local transportation ▪️ Keukenhof Garden Tour ▪️ Anne Frank House ▪️ Hauge City Tour ▪️ Amsterdam City Tour ▪️ FREE DAY to explore ▪️ Daily breakfast ▪️ Daily group lunch (excluding FREE DAY) ▪️ Daily group dinner **WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:** ▪️ Roundtrip airfare from the US to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) ▪️ Travel insurance ▪️ Items of a personal nature ▪️ Meals not listed above ▪️ Optional excursions and tours not listed above ▪️ Gratuities and tips for personal services

Let’s try this popular Italian restaurant in Reynoldsburg. This is the menu: https://scaliristorante.com/#4e468054-0235-43e2-81c2-44e061341e9e

Pickleball is BACK!! Bring yourself, bring a racket, bring a ball if you have one. I will have some extra rackets for beginners.

Pay attention! We’re delaying a week for those of you who may be on Spring break and/or celebrating the holiday. Ok, no pancakes, but waffles-a-plenty. Join the local UX and Digital Design community for a casual monthly breakfast. Look for us upstairs!

Join us for a two mile trail hike alongside the Brookside Trail at Blendon Woods Metro Park. This trail is largely gravel and does include some hills and stairs. Hopefully we will see some wildlife while hike this scenic trail! Join us!