Friendships

Този път нямаме лектор, презентация и без "може ли да се върнем на предишния слайд". Събираме се за бира и разговори с готини хора от Xcoders Sofia! 🗓️ 18 февруари от 19:00 📍 Barter - Community Hub, бул. Черни връх 47

For full details AND also to sign up, please click here to see the event listed on our London group: https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/310645424/

**Trip Full BUT we've now added our 2027 date which still has spaces - secure your spot now for this exciting adventure:** [https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/312971297](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/312971297) Discover a winter wonderland where soft snow covers rugged peaks, glacial lakes lie frozen and ancient forests hum with quiet serenity. Welcome to the majestic Rila Mountains – the highest and most breathtaking range in the entire Balkan peninsula. Dotted with glacial lakes, icy waterfalls, and soaring summits, Rila is a place of raw, untamed beauty just waiting to be explored. On this snowshoeing journey, we will immerse ourselves in the serenity of this unique landscape. Wander through deep conifer forests, marvel at frozen waterfalls and explore the mystical Seven Rila Lakes - a cluster of glacial jewels nestled high in the mountains. With an experienced guide leading the way, we’ll learn snowshoeing techniques while embracing the tranquility of nature, punctuated only by the crunch of snow beneath our feet in this crisp and awe inspiring landscape. Join us and walk in the footsteps of ancient Thracians who first named these mountains, experiencing a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years! **HIGHLIGHTS** • Just 2 days off work for a 3-night winter escape • No winter mountain experience required - perfect for anyone who has never snowshoed before • Marvel at the frozen cascades of Skakavitsa Waterfall, the highest in the Rila Mountains at 1,750m • Snowshoe across the vast Rila National Park – Europe's sixth-highest mountain range and Bulgaria's most spectacular winter wilderness, covered in snow from October to April/May • Hike past the frozen glacial Seven Rila Lakes, each with its own legendary story • Learn snowshoeing with experienced English-speaking local guide. • Discover Sofia’s vibrant history and culture, from Roman ruins to modern boulevards. • Small group adventure, limited to just 8 participants • Stay in cozy hotels - with twin bedded en suite rooms • Rest in the mountain resort of Panichishte at 1,350 meters offering breathtaking views of Rila National Park • Flexible itinerary: Relax at a mineral spa if weather impacts hiking plans **HOLIDAY DESCRIPTION** The Rila Mountains – Bulgaria’s crown jewel and the sixth-highest mountain range in Europe – offer a winter landscape unlike any other. Glacial peaks, icy cascades, and centuries-old pine forests create a serene and otherworldly setting for our adventure. On this trip, we’ll snowshoe across spectacular, crisp snowy trails in Rila National Park, where ancient legends and breathtaking scenery converge. Admire frozen waterfalls tumbling from rugged cliffs, traverse snowy ridges with panoramic views, and discover the mystical Seven Rila Lakes, frozen into a shimmering wonderland. Guided by an experienced local mountain guide, we’ll learn to snowshoe with confidence while soaking in snow-covered wilderness and the peaceful stillness of winter. Our frozen magic concludes in Sofia, Bulgaria’s historic and cultural heart, where vibrant streets, ancient ruins, and cozy cafes invite you to explore at your own pace. From the thundering Skakavitsa Waterfall to the mythical Seven Rila Lakes, we'll experience a winter wonderland that few travelers ever get to see. **Important Notes** This trip is ideal for beginners to snowshoeing with a good level of fitness and some experience of mountain hikes. Hiking boots with ankle protection and proper winter clothing are essential. Snowshoes require hiking boots to attach securely. **ITINERARY** **Friday** Arrive at Sofia Airport and transfer to Panichishte – a peaceful mountain resort nestled at 1,350m on the edge of Rila National Park. Surrounded by ancient pine woods and dramatic landscapes, our mountain hotel offers stunning views of the snowy peaks. After check-in, enjoy a warm traditional Bulgarian dinner and relax before the winter magic begins. **Saturday** Hike: Skakavitsa Waterfall (1750m) Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours After breakfast, we strap on our snowshoes and begin our journey into the magical winter landscape, following the gentle flow of the Skakavitsa River. We trek through ancient conifer forests, feeling the snow crunch beneath our feet as sunlight filters through frosted branches, the air crisp and filled with the soothing sound of running water. Our destination is the majestic Skakavitsa Waterfall thundering 70 meters through a cathedral of centuries-old white pine forests. In winter, its cascading waters freeze into a stunning curtain of glistening ice, surrounded by the silence of winter – a true playground for ice climbers and a breathtaking sight for adventurers. Return to our cozy hotel in Panichishte for a well-earned evening of relaxation and warm dinner. **Sunday** Hike: Seven Rila Lakes Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours Today, we set off to explore one of the most iconic places in Bulgaria – the Seven Rila Lakes. Nestled between sharp, rocky ridges at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, these stunning glacial lakes sparkle like gems in the alpine landscape. After a scenic chairlift ride with sweeping views of the snow-covered peaks, we begin our snowshoe hike through this breathtaking glacial valley. Each lake carries a poetic name reflecting its unique character: Salzata ("The Tear") with its crystal-clear waters, Okoto ("The Eye") as the deepest cirque lake in Bulgaria, Babreka ("The Kidney") with its steep shores. In winter, these lakes transform into a frozen wonderland, their surfaces a glittering canvas of white and blue. Local legend speaks of two giants, lovers turned to stone, whose endless grief created these pristine waters – a romantic tale that adds mystical depth to our adventure. In the evening, we'll transfer to Sofia, where our guided trip ends and you'll have a free evening to self explore Bulgaria's vibrant capital nightlife - a city where ancient Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and modern boulevards coexist in harmonious contrast. **Monday** After breakfast, enjoy some free time to self explore Sofia at your own pace - wander through ancient ruins, visit bustling markets, or admire the stunning mix of mosques, cathedrals, and modern architecture. Then take a short metro ride or taxi to the airport for your flight back home. **COST & PAYMENT** £397 Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. When the trip is sold out fully paid spaces can be advertised to the same gender, for details: [FAQ](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) **START AND END TIME** Times are local time i.e. the times for Bulgaria are in Bulgarian time. We suggest the inbound group flights below. For anyone on these flights or at the airport at this time we arrange a complimentary transfer to the accommodation at 1:50pm, this collection is from TERMINAL 1 arrivals area. If you arrive later, you’ll need to make your own way to the accommodation. Flights are not part of the package and are suggested for convenience only - if your chosen flight is cancelled or disrupted, you remain responsible for reaching the meeting point and should ensure your travel insurance covers travel disruption. Inbound flight 20.02.2026 1\. Easyjet London Gatwick \(LGW\) 06:00 \- Sofia Terminal 1 \(SOF\) 11:05 Flight EZY6591 2\. Ryanair London Stansted \(STN\) 05:55 \- Sofia Terminal 2 \(SOF\) 11:20 Flight FR1730 3\. Wizzair London Luton \(LTN\) 08:20 \- Sofia Terminal 1 \(SOF\) 13:30 Flight W64302 **RETURN** The trip ends at the hotel in Sofia and you can make your own way to the airport. The cheapest way to do this is via metro (underground) and it costs about 0.80 Euros taking around 30 minutes, taxis are also cheap. Please book onward flights with a comfortable buffer, as we are not responsible for missed connections; your travel insurance should cover delays or disruption. **FOOD** Breakfast will be provided each day. We will stop by a local grocery shop where you can buy your favourite items for lunches. For dinner you can explore the local cuisine. Vegetarian food can be catered for, vegan cannot in the mountain hotel but can be in the Sofia hotel. Some dietary requirements such as nut free and gluten free cannot be catered for. We need to be aware of all dietary requirements prior to booking, please email us to verify if they can be catered for first: info@outdooraholics.co.uk **THE PRICE INCLUDES:** • 3 nights hotel accommodation in twin en suite rooms • Complimentary airport transfer at the start for everyone taking the suggested flight option • Private minibus transport throughout the trip and back to Sofia • Breakfast each day • Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection • Hikes by an experienced local Mountain Guide (Outdoor First Aider) **THE PRICE EXCLUDES:** • Flights • Dinners, drinks and lunches • Chair lift - approx 15 Euros • Hire of snow poles and snowshoes - 20 Euros • Metro to Sofia Airport on Monday (approx 1 Euro) **INSURANCE** It is essential that you have travel insurance that covers the cost of emergency medical treatment and also the activity of snowshoeing (up to 3000m in this case). Your insurance must also cover cancellation, curtailment, and travel disruption (for example if you cannot reach the start of the trip due to cancelled or delayed flights). You will be required to provide a copy of this before the trip. Without it we cannot accept you onto the trip and no refund will be due in this case. Outdooraholics cannot verify policies or what they cover so please confirm with your insurer. The guide accepting your policy is not an indication that we confirm it is valid or covers what we list, only your insurers can confirm this. There are lots of insurers who cover snowshoeing, for example the BMC: [LINK](https://www.thebmc.co.uk/insurance) You will also need to ensure you have all valid documents to visit this country including a passport and Visa if you require one. Bulgaria is within the EU. **SAFETY** \- Your guide is a trained hike leader\. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury\. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes\, waterproof jacket and trousers \-[ CLOTHING TIPS](https://www.londonhiking.co.uk/Equipment.pdf) [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Foreign trips](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/foreigntriplist.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) **[TERMS AND CONDITIONS](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditions.pdf)** \- By signing up or attending you agree to these © Outdooraholics Ltd 2026 E & OE

**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 35+ cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats) **Stay updated**: Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/) Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/) LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/) Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC) Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)

Този път нямаме лектор, презентация и без "може ли да се върнем на предишния слайд". Събираме се за бира и разговори с готини хора от Xcoders Sofia! 🗓️ 18 февруари от 19:00 📍 Barter - Community Hub, бул. Черни връх 47

​​**IMPORTANT: If you were not able to join our previous session on the 13th of December, we are re-doing the workshop with the SAME CONTENT, so more people can experience building AI apps using Redis AI products.** ​**​What?** ​​Redis AI workshop is a hands-on session with Redis AI products ​**​Why?** ​​Redis AI is a game-changer in the world of AI and machine learning **Where?** ​​Sofia, Synergy Tower, Boulevard "Tsarigradsko Shose" 111P, 1784 ​**​When?** ​​19th of February at 18:00 ​​ *Let’s run some live coding sessions together, where each participant can experiment with Redis LangCache, vector caching, and related features using their preferred programming language* ​**Workshop Agenda:** ​​17:30 - 18:00 Registration Session 1 ​​18:00 - 18:30 - Workshop intro and core concepts 18:30 - 19:15 - Coding Session 1 **Session 2** ​​ 19:15 - 19:30 - Recap and intro to Session 2 19:30 - 20:15 - Coding Session 2 **Session 3** ​​20:15 - 20:30 - Recap and intro to Session 3 20:30 - 21:15 - Coding Session 3 21:15 - 21:30 - Wrap up and Q&A 21:30 - 23:00 - Pizza and Networking ​**​*Bring your good coding mood and your own laptop with pre-installed containerization software (Docker, Podman, etc.)***

Based on my MBA research, this talk explores the current state of Agile adoption in Greek organizations. Drawing on survey data from executives and Agile team members, it examines how Agile is practiced today, which frameworks are in use, what success looks like and where things quietly start to break down. The research reveals a growing gap between how leaders believe Agile is working and how teams actually experience it. Using a data-driven lens, we explore the real challenges of scaling Agile in Greece, the underestimated role of culture and people, and what it takes to build truly adaptive, innovation-driven organizations. While the data was collected in Greece, the findings are compared with some of Europe’s most mature Agile environments, particularly Denmark and the Netherlands. This comparison places the Greek ecosystem in a broader EU context, distinguishing local constraints from universal Agile challenges and highlighting what can realistically be adapted. **What you’ll take away** * Uncover critical perception gaps, such as the ‘Culture Blind Spot’, that are holding teams back without leadership realizing it. * See the shared roadmap executives and teams actually agree on for scaling Agile beyond pilots and isolated successes * Identify the human factors currently undervalued, contributing to stalled innovation in the majority of organisations and talent loss eventually. * Learn how to move beyond the ‘delivery’ toward healthier, more resilient organizations This session is ideal for leaders, managers, Agile practitioners, and anyone interested in the future of work and organizational agility.

Hi New Gay Friends! I am excited to announce our February 2026 event! * **Where:** Astoria restaurant, Fresco’s Grand Cantina (28-50 31st St, Astoria, NY) - we will be in their upstairs event space * **When:** Thursday, February 26th * **Time:** starting at 7pm and scheduled until 10pm This event promises to be a great opportunity for socializing, sharing a beverage, and most importantly, to make some New Gay Friends! Please remember to keep your RSVP to the event updated in case you are no longer able to attend. Reach out to me if you have any questions. As always, our events are open to all. Hope to see you there! Your organizer, Joe

**💕 Speed Dating for Introverts – No Awkward Crowds, Just Meaningful Connections!** 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Shy or introverted singles looking for romance - Professionals who prefer meaningful dialogue - Those tired of superficial dating scenes - People who want genuine connections without pressure **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – introvert-friendly & intimate - **Location:** Anywhere you feel comfortable (home, café, etc.) - **Host:** Friendly & understanding host who gets the introvert experience - **Pressure-free:** Genuine chats with like-minded New York City singles – no pressure, just possibilities **Age Groups & Registration** - **Ages 20-36** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=376.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=New%20York%20City&groupurlname=long-term-valentines-group&ar=20-36) - **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=376.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=New%20York%20City&groupurlname=long-term-valentines-group&ar=30-46) - **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=376.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=New%20York%20City&groupurlname=long-term-valentines-group&ar=40-58) - **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=376.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=New%20York%20City&groupurlname=long-term-valentines-group&ar=55+) **How It Works** 1. Select Your Age Range - Register for the session perfect for you. 2. Complete a Quick Compatibility Quiz - Help us find your ideal matches. 3. Enjoy Speed Dating Conversations - Meet compatible singles in 5-minute rounds. 4. Make a Connection - Discover someone special from New York City in a judgment-free zone. --- ✨ Love shouldn't require you to be someone you're not. Join us today! ✨

Let's get together and spend some time getting to know each while having a cuppa and/or a bite to eat. Join us for some laughs and conversation with new friends and getting to know each other better. Place: Short Hills Mall - 1st floor outside of Nordstrom Location: 1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills, NJ Let's meet at the tables outside of Nordstrom on the first floor. You can grab coffee/tea at the Nordstrom EBar if you want. If you do not like that place, there are plenty of other places in the mall to get coffee/tea or you can always bring your own! Hope you make it we can't wait to know you a little better!

Topic: "BOOKING TIME" Meetup is in our Living Room in West Orange, NJ (street address sent to NEWBIES 3-7 days ahead of the event) We gather at 7:30 for 30 min of refreshments (and wine), and chit chat, and then spend 90 min in an informal, facilitated discussion based on the assigned podcasts # **Please listen to the 5 [Short] podcasts below before the meetup** 1. Do you book time for books? 2. What kinds of books call you -- Fiction or non-fiction? 3. What is your favorite reading genre? 4. How old were you when you discovered the joy of reading? What got you into reading? 5. What benefits do you derive from reading? Are the benefits the same from an audible book? 6. Did you feel the podcasts captured the reasons for reading? 7. How do you feel if you don't find the time to read? ============================================================= **[1] TED** **Why Reading Matters (14 min)** Speaking is already in our genes. But reading is not. Until about 100 years ago most people didn't do it all. When we read fiction especially, we create new pathways in our brain. Reading 30 pages of fiction every night gets the pathways thicker and thicker. Our brain needs a workout just like our body. [https://www.ted.com/talks/rita_carter_why_reading_matters](https://www.ted.com/talks/rita_carter_why_reading_matters) **[2] TED** **How Books Can Open Your Mind. (6 min)** What happens when a dream you've held since childhood ... doesn't come true? As Lisa Bu adjusted to a new life in the United States, she turned to books to expand her mind and create a new path for herself. She shares her unique approach to reading in this lovely, personal talk about the magic of books. [https://www.ted.com/dubbing/lisa_bu_how_books_can_open_your_mind?language=en&subtitle=en&audio=en](https://www.ted.com/dubbing/lisa_bu_how_books_can_open_your_mind?language=en&subtitle=en&audio=en) **[3] Monday Mindset** **The Importance of Reading for a Restful Life (34 min)** This week, Daisy shares an episode from Kwik Brain about the importance of reading for a restful life. Listening to audio books is one of her favourite things to do, so she was thrilled to find out how great it is for her health and wellbeing! [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-importance-of-reading-for-a-restful-life/id1515803126?i=1000699468971](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-importance-of-reading-for-a-restful-life/id1515803126?i=1000699468971) **[4 and 5] Read More, Read Well** **Episode 1 Radical Reading. (10min)** Can reading be radical? It can be if you engage with literature, and let it change you. In today's episode, Janel is joined by Courtney LoCoco, and they discuss how reading and discussing worthy books can be a radical endeavor in a world that is so loud and distracting. [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-reading-episode-1/id1474148409?i=1000647595657](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-reading-episode-1/id1474148409?i=1000647595657) **Episode 2. Radical Reading (10 min)** When we read and discuss great books, they change us, and we in turn bring that change out into the world. Janel and Courtney are back in "Radical Reading: Episode 2" to talk about how radical reading touches you and stays with you throughout your life...even to the point of influencing your vacation destinations! The difficult question is, though, how do we make room for radical reading in our busy lives? [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-reading-episode-2/id1474148409?i=1000648417618](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-reading-episode-2/id1474148409?i=1000648417618) ============================================================== **For newbies (and we love new people/ new voices):** the street address will be sent to you \~3-7 days before the event (lots of street parking) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Only sign up if you plan to show up (or risk being tarred and feathered).** * If you can't make it-- please change your RSVP from YES to NO as early as possible so that others can get in * $2 on-site for refreshments/cover the annual fees for the meetup site.

Start your day with some good coffee and even better company. ☕😄 The purpose of this group is to meet people from all over New York and from all over world. Some people might be new to the area and some might have lived here for a long time. There's no set topics and no sales are allowed. Also please be kind and curious if someone disagrees with you. On Wednesday, February 18th, we’ll meet from 7:30am to 9am at Devoción's Midtown location, which is located at 600 Lexington Avenue. You’re welcome to join and leave whenever you’d like. (Fouad, the host, will have a sky blue and white winter hat and a black coat.) Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jerihp1ZB3T29mxJ6 Everyone is welcome. If you’re attending, you must purchase one item as the coffee shop is graciously hosting us. Each person is responsible for their own expenses. There are no table reservations at Devoción so hopefully you can get a seat when you arrive. The not so fun rule on RSVPs: Please only RSVP if you think you can make it and adjust your RSVP asap if anything changes (as there are other people who would like your spot). Two no shows or cancellations within 6 hours results in a 4 month ban. I will send a reminder 24 hours in advance to the group. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

✨ **Concept:** Bringing together friendly strangers with shared interests. 🤝 **Purpose:** Build meaningful connections, grow your network, make new friends 📅 **When:** Wednesday, 7:00 PM 📝 **How it works:** A small, curated gathering. You’ll fill out a short form so we can match you with the right group. 👉**IG**: [samstribe_nyc](https://www.instagram.com/p/DSDlTK6kmff/) **📩RSVP:** Info@samstribe.us - Limited spots available. 🌐[samstribe.us](https://www.samstribe.us/)

**Sips for Scholars** is taking over the West Village with a high-energy afternoon bar crawl — and you’re invited. Expect drink specials at every stop, drinking games, bingo challenges, and a crowd that actually wants to meet people. We’ll kick things off at **Amity Hall**, make our way through multiple West Village hot spots, and end at **Down the Hatch** — with prizes, surprises, and chaos (the fun kind) along the way. 🎟️ Your ticket includes: 🍺 Drink specials at every bar 🎯 A bingo card with challenges throughout the crawl 🎁 Raffle entry when you complete your card **Prizes include:** 🎉 A free 1-hour happy hour for you and your friends at 3 Sheets 🧘 Fyra Yoga class package ☕ Coffee shop gift cards 💆 Wellness spa prizes …and more! 💛 **Why It Matters** Every ticket directly supports **The Launch Initiative**, helping create educational opportunities for students. You’re not just bar crawling — you’re giving back. 👯 **Come As You Are (Or Bring the Crew)** The more, the merrier. Come with a group, come solo, or get creative with coordinated outfits or costumes. This crawl is built for connection — you’ll leave with new friends either way. 👉 **Tickets are limited — don’t be the friend who hears about it later.**