
What we’re about
http://www.socialfundation.com for the full calendar EVERYONE IS WELCOME INTO THE GROUP! (Legal note: The "I Wanted To Do That, . . . Just Not Alone!!!"™ and it's derivations are Trademarked. Trademark infringement will be aggressively prosecuted.)(for permission or to join our collective contact the admin) I wanted to do that... Just not alone! (FREE & SAFE) \ *\* A community is great because of its members, and we need you to make it great!* \ We live in an ever-shrinking world, where the technologies and transportation systems make it easier than ever to connect people from every corner of the world. We also have the fortune to live in a quality and vibrant city that is home to people of diverse backgrounds and life experience. The Austin International Network gives you an opportunity to experience some of the many international cultures that the city hosts, to share your knowledge of cultural heritage, interests/hobbies or professional expertise with other members of the group, and make new friends while doing so. The mission of this group is as implied by the name of the group--we'd like to provide good company as well as a positive and safe environment for members to experience things that, for whatever reasons, you longed for but weren't able to do before. You'll also get to know things that you can do and enjoy in Austin through the meetups proposed by your peers. It is also a hope of our group to promote cross-cultural dialogues, sharing, understanding, and peer supports through a variety of local activities and events, as well as international trips. But we (organizers) are few and you are many, and this means that to work toward these goals we need the proactive participation and supports from at least some members of the community. This group is unique because of our members, and we look forward to meeting you and facilitate the meetup ideas you propose. ——————————————————————————————————— \ Interested in a festival or music performance? Crave for dining at an exotic restaurant? Can't find teammates/players for a sport, hobby, or fun stuff (e.g., bowling, basketball, badminton, dance, or a silly fun game)? *\* Any Member Can Schedule a Meetup at This Group for Free:)* \ This is a forum in Austin where people get to discover the city together in a fun and safe environment. People who are familiar with the city are of course welcome to join us and even provide meeting ideas. Newcomers to Austin (from overseas) are also more than welcome to join us and explore Austin and Texas together! We aim at building a safe and friendly community with people currently residing in Austin or visiting from overseas. You don't need to have experience overseas or be able to speak English to join this group. Every friendly person is welcome in this group! (Including people local in Austin or (originally) from other parts of the world.) If you happen to be traveling to Austin, you are welcome to join our group and events as well:) If you are currently overseas but have a plan to visit or stay in Austin in the near future, still welcome join the group. EVERYONE IS WELCOME! Join our upbeat and friendly international community *& \* Meet People from All Walks of Life \** If you enjoy friendship, activities, music, arts, networking, socializing, parties, learning, sharing, inspiration, personal/professional development, travel, culture, language, and/or some fun, and *you like them for free*, this is the group for you!! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \
Dear friends, This new group is part of an effort for establishing a network of global meetups, currently being fast deployed in major cities worldwide, including *London, Paris, San Francisco, New York, LA, Toronto, Montreal, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Austin, Thailand*... And more to come! Our only agenda is to build up a global community (in the format of meetup groups at this stage), where participants get to mix and mingle in a safe and friendly environment, have fun and adventures together or establish long-lasting friendship and fully enjoy what the city's got to offer. We believe that this service can be offered for free, and we need your participation and encouragement to make it happen. If you are fond of our vision, welcome to join and check it out. Invite your friends who may be interested. We appreciate your supports, volunteering, and valuable inputs, but nothing is mandatory except for mutual respects to other members in the community.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Bali & Singapore -Elephant Sanctuary - Scenic Beaches - Urban EleganceAustin-Bergstrom International Airport, Austin, TX
Two destinations combined in one awesome Meetup trip! Come along on an incredible journey for 7 days in Bali and 3 days in Singapore!
We designed this adventure especially for our Meetup group to showcase the best of both destinations, from the beauty of Bali’s nature to the bustling city of Singapore, all while connecting with fellow travelers who share our passion for exploration. Breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences await!
We will visit:
· Ubud
· Kintamani with Mount and Lake Batur
· The Sacred Tirta Empul temple
· The iconic Bali Swing.
· The Sacred Monkey Forest
· Kuta
· The stunning Uluwatu Temple
· Taro’s Elephant Park
· SingaporeWe will Experience:
· Shirodara Massage with hot oil, herbs and flower baths
· A close encounter with elephants in their sanctuary
· Kecak Balinese dance show
· The Gardens by the Bay in Singapore
· A Night Safari in the tropical jungle
· Iconic landmarks like Merlion Park, Thian Hock Keng Temple and Singapore’s ChinatownLand Tour cost $3640 per person, double occupancy
(we match roommates for those wishing to share)
Solo occupancy an additional $790
***International airfare not included***A $350 deposit will guarantee your spot for this awesome Meetup Adventure:
CLICK HERE for secure deposit link
***Your deposit is fully refundable up to 90 days before the departure***Upon submitting the deposit, please fill out THIS FORM:
What’s Included:
· 9 Nights’ Accommodations – Ubud, Kuta & Singapore
· A flight from Bali to Singapore
· 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 Dinners
· Naturalist Guide (during activities)
· All activities listed
· All transportation during the tour
· Airport Transfers to/from hotel (in/out)What’s Not Included:
· International Airfare
· Optional excursions
· Travel insurance (highly recommended)
· Personal expenses
· Meals not listed in the itinerary
· TipsRSVP to the event to receive additional info
OR
Message me, Ekaterina, directly. I will be happy to answer all your questions and help with arranging the airfare too.
OR
Click Here to fill out our google info request form to receive detailed itinerary on this or any of our other international adventuresStill have questions?
We do a monthly Q&A Travel Zoom on all our events
https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/296044209/
Come to the zoom and ask any questions. Great way to get the info you want without all the other fluff. As well as meet us and other attendees.We believe in good decent social. This event is cross posted to several other groups and the number of RSVPs on each is not reflective. We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too.
Click Here to see all our other fun eventsSOT 2000318-10
- We like creating meetups so much we are taking it on the road! Come join us!!Link visible for attendees
This event is to help us all plan ahead.
Overseas travel takes a lot of planning in advance. Flights, Time-off, dog sitters . . . Here are our Featured International/Overseas Events so you have the time to get things planned to be able to join.
We started simple and have only gotten better.
Our events are built from scratch and go direct. These are not just some package being re-sold. We create and lead our events. Our events are only posted to meetup. AND . . . they are REAL MEETUP EVENTS!!!
The beauty of meetup is you can come on your own and we help set up the share. We work together as a group and pool resources. So you can pay the lower double occupancy cost and not have a single penalty, unless you wish a solo room.
In other words . . . going as a meetup we get to save money AND increase our fun and adventure.
Come join us on an adventure. You have waited this long. Now is the time to finally create those memories instead of just dreaming of them.
This way you also create new friendships at the same time!!
Jun 28-Jul 11, 2025 Spain and Portugal with Running of the Bulls! (waitlist only)
Aug 10-20, 2025 EPIC MACHU PICCHU! vis Short Inca Trail or Train!!
Aug 10-20, 2025 The Salkantay Trek EPIC MACHU PICCHU!
Sep 15-24, 2025 Bali & Singapore: From Animal Sanctuaries to Urban Elegance
Oct 12-23, 2025 Jordan: Dana to Petra Trek with bonus of Wadi Rum
Oct 19-31, 2025: Petra to the Pyramids. Dead Sea, Sphinx & Nile Cruise
Feb 08-18, 2026 Northern Lights. A Scandinavian Odyssey!
Feb 28-Mar 11, 2026 India's Golden Triangle with HOLI and Dubai Extension
Mar 29-Apr 09, 2026 Cherry Blossoms in Japan
Jun 05-14, 2026 Costa Rica Eco Adventure
Jun 18-27, 2026 Mt Kilimanjaro Trek! One of the 7 Summits
Jun 27-Jul 06, 2026 Serengeti Photo Safari! "Africa’s Best Wildlife Show"
Jul 05-14, 2026 Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda
Sep 09-20, 2026 France Culinary Explorer! Food, Wine, Cheese, Cooking Lessons
Sep 20-Oct 03, 2026 Meetup on the Orient Express
Mar 06-16, 2027 Galapagos Islands ExpeditionDo you have questions on ANY of the above?
What to do next?
How to attend?
What to pack?
What's included and not included?
Or any question you might have!!!The most simple thing is to send a meetup message to https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=273063881
In your message say which one and we can get the ball rolling from there and get you info.
The other easy way is to fill out our form. You can check-box several events that way. https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8
ALSO . . .
We have a monthly Q & A video conference call to answer it all!
Rsvp on this event and join us on the listed date.Here is the link to join https://meet.google.com/irp-rnyi-fgb
OR . . . If the video call is not a good time for you, or you want specific answers sooner . . . send a note and we will set up a 1 on 1 video call for a time that works for you.
RSVP here and we will send you a reminder too!!
We very much look forward to you joining our very special and super-fun meetup events.
- The Dana to Petra Trek w/ bonus of Wadi Rum! A Jordan Discovery Adventure!!Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Austin, TX
Our Meetup group is off on another thrilling hiking adventure to exotic faraway lands! This time, we are trekking in Jordan, where breathtaking views of sandstone cliffs, narrow gorges, and vast plains unfold against the backdrop of the Great Rift Valley.
The Dana to Petra trek, also known as the Dana Wadi Trail, is one of Jordan's most renowned hiking experiences. It takes us through a diverse range of landscapes, offering a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural encounters.
The trek begins from Dana village, a charming and ancient small town, known for its stone houses and traditional architecture. It is located in Jordan's largest nature reserve - Dana, which also gives the name of the trek. The Dana Trail spans a variety of ecosystems, from lush woodlands to arid desert.
In addition to the amazing hiking experience, our Meetup trip provides a unique cultural exposure. We will have the opportunity to interact with local Bedouin communities and even stay in a Bedouin camp, experiencing their hospitality, traditional food, and way of life.
The trek culminates in the ancient city of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Entering Petra from the "backdoor" via the Monastery (Ad Deir) is a unique experience, offering a less crowded approach to this iconic archaeological site.
The actual trek from Dana to Petra covers approximately 50 miles and it will take us 6 days. The trek is considered moderately challenging, with some sections requiring good physical fitness due to rugged terrain and long distances.
The whole trip, however, is 12 days as we are spending some time sightseeing and visiting some of the amazing tourist spots of Jordan. In addition to Petra we will see Amman, Madaba, Mt Nebo, Dead Sea and Aqaba at the Red Sea.
Limited size to 24 attendees total. This trip will fill up extremely quickly.
Price per person, double occupancy: $3990
(we match roommates)
Single Supplement $710 or total price for a solo accommodation: $4700
The only way to secure your spot is a $350 deposit
Click Here for Secure Deposit LinkDeposit is refundable up to 90 days before the departure (less PayPal fees).
Click Here and Fill out this Form if you are making a Deposit******Airfare from/to the US is not included********
Message direct to Anna (flights and itinerary)
Message Direct to Marc (trekking and trip information)Inclusions:
· Meet & assist at Amman International Airport and arrival and departure transfers
· 10 Nights accommodation at hotels and camping sites
· Meals as described in the itinerary
· Transportation except during the hike
· Entrance fees as per the program
· Professional Archaeological Licensed English-Speaking Guide through all touring days only
· Professional Licensed English-Speaking Hiking Guide during hiking days (6 days: day 3 – day 8)
· 6 Full day Camping equipment, such as tent, mattress, blankets, water, bathroom, showers, 3 meals a day, luggage transfers
· Bottled water every throughout all days
· 3 hours tour in Wadi Rum by the open Bedouin
· Portage at Airport & Hotels.
· All applicable taxesWe offer a 9-day optional extension to Egypt: Pyramids, Sphinx, Nile cruise & more. CLICK HERE FOR INFO.
For people who are not interested in the hiking option, we have a regular trip (not involving hiking) from Petra to the Pyramids, with Nile Cruise. CLICK HERE FOR THIS OPTION.
Have more questions?
Click here to message Anna
Click here to message Marc
AND/OR
Come to our monthly Q & A Zoom on all international trips we offer. Meet others attending, be social, or come and get any questions answered.
AND/OR
Fill out this form: Click Here for our Overseas Trip Request Form for more info on this or any of our international events.We believe in good decent social. We have a set of sister groups we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too.
Click Here to see all our other eventsSOT 2000318-10
- Cherry Blossoms in Japan!!! The Golden Triangle-incl. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Austin, TX
Join us on this magical trip to Japan to experience the enchanting allure of spring, where nature paints the landscape with vibrant colors. We chose this season for the unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the country’s most iconic destinations at their best: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka. We will also visit the Japanese Alps with stays in Matsumoto and Kanazawa. Each city boasts unique attractions and seasonal charm that will captivate our senses and leave us with unforgettable memories. A true Meetup Experience!
What is included:
- 3 nights in Tokyo
- 1 night in Matsumoto
- 2 nights in Kanazawa
- 2 nights in Kyoto
- 3 nights in Osaka
- Arrival and Departure Airport Transfers
- Transportation throughout by Coach
- English Speaking guide throughout the itinerary
- Sightseeing tours with admissions fees per itinerary
- Breakfast Daily
- 2 lunches, 5 dinners
Experience:
- Visit to shrines, temples and castles with amazing Spring Blossoms
- The Bullet train-Shinkansen
- Sushi Making Class
- Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony
- Maiko Dinner (apprentice geisha)
- Samurai Experience
What is not included:
- International Airfare
- Tips for the guide and driver
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Items of personal nature
Japan during spring is a feast for the senses, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and urban excitement. We will enjoy it all and this promises to be an unforgettable adventure with our fellow Meetup travelers!
Land Tour cost $5760 per person, double occupancy
(we match roommates for those wishing to share)
Solo occupancy additional $1050
***International Airfare not included***The only way to guarantee your spot for this meetup is a $400 deposit.
CLICK HERE for secure deposit link:Upon submitting the deposit, please fill out this form
RSVP to the event with your email to receive additional info.
RSVP DOES NOT RESERVE YOUR SPOT.
Deposit is the only way to hold your spot.
Click Here for secure deposit link.Your deposit is fully refundable up to 90 days before the departure.
For airfare and other info on the trip, click here to message Anna
Click Here to fill out our google info request form to receive detailed itinerary.We believe in good decent social. This event is cross posted to several other groups and the number of RSVPs on each is not reflective.
Click Here for the main location of this event.Still have questions? We do a monthly Q&A Travel Zoom on all our events
Come to the zoom and ask any questions. Great way to get the info you want without all the other fluff. As well as meet us and other attendees.
Click here for General Policies and useful info about our international trips.
We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too.
Click Here to see all our other fun eventsLive the adventure instead of only dreaming it!
SOT 2000318-10