Field Trips

🛶 Discover one of Malta’s most iconic natural wonders on our Blue Grotto excursion, combining dramatic coastal views, a scenic sea-cave boat ride, and free time to explore the area at your own pace. Travel by private bus to the Blue Grotto, admire the famous turtle-shaped cave from the panoramic viewpoint, then enjoy a local boat ride through glowing sea caves where sunlight paints the water in shades of blue and emerald. After the boat tour, enjoy free time by the sea — relax, explore the village, have lunch, or take an optional swim in the Blue Grotto canal. If you like, it’s easy to connect with other international participants along the way, sharing the views and the experience. 📅 Every other Saturday 🕚 Meet at 10:30, departure at 11:00 📍 Meeting point: McDonald’s, Sliema 🚌 Return: around 16:00, same location 🌎 Who it’s for: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎟️ Online ticket required (limited spots), starting from €20, including: – Private bus transportation to and from the Blue Grotto – Scenic sea-cave boat ride – Guided walk and full team support – Event coordination and logistics 👉 Spots are limited due to transport — advance online booking on our website is required. Cliffs, sea caves, and crystal-clear waters await you along Malta’s coastline! Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/)

🌊 Explore one of Malta’s most iconic natural wonders on our Comino & Blue Lagoon excursion, an experience combining scenic cruising, Comino exploration, and free time in the famous crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. Travel by private bus and boat to Comino Island, where turquoise seas, rugged cliffs, sea caves, and Mediterranean landscapes create a truly unforgettable setting. The experience includes a short walk across Comino to discover the island’s landscapes, followed by extended free time at the Blue Lagoon to swim, relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the unique atmosphere. If you like, it’s easy to connect with other international participants along the way, through shared views, conversations, and the journey itself. 📅 Every other Saturday 🕚 Meet at 09:30, departure at 10:00 📍 Meeting point: McDonald’s, Sliema 🚌 Return: around 17:00, same location 🌎 Who it’s for: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎟️ Online ticket required (limited spots), starting from €20, including: – Private bus transportation to and from Ċirkewwa – Round-trip boat ride to and from Comino – Short guided walk on Comino – Full team support, coordination, and logistics 👉 Spots are limited due to transport — advance online booking on our website is required. LINK A full day of sea, nature, and unforgettable Mediterranean scenery awaits you! Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/)

🎵 Dance, socialize, and celebrate the weekend under the stars at Saturday Rooftop Party, a vibrant international night on one of Malta’s favorite rooftops. Set at the welcoming Marco Polo Rooftop, the night blends relaxed social vibes with an energetic party atmosphere. Whether you come solo or with friends, it’s easy to blend in, enjoy the music, and let the night unfold naturally. With two rooftop levels, you can choose your vibe — head upstairs for relaxed conversations and lounge energy, or stay on the main level for music, drinks, and dancing as the party builds throughout the night. 📅 Every Saturday, from 21:00 till late 📍 Marco Polo Rooftop, St Julian’s 🌎 Who joins: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎟️ Entry: 6€, including: – A free welcome shot or soft drink – Full access to the rooftop party – Glow-in-the-dark face painting – Until 22:30: friendly team support to help you meet new people, if you like 👉 No booking needed — just show up and enjoy the night. Arriving earlier means easier connections and better drink deals before it gets busy. Bring your best energy — Saturday night is for celebrating ✨ Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/)

🛶 Discover one of Malta’s most iconic natural wonders on our Blue Grotto excursion, combining dramatic coastal views, a scenic sea-cave boat ride, and free time to explore the area at your own pace. Travel by private bus to the Blue Grotto, admire the famous turtle-shaped cave from the panoramic viewpoint, then enjoy a local boat ride through glowing sea caves where sunlight paints the water in shades of blue and emerald. After the boat tour, enjoy free time by the sea — relax, explore the village, have lunch, or take an optional swim in the Blue Grotto canal. If you like, it’s easy to connect with other international participants along the way, sharing the views and the experience. 📅 Every other Saturday 🕚 Meet at 10:30, departure at 11:00 📍 Meeting point: McDonald’s, Sliema 🚌 Return: around 16:00, same location 🌎 Who it’s for: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎟️ Online ticket required (limited spots), starting from €20, including: – Private bus transportation to and from the Blue Grotto – Scenic sea-cave boat ride – Guided walk and full team support – Event coordination and logistics 👉 Spots are limited due to transport — advance online booking on our website is required. Cliffs, sea caves, and crystal-clear waters await you along Malta’s coastline! Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/)

🌊 Explore one of Malta’s most iconic natural wonders on our Comino & Blue Lagoon excursion, an experience combining scenic cruising, Comino exploration, and free time in the famous crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. Travel by private bus and boat to Comino Island, where turquoise seas, rugged cliffs, sea caves, and Mediterranean landscapes create a truly unforgettable setting. The experience includes a short walk across Comino to discover the island’s landscapes, followed by extended free time at the Blue Lagoon to swim, relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the unique atmosphere. If you like, it’s easy to connect with other international participants along the way, through shared views, conversations, and the journey itself. 📅 Every other Saturday 🕚 Meet at 09:30, departure at 10:00 📍 Meeting point: McDonald’s, Sliema 🚌 Return: around 17:00, same location 🌎 Who it’s for: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎟️ Online ticket required (limited spots), starting from €20, including: – Private bus transportation to and from Ċirkewwa – Round-trip boat ride to and from Comino – Short guided walk on Comino – Full team support, coordination, and logistics 👉 Spots are limited due to transport — advance online booking on our website is required. LINK A full day of sea, nature, and unforgettable Mediterranean scenery awaits you! Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/)

*📌Tickets to be bought on the [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/events-in-malta/excursions-in-malta/sunday-hike-malta/)* 👣 Discover Malta’s natural beauty on our Sunday Hiking Adventure, exploring hidden gems, Mediterranean landscapes, coastal paths, rugged cliffs, and some of the island’s most impressive outdoor areas. Along the way, it’s easy to meet new international people naturally while walking, sharing views, and experiencing the trail together — whether you come alone or with friends. It’s a chance to move, breathe fresh air, connect with nature, and experience a more authentic side of Malta - all while spending your Sunday outdoors. 📅 Every Sunday 🕚 Meet at 10:30, departure at 11:00 📍 Meeting point: McDonald’s, Sliema 🚌 Return: around 16:30, same location 🌎 Who joins: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎯 The hiking destination changes weekly — find the full list of upcoming locations on our website. 🎟️ Online ticket required (limited spots), starting from €12.50, including: – Private bus transportation to and from the hiking area – Guided hike and full team support – Event coordination and logistics 👉 Spots are limited due to transport — advance online booking via our website is required. On spot, cash payment is possible but it's €20, and is not reccomended as the trip can be soldout. Check our website for an online ticket and FAQ. After the hike, those who wish often join for drinks or food together — a relaxed and spontaneous way to unwind and continue the social vibe. See you on the trail! Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/events-in-malta/excursions-in-malta/sunday-hike-malta/)

Bring the Boardgame that you like, or join a game that others bring! Location is to be finalized and confirmed here and in the group. It will happen in Sliema, at St. Gregory Club Lounge on the Triq Mons. G. Depiro! Link to the location on Google Maps: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/3FSTsLZ9LsC2XtsC8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/3FSTsLZ9LsC2XtsC8?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExdzlxWW0ydHR4VTBIYlhUWnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7QdS7_as7KomonOrpkpREIZ26IwcJLjp7uq2H8wGrV1sVQSWOOBcgHm57nzg_aem_8rHeZxd7t45p2U7R-Azmbg) There are NO FEES!

🎵 Dance, socialize, and celebrate the weekend under the stars at Saturday Rooftop Party, a vibrant international night on one of Malta’s favorite rooftops. Set at the welcoming Marco Polo Rooftop, the night blends relaxed social vibes with an energetic party atmosphere. Whether you come solo or with friends, it’s easy to blend in, enjoy the music, and let the night unfold naturally. With two rooftop levels, you can choose your vibe — head upstairs for relaxed conversations and lounge energy, or stay on the main level for music, drinks, and dancing as the party builds throughout the night. 📅 Every Saturday, from 21:00 till late 📍 Marco Polo Rooftop, St Julian’s 🌎 Who joins: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎟️ Entry: 6€, including: – A free welcome shot or soft drink – Full access to the rooftop party – Glow-in-the-dark face painting – Until 22:30: friendly team support to help you meet new people, if you like 👉 No booking needed — just show up and enjoy the night. Arriving earlier means easier connections and better drink deals before it gets busy. Bring your best energy — Saturday night is for celebrating ✨ Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/)

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

Join Bold Spirit Travel for an all-women’s journey through the [heart of Provence. ](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/south-of-france-provence-2026) From charming villages and bustling markets, to lavender fields and coastal cliffs, this adventure blends history, art, food, and stunning landscapes. Your base is a boutique hotel in Aix-en-Provence, the perfect hub for exploring southern France. *\*We can only take 10 women on this trip.* **Highlights** * **Aix-en-Provence** – stroll cobbled streets, browse colorful markets, and enjoy lively cafés. * **Marseilles** – tour its historic basilica and meet traditional soap makers. * **Arles & Wine Tasting** – explore Roman ruins and sip wines at Mas Valériole estate. * **Lavender Fields** – capture the beauty of Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque. * **Cassis & the Calanques** – enjoy seaside scenery and an optional boat ride. * **St. Rémy** – wander the vibrant market and visit Van Gogh’s former monastery. * **Les Baux-de-Provence** – experience the dazzling immersive light show. * **Cabrières-d’Avignon** – discover lavender’s artistry at the Lavender Museum. **What's Included:** * 6 nights in a boutique hotel (shared occupancy; private upgrades available). * Expert Bold Spirit tour leader plus bilingual local guides. * Meals as listed in the itinerary. * Private ground transportation. * Pre-trip support: Zoom call, WhatsApp group, and packing guidance. **Why Travel With Us?** This Provence adventure is designed for women who love travel, culture, and connection. You’ll share meals, explore iconic sites, and enjoy the slower pleasures of the French countryside—with expert guidance and community every step of the way. **Pricing:** * **Trip Cost:** USD 5,885 * **Deposit:** USD 700 non-refundable (secures hotels and guides) Get in touch with us to set up a call and learn [more](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/south-of-france-provence-2026). Contact:[ https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact)

Join us Tuesday (6/2) at 6:30 pm as we hike the Hundred Acre Woods in Westerville. This is a beautiful trail that is filled of hills and roots but a picturesque wooded landscape to hike. Wear your hiking boots if you have them. We will do 2 loops of the 1 mile trail.

Join us as we take a short summer road trip to downtown Delaware and the historic Strand Theater to see the latest from director Steven Spielberg and what’s likely to be one of the better films we see this year: DISCLOSURE DAY! We’ll pair this fun film with an equally fun dinner at nearby SON OF THURMAN! Should be a great movie, a tasty dinner, and a fun day in beautiful downtown Delaware! Here are details, a trailer and our plan for this event: DISCLOSURE DAY: This epic sci-fi action-drama follows a whistleblower and a meteorologist attempting to reveal proof of extraterrestrial life as they face some unexpected opposition. The film is directed by Steven Spielberg which automatically puts it in the Oscar conversation! The stellar cast includes Emily Blunt, Josh O'Connor, Colin Firth, Eve Hewson, Wyatt Russell and Colman Domingo. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCYT8vb2siQ MOVIE PLAN: We’ll plan for a 1pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area starting at 12:30pm. Exact showtime will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer! You can purchase your ticket in advance here. But before you do, be sure to check out the CMG Movie & Popcorn Deal below! Strand Theater Tickets: https://strandtheatreoh.com/tickets CMG MOVIE + POPCORN DEAL: The Strand has what many consider to be the Best Popcorn in the State! They open their concession window for festivals and many are known to stop by for some, whether they’re seeing a movie or not! For our event, the Strand is offering a special deal so you can see for yourself! The CMG Special Deal includes a Movie Ticket, Small Popcorn and Small Drink for just $10! To receive the deal, purchase your ticket when you arrive and let ‘em know you’re with the Columbus Movie Group! ABOUT THE STRAND THEATRE: The Strand Theatre is located at 28 East Winter Street in historic downtown Delaware! Operating for more than 100 years, the Strand Theatre is one of the 10 longest-operating movie theaters in the United Status and one of the few remaining independent movie theaters showing first-run films! The theater offers a variety of programming, including first-run, art house, ongoing events and fun film series! If you missed last year’s event there, haven’t been there (or haven’t been in a while), you are in for a treat! In addition to the historic theater, the entire downtown area has been completely revitalized with lots of great restaurants and shops! ABOUT SON OF THURMAN: Family-owned since 1942, The Thurman Café in Columbus is a legendary local restaurant that has received national acclaim for their legendary Thurman Burger, great food and fun atmosphere! Son of Thurman is part of that family of restaurants that brings the Thurman experience to Downtown Delaware and will be our dinner location for this event! In addition to their namesake burger, their menu features a huge array of appetizers, sandwiches, subs, wings, pizza, vegetarian options (like the Thurman Veggie Burger), and more! We’ll have a table reserved for the group! When you RSVP, please indicate if you plan to join us for the dinner portion of the event. You can check out their menu here: https://sonofthurman.com/ OFFICIAL CMG T-SHIRT EVENT: Did you get one of our CMG 2024 Tour of Columbus T-Shirts or 2025 Road Trip T-Shirts? While you can wear them any time, we’ll make certain events Official CMG T-Shirt events where we’ll ALL try to wear them! This is one of those events, so wear ‘em if you got ‘em! Look forward to seeing you at this fun Summer Road Trip Adventure, Dan

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.