What we’re about
Are you new in town? Looking to socialize? Want to make new friends or new travel mates? This group will fulfill your desire for new friends and more. There are so many people in Los Angeles and socializing with new friends should not be something we hope for but something we can do was as we wish! :)
Also, if and when you are ready and want to lead a meetup event, please contact Anna. Let's do all the fun things LA and beyond has to offer, together!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Portugal and Spain with Running of the Bulls! Gaudi, Paella, Sintra and more!Los Angeles International Airport, Los Angeles, CA
Come and meet new friends on this adventure of a lifetime!
Dine at the oldest restaurant in the world, visit iconic museums such as Prado and Guggenheim, be amazed at Gaudi's architecture, taste pinxtos, sip good Spanish wine and view the Running of the Bulls from your own private balcony! To top this off...visit Portugal with its rich history, vibrant culture and breathtaking views!This is just a little taste of what awaits us on this awesome culinary and cultural adventure!
Spain is truly a magical and fascinating country - full of history, culture and oh...so much good food and fun time!!! Portugal's history is intertwined with Spain's, so it makes perfect sense to combine these two destinations and be amazed at the similarities and the differences.
We get to travel as locals, mostly by trains between the cities AND at the best time of year to be able to experience in person The Running Of The Bulls in Pamplona.CLICK HERE to see the photos from our 2022/2023 amazing adventures!
We visit:
- Lisbon (with Sintra an Unesco World Heritage)
- Porto
- Madrid
- Bilbao
- Pamplona RUNNING OF THE BULLS
- Barcelona
Guided tours in each city, breakfast daily and several dinners, museum entrances, tasting menus, Running of the Bulls w/balcony view, transportation throughout the trip and much more!
We travel as a group, and also have the flexibility of hop-on, hop-off tours and museum passes with "skip the line" so you enjoy a complete independence. You can take our organized tours or do your own thing, cater to your special interests, visit other sites and locations in the cities, while still being guided and aided with arrangements. You can do it independently, or you can join new friends traveling with you, and do it together. The idea is come alone, meet new like-minded people and make lifelong memories, without the "one size fits all" tour formula.
Price per person, double occupancy: $4850
(we match roommates for those wishing to share)
Price for single room: $6450Included:
- 13 nights in first class hotels with central locations
- Breakfast daily
- Dinner at Casa Botín in Madrid, founded in 1725, is the oldest restaurant in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records https://botin.es/
- Authentic Basque Foodie Tour in Bilbao
- Transportation between the 6 cities
- Arrival and departure transfers from airport to hotels and train stations
- City Sightseeing tours in Lisbon, Madrid and Barcelona
- Entrance tickets and guided tours at Sintra, Prado and Guggenheim museums, La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell and more
- Front Row Private Balcony to view (safely from above) the Running Of The Bulls in Pamplona
In addition to the services listed above, what's included mostly comes down to creating an awesome trip at a great value and balanced logistics, making new friends and lifelong memories.
Not Included:
x Transatlantic Airfare (we can help you arrange that)
x Meals not listed above
x Tips and any personal and accidental expensesThe only way to secure your spot is a $500 deposit
Click Here for Secure Deposit Link
Deposit 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
Click Here to fill out our google info request form and receive detailed itinerary and inclusions.
Limited capacity of 24 total. This trip will fill up extremely quickly.We have designed this to include all the "must see" locations.
Click Here to Message Direct to Anna with any questions.
She can help you arrange the airfare and answer any logistics questions.
Click Here to see all our other fun eventsSOT 2000318-10
- Strangers On A Train - - A Murder Mystery Train Adventure from LA to San Diego=Union Station Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
(event update 5/4/2025
The short digest is the date needs to move to Saturday July 19th.
Your RSVP is moved to that date OR you can get a refund if that date does not work for you.
If you are a paid attendee . . you have been sent an email with longer info. Reply to that. You can also Meetup Message me at https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=273063881&_ga=2.191436962.929442188.1735060618-506003524.1733355531(what follows below is now the event info)
This was a rare event that has now become even more rare because Covid stopped it for 6 years!!This is a murder mystery train ride from LA to San Diego and back.
And for those wondering . . . TOTALLY DIFFERENT STORY FROM THE Valentines Strangers On A Train Murder Mystery Event.
Those who sign up for the Strangers on a Train Murder Mystery will be an active sleuths in solving the mystery.
A unique drama will unfold in, among and around us. Different scenes will happen in two or three separate train cars simultaneously.
So you will only see the part of the plot that unfolds in front of you in your train car.It will ALSO be a full and fun day where we will:
- Go Round Trip from LA to San Diego
- Including TWO Hours in San Diego
- One Hour in Oceanside
- AND
- A Murder Mystery on the way down to SD IN THE AISLES OF THE MOVING TRAIN.
All this for $86 per person CLICK HERE for secure Payment Link https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/YALSVSJT3537A
If you are X2 or have +1 . . . . just do the link a 2nd or third time.
(note: you do not need a paypal account to use the link. Just click the "use any credit or debit card" button on the 2nd or 3rd screen and continue as guest)
I
We will start out as Strangers on a Train.
And end as some new and old friends.
And have quite a ride of a Murder Mystery along the way.You will interact with the other participants in the other coaches in San Diego and on the return, and piece together the other parts to figure out your guess of Whodunnit And Whydunnit.
If you guess BOTH correct you will win a FREE ticket to the next mystery train
Let me say this again: Vignettes will occur simultaneously in multiple cars. It is possible to comprehend the whole story only if you communicate with other participants and collaborate info.
After all, . . . it's a meetup!!! So of course there is a way to meet the other people. And THIS is the vehicle to do it.
This has been done several times on group before (in 2020, 2019, etc) and it sold out!!.
Here is the itinerary:
- 8:40am-10:48am is LA to Oceanside. First Acts. (2 hr)
- 10:48am-12:16pm is Intermission ( and change trains)
- 12:16pm-1:17pm is Oceanside to SD Final scenes/vignettes (1 hr)
- 1:17pm-3:20pm is Lunch and fun in San Diego (2 hr)
- 3:20pm-4:22pm Return towards LA (1 hr)
- 4:22pm-5:23pm Stop in Oceanside (1 hr)
- 5:23pm-7:38pm Oceanside to LA (2 hr)
How much is all this fabulousness?
All this for $86 per person CLICK HERE for secure Payment Link https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/YALSVSJT3537A
INCLUDED IN THE COST:
- Your train tickets.
- Fantastic Murder Mystery
- Breakfast pastries and coffee served on LA to San Diego portion.
- 2 hrs to roam and explore Downtown San Diego
- 1 hr in Oceanside at the pier/Beach/Sunset (Sunset is at 5:33 PM)
- More fun than you can shake a stick at.
Not Included:
- Whatever you do in San Diego is for you to decide to spend. Drinks, lunch, drinks, food, drinks, museum entries, drinks, baubles etc.
- Whatever you buy in Oceanside for the 1 hour we are there.
Refunds given if notice is 1 week prior to departure. Less than 1 week notice and a credit can be given for future events.
There will be NO tickets sold Day Of Event.
Want to be in the cast? This is an immersive experience. Message about being in the cast. https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=273063881
Cast members still fully participate and guess who did it, you will still only know your portion of the plot. There is NO rehearsal time needed.
YES!!! YOU can be in the cast. Just message me!!Last notes for ALL attendees:
- This will be a Western Americana tale.
- Come dressed to theme. Cowboy Hats, Straw Hats, Plaid, Gingham, Boots, Worn Jeans, Chaps, Ranchers, Daisy Duke, Ma & Pa Kettle, . . . Think Yellowstone (the TV show) without all the stuff that makes Yellowstone Yellowstone.
- Come on your own and leave with friends.
Some questions people ask:
Question: When do I need to decide by or when is the last day to pay?
Answer: This event is limited in numbers due to space. AND the event will fill. When it fills payment links are disabled. So there is no set last day. When it fills . . . . that's the last day. Don't want too long. When you circle back links may be disabled.Question: I see 100 people signed up. Is there still space?
AND
I don't see anybody else signed up. Is anybody going? Is the event happening?
Answer: When was the last time you saw 100 RSVP'd and that is how many are at the event? If the payment link is active there is still space. The event is cross posted to several groups. Some groups have many RSVP's, others with fewer. The number of RSVP's is not important. The number of folks who take the time and effort to make a payment are important. When it fills the payment link is disabled. And our events do always fill!!
AND
Answer: The event is cross posted to several groups. The event will fill . . . it always does . . . with many folks upset and saying "but I was jus about to send payment." The event is happening. We will have a wild ride to San Diego and back with even more fun and good decent social.Refunds given if notice is 1 week or more prior to departure. So it's OK to commit now and if plans change
Come join us!!
Message me with any questions: https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=273063881
Main Event Link https://www.meetup.com/sevenarts/events/306042366/
Saturday Payment Link
https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/YALSVSJT3537AA note to everybody . . . come. It will be a blast.
- MACHU PICCHU via the Short Inca Trail or Train.. With Amazon Jungle Extension!LAX, Los Angeles, CA
Discover the awe-inspiring journey to Machu Picchu with one of our three distinct options, each offering its own charm and adventure. As a Meetup, we travel as a group and still are able to tailor your Machu Picchu experience according to your preferences and interests.
This post is for those interested in the easier options to get to Machu Picchu, compared to the 5-day hiking trip via the Salkantay Trek.
We are taking The Short Inca Trail. It's a one full day of hiking in the second half of the classic Inca Trek, followed by a full day spent at Machu Picchu. This is the shorter and less difficult alternative to the Salkantay Trek. It is a memorable trip with stunning views of rainforest canopy and ancient historic sights!
The Train version is intended for people with less mobility or those wishing to glamp it a bit. The itinerary matches the Inca Trail group, except the hiking day is substituted by a comfortable train ride.
The third alternative is The Salkantay Trek. This is a 5-Day hike on the ancient and remote footpath located in the same region as the Inca Trail where massive snow-capped mountains collide with lush tropical rainforests. Those who are interested in this option, CLICK HERE for the Meetup event.
ALL THREE groups begin together with a few days in Lima and Cusco but will reach Machu Picchu - the culmination, in different ways!
As a special bonus for the Inca/Train group, we have included a 4-day excursion to the Amazon Rainforest! We will explore Tambopata National Reserve alongside our expert naturalist guides, immersing ourselves in lush rainforest landscapes teeming with exotic flora and fauna. Breathtaking vistas of the mighty river and vibrant sunsets await us to make this journey an experience of a lifetime!
Machu Picchu via 2-day Inca Trail and the Amazon Rainforest
Price per person, Double Occupancy $2950
We offer roommate matching for those willing to share.
Single Supplement $550
Secure Deposit Link for 2-Day Inca Trail and Amazon Rainforest $252Machu Picchu by TRAIN and the Amazon Rainforest
Price per person, Double Occupancy $2850
We offer roommate matching for those willing to share.
Single Supplement $550
Secure Deposit Link for Train Option and Amazon Rainforest $253***Airfare is not included***
RSVP to receive detailed Day-by-Day itinerary. If you wish to attend, deposit is the only way to secure your spot. Upon paying the deposit, please fill out this Participant's Form.
The land deposit is refundable up to 90 day before departure.
INCLUDED
- Hotels in Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes and the Rainforest
- Emergency Insurance during hiking and Amazon portion
- Guided Sightseeing Tours in Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Amazon Rainforest
- Breakfast Daily
- Welcome Dinner in Cusco
- Dinner in Aguas Calientes after Machu Picchu
- All meals during the Amazon Jungle Adventure
- Hotel/Airport Transfers
- Professional English speaking guides and naturalists
Not Included
- International and domestic airfare
- Any other meals not stated
- Gratuities and personal expenses
- Travel Insurance (we can give you a quote for that)
This event is posted to several groups. The number of RSVP does not reflect the actual number of participants. CLICK HERE for the main/central post.
If you need information on this or any of our other international events**FILL OUT OUR GOOGLE FORM **
Got Questions?
Message Marc (screen name Oddie) https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=273063881
Or Anna
https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062OR . . . .
We do a monthly Travel Q&A Zoom. CLICK HERE to RSVP for our monthly A & A Zoom
Come to the zoom, ask questions, meet others attending, be social.
CLICK HERE to join in and see all our other eventsSOT 2000318-10
- The Dana to Petra Trek w/ bonus of Wadi Rum! A Jordan Discovery Adventure!!!Los Angeles International Airport, Los Angeles, CA
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
