Hiking

**This trip is confirmed.** **Direct flights to Tbilisi from London!** * After last year's amazing trip, its time for those who missed out to visit two of the most fascinating and upcoming destinations in Europe. * Tbilisi must be one of the coolest and most unique cities in Europe and has access to amazing day trips to Georgia's must-see destinations, such as the magnificent Caucasus mountains, Stalin's birthplace and incredible ancient churches and landscapes. Yerevan in Armenia, likewise, will allow us to explore one of Europe's oldest Christian civilisations, awe-inspiring nature and varied culture. * This trip will be led entirely by myself with a bus/taxi and driver, enabling a bargain-priced and unique trip with flexibility and fun the keywords. * With an option to visit Georgia or extend your trip on a free full-day, action-packed transfer to Armenia (or even do just Armenia if you have been to Georgia) this trip promises something for everyone. *The Itinerary (Subject to change)* **Georgia: *Apr 28 - May 2nd*** **Day 1:** Early arrivals (subject to times and availability) may have a bonus casual sightseeing tour of the more obscure/quirky sights, there are plenty (walkways in the sky, cable cars, Soviet architecture). Evening EasyJet arrivals: Taxi to the hotel / Evening food and pub crawl. **Day 2:** Morning in a private minibus to the nearby famous sites of Mtskheta, including Jvari Monastery, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and other sites of interest with snacks/lunch stop. Afternoon casual tour of the Old Town with spectacular churches, parks, quirky architecture, hidden sights, cute cafes etc. Evening in Tbilisi with time for exploring Georgian cuisine, wine and nightlife in this buzzing city (think hipster mixed with classic old-school Eastern-Europe vibes). **Day 3:** Visit to the Caucasus mountains (weather permitting). Truly spectacular 3-hour journey with stops on the way. Kazbeg Town with an easier hike to a wonderful viewpoint that most tourists don't know about / Superb lunch with incredible views/ Taxis up to the famous Gergeti Trinity Church for an incredible view / Journey back and evening in Tbilisi. **Day 4:** Visit to Gori and the Stalin Museum, Gori Fortress / Lunch in nearby restaurant / Visit to nearby ancient rock town of Uplistsikhe with a little surprise / Back in plenty of time for last sightseeing in Tbilisi and evening drinks. **Armenia Extension: *May 2 - 6*** **Day 5/transfer day**: People departing on evening flights have time for last sightseeing whilst those going to Armenia will enjoy a sight-packed free transfer with visits to sites in Armenia such as Akhtala, Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries, spectacular scenery, a fantastic lunch option and a visit to Lake Sevan, before evening arrival to Yerevan and evening food and drink options. **Day 6:** Casual all-day tour of Yerevan with a wealth of Soviet and older sites, Genocide Memorial Complex, Republic Square, Freedom Square, Cascade Complex, great food and souvenir markets, lunch and coffee stops. Rest at the 4-star hotel before evening food and drink options. **Day 7:** Full day trip to central Armenia through wonderful landscapes / Khor Virap monastery with incredible views of Mount Ararat / Small hike to Noravank Monastery, a truly awe-inspiring place / Areni with its caves, churches and wineries / Visit to a small family winery in the countryside with lovely food and drinks / Evening in Yerevan. **Day 8:** Visit spectacular Garni gorge via a small hike and nearby Roman temple / Charent's Arch / Geghard Monastery. Back to Yerevan with plenty of time for afternoon sightseeing, souvenir buying before final food and drinks. **Day 9:** Taxis to the airport. Late departures may visit the nearby Etchmiadzin Cathedral, possibly the world's oldest. **Payment (Please write to me which trip/s you are interested in)** **Georgia and Armenia:** £950 for all 8 days (discount and free transfer) **Georgia only:** £500 **Armenia only:** £500 **Single rooms:** £90 for Georgia and discounted £150 for both trips. You’ll need to pay a £10 deposit via PayPal or bank transfer when you RSVP to reserve your place. The remaining balance of £490 or £940 for the full 8 days (+ single room supplement if applicable) should be **paid to the account below** within 2 weeks. **Note**: Meetup will charge £1.62 to attendees on sign up. **It is better** to pay the £10 deposit to the bank account below for free and I will RSVP you myself. Please pay the balance to the following bank account, **not to PayPal**: Sort Code: 070116 Account: 12731649 Bank: Nationwide Name: Ian Moran **Note**: The deposit and balance are non-refundable unless the trip is cancelled. **Important**: Get out of London is in no way responsible for any accidents, illnesses or loss of belongings. Please make sure you have adequate insurance. **What's included and recommended flights: Please see comments section.**

Hello, People of the World! We’ve decided to host a weekly event in Tbilisi for internationals, expats, nomads, travelers, and Georgians who love to connect through languages and cultures. This is a welcoming space where everyone contributes something personal—language skills, stories, or just good vibes—for the benefit of the group. Whether you're here short-term or long-term, come meet new people in a fun, relaxed environment. We’ll share travel tales, language tips, and laughter over drinks, board games, or casual conversations. The concept is simple but powerful: connect, exchange, and enjoy. You’ll be surprised how much we all have in common—starting with funny stories from life in Tbilisi! Join us, bring your voice, and be part of this growing international community. We look forward to seeing you! 📅 Date: Every Saturday 📍 Location: Lado Asatiani 56 ⏰ Time: from 10 pm until midnight 🎟️ Entry: Free (Buy drinks in the bar) Cafe La Mano Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/q1cAkaiJYnnKBVej9 Join Expats group here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IUnd6m86Ado8R8FFaeGsdC](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IUnd6m86Ado8R8FFaeGsdC) (expat bar Tbilisi, cocktail bar, karaoke night, language exchange, live music, dive bar, board games, expat social, Tbilisi night life, Where to drink in Tbilisi, Tbilisi bar for foreigners. English-speaking bar Tbilisi. International crowd Tbilisi bar. Best bar in Tbilisi for expats. Live music Tbilisi bar. Expat events Tbilisi. Social bar Tbilisi. Tbilisi international pub. Friendly bar in Tbilisi. Tbilisi bar with English menu. Meet new people in Tbilisi)

Whether you're looking to practice your **Georgian**, polish your **English**, or dive into any other language, **La Mano** provides the perfect laid-back atmosphere to bridge the gap between cultures. No formal lessons here—just good vibes and great people. ### Event Details * **When:** Every Thursday * **Time:** 9:00 PM * **Where:** La Mano, [G. Kikodze Street #5](https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.google.com/maps/search/%3Fapi%3D1%26query%3DG.%2BKikodze%2Bstreet%2B5%2BTbilisi) *** ### Why Join Us? * **Diverse Community:** Meet locals, expats, and travelers from all over the world. * **Casual Setting:** Swap the classroom for a cozy bar environment. Grab a drink, find a table, and start talking. * **All Levels Welcome:** From absolute beginners to native speakers—everyone has something to share. > **Pro Tip:** Don't be shy! Most people come alone and leave with a dozen new friends. Just look for the signs or ask the staff where the exchange is happening. Join our community here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IUnd6m86Ado8R8FFaeGsdC Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/H5R3mXk3qw7SnS1F7

**REAL TALK Tbilisi – a Saturday English social club** *Join us and bring your friends! Those who bring a newcomer have a discount!* As usual you'll have the opportunity to meet interesting people, make international friends, and also practice communicational skills in English along the way! Our meetings are organised in a way that allows you to have lively and interesting conversations with as many people as possible. You will be talking one-to-one with other participants, which will give you the opportunity to fully engage in a talk, while a welcoming and considerate host will be rotating participants in fixed periods of time. **SATURDAY – 2nd of May** | **14:00 – 16:30** **Coffee Lair the coffee shop** | 14 Giorgi Chitaia st. [Google Maps](https://maps.app.goo.gl/q6eX32Gi5p4LTcZm8?g_st=ic) | [Yandex Maps](https://yandex.com/maps/org/116279744418) *No registration! Simply come at the time of the event!* **Participation fee** 20 Lari *5 Lari* – *for those who* *will bring a newcomer!* Membership cards in store: • 8 meetings – 140 Lari • 12 meetings – 200 Lari • 16 meetings – 240 Lari Each card is valid for 6 months ⏳ **Timing** 14:00 – chatting in small groups 14:15-ish – one-to-one conversations with rotations 15:45 – short break & time to pay 16:00 – conversational games or free chat 16:30 – finish 16:3♾️ – afterparty with survivors A comfortalbe level of English: B1+ Your host – Serge get in touch on [Telegram](https://t.me/sergbalm) [Join the Telegram chat](https://t.me/realtalktbilisi) / [go to Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/realtalktbilisi) / [sign up on Instagram](https://instagram.com/realtalktbilisi?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==)

Looking to expand your social circle and meet new people in **Tbilisi’s international community**? Join us for a fun and relaxed gathering where **expats, internationals, digital nomads, travelers, and locals** come together to connect, share stories, and build new friendships. Whether you're **new to Tbilisi**, here long-term, or simply looking to meet fresh faces, this is the perfect opportunity to socialize, break the ice, and join a warm, **welcoming, safe space** (female-owned bar) known for its inclusive vibes. **Date:** Every Wednesday **Location:** https://maps.app.goo.gl/q1cAkaiJYnnKBVej9 ⏰ **Time:** From 10 PM until midnight ️ **Entry:** Free (Buy drinks in the bar) Come alone or bring a friend—either way, you're sure to meet **new friends**, enjoy **international conversations**, practice languages, and connect with Tbilisi’s most active **expat & socializing community**! Join Expats in Tbilisi chat: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IUnd6m86Ado8R8FFaeGsdC](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IUnd6m86Ado8R8FFaeGsdC) We are looking forward to seeing you!

**REAL TALK Tbilisi – a Thursday English social club!** *Join us and bring your friends! Those who bring a newcomer have a discount!* As usual you'll have the opportunity to meet interesting people, make international friends, and also practice communicational skills in English along the way! Our meetings are organised in a way that allows you to have lively and interesting conversations with as many people as possible. You will be talking one-to-one with other participants, which will give you the opportunity to fully engage in a talk, while a welcoming and considerate host will be rotating participants in fixed periods of time. **THURSDAY – 30th of April** \| **19:30 – 22:00** **21PM — Kitchen, Coffee & Bar** \| Petre Melikishvili Street\, 21 [Google Maps](https://maps.app.goo.gl/5FyYMbUZPvmgx5fU6?g_st=ic) \| [Yandex Maps](https://yandex.com/maps/org/113571966544) *No registration! Simply come at the time of the event!* **Participation fee** 20 Lari *5 Lari* – *for those who* *will bring a newcomer!* Membership cards in store: • 8 meetings – 140 Lari • 12 meetings – 200 Lari • 16 meetings – 240 Lari Each card is valid for 6 months ⏳ **Timing** 19:30 – chatting in small groups 19:45ish – one-to-one conversations with rotations 21:15 – short break & time to pay 21:30 – conversational games or free chat 22:00 – finish 22:♾️ – afterparty with survivors A comfortalbe level of English: B1+ Your host – Keke get in touch on [Telegram](https://t.me/kekeshelia) [Join the Telegram chat](https://t.me/realtalktbilisi) / [go to Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/realtalktbilisi) / [sign up on Instagram](https://instagram.com/realtalktbilisi?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==)

**REAL TALK Tbilisi – a Tuesday English social club!** *Join us and bring your friends! Those who bring a newcomer have a discount!* As usual you'll have the opportunity to meet interesting people, make international friends, and also practice communicational skills in English along the way! Our meetings are organised in a way that allows you to have lively and interesting conversations with as many people as possible. You will be talking one-to-one with other participants, which will give you the opportunity to fully engage in a talk, while a welcoming and considerate host will be rotating participants in fixed periods of time. **TUESDAY – 28th of April** \| **19:30 – 22:00** **Seven Roads Bar** \| Kita Abashidze Street\, 4 [Google Maps](https://maps.app.goo.gl/X2ch6jyh6xBFnhjS6?g_st=ic) \| [Yandex Maps](https://yandex.com/maps/org/100722721626) *No registration! Simply come at the time of the event!* **Participation fee** 20 Lari *5 Lari* – *for those who* *will bring a newcomer!* Membership cards in store: • 8 meetings – 140 Lari • 12 meetings – 200 Lari • 16 meetings – 240 Lari Each card is valid for 6 months ⏳ **Timing** 19:30 – chatting in small groups 19:45ish – one-to-one conversations with rotations 21:15 – short break & time to pay 21:30 – conversational games or free chat 22:00 – finish 22:♾️ – afterparty with survivors A comfortalbe level of English: B1+ Your host – Serge get in touch on [Telegram](https://t.me/sergbalm) [Join the Telegram chat](https://t.me/realtalktbilisi) / [go to Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/realtalktbilisi) / [sign up on Instagram](https://instagram.com/realtalktbilisi?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==)

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

This Monday 4/27/26 at 6:30p we will walking at Thompson Park. The address is 5600 Thompson Rd. We will meet at the shelter house. The walk will be approximately 2 miles on paved trails~Join us if you can.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

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.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles so please wear your shoe of choice. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

This is a small but pretty park with a 1.7-mile loop. We will walk it 2 times. It goes along a ridge and has moderate elevation changes.