Travel Tips

This presentation will offer a few historical firsts of public transit in the U.S., starting from its origins in 1630, before turning to some oddities and strange beginnings of public transit from across the globe. Part history, part trivia, this examination will also provide some analysis of what these various public transit beginnings and curious cases suggest about the forces and patterns that govern public transportation.

**No pressure. No plans. Just new friends ✨** Whether you’re visiting Washington DC for the first time, just arrived, or simply love meeting curious, open-minded people, this bi-weekly **Just Gutsy** meetup is an easy way to share stories, make friends, and explore the city together. **Who it’s for?** • Solo travelers • Expats & digital nomads • Locals who love meeting travelers **What to expect?** ✨ Relaxed, **self-led** gathering 🤝 Small group energy 🌍 Travel stories, tips & shared adventures 🍹 Grab a drink or snack if you like **How it works?** This is a self-led meetup, meaning I set it up for you but the magic happens between you. To make sure everyone finds each other smoothly, please follow these simple coordination steps: 1️⃣ **RSVP** Thoughtfully If you’re planning to come, tap “Going.” It helps others feel confident joining and builds momentum before the meetup. Even if you’re 80% sure, RSVP. If your plans change, please update your RSVP so others aren’t expecting your attendance. 2️⃣ **Confirm 2 Hours Before** (Essential) To ensure the meetup runs, please comment on this event page at least 2 hours before the start time: “Confirmed for today 😊” This allows everyone to see, ahead of time, who is actually coming. The meetup moves forward when at least 2 people confirm 2 hours before the event. If fewer than 2 confirmations are posted by then, attendance may be low that day. This avoids anyone showing up uncertain. 3️⃣ **Signal Your Arrival** When you arrive, comment on this event page: “Arrived” + where you’re sitting + what you’re wearing Example: “Arrived. Sitting outside near the entrance. Wearing a black t-shirt.” This ensures everyone can easily find each other. Recognition Tip Having a clear profile photo on Meetup is highly encouraged — it makes recognition effortless and helps the group form faster. **When & Where?** 📅 Day: Every Tuesday & Saturday 🕓 Time: **4:00 PM local time** 📍 Meeting point: In front of **Compass Coffee.** **Arrive on time,** smaller groups make it easier to connect. **Why join Just Gutsy?** • Meet open-minded people who genuinely want to connect • Feel at home anywhere in the world • Be part of a growing global solo travel community • Early members get lifetime premium access to the future Just Gutsy app 🚀 Join here 👉 https://justgutsy.com/ WhatsApp: After attending, you’re welcome to join the Washington DC Just Gutsy WhatsApp group to stay connected and suggest spontaneous meetups: 👉 https://chat.whatsapp.com/KwwHR0npG3aB8VykYjN3hw **About Just Gutsy** **Just Gutsy** is a global community for solo travelers who are free spirited, love exploring the world believe that real connections make the best memories. Hi, I am Syrine, I started solo traveling in 2018 and it changed my life, from introvert to extrovert. Along the way, I loved meeting people, but also felt how hard it can be to find connection when traveling alone. I’m building Just Gutsy so no one has to feel alone on the road — and so anyone who’s still shy to take that first step has a welcoming place to start. 💛

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

Brisk 3- to 4- mile urban hike starting and ending at the Brig. We will hike to Southwest, before circling back past Bartholdi Park and ending at the Brig for drinks and food. Closest Metro Eastern Market.

Let’s do a loop around the perimeter of Georgetown. Milage: 5 mi Start Location: Foggy Bottom Metro Station End Location: Rosslyn Metro Station Approximate Time: 6pm - 8pm Map (Approx.): [https://maps.app.goo.gl/gyUXRJ3GuSW7m3LT6?g_st=ic](https://maps.app.goo.gl/gyUXRJ3GuSW7m3LT6?g_st=ic) Terrain: This will be mostly on trails with some stairs and steep climbs \-\-\- We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early, because we will leave without you. We're always looking for new leaders who can showcase their neighborhood or any cool places they know, so please reach out either at an event or on meetup if you are interested. If you've enjoyed our walks please consider donating a few bucks to help us keep this group running (meetup is expensive!). [Donation Link](https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2158403661070336114)

Spring is finally here! To celebrate, let's visit the tulips at Brookside Gardens before walking through the Seminary Historic District and making our way over to Bethesda. We'll finish off by visiting Max's Best Ice Cream for a sweet treat to end the day https://maps.app.goo.gl/ Part I - Walk to Brookside Gardens (1.6 miles) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/f2ARZeSKNXob9z8A9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/f2ARZeSKNXob9z8A9) Part II - Walk around Wheaton Regional Park (2.5 miles) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/czHfnKj81UZdYPf49](https://maps.app.goo.gl/czHfnKj81UZdYPf49) Part III - Walk through Seminary Historic District to Bethesda (9.4 miles) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/W1qcehvqPrdL6JiU7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/W1qcehvqPrdL6JiU7) **Mileage:** \~13.0 miles **Start Location:** Glenmont Metro Station **End Location:** Bethesda Metro Station **Time:** 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM **Terrain:** This will be have a solid amount of uphill (\~900 feet) elevation gain) with a mix of paved, gravel, and trail surfaces

[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46073614](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46073614) 18.4 miles. Toilets are at the beginning, middle, and end of the trail. **Picnic stop will be in Meadowbrook Local Park at 12.5 miles.** Celebrate (Mother) Earth Day! This route was originally conceived as part of the Takoma Park Earth Day celebration in April 2024. We are happy to ride again for this year's Celebration. We will e-bike from Peirce Mill in Rock Creek Park through Takoma Park, and then on to the Sligo Creek Trail. From Sligo Creek we head west past Holy Cross Hospital and through the Forest Glen neighborhood. We then turn south on to Rock Creek Trail. Earth Day Festivities with occur in Sligo Creek Stream Valley Park, approximately 6 miles into the ride. Face painting, snow cones, art activities and exhibits promoting a variety of environmental and sustainability causes will be there! The picnic stop is at Meadowbrook Local Park, 12.5 miles into the ride. **Please charge your batteries. The ride is on asphalt and often flat but we will encounter some hills. As usual, non-assisted bikers are most welcome.** Bring snacks, lunch and plenty of water. Pump tires, check brakes and charge your battery. Consider packing a spare tire tube. Check weather and dress appropriately. As always, this is a self-guided event. **We recommend you download the Ride with GPS route.** [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46073614](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46073614) The group stops a few times for slower riders to catch up. The distance will be 18.4 miles or shorter any time you are fully satisfied with biking for the day. For the E-bike Lovers group to be successful, we need to grow our membership carefully. Please feel free to invite other E-bike lovers, spread the word, and let's have fun. **Free Ride With GPS for E-Bike Lovers** Membership of the Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers club is now free as www.ebikelovers.com is generating sufficient income from ads to cover the costs. Here is the link to activate your free membership: https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN **More information about using GPS files:** https://ebikelovers.com/2021/03/15/download-our-trails-and-never-get-lost/ **More information about e-bike ranges:** https://ebikelovers.com/2020/12/31/e-bike-longer-and-happier-15-smart-strategies-to-reduce-your-e-bike-range-anxiety/ **DISCLAIMER** LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, RICHARD CAMER, TRIP COORDINATORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, FAMILY AND FORMER AND CURRENT EMPLOYERS NOR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN CREATING, PRODUCING, OR DELIVERING E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS IS LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF A USER’S ACCESS TO, OR USE OF THE E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS. See for full disclaimer: https://ebikelovers.com/disclaimer

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

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

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

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!

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!