Wilderness Hiking

Looking to make new expat (or local) friends in Tbilisi? Join us for our weekly Friday meetup at the Crossroads bar. Whether you're an expat living in Tbilisi, or a local looking to make foreigner friends, you're welcome to join the event! You get to: ✅Meet new people from all around the world ✅Improve your English skills ✅Network with people with all sorts of backgrounds skills, or stories ✅Enjoy signature cocktails at the #1 expat bar in Tbilisi ✅Free attendance (just buy a drink) 🕒Time: 9 PM 📅Date: Every Friday 📍Place: Crossroads Bar

Kick off the weekend at the new spot! We’re bringing back that signature La Mano energy for a night dedicated to the four pillars of a perfect Friday: **Fun, Drinks, Dance, and Talk.** Whether you’re here to catch up with old friends over a glass of Georgian wine, meet new faces in the expat community, or lose yourself on the dance floor to a mix of house and retro-grooves, we’ve got a spot for you. **Expect:** * **The Social Hour:** Chill vibes and deep talks from 10:00 PM to 11:30 PM. * **The Late-Night Groove:** We turn up the volume and clear the floor at 11:00 PM. * **Signature Mixes:** Special cocktail offers all night. *No guest list, no pretension—just the La Mano family doing what we do best* **Location:** La Mano Bar . G. Kikodze 5 https://maps.app.goo.gl/q1cAkaiJYnnKBVej9 **Date:** Friday, March 27 **Time:** 10:00 PM – Late

**Kathmandu Reboot — A Small-Group Journey for Founders & Builders** This is not a typical trip to Nepal. Kathmandu - Reboot is a small-group experience for entrepreneurs, startup founders, and people in transition — designed as a pause to step out of your usual environment and gain clarity on what’s next. The focus is not on tourism, but on resetting your mind and perspective. Slowing down, creating space to think, and looking at your work and life from a different angle. We combine the unique atmosphere of the Kathmandu Valley — ancient cities, temples, "places of power", and culturally significant places — with simple, practical mindfulness sessions. No esoteric elements, no pressure — just a structured environment for reflection and meaningful conversations. **Who it’s for** — founders and entrepreneurs — people navigating change or considering their next move — anyone feeling the need to reboot and refocus **About the organizers** The trip is led by two founders (Kirill, the founder of this group and his friend Natasha) with entrepreneurial backgrounds, who have been using mindfulness practices for many years as a core support in their work — helping them stay effective, grounded, and sustainable through uncertainty and pressure. Kirill has spent extended time living in and exploring the Kathmandu Valley, particularly through the lens of Tibetan Buddhist meditation, and recognized its unique potential as an environment for a deep reboot. **What to expect** — 9 days in the Kathmandu Valley — curated program: walks, cultural exploration, reflection sessions, and free time — small group format for depth and quality interaction **Program (short overview)** — Bhaktapur and Patan (ancient cities, cultural and architectural context of the valley) — great Boudha Stupa and Swayambhu (key Buddhist sites, atmosphere for observation and reflection) — powerful monasteries and shrines (exposure to living practice and environment) — Nagarkot area (nature setting, sunrise point) The route is designed to move between cultural landmarks and places with a distinct contemplative quality, creating a varied but coherent experience of the valley. **Logistics** — comfortable hotel accommodation — all local transportation included — fully organized, all-inclusive experience on the ground **Dates** — Next trip: March 17-26 — Autumn cohort planned (October/November) For details and availability, message the organizer directly.

**REAL TALK Tbilisi – a Sunday English social club at Sative Space** We have Sunday meetings at a special place at Sative Space! They’ve got: – a cafe, coworking, and gym – PlayStations – pets entry *So join us and bring your friends! Those who bring a newcomer have a discount!* As usual you'll have the opportunity to meet interesting people, make international friends, and also practice communicational skills in English along the way! Our meetings are organised in a way that allows you to have lively and interesting conversations with as many people as possible. You will be talking one-to-one with other participants, which will give you the opportunity to fully engage in a talk, while a welcoming and considerate host will be rotating participants in fixed periods of time. **SUNDAY – 17th of May** | **18:00 – 20:30** **Sative Space** | 49b Ilia Chavchavadze Avenue ‼️*There’s another building with the same address. It’s a swimming pool club. Sative Space is on the opposite side!* [Google Maps](https://maps.app.goo.gl/NMZxEbdGstBZgBhs6?g_st=ic) | [Yandex Maps](https://yandex.com/maps/org/sative_space/179495844640) *No registration! Simply come at the time of the event!* **Participation fee** 20 Lari *5 Lari* – *for those who* *will bring a newcomer!* Membership cards in store: • 8 meetings – 140 Lari • 12 meetings – 200 Lari • 16 meetings – 240 Lari Each card is valid for 6 months ⏳ **Timing** 18:00 – chatting in small groups 18:15ish – one-to-one conversations with rotations 19:45 – short break & time to pay 20:00 – conversational games or free chat 20:30 – finish A comfortalbe level of English: B1+ Your host – Keke get in touch on [Telegram](https://t.me/kekeshelia) [Join the Telegram chat](https://t.me/realtalktbilisi) / [go to Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/realtalktbilisi) / [sign up on Instagram](https://instagram.com/realtalktbilisi?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==)

Hello, People of the World! We’ve decided to host a weekly event in Tbilisi for internationals, expats, nomads, travelers, and Georgians who love to connect through languages and cultures. This is a welcoming space where everyone contributes something personal—language skills, stories, or just good vibes—for the benefit of the group. Whether you're here short-term or long-term, come meet new people in a fun, relaxed environment. We’ll share travel tales, language tips, and laughter over drinks, board games, or casual conversations. The concept is simple but powerful: connect, exchange, and enjoy. You’ll be surprised how much we all have in common—starting with funny stories from life in Tbilisi! Join us, bring your voice, and be part of this growing international community. We look forward to seeing you! 📅 Date: Every Saturday 📍 Location: G. Kikodze 5 ⏰ Time: from 10 pm until midnight 🎟️ Entry: Free (Buy drinks in the bar) Cafe La Mano Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/q1cAkaiJYnnKBVej9 Join Expats group here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IUnd6m86Ado8R8FFaeGsdC](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IUnd6m86Ado8R8FFaeGsdC) (expat bar Tbilisi, cocktail bar, karaoke night, language exchange, live music, dive bar, board games, expat social, Tbilisi night life, Where to drink in Tbilisi, Tbilisi bar for foreigners. English-speaking bar Tbilisi. International crowd Tbilisi bar. Best bar in Tbilisi for expats. Live music Tbilisi bar. Expat events Tbilisi. Social bar Tbilisi. Tbilisi international pub. Friendly bar in Tbilisi. Tbilisi bar with English menu. Meet new people in Tbilisi)

**REAL TALK Tbilisi – a Saturday English social club** *Join us and bring your friends! Those who bring a newcomer have a discount!* As usual you'll have the opportunity to meet interesting people, make international friends, and also practice communicational skills in English along the way! Our meetings are organised in a way that allows you to have lively and interesting conversations with as many people as possible. You will be talking one-to-one with other participants, which will give you the opportunity to fully engage in a talk, while a welcoming and considerate host will be rotating participants in fixed periods of time. **SATURDAY – 16th of May** | **14:00 – 16:30** **Coffee Lair the coffee shop** | 14 Giorgi Chitaia st. [Google Maps](https://maps.app.goo.gl/q6eX32Gi5p4LTcZm8?g_st=ic) | [Yandex Maps](https://yandex.com/maps/org/116279744418) *No registration! Simply come at the time of the event!* **Participation fee** 20 Lari *5 Lari* – *for those who* *will bring a newcomer!* Membership cards in store: • 8 meetings – 140 Lari • 12 meetings – 200 Lari • 16 meetings – 240 Lari Each card is valid for 6 months ⏳ **Timing** 14:00 – chatting in small groups 14:15-ish – one-to-one conversations with rotations 15:45 – short break & time to pay 16:00 – conversational games or free chat 16:30 – finish 16:3♾️ – afterparty with survivors A comfortalbe level of English: B1+ Your host – Serge get in touch on [Telegram](https://t.me/sergbalm) [Join the Telegram chat](https://t.me/realtalktbilisi) / [go to Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/realtalktbilisi) / [sign up on Instagram](https://instagram.com/realtalktbilisi?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==)

Looking to make new expat (or local) friends in Tbilisi? Join us for our weekly Friday meetup at the Crossroads bar. Whether you're an expat living in Tbilisi, or a local looking to make foreigner friends, you're welcome to join the event! You get to: ✅Meet new people from all around the world ✅Improve your English skills ✅Network with people with all sorts of backgrounds skills, or stories ✅Enjoy signature cocktails at the #1 expat bar in Tbilisi ✅Free attendance (just buy a drink) 🕒Time: 9 PM 📅Date: Every Friday 📍Place: Crossroads Bar

Kick off the weekend at the new spot! We’re bringing back that signature La Mano energy for a night dedicated to the four pillars of a perfect Friday: **Fun, Drinks, Dance, and Talk.** Whether you’re here to catch up with old friends over a glass of Georgian wine, meet new faces in the expat community, or lose yourself on the dance floor to a mix of house and retro-grooves, we’ve got a spot for you. **Expect:** * **The Social Hour:** Chill vibes and deep talks from 10:00 PM to 11:30 PM. * **The Late-Night Groove:** We turn up the volume and clear the floor at 11:00 PM. * **Signature Mixes:** Special cocktail offers all night. *No guest list, no pretension—just the La Mano family doing what we do best* **Location:** La Mano Bar . G. Kikodze 5 https://maps.app.goo.gl/q1cAkaiJYnnKBVej9 **Date:** Friday, March 27 **Time:** 10:00 PM – Late

Looking to belt your heart out on a Sunday? Join us for **Karaoke Night with Faisal** at Crossroads Bar! 🎤 Whether you’re an expat or a local legend-in-the-making, grab the mic and jump in. You’ll get to: ✅ Sing your favorite hits (solo, duet, or hype squad) ✅ Meet friendly locals & expats alike ✅ Improve your English while having fun ✅ Sip signature cocktails at Tbilisi’s #1 expat bar ✅ Free entry (just grab a drink) 🕘 **Time:** 9 PM 📅 **Date:** Every Sunday 📍 **Place:** Crossroads Bar, Tbilisi

**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.

This is a small but pretty park with a 1.7-mile loop. We will walk it 2 times. It goes along a ridge and has moderate elevation changes.

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the edward thomas trail, lake trail , spring creek and a short walk on the multi purpose trail. This is one large loop . Wear your shoe of choice. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. 4.2 miles in length .

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles so please wear your shoe of choice. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

June 17, 2026: Worthington Library. Wild Ohio: The Best of Our Natural Heritage. Jim McCormac. Worthington, Ohio. 7 pm.