Guided Vacations

Ready for an overnight retreat? Our weekend retreats are a great place to start if you’ve established a mindfulness practice or taken a mindfulness class and you’re ready to take it to the “next level.” A weekend retreat is also a wonderful way to renew and refresh a long-standing practice. Our lives as mindfulness practitioners deepen when we’re ready to enter into the sustained practice of retreat. This residential retreat will be held mostly in silence at the beautiful [Samish Island Campground and Retreat Center](https://www.campsamish.org/) and will include a series of gently guided mindfulness practices including sitting meditation, walking meditation, gentle yoga, and the body scan. Informative talks on the process of being on retreat, mindfulness, stress reactivity, and other topics will be presented by the instructor. Small and large group discussion at the beginning and end of the weekend will center around our experience together walking, sitting, and breathing in the quiet of the beautiful retreat site. ### SCHEDULE DETAILS * Starts Friday with 4pm – 5pm check in followed by dinner and an orientation, after which we will begin our silence. * Saturday is a full day of silent practice (6:30am to 8:30pm with breaks after the meals). * Sunday is a short morning practice period, followed by breakfast and closing activities. * The retreat concludes at about noon on Sunday after cabin clean up, with a sack lunch provided for the road. **LEARN MORE & REGISTER HERE:** [https://mindfulnessnorthwest.com/events/spring-weekend-retreat-samish-mar-27-26-tim/](https://mindfulnessnorthwest.com/events/spring-weekend-retreat-samish-mar-27-26-tim/) ### LOCATION [Samish Island Campground and Retreat Center](https://mindfulnessnorthwest.com/venues/samish-island-campground-and-retreat-center/) ### COST **$355 - $635** (or $89 - $159/month) * **[Sliding scale](https://mindfulnessnorthwest.com/about/program-policies/#sliding-scale-fees):** Choose what’s right for you. * **Payment plan option:** 4-months, no-interest. * **Limited scholarships available:** No need to apply; just choose a scholarship tuition during registration. * **Lodging:** Rustic cabin is included in reservation. Optional upgrade to E-cabin at registration.

**SEVERAL SEATS ADDED — register now to ensure your spot!** **A comprehensive 2-day class in machine quilting with Catherine Redford as you learn to finish your quilts on your domestic machine!** Begin your first day with a brief overview of Catherine’s steps for success, and then start to stitch while enjoying all the control of your walking foot. On day two, discover the magic of free motion quilting in a relaxed, no-criticism- allowed setting. Class will discuss using colored threads, combining walking foot and free motion motifs, and try adding hand stitching for maximum impact. \*\*\* Due to the size or other requirements of the class or concurrent scheduling, some classes are in our second-floor space: access is via stairs only. Registrations for all Artistic Artifacts classes MUST be paid for [through our website](https://artisticartifacts.com/collections/wk), or via a visit to our shop at 4750 Eisenhower Avenue. We encourage you to RSVP here, but to ensure your seat you MUST follow through via our website. [View our complete class policies »](https://artisticartifacts.com/pages/class-policies)

The Spring fling weekend of the Lancaster Bicycle Club, and Wilmington Rails for Trails will be held on the weekend of March 27-29, 2026, Washington DC Cherry Blossom ride. Where we have stayed previous years is now permanently closed. So this year we will be staying at: The Double Tree-Hilton 300 Army Navy Drive Arlington, VA 703-416-4100 We have a special rate per room/ two queen beds/ per night of $179 This rate is held until March 6th… To register /control/click on the following: [https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/dcaaedt-500-eef3e4a2-105a-4fd5-a39e-7d51d68f2aea](https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/dcaaedt-500-eef3e4a2-105a-4fd5-a39e-7d51d68f2aea) **Tentative schedule:** Friday afternoon arrive and check in. 4pm We will meet in the parking lot and ride the trails Four mile run, Mount Vernon, etc. …back by dark. Saturday ride to see Cherry Blossoms. Once again this year, we have Mary, who lives in DC will ride with us, as our guide for the day. Sunday after checking out, some of us will choose to stop, on the way home, and ride the Capital Crescent Trail between Bethesda and Georgetown. The trails we are riding are crushed gravel. Hybrid bicycles are recommended,but road bikes will do… so RSVP required on Meet Up and control/ click the link above. Richard Conner 717-572-8480

Come celebrate the golden anniversary of the showcase transit of Washington, the Metrorail! We'll be traveling back and forth over the original stretch of the Red line that opened on March 27, 1976, distributing [t-shirts](https://transitenthusiastsdc.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/t-shirt-order-form.pdf), balloons and stickers. Once we've spread our cheer, we'll retire to the Metro Bar just outside the Rhode Island Avenue station to reminisce and celebrate more. Join us! **NOTE**: Our "official" celebration begins at 4:30. We may add a noontime celebration if there is enough interest. Please email me at williamrice63@gmail.com if you'd like to participate in the earlier event. **ALSO NOTE**: WMATA has of this writing not yet announced what it is doing to celebrate. We will monitor its communications and keep you updated if we adjust our activities to accommodate the agency's plans.

Mountains to plains to tropical beaches, Tanzania has it all. You will get an opportunity to let out the Tarzan in you through this experiential multi-day safari in Tanzania. Immerse yourself in nature and wildlife during our game drives at Manyara and Ngorongoro. You may also experiment with wildlife photography at Serengeti National Park. Enter the world of colorful coral reefs at Mnemba and swim along with the tropical fishes. End your trip at Zanzibar with a remarkable snorkeling and scuba diving experience. Highlights Visited Places: • Arusha • Lake Manyara • Serengeti National Park • Ngorongoro • Zanzibar • Prison and Spice islands • Mnemba Atoll Travel Experience: • Admire the wildlife at Lake Manyara • Enjoy a game drive at Ngorongoro crater • Enjoy the safari at Serengeti National Park • Discover the history of Zanzibar • Explore the Prison islands • Meet the giant tortoises at Changuu island • Learn more about local spices • Go snorkelling at Prison island • The Rock restaurant • Recline near the sandy beaches at Zanzibar • Snorkelling at Mnemba • Look for the ‘Big 5’ (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard) Tour Start Kilimanjaro Tour End Zanzibar Flights • Arrival: Day01 before 12pm • Return: Day09 anytime after 12pm Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport(JRO) Abeid Amani Karume International Airport(ZNZ) Itinerary Day01 Kilimanjaro – Arusha Day02 Lake Manyara Day03 Serengeti NP Day04 Serengeti - Ngorongoro Day05 Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha Day06 Zanzibar Day07 Prison & Spice Islands Day08 Mnemba Atoll Day09 Zanzibar Cost: Safari + Zanzibar (Double Occupancy) $3990 / person Safari + Zanzibar (Single Supl) $4590 (Single) Safari ONLY (Double Occupancy) $2990 / person Safari ONLY (Single Suppl) $3590 (Single) Inclusions Price Includes • All park and conservancy fees • Crater service fee • Professional Safari Guide and Driver • Accommodation as per the itinerary (Lodge / Camp) (Double Occupancy) • All meals during the Safari • 4×4 Safari vehicle • Zanzibar 4D/3N hotel stay, activities & transfers as per the Itinerary • ONE WAY FLIGHT: Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar – On Day06 Price Excludes • International Flights • Meals (other then mentioned above) • Personal Expenses • Tips and gratuities • Transfers other then mentioned in the Itinerary (available at extra cost) • Travel insurance / Visa ———————————————— For detailed itinerary and to reserve your seat follow the link below: [https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/tanzania-serengeti-ngorongoro-safari-with-zanzibar/](https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/tanzania-serengeti-ngorongoro-safari-with-zanzibar/) Questions? Text / Call - 2023787696 - Himanshu - Organizer

**Sahaja Yoga teaches a unique method of meditation, rooted in ancient spiritual knowledge.** We follow a format of continuous integration of topics in our classes so that no two classes are same and so we are able to accommodate new meditators along with experienced ones. **Through Sahaja Yoga, you can achieve a state of meditation known as thoughtless awareness. In this state, you experience and enjoy the present moment without any distractions from the past or future. Your consciousness works in flow with your inner energy ([Kundalini](https://us.sahajayoga.org/the-kundalini/)).** Some of the things we go over with in our programs are how to awaken your dormant Mother energy called Kundalini. Meditation with Mantras using power of very basic mantra to bring peace within! Meditation with music, what are Chakras, how to take affirmations, what is Thoughtless Awareness and how to find the state of your Chakras. *Meditation sessions led by an experienced fellow meditator.* **Please join us to awaken the dormant energy within you and re-balance your emotional, physical and mental state of being!** **Sahaja Yoga was founded in 1970 by Shri Mataji**. She envisioned a world where people would be transformed, and lead more balanced lives. She has worked tirelessly to help people meditate and achieve greater spiritual heights through this meditation. **Cost**: Free **Parking**: Paid parking in garages and on street. Garage-40 Cordell-St.Elmo Garage, Saint Elmo Avenue, Bethesda, MD is 2 mins walking distance from meditation center. **How to reach us?** We are at **Sahaja Yoga Meditation Center** on **4901 Saint Elmo Avenue** **Bethesda, MD 20814**, *walking distance from Bethesda Metro Center* **You can learn more about this meditation** from [us.sahajayoga.org](https://us.sahajayoga.org)

Now at **11 a.m.**, this beginner-friendly guided meditation class helps stabilize the mind and open the heart. The session includes traditional practices such as Shamatha (calm abiding) and Tonglen (sending and receiving), as well as Jetsunma’s Light Expansion Prayer. Both relaxing and healing, these meditations can be practiced by anyone, regardless of religious tradition. Each class concludes with a dedication that our efforts benefit all beings. All are welcome whether new to meditation or regular practitioners looking for a supportive group with whom to sit. Join us! Class is offered IN-PERSON in our Prayer Room and ONLINE on our Facebook and YouTube channel. Watch online here: [https://www.tara.org/kpc-maryland-events-calendar/](https://www.tara.org/kpc-maryland-events-calendar/) Missed a class? You can watch past classes on our YouTube channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@KunzangPalyulCholing/streams](https://www.youtube.com/@KunzangPalyulCholing/streams)

**Real connection with fellow Catholics who are eager to grow in Faith and friendship!** This 3 year--- 45min deep dive into the Catholic faith is a great way to spend your Sunday rest day. When you are ready to dig deeper and live the faith more fully this is an optimal opportunity. Talk yourself into this! You may start whenever and can come as often or as little as you desire. Coffee is served w/ small donation. It is taught by the priest and/or OCIA director at St Louis Parish who are ALL fabulous- faithful educators filled with theologically inspired knowledge. You can ask questions at the end, which I love. It is just a wonderful experience to grow. Afterwards if you wish, you can also find your way over to the Little Way Cafe Coffee shop across the parking lot to stay for more community time or read some of the excellent books that line the shelves throughout. If you are new to the community of Alexandria and want to meet like minded folks or a veteran of it, this is a special and unique opportunity and did I mention it is free? :) Hard to believe! Please join me every Sunday at 945 am.

Peak Bloom Cherry Blossom DC History Tour, Trees to White House, March 29!! Starting from the Washington Monument at the height of the world-famous cherry blossom season, and skimming the Tidal Basin then heading to the White House’s Lafayette Square, this tour will look at the rich history of America's capital. MEET at the east side of the Washington Monument (the side facing the Capitol Building). NOT the Department of Commerce. App won't display the right site name. Nearest metros: Smithsonian & Metro Center. Driving to the venue is Not recommended during the festive season. It will be crowded; arrive in time. Length: 2 to 2.5 hours. We’ll walk from Washington's Monument to the White House & Lafayette Square. And discover: • Japan's great gift to America • The lost public beach--at the Tidal Basin! • The mysterious Jefferson Pier • The Marquis de Lafayette’s amazing & perilous associations with multiple American Presidents • Where the term "red tape" was invented • Disputes over the Jefferson Memorial • The Washington Monument riot • The city's grand philanthropists • Tales of the Lincoln Memorial • The scoundrel who betrayed Jefferson, killed Hamilton, and tried setting up his own country—with the head of the U.S. Army! • Designer of the White House • Assassination attempts on Presidents • A walk with President Lincoln. • The town's many female heroines • Cracking the secret codes of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan • The early Navy's greatest hero • The soldier who saved Jefferson from being hanged • The plot that saved Mt. Vernon • And more! Pre-register and prepay via-- Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/peak-bloom-cherry-blossom-dc-history-tour-trees-to-white-house-march-29-tickets-1984701539732?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true Or PayPal, sending $22 to: paypal.me/EMoser460 You can also pay in cash, $22, at the tour's start. We’re highly rated on TripAdvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html Your tour guide is a former speechwriter to the President of the United States, a former writer for Jay Leno’s “The Tonight Show”, & author of books on the hidden history of the White House, the Capitol Building, and Alexandria, Virginia: The White House's Unruly Neighborhood: https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= And: The Lost Capitol: https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q And a forthcoming book on Georgetown's history! Questions? Contact: 191.EP.JM.56@proton.me Think history is boring? Not on our tours! MEET at the east side of the Washington Monument (the side facing the Capitol Building). NOT the Department of Commerce. App won't display the right site name. Restaurants available for dinner afterwards, at the Old Ebbitt Grill, The Hamilton, et al. Celebrate the blossoming of spring and the Easter season with a fun, informative tour of America's most historic, scenic venues!

Join WTA for a magical trip to the Netherlands during the most beautiful time of the year—Tulip Season! Discover Amsterdam’s artistic heritage, charming canals, and world-class museums like the Van Gogh Museum. Stroll through vibrant tulip fields at the famous Keukenhof Gardens, a true feast for the eyes. Venture to The Hague and Delft to explore historic churches, canal-laced streets, and iconic blue-and-white pottery. Savor authentic Dutch cuisine, sample local cheese, and experience the country’s timeless charm at every stop. **To view the full ITINERARY & REGISTER visit:** **[WTA AMSTERDAM 2026](https://womentravelabroad.com/trip/amsterdam/)** **ITINERARY** **Day 1 – April 7** – Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). Private transportation will take you to your accommodations for the week. After settling into your hotel, your group will get to know each other over a local welcome dinner. **Note:** We recommend your flight from the US arrives before 11 am on April 7 to allow adequate time to join the day’s activities. If you wish to arrive one day early, on April 6, charges for the additional night’s stay can be added to your invoice. **Day 2 – April 8** – Today, you will take a memorable tour of the Anne Frank House. Discover Amsterdam’s WWII history and follow in the footsteps of Anne Frank as she went into hiding in the Secret Annex. Jewish Anne Frank hid in 1942 from the Nazis during the occupation of the Netherlands; two years later, she was discovered and died in 1945 at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. Afterward, continue your cultural journey with a visit to the renowned Van Gogh Museum. Home to the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, the museum offers a profound look into the artist’s life, featuring iconic paintings, sketches, and personal letters that reveal the struggles and brilliance behind his art. **Day 3 – April 9** – FREE Day. Enjoy shopping throughout the city, or take a scenic bike ride through the countryside. Cycling in Amsterdam is the most authentic way to travel. There are around 515 km (320 miles) of dedicated cycle lanes in Amsterdam, making it the perfect setting to cycle the city or beyond. The countryside area is famous for its quaint villages, historic towns, farms, nature reserves, and lakes. You will have many opportunities to stop and take one-of-a-kind photos of the picturesque sights. **Day 4 – April 10** – Your group will spend today at the famous Keukenhof Garden, known as the Garden of Europe. This is one of the world’s largest flower gardens and is found to be the most beautiful in spring. Keukenhof Park covers an area of 32 hectares and has approximately 7 million flower bulbs planted annually. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture all of the vibrant colors and unique displays at the Keukenhof Garden! Transfer from Amsterdam to begin your adventure in The Hauge as the fun continues. **Day 5 – April 11** – Begin your day with a walking tour of the Hague! Today you will visit notable sites include Binnenhof Court of Parliament, the Royal Palace Noordeinde and its lush gardens, and many local monuments. Have a free afternoon to explore on your own before joining your group to indulge in a delectable group dinner. **Day 6 – April 12** – Day trip to Delft for a walking tour of this charming and historic Dutch town. Stroll along picturesque canals, cobbled streets, and tree-lined squares as you explore landmarks such as the Markt, the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), and the Royal Delft pottery factory. Admire the town’s rich artistic heritage, famously tied to painter Johannes Vermeer, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere that defines Delft’s small-town charm. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café before returning by train to your accommodation in The Hague. **Day 7 – April 13** – Depart The Hague via train for your return to Amsterdam. You will depart back to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) for your connecting flight to the US. Your departure flight needs to leave after 12 pm to allow time to return to Amsterdam. \*Please note that this is a tentative itinerary and is subject to change. **WHAT’S INCLUDED:** ▪️ 7 days & 6 nights’ accommodations ▪️ Single occupancy, boutique hotel ▪️ Airport transfer ▪️ Local transportation ▪️ Keukenhof Garden Tour ▪️ Anne Frank House ▪️ Hauge City Tour ▪️ Amsterdam City Tour ▪️ FREE DAY to explore ▪️ Daily breakfast ▪️ Daily group lunch (excluding FREE DAY) ▪️ Daily group dinner **WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:** ▪️ Roundtrip airfare from the US to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) ▪️ Travel insurance ▪️ Items of a personal nature ▪️ Meals not listed above ▪️ Optional excursions and tours not listed above ▪️ Gratuities and tips for personal services

Start your week the right way with Manic Mondays. Giving you an enjoyable Bachata lesson with a push of cool moves. The second hour has Beginner/Intermediate Salsa on 1. You must understand basic Salsa skills to participate. 730pm-830pm Bachata Cool Moves 830pm-930pm Salsa On 1 (Beginner/Intermediate) $15 for One Class $20 for Both Free Parking & Plenty of Dance Space.

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.

**Men of Unity** is a safe, welcoming space for men to connect, share, and grow together. In this circle, we explore what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and spiritual awareness in today’s world. Through open dialogue, reflection, and mutual support, we learn to balance strength with compassion, confidence with humility, and action with mindfulness. Whether you’re seeking deeper spiritual connection, personal clarity, or simply a supportive brotherhood, this group invites you to bring your authentic self and grow in community. Each gathering may include: * Open discussion on real-life challenges and victories * Guided reflection, prayer, or meditation * Encouragement for living from truth, not fear * Tools for emotional and spiritual growth No preaching. No pressure. Just real men, real conversations, and real transformation.

Join us for a flat 2.6 mile hike along the Alum Creek Trail from the rear parking lot of the Easton Hilton Garden Inn to the Strawberry Farms Park and back. This scenic trail along Alum Creek is a gem. Come and hike it with us!

**Community Dance – Every Friday at Unity of Columbus** Let go of the week’s stress and move into joy! Join us every Friday for an evening of community, connection, and dance at Unity of Columbus. It’s a chance to meet new friends, express yourself through movement, and experience the emotional healing that comes from music and rhythm. No dance experience needed — just bring your energy, an open heart, and your dancing shoes! Dance is freedom. Dance is healing. Dance is fun.