Backpacking

Welcome to **Syria, home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world** and rich with artistic and cultural heritage. From its ancient roots to its recent political instability and civil war, the country has a complex and turbulent history. The country has many treasures, but this three-day weekender manages to cover a selection of Syria’s highlights that will fascinate, delight, and provide insight into this ancient land and its people. In this historical crossroads, archaeologists have uncovered **human remains dating back 700,000 years** – even before the time of the Neanderthals. The city of Elba, thought to have existed around 3,000 BC, is one of the world’s oldest settlements ever to be excavated, while the famed **Damascus is the** **world’s oldest continuously inhabited capital city**. Even the ancient language of Aramaic is still spoken here! **Invasions and occupations through the ages** resulted in a who’s who of ancient empires making their mark on this land. These include the Egyptians, Hittites, Sumerians, Mitanni, Assyrians, Babylonians, Canaanites, Phoenicians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Mongols, Crusaders…and more! A melting pot for millennia, **today it is home to** **diverse ethnic and religious groups** including Kurds, Armenians, Assyrians, Christians, Druze, Alawites, and Shia and Sunni Arabs, the last making up the majority of the Muslim population. There is no escaping the fact that the **Syrian people have suffered greatly in recent decades**, enduring military coups, a 50-year dictatorship, and brutal civil conflict resulting in death and destruction – and more than six million Syrians fleeing the country. The future of the country is still being determined, but visit Syria today and you will find a destination of fascinating ancient landmarks, delicious cuisine, proud heritage and traditions, and welcoming locals who are eager to share their culture. **Let’s go!** **Day 1 // Arrival – Bosra – Damascus** Arrival in Damascus and completion of immigration formalities. Wasting no time, we’ll hop in our van and head to the southern city of **Bosra**, **the first Nabatean city around 2,000 BC**. Later, Bosra became a prosperous provincial capital during the Roman era, flourishing into a metropolis and a major center for food production and coin minting. Bosra is said to have played an **important role in the life of Mohammed**, as described in accounts by the Christian monk Bahira – the Assyrian monk who is said to have foretold to the young Mohammed his future as a prophet. Today, Bosra is regarded as a major archaeological site and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. Continue to Damascus for overnight. In the evening, we’ll enjoy the city after dark, savoring delicious Syrian food and perhaps a drink in one of its lively bars. **Day 2 // Ma’aloula – Krak des Chevaliers** After breakfast, we leave Damascus and head to the village of Ma’aloula. Here we will visit the **Greek Orthodox Convent of Saint Thecla** and walk the mountain path that bears the saint’s name. Next is the Church and Monastery of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, one of the oldest such sites in Syria, believed to date back to the 3rd or 4th century. Today, it is one of the only places in the world where **scholars can still study Aramaic**, the ancient language of Christ. We’ll then hit the road again for the two-hour drive to the impressive **Krak des Chevaliers, or "Fortress of the Knights,”** **one of the best-preserved medieval castles** in the world. Crossing the moat, entering the dungeons, and climbing the ramparts, we’ll explore this fascinating remnant of the past, founded in the 11th century and once occupied by Crusader forces. On the way back to Damascus, we’ll stop for dinner in **Homs**, a city made infamous by the three-year siege between the Syrian military and rebel opposition, which resulted in widespread destruction of entire neighborhoods. **Day 3 // Damascus – Departure** **Our trip would not be complete without visiting the oldest continuously inhabited capital city on Earth.** Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, **Damascus’ historic center is surrounded by Roman-era walls** punctuated by seven ancient gates. As we wander the streets of the Old City, it’s easy to imagine a time when Silk Road traders arrived to barter and sell their wares. Our first stop will be **Azem Palace, a masterpiece of traditional Damascene architecture**. Built in 1750 by the Ottoman governor, it is now a cultural and folklore museum where we will learn about Syrian history, customs, clothing, and more. The rest of the day will be spent exploring the city’s major historic and religious landmarks, including the Umayyad Mosque, Straight Street, the House of Saint Ananias, Khan As’ad Pasha Caravanserai, Al-Buzuriyah Souq, and Souq Al-Hamidiyah. We’ll have some free time for souvenir shopping before heading back to Damascus Airport for our flight home. **Grade:** Easy – available for everyone. **Activities:** Cultural immersion, sightseeing. **Cost: 5,350 AED** all incl. flights, until FEB 02. **Accommodation & Meals:** **5 star hotel** \- double sharing\, meals excluded\. **Specifically Excluded:** Visa expenses, meals. **Visa:** Visa on arrival / e-visa for all passports. Several nationalities such as Egypt or Russia require OK to board (excluded). *It is sole responsibility of participant to secure entry to country of destination.* See yah in Syria x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

Along the banks of the River Congo on the western side of Central Africa are two capital cities, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Kinshasa, and the Republic of Congo’s Brazzaville, both home to dapper Sapeurs, gateways to vibrant tribes of mystical dancers, gorillas, geologic wonders in heart of darkness rainforest jungles, and kingly incarnations among ancient tribal kingdoms. If you haven’t heard the term before, **Sapeurs are followers of a fashion culture** in Brazzaville and Kinshasa, members of the Society of Ambiance-Makers and Elegant People, made up of day labourers, taxi drivers, or even gardeners, but dressed to impress in dapper designer suits and treated like rock-stars in their communities for the joy and colour. We’ll find these Ladies and Gentlemen of the Congo in both capital cities and they’re looking forward to meeting you! Beyond Brazzaville and into the heart of the Republic of Congo we’ll find the **Téké Kingdom and it’s own capital village Mbé** where we’ll meet the modern incarnation of their King Makoko. The village has preserved the vestiges of this once heroic kingdom which once spread across 85,000 square kilometres extended into Congo and the former Zaire. Expect to hear stories from village elders, chieftains painting their faces in bright yellows and reds, and tribal ceremonies to keep you up at night. Our trip would not be completed without meeting **eye to eye with lowland gorillas,** for which one of best spot is on our way in Lesio Louna. Further on into the rainforests is the **Nkila Ntari Caves, a descent of more than a kilometers deep underground** will take us past cave paintings. **Let’s go!!** **Day 1 // Kinshasa Arrival** After arrival and immigration formalities, we’ll have a first look around Kinshasa and take in the high fashion of the Sapeurs before dinner and overnight at hotel. **Day 2 // Kingdom of Kuba** Congo coffee and fufu breakfast before we hit the bumpy road to Kuba Kingdom. The Kuba village we will head to, is one of the remnants of what was once powerful 17th century empire. They are renowned for rich artistic traditions, particularly intricate geometric raffia textiles, and had a complex, centralized political system with a royal army and administration. **Day 3 // Voodoo ceremony** We start the day with traditional voodoo ceremony and continue taking in the best of Kinshasa, including National Museum and artisan galleries. **DAY 4 // Crossing to Brazzaville** In the morning we head to port for boat crossing to Brazzaville! Take in the Sapeurs performance on the other side and wander around town before we check-in to hotel. Enjoy a dinner and toast to our border crossing into the Republic! **Day 5 //** **Lowland Gorillas** **and Teke Kingdom** Departure to Lesio Louna Reserve for encounters with the **Lowland Gorillas.** Then we’re off to Mbé village to meet King Makoko in the capital of the old kingdom of the Tékés! Village elders will tell tales of the old kingdom, chiefs will paint their faces in red and yellow, and we’ll have a chance to talk to the King himself. After our encounters with kings, head to our lodge in Ngabé for dinner and rest. **Day 6 // Queen Ngalifuru and Kebe-Kebe in Ngabe** This morning we meet Queen Ngalifuru and deliver a few gifts as tribute. Be mindful, she has a few magical powers! We have much to explore and people to meet in Ngabé before the mystical dance of the Kébé-Kébé in the evening, a performance not to miss! We’ll spend the night in Ngabé lodge. **Day 7 // Nkila Ntari Caves and Punu Tribe** Very early breakfast before drive to the Nkila Ntari Caves where we’ll have a speleologist-led look around the rock arts and formations of this kilometre-long tunnel. Afterwards continue on to Nkayi to meet and see the Punu tribes’ performances. Overnight in the hotel. **Day 8 // Pointe Noire** Quick look at this coastal city before souvenir shopping and return flight home. **Activities:** Experience raw and authentic Africa, gorilla trekking, participating in local ceremonies, boating, cultural immersion. **Room & Meals:** Lodges and hotels - **double sharing**. Restaurant meals excluded. **Cost: 11,400 AED** excl. flights until JAN 20. **Specifically Excluded:** international flights, restaurant meals, visas. **Visas:** **\- DRC \-** Evisa (455 USD) or LOI for Consulate visa (150 USD LOI + 100 visa stamping) **\- ROC \-** Visa on arrival based on LOI (120 USD LOI + 100 visa stamping) **YELLOW FEVER Vaccination Certificate is mandatory to cross inter-african borders.** This is a travel to malaria endemic region, prophylactics is compulsory for all participants. See yah in Congos x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/) [Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

🌟 End-of-Year Group Trip: Rio & Medellín! 🌟 We're hosting two separate 7-day trips so you can choose your adventure! 🇧🇷 Rio de Janeiro Trip: A full 7-day itinerary 🇨🇴 Medellín Trip: A full 7-day itinerary [https://eseek.app/grouptrips/](https://eseek.app/grouptrips/) If you are genuinely interested in attending and have money to go join the group with the hosts. [https://discord.gg/Wd3C62fs](https://discord.gg/Wd3C62fs) Do one or combine them both! What's included in each $250 package? ✔️ 7 days of guided tours & activities ✔️ Exclusive nightlife access ✔️ Daytime adventures (beaches, tours, etc.) ✔️ Amazing boat parties ✔️ Your fun and expert guide Please Note: Cost is $250 USD per person, per city. This price does not include flights or accommodation. Join our fortnightly Google Meet calls with the hosts to get all the details and get excited! Our group trip is on the app [https://eseek.app](https://eseek.app) Make new friends before the trip with our new interactive community board. Receive Daily hangout suggestions to make new friends before the upcoming group trip

**Note : Registration is confirmed only through [MeetNtrain](https://meetntrain.com/community/Volleyballpartners)** [WhatsApp Group ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IPwYiB48lTz8Ud3pVdrGAc) Get ready for an exciting evening of **beach volleyball** on soft sand! 🌴🏐 Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned pro, this fun and friendly game welcomes all skill levels. Come play, vibe, and enjoy the energy! **📍 Location:** Kite Beach - Dubai **🕘 Time:** 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM (2 hours of play) ⏳ *Spots limited to 18 players – secure your spot early!* ⏱ *Note: Timing may change – join the [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IPwYiB48lTz8Ud3pVdrGAc) for updates.* **💵 Fee:** 40 AED per player **✅ What’s Included:** * Cold water 💧 * International music with high-quality sound 🎶 * Guided games & refereeing by your host, Noah 🎤 📲 *Join our WhatsApp group for full details & to confirm your spot!* **📬 Contact:** Reach out via WhatsApp or email to confirm your participation. **[Book Now](https://meetntrain.com/community/Volleyballpartners)** **Noah : 0504746210**

Outdoor hiit workout

Discover the Harmonizing Power of Sound: In the gentle embrace of sacred sound, find deep restoration and harmony. Our bespoke Singing Bowl and Crystal Bowl Healing sessions offer a private sanctuary for profound transformation, tailored specifically to your unique needs. **Available Healing Focus Areas:** - **Couples Healing:** Reconnect and restore harmony through shared vibrational resonance - **Parent-Child Healing:** Strengthen bonds and create peaceful emotional connections - **Personal Healing:** A dedicated journey inward for self-discovery and inner peace - **Emotional Healing:** Release stress, anxiety, grief, or emotional blockages - **Pathological Support Healing:** Complementary sonic support for physical well-being - **Energy Enhancement Healing:** Cleanse, balance, and amplify your energetic field **Session Details:** - **Format:** Private & Customized (for individuals, couples, or small family groups) - **Schedule:** Available every Friday, 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM - **Booking:** Advance appointment required **Step into a space of pure resonance.** Allow the sound to wash over you, recalibrate your energy, and guide you back to your center. Contact to book your private sound healing journey.

**Note : Registration is confirmed only through [Book Now](https://luma.com/zo8wuf7x)** [WhatsApp Group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EnP5zsWhLoLJVHZxvpYO4h) ## **Oman Without Borders: Camping Experience in UAE 🌍🏕️** Join us for a unique overnight escape to **Madha** — a peaceful piece of **Oman** nestled inside the UAE. Surrounded by mountains, fresh air, and untouched nature, it truly feels like crossing borders without going far 🌿 **No visa required, no border crossings — just drive and enjoy.** We’ll explore scenic spots, unwind under the stars, and enjoy a calm, refreshing break from city life. 🌄 Places We’ll Visit * **Rolla Farms** — lush greenery and open spaces * **Madha Dam** — serene views and relaxing surroundings * **Madha Waterfall** — a natural highlight and photo stop *** 🧭 What to Expect 🏔️ Scenic drive through mountains and valleys ☕ Tea, snacks & cookies along the way 🚗 Easy carpooling, great company & new connections 🍢 Delicious BBQ dinner 🌅 Stunning sunset views 🎬 Outdoor movie night 🎲 Fun games & relaxed social vibes ✨ A calm, stress-free escape to recharge and reset Everything is taken care of — just show up, drive, and enjoy the experience 🚗🌄 *** ​🎁 **What’s Included** ​🔥 Live BBQ dinner 🍳 Breakfast 🍉 Fresh fruits ⛺ Camping tents ☕ Unlimited coffee & tea 🥤 Soft drinks 🍿 Snacks 🎲 Games, trivia, movies. 🚗 Scenic road-trip experience ✨ A warm, welcoming community & great vibes *** ​🎒 **What to Bring** ​🛏️ Your bedding 🪑 Camping chair (if you have one) 💫 Good vibes & an open heart ​**Optional but recommended:** 🧥 Extra layer or jacket (desert nights get chilly) 🎒 Personal essentials (slippers, toothbrush, etc.) *** ​🚗 **Getting There** ​🚘 Carpooling arranged by the organizers ​• Driving? Take fellow adventurers & receive fuel compensation • Need a ride? Join a shared carpool for **AED 80** • City meeting point shared after registration ​🚙 **Access & Parking** ✔️ Accessible by any car — **no 4x4 required** *** ​🌅 **The Morning After** ​Wake up to soft desert light ☕ Fresh coffee 🥐 Simple breakfast 📸 Golden morning moments 🌤️ Calm time before heading back ​Peaceful. Grounding. Beautiful. ​Leave feeling refreshed, connected, and recharged — with memories that linger long after the desert fades behind you. *** ​🎟️ **Limited spots available — secure yours now** ​**Noah \| Partners** 📲 **+971 50 474 6210** (WhatsApp)

**Day 1: Al Quaa aka the “Milky Way spot” - Stargazing, BBQ, games, telescope & camp** We will leave Dubai at 1 pm and head on a beautiful 2-3 hours road trip to Al Quaa, a secluded Abu Dhabi spot that offers out-of-this-world views of a sky full of stars. We will then enjoy stargazing at the darkest place in the UAE with stellar views of the galaxy, constellations, planets and shooting starts. We will then have the usual best bbq in town, drinks, card games, music, have some melting marshmallows on camp fire and camp under the clear skies full of stars. **Day 2: Sunrise, Bites, and Back to the City** In the morning, we will take a morning walk and watch the sunrise over the dunes. We will then return to camp for breakfast. Once we have finished breakfast and packing, we will leave for Dubai. *Note: Timings might shift a little with sunrise and sunset. Don't worry we'll share the exact plan with you in a whatsapp group before the trip.* *(2 days with camping)* **Price without transport**: 550aed **Price with transport**: 750aed **Including:** * A total of 2 meals, including the famous best BBQ in town for dinner (mixed grill with meat and chicken, vegan burger, hummus, moutabbal, tabbouleh salad, fattoush salad, bread, and snacks) and breakfast. * Beverages (Soft drinks, tea, coffee, water). * Accommodation in private tents (1 person per tent or 2 persons per tent for couples). * Camp equipment (Chairs, lights, private tents, mattresses, Fire pit & wood for bonfire). * A guided stargazing session with access to a Celestron 12096 NexStar Evolution 8 HD telescope for observing planets and celestial objects. * Portable Toilet & Privacy Tent Setup. * Campfire games. * Transportation from regular vehicles to the inside of the desert via dunes off-roading with 4x4 vehicle. **Excluding:** * A sleeping bag with a temperature rating that is 5 degrees less than the expected lowest temperature or a heavy comforter is required, we recommend to buy a high quality one from Adventure HQ to have a good night sleep or you can rent one from us for 50aed * Transportation from Arabian Wanderers' meeting point in Dubai to Abu Dhabi and back (Available optionally for AED 200 if you choose the option with transport) Notes: * **Important note**: Your booking will only be confirmed once you've completed the process on the following link: [https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/al-quaa-milky-way-spot-stargazing-in-the-darkest-spot-in-uae.](https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/al-quaa-milky-way-spot-stargazing-in-the-darkest-spot-in-uae) RSVP on Meetup serves as an expression of intent to attend the event and does not guarantee your place, as spots are limited and tend to fill up rapidly. * **Group size:** Small group experience - Avg. 12, Max 25. * **Physical rating:** Beginner level - Light physical activities are included. * **Meeting point & time:** * **If booking our transport**: * Dubai at 2:45pm: [Artisan Bakers - https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5) in Al Barsha. RTA parking is available i f you want to come with your car. * Abu Dhabi at 4:15pm: [ADNOC Service Station | Shawamekh-(South West) (755) - https://maps.app.goo.gl/adkwrB7c98omTcWS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/adkwrB7c98omTcWS9). There is no parking at this petrol station, so please meet us in a taxi. * **If not**: [Arabian Wanderers – Al Quaa Stargazing & Camping - https://maps.app.goo.gl/z6zSwEwgfQRzyccD6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z6zSwEwgfQRzyccD6) at 6:00pm. Any car can reach the meeting point in Al Quaa where you can leave your car by the side of the road free of charge. There is no need for a 4x4 vehicle as you will join one of our 4x4 vehicles to go to the camp. * **Restroom Facilities:** A portable toilet with a privacy tent will be available. * **Solo & women friendly:** Solo and female travelers are more than welcome; 70% of our participants are usually solo adventurers and women. * **Pet-friendly:** You're welcome to bring your pet on the trip, provided everyone on the tour is comfortable with it. You can confirm this via the WhatsApp group created for all booked participants. * **Note:** Visibility may be affected by weather conditions (e.g., clouds, rain). Event cancellation will only occur in the case of severe weather (heavy rain or very strong winds), not due to clouds or light rain. * **Mobile Coverage:** e& has inconsistent internet and phone coverage. du has inconsistent phone coverage and no internet coverage. * **Important Note:** Bookings cannot be rescheduled within 14 days of the trip. * **Health and travel insurance**: It is mandatory to have a health and travel insurance in the country where this experience is happening. If you don't have insurance or your current insurance doesn't provide coverage, you can obtain one [here](https://explore.safetywing.com/nomad-insurance-complete?referenceID=26286700&utm_source=26286700&utm_medium=Ambassador) ! * **Disclaimer:** Even though Al Quaa is the best place in the UAE for stargazing, don't expect it to look like the photos online. While you can see more stars than in most other locations and will definitely be amazed, the photos you see online are taken with professional cameras or high-quality phones that capture low light better than the naked eye. * **Tipping Information:** If you'd like to show your appreciation to your guide, please bring cash in AED for tipping. * **Instagram:** Follow us on Instagram for our latest adventures: [arabian.wanderers](https://www.instagram.com/arabian.wanderers/) For any questions that are not on the booking link, you can WhatsApp us by clicking on this link [https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1](https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1) or call us on: [+971522067219](http://+971522067219/)

Hi ladies. Let's hike the multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

Celebrating February Birthdays at Forno Kitchen and Bar! Complimentary mimosa for the birthday attendees

Hi ladies. Let's hike the multi purpose trail. Wear your shoe of choice. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. 101 Craft Kitchen is about seven minutes away at 817 Polaris Pkwy, Westerville, OH 43082 We willl be doing a loop and I’ll ask one of the faster walkers to lead in the front and I’ll bring up the rear at a slower pace - 3.25 to 3.5 mph or slower! No one left behind!

Join us for a vibrant gathering that honors the heart and hustle of local entrepreneurs. It Takes a Village is more than an event it’s a movement to uplift and spotlight small business owners who pour passion into their craft and creativity into our community. From authors and bakers to jewelry makers, t-shirt designers, candle crafters, and beyond. This is your chance to meet the makers, support their work and celebrate the spirit of collaboration. **_Expect_** * Local vendors showcasing handmade goods * Live demos and storytelling from featured creators * Food, music, and community vibes * Opportunities to shop, connect and be inspired * Celebrate the power of small businesses and we all rise