Active Citizens

Join Us for Expat Friday! Looking for a night packed with fun, laughter, and awesome vibes? Look no further! Expat Friday is THE place to be for socializing, making new friends, and just having an all-around good time. Whether you're an expat or a local Swiss resident, everyone's welcome to join the fun. We usually draw a lively crowd of 100-250 Socializers each time! New and Wondering if You Can Join? Absolutely! New members are always greeted with open arms at every Zurich Together event. If you're feeling a bit shy, our friendly Admins will be there to introduce you to the gang and get you mingling in no time. Do I Need to Register? Nope, no need to sign up! But if you can hit "going/attending," it'll help us give the bar staff a heads-up so they can prep for our awesome crew. Where to Find Us? Just look for the turquoise flag and the big, happy crowd - you can't miss us! If you are still worried about not being able to find us, send Kamillo a PM before the event, he is always happy to help. Got Questions? Drop a message in the comments below and we'll get back to you in a jiffy. To help us manage the event smoothly and ensure everyone has a great time, please make sure to press **"Going"** if you plan to attend. This helps us secure your spot, especially if the event becomes crowded. Your RSVP really helps with planning – thank you so much! Looking forward to seeing you there!

Hello dear Challengers, if you wish to join the Limmat swim and strengthen your body, join me to that swim. I will give you a short introduction on the "why" you should do it and then you will tell me if you want to do it. I am a trained lifeguard (SLRG), I did also the Hypothermia Module and I am swimming in the cold since 2015. Take with you all the necessary to swim, flip/flop, safe buoy (something like the orange donut here below, if you have it) and a Thermos. https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/a/7/5/600_466843637.jpeg See you there! Massimo ps: Limmat temperature https://www.zh.ch/de/umwelt-tiere/wasser-gewaesser/messdaten/wassertemperaturen.html

**🔎** **The event** **The weather looks beautiful this upcoming Friday, perfect weather to be outside! We will meet in Kurpark from 18:00 onwards until whatever time people feel like. The plan is simply to have a nice time together and enjoy the sunshine :-)** **🧺** **What to bring:** * **A good mood and an interest in other people** * **Warm clothes in case it gets colder later during the evening** * ***Optional:*** **drinks and/or food to share, picnic cloth, games, etc.** **📍** **Where:** **We meet in the park, behind the casino, near the fountain -** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/uLRZEmbWRyyFKfj2A](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uLRZEmbWRyyFKfj2A)**.** **Note: we are still looking for a location where grilling is als possible, so the location might still change :).** **⌛** **Time:** **From 18:00 onwards.** **💬** **Event WhatsApp Group:** **See here the link to an event-specific WhatsApp group:** ***https://chat.whatsapp.com/IX2ZCXznqN06LRhZ7WPHsm*** **Hope to see you there!** **Cheers,** **Moniek**

Open Sharing Circle ✨ *** **Wichtig: Bitte sei pünktlich, damit der Austausch möglichst nicht gestört wird :)** 🌤️ Ort & Wetter Ob wir uns draussen oder drinnen treffen, entscheide ich am Samstag basierend aufs Wetter. Update kommt via Meetup + WhatsApp. ☀️ Outdoor (warm & sonnig): Bullingerhof. Bring eine Decke/Yogamatte, einen warmen Pulli und dein Lieblingsspiel wenn du eines hast. 🏠 Indoor (kalt oder Regen): 25hours Hotel Zürich West. Gemütlich drinnen – Nimm dein Lieblingsspiel mit, wenn du eines hast. _____________ Dieser Circle findet auf Deutsch statt. Wir kommen zusammen, um im Moment präsent zu sein und uns so zu zeigen, wie wir wirklich sind. Die Intention ist, in einem sicheren und vertrauensvollen Raum zu teilen — Gedanken, Emotionen, Ziele, Meinungen — alles, was sich für dich im Moment lebendig anfühlt. Niemand muss etwas teilen, und jede\*r ist willkommen. ⸻ Worum geht es? • Stärkung von Selbstwahrnehmung & Selbstvertrauen • Persönliches Wachstum • Aufbau tiefer Beziehungen & Vertrauen • Menschen auf einer echten, menschlichen Ebene kennenlernen • Sich frei fühlen, sich authentisch auszudrücken ⸻ Circle-Vereinbarungen Frei & freiwillig Du darfst alles teilen, was du möchtest — und musst nichts teilen. Sprich aus deiner eigenen Erfahrung Teile aus deiner persönlichen Perspektive: deine Erfahrungen, Gedanken, Gefühle und Wahrnehmungen. Der Raumhalter kann dich dabei sanft unterstützen, indem er als Zeichen eine Hand auf die Brust legt. Respekt & Vertraulichkeit Wir begegnen uns respektvoll und ohne zu urteilen. Was im Circle geteilt wird, bleibt im Circle. Rede-Objekt Nur die Person, die das Rede-Objekt hält, spricht. Verständnisfragen sind willkommen. Redezeit & Raum teilen Nimm dir Zeit beim Teilen und lass gleichzeitig Raum für andere. Ratschläge & Unterstützung Sprich für dich selbst und gib Ratschläge nur mit Einverständnis. Bitte frage ausdrücklich nach, wenn du Ratschläge oder Unterstützung möchtest. Trigger & Emotionen Jede\*r ist für die eigenen Gefühle und Themen selbst verantwortlich. Starke Emotionen (z. B. Weinen) sind willkommen und werden respektiert. Unterstützung wird nur angeboten, wenn sie gewünscht ist. Eigene Bedürfnisse Kümmere dich selbst um deine Bedürfnisse (WC, Essen usw.) und respektiere den Gruppenraum. Raumhalter Das Organisationsteam wählt Raumhalter, die den Ablauf des Circles unterstützen und darauf achten, dass die Vereinbarungen eingehalten werden. Der Circle kann bei Bedarf sanft unterbrochen werden. Fokusrunde Der Raumhalter kann intuitiv eine kurze Fokusrunde initiieren, wenn es unterstützend wirkt. Mobiltelefone Bitte schalte dein Handy auf lautlos und nutze es nur für Notizen, falls nötig. Zeit Dauer: ca. 3 Stunden. Du kannst jederzeit gehen, idealerweise während der Pausen (etwa alle 45 Minuten). Nach dem Circle gibt es Raum, um zu bleiben, sich zu verbinden oder weiter zu teilen, wenn du magst. Teilnahme CHF 5 Basisbeitrag + freiwillige Kollekte. Damit unterstützt ihr Organisation und ermöglicht es uns, den Sharing Circle möglichst vielen Menschen zugänglich zu machen. Bezahlung: Bar vor Ort oder per Twint an +41 79 123 16 74

Deutsch: In dieser Übungsgruppe üben wir verschiedene Methoden des Yuan Qigong-Systems. Yuan Qigong ist eine sichere und sehr effektive chinesische Methode der Selbstheilung und Lebenskultivierung. Es ein zentraler Bestandteil von [REN XUE](https://www.renxue.ch/) – einem Weg der Lebenskultivierung, mit dem wir uns erarbeiten können, was wirklich zählt: Gesundheit, Wohlbefinden, Freude, persönliches Wachstum und die Fähigkeit, anderen damit zu helfen. Anfänger und Neugierige können gut einsteigen. **Inkl.: Kaffee, Mittagessen & z'Vieri am Nachmittag.** English: In this practice group, we explore various methods of the **Yuan Qigong** system. Yuan Qigong is a safe and highly effective Chinese method for self-healing and life cultivation. It is a core pillar of **[REN XUE](https://renxue.ch/)** — a path of life cultivation that allows us to work toward what truly matters: health, well-being, joy, personal growth, and the ability to help others. Beginners and those curious to learn are more than welcome to join. **Includes:** Coffee, Lunch & afternoon snack (z’Vieri).

Hi everyone! Wanna Dance into the Weekend? This Saturday we will have an energetic and fun Afrodance Workout class with Vanessa to your favourite Afrobeats, Dancehall and Brazilian tunes. No dance experience needed, easy-to-follow class and for beginners! 💃🏻 Always a great group of people coming together to enjoy the dance moves, the good vibes, music and to sweat it out together. First free class - please book your spot When and Where: Saturdays, 10:30-11:30 Location: Offdance Studio Zweierstrasse 106 8003 Zürich Big dance studio with changing rooms and showers. Please [sign up here](https://afroworkout.as.me/free-class) to reserve your free Afrodance Workout class [https://afroworkout.as.me/free-class](https://afroworkout.as.me/free-class) There will be always more people in a class than shown on Meet up. Don‘t hesitate to sign up! Contact Vanessa for any questions! 079 324 16 61 Can‘t wait! Check daily updates on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/afroworkout.ch?igsh=dnV2Y28yMmVna3F2&utm_source=qr) Website for more information and class info [https://www.afroworkout.ch](https://www.afroworkout.ch) Move, Dance and Stay Fit to Afrobeats!

**Join us for a refreshing Saturday morning cold-water swim at Katzensee!** We’ll meet at **9:00 AM** at the usual spot by the lake, do a short warm-up, and then go into the water together. All levels are welcome — beginners and experienced winter swimmers. **What to bring:** * warm hat * towel * water shoes (optional) * warm clothes for after the swim * a thermos with tea (optional) We’ll swim for a short time, enjoy the fresh morning energy, and warm up together afterwards. If you’re ready to start your weekend with nature, cold water, and good people — join us!

**Skip the waiting list by sending me an email of confirmation of your donation** Hi everyone, Join us on a hike to the thermal waters of the Tamina Gorge caves, an award-winning 2020 Tripadvisor destination: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g198797-d1474082-Reviews-Tamina_Gorge-Bad_Ragaz_Canton_of_St_Gallen.html The hike is around 5 h long, intermediate fitness level, 460 m elevation, 15 km. We will walk up the bus route (no cars allowed), cross a natural bridge and back by the mountain next to it. Entry to the caves is 5 CHF, we will buy the tickets at the museum. You can bring lunch or order at the self-service restaurant at the museum. Train schedule: see photo Zurich HB-Bad Ragaz (from 14 CHF) Meeting point is under the blue angel 15 min before the train leaves. I will join you at Bad Ragaz train station. **Booking system:** Mandatory donation of 10 CHF to your favourite charity. To secure your spot or move from the waiting list to the going list, please send me a confirmation of your donation to [[[[[laurameetup@yahoo.com](mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com)]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/))]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/))]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/))]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/)) Alternatively, you can donate here: [Zurich Weekends and Hiking | Schweizerisches Rotes Kreuz](https://actnow.redcross.ch/en-GB/project/zurich-weekends-and-hiking?tab=overview) Check out our Facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/share/15HuDGWwiM/?mibextid=wwXIfr](https://www.facebook.com/share/15HuDGWwiM/?mibextid=wwXIfr) Cancelled in case of bad weather. Minimum: 5 persons with confirmed donation; max:15 See you, Laura

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy nature! We meet Saturdays at 10am, by the bike racks and benches 150 feet in front of BUBBLES Hair Salon in Reston, leaving no later than 10:05. Every week we'll walk the Green Trail to Lake Anne Plaza (\~1 mile), pause there for 5-10 minutes (water, bio, and from April-Nov a Farmer's Market), then circle the lake (2 miles) before returning to our starting point. It's roughly 3.5 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to a local restaurant to refuel and relax before tackling the rest of the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels, and both friends and dogs are always welcome! We recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water bottle, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll always walk, rain or shine. By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.

Here's a wonderful opportunity to visit the Galapagos Islands and see those huge tortoises, blue-footed boobies (birds) and the great frigate birds whose red pouches from the males get inflated like a balloon when they court! #### Independent Package Includes: * Round trip flights Miami-Quito, Quito-Miami * All intra-flights: Quito-Baltra & Baltra-Quito * 6 nights accommodations * 3 nights Quito * 3 nights Galapagos Islands * Hotel taxes, fees & service charges * All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates† * 9 meals: 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches * Services of English-speaking local guides * Services of English-speaking naturalist guides in the Galapagos * Shore excursions * Tips for porters, wait staff & local guides on included services * Galapagos National Park fee of $200 * Galapagos Transit Control Card fee of $20 **Special Features** * Embark on a journey to the beginning of time in the Galapagos Archipelago of volcanic islands * Tour the Charles Darwin Research Center to learn about their preservation goals * View the iconic Pinnacle Rock, a towering lava structure on Bartolomé Island * Explore areas with blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and sea lions †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates if pre/post accommodations are booked with the tour company. **Not Included:** Optional tours and gratuities (unless otherwise specified). #### Is This Trip Right for You? #### **Uniqueness of Destination:** The Galapagos Islands' power grid is supplied by a mix of diesel generators and renewable sources, which can lead to inconsistent air conditioning during periods of high heat and humidity. #### **Things to Consider:** There are multiple early mornings. Getting to the Galapagos requires a flight from Quito to the Island of Baltra, where you will transfer to the Baltra Seaport and travel by boat to Santa Cruz Island. In the Galapagos, it takes approximately two hours on foot to get to and from the areas populated with wildlife. Small boats require agility to embark and disembark. This tour includes animal-related activities which carry inherent risks, as animal behavior can be unpredictable. You may choose not to participate. This tour visits areas of high elevations in Quito (9,300 feet), which may be a consideration for those who have heart conditions or are otherwise affected by height. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider. This tour is not recommended for people who have difficulty walking. #### **Transportation:** Modes of travel will include a boat and a panga (dinghy). #### **Pace:** Expect 3-4 hours of walking on included sightseeing days, as well as considerable time standing. #### **Terrain:** On this tour, you may need to walk on rough, rocky trails and challenging terrain, navigate steep steps or slopes, and encounter cobblestone streets. You will experience wet landings in water, on sand, rocks, and dry landings on wooden docks. #### **Travel Style:** **This is an independent program and does not include the services of a tour manager.** **CHECK VISA REQUIREMENTS**: www.cibtvisas.com (You are under no obligation to use this vendor; do your own research; this is just to check to see if a visa is needed) COST: From $2399/pp Land & Air fr. Miami: From $3009/pp; Airfare out of all Washington DC airports are the same price as of today 1/19/26. Single Supplement $450 Non-Refundable Deposit: $300/pp Final Payment Date: 2/8/26 **HOW TO GET BOOKED AS PART OF OUR GROUP:** Email me the following information for each passenger to [Supra1214@aol.com:](http://Supra1214@aol.com/) 1. Your full name as it appears in your passport 2. Your mailing address 3. Your telephone number 4. Your email address 5. Your date of birth 6. Your passport number & expiration dates 7. Your emergency contact info (Name and phone number) 8. Type of cabin needed (single or double; interior, oceanview or balcony). If double, provide the same information for your roommate. 9. Signed credit card authorization (will email upon receipt of items 1-8) **PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT** Participants in this event should note the Liability Waiver in the PAGES section of this Meetup group. Please read it carefully. Members of this group are expected to conduct themselves in a way that is mindful and considerate of the health, safety, and welfare of themselves and other participants in any Active Friends Travel With Friends of the World Meetup activity. It is understood that you have voluntarily chosen to participate in this activity of your own free will. By joining this group and this activity, you agree to the Liability Waiver in the Pages section of this Meetup group.

Join us for another optional writing session! Feel free to bring a project you're already working on or start something new with us. If anything interesting comes up while you're writing, you can share it with the group, but no pressure!

**Sign up with volunteer information here:** **[https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0444AAAA2FA6F58-62378301-viva](https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0444AAAA2FA6F58-62378301-viva)** **If you have additional questions, feel free to email the volunteer coordinator, Fred, at [volunteer@vivavienna.org](volunteer@vivavienna.org)** Help out with the Viva Vienna Festival. Lots of fun for the community and they raised $300,000 for charity last year. Volunteer dates: Friday evening May 22 until Monday evening May 25 -Most shifts are only two hours long. -No experience is necessary. -Because the festival is entirely organized and run by volunteers, all proceeds go to charity. -The Rotary Club of Vienna, in concert with the Town of Vienna, has been running *ViVa! Vienna!* for 42 years. -Each year the proceeds from *ViVa! Vienna!* support over 70 local charitable organizations. [https://vivavienna.org/](https://vivavienna.org/)

Meet new friends and enjoy a **medium/low difficulty hike** at Ball’s Bluff Regional Park! This hike focuses on good conversation and fresh air as we hike through wooded trails, with scenic views of the Potomac River. It’s a perfect way to connect with others who love the outdoors and take in the natural beauty of Leesburg during this 3-hour hike. Ball’s Bluff Regional Park is a hidden gem rich in history and natural beauty. The park features winding forest trails, scenic river views, and quiet spots perfect for taking a break or chatting with fellow hikers. Once the site of a Civil War battle, it’s now a serene place to enjoy nature and experience a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown Leesburg. **Meeting Time & Location:** 9:30 AM at the **Ball's Bluff Regional Park Parking Lot**. **Distance:** 5.34 miles (approximately) **Elevation Gain:** 643 feet **Difficulty:** Moderate Hike This hike features natural trails with moderate difficulty, including some elevation gains. We recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes to navigate this terrain comfortably. **Estimated Duration:** 3 hours. **Waitlist Policy** To keep things fair, hikers will be moved off the waitlist in this order: **1\. Regular Hikers:** Those who join hikes often get first priority. **2\. Past Hikers:** Next are returning hikers, based on attendance and cancellation history. Frequent cancellations may lower priority. **3\. New Hikers:** New members will be added as space allows. **Age Requirement:** **Children under 18 are not permitted** to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **Pace:** Moderate. We'll walk a steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment. **Trail Map:** [Ball's Bluff - 5.34mi loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ball-s-bluff-red-and-orange-loop-0010dae?u=i&sh=mdqqtd) **Restrooms:** Restrooms are not available on this hike. **Lunch After the Hike:** After we wrap up our hike, we invite you to join us for a relaxed lunch together. We'll meet for a casual lunch at **[Vanish Farmwoods Brewery,](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)** *[42245 Black Hops Lane](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)* *[Leesburg, VA 20176](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)*