Hiking with Children

🌙 Evening Hike – Hallerbos (Start: Parking at ’t Kriekske, 18:45) This evening hike begins at 18:45 from the parking area right next to restaurant ’t Kriekske, perfectly timed to enjoy the soft light as the forest transitions into dusk. The route covers a maximum of 8–10 km, making it an accessible and relaxed walk suitable for all levels. From the parking, wide forest paths lead you straight into the heart of the Hallerbos. As the sun lowers, the beech trees filter the last warm light, creating long shadows and a calm, almost cinematic atmosphere. In spring, the fading daylight highlights the purple-blue carpet of bluebells, giving the forest a magical glow. The trail is mostly flat and easy to follow, ideal for unwinding after a busy day. You’ll hear the forest slowly quiet down while birds settle for the night and the evening breeze moves through the tall trees. After completing the loop, we return directly to ’t Kriekske, where we end the evening together with a drink or meal — the perfect way to wrap up a peaceful walk in one of Belgium’s most enchanting forests. What to bring Hiking shoes 👞 for the muddy paths 😅 Some cash and cards for drink at the restaurant

🏃‍♂️ Sunday Vacations | Train Together, Finish Together --- Thinking about joining the **20km of Brussels on May 31st**… but don’t want to train alone? 👉 Join our **after-work training group** and prepare together in a fun, social, and motivating atmosphere. Whether you're a beginner or already running regularly — **you’re welcome.** --- ## 📆 Weekly Runs (April → May) We train **twice a week after work**: ### 🔵 Once per week – Easy Social Run 👉 Perfect to build consistency and meet the group --- ### 🟣 Once per week – Long Run (Main Session) * Distance increases every week * Structured pace groups 👉 This is the **key session** to prepare for the 20km --- ## 🏳️ Follow Your Flag (Pace Groups) To keep things simple, we use the official **20km Brussels pacemaker system**: * 🟠 **Beginner (≈ 2h15)** Run/walk friendly — just aim to finish * 🟣 **Steady (≈ 2h00)** Comfortable and regular pace * 🟢 **Intermediate (≈ 1h45)** Faster group for those who want a challenge 👉 Not sure? Start easy — you can switch anytime. --- ## 📊 Long Run Progression We gradually build up to the race: 6 km → 8 km → 10 km → 12 km → 14 km → 16 km → 18 km 🔥 * lighter week before the race --- ## 🏁 Goal 📅 Sunday 31 May 2026 🎯 Run the 20km of Brussels — together --- ## 💡 What to expect * Friendly, international group 🌍 * No one left behind * Natural pace groups * Motivating and social vibe 👉 We start together, run in groups, and finish together. --- ## ☕ After the run Optional drink or snack — because it’s also about **meeting people and having fun** --- ## ⚠️ Practical info * Bring water * Wear proper running shoes * Join at your own responsibility * Beginners welcome --- ## 🌍 About Sunday Vacations We are a **Brussels-based community** organizing social activities, hikes, and trips. 👉 This training is part of our mission: **bringing people together through shared experiences** --- ## 🔗 Participation To join, a **Sunday Vacations membership** is required: * Explorer (€5/year) → + €5 organizing fee * Voyager (€50/year) → no organizing fee * Ambassador (€150/year) → no organizing fee + perks 👉 Details: [www.sundayvacations.com/membership](http://www.sundayvacations.com/membership) --- 🔥 Don’t train alone — join us and enjoy the journey to the 20km!

**Sommes-nous devenus les simples managers de notre existence ?** Courir après le temps, cocher des listes de tâches, jongler entre les responsabilités professionnelles et les impératifs familiaux... Notre quotidien ressemble souvent à une course de fond où chaque minute est rentabilisée. Mais au milieu de ce tourbillon, une question finit par surgir : **où est passé notre esprit ?** À force de répondre aux besoins des autres et aux urgences du calendrier, nous risquons de devenir étrangers à nous-mêmes. Est-il encore possible de cultiver une vie intérieure quand l'agenda est complet ? La philosophie est-elle un luxe réservé à ceux qui ont du temps, ou une nécessité vitale pour ne pas s'oublier ? **Lors de ce dialogue philosophique, nous ferons une pause pour explorer ensemble :** * **La dictature de l’utile :** Pourquoi nous sentons-nous coupables dès que nous ne "produisons" rien ? * **Retrouver son centre :** Comment l'esprit peut-il rester libre au milieu des contraintes ? * **La quête de sens :** Comment transformer nos obligations quotidiennes en une vie qui nous ressemble vraiment ? Nul besoin d’avoir lu tous les classiques. Venez simplement avec votre fatigue, vos interrogations et votre envie de redonner une place à la réflexion au milieu du chaos. ✨ **Offrez-vous une parenthèse pour respirer et remettre l'esprit au cœur de votre vie.** *** **Infos pratiques :** * **Tarif :** 5€ (boisson comprise) * **Esprit :** Un moment d'échange pour déconnecter du "faire" et se reconnecter au "penser".

Rejoins-nous pour découvrir le Touch Rugby sous le signe du sport, du fun et de la convivialité ! 🏉 Que tu sois débutant·e curieux·se, joueur·se occasionnel·le ou habitué·e des terrains, ce rendez-vous est ouvert à toutes et tous. Le touch rugby est un sport en plein essor sans plaquage, accessible, dynamique mais aussi inclusif et fun sur et en dehors des terrains. 💙 ✨ Au programme : * Échauffement collectif * Exercices et jeux * Développement de la condition physique * Bonne humeur, esprit d’équipe et fair-play 🎯 Venez bouger, vous amuser et partager un bon moment ensemble ! 👉 Ramène ta tenue de sport, de l’eau, et surtout ta motivation. On s’occupe du reste 💪 À très vite sur le terrain !

IMPORTANT: This Wednesday's session will be held at the Brussels Beer Project - donwstairs. **Rue Antoine Dansaert 188, 1000 Bruxelles** Please take a moment to read the information and rules for the sessions. **Overview:** Improv sessions in English accepting all levels. We play short and long-form improv comedy, which includes theater-style scenes, guessing, and group games. **Topics:** * Timing * Location * Participation (Attendees list) * RSVP rules * Improv session format * Who is it for? (Participation requirement) *** * **Timing** Being on time will help you and everyone. **18h15** \- Doors open *Please take this time to order your drinks/food and settle in.* **18h30** \- Start of the session **Are you late?** Please inform the event host or comment on the event page. If you arrive late and the session is already in progress, please wait on the side till the game/scene is finished. Wait for the session moderator to indicate when you can start participating. * **Location** We have two locations: Monday Sessions: The session takes place on the first floor of The Sister Cafe. Stairs next to the bar. It's the room with a curtain at the door. Wednesday Sessions: At Brussels Beer Poject Rue Antoine Dansaert 188, 1000 Bruxelles * **Participation (Attendee list)** The session is limited to **12 attendees**. This ensures the session is manageable and everybody gets enough chances to participate. Therefore, only the people on the "attendee list" can participate in the session. **Waiting list**: People on the waiting list should keep an eye on the updates in case someone from the attendees' list drops and you get their spot. It's important for the people on the waiting list also to update their RSVP status if they already know they won't be joining the session. **Do you just want to observe?** In the regular session, we do not have an audience, only participants. Please do not join the session if you do not plan to participate in the games/scenes. If you are unsure about something, please contact the event host. *People on the attendee list are expected to take part.* * **RSVP Rules** * Please update your RSVP status in a timely manner if you can't make it to the session. This applies to people on the **attendee list AND waiting list.** * If you are on the waiting list and know you won't be able to join in case someone from the main list drops, please update your RSVP to "not going". This will give the next person on the waiting list a chance. * Emergencies aside, please update your RSVP status on time. Canceling at the last minute or just 1 hour before isn't helpful. * If we see a pattern from someone not showing up after confirming or last-minute cancellations, we reserve the right to prohibit session access. * Please write a comment if you cancel and your spot becomes available. With this, others will get an extra notification. **Improv Session Format** The session is held in English. The session has three sections: Warm-up, Scene games, and Cool down. **Warmup:** Quick group games are played to break the ice and get the creative juices flowing. **Scenes:** Then we move on to scene games. These are mostly from short-form improv, which can include different games with various gimmicks, like story building, character work, guessing, etc **Cool down:** One or two short group games to end the session. The rules are explained by the moderator before each game. There is no obligation to participate in games you are uncomfortable with. There can be feedback after a game is played. This is so we learn from each other and gain skills and insights. **Tip**: If you are new, pay attention to the regular players when they are performing and notice small details, like how a stage is cleared before a scene, how to enter a scene, and how to collaborate with each other. * **Who is it for?** Anyone interested in improv! We accept participants at all levels, beginners and advanced. This is a great place to start if you are new to improv. The basics will be explained. We only require the "Yes, and...!" spirit! If you are an advanced player and have ideas and games to share and work on, please do let us know. We look forward to welcoming you and doing improv!

Kick off your day with a refreshing sporty hike in the region around the beautiful Castle of Gaasbeek, one of the castles west of Brussels🌳🌾. Expect scenic trails through fields, countryside paths, and rolling landscapes — a perfect mix of nature and light challenge. Finish the fun in a great pub. **Important – please read before joining:** This is an **all-weather hike**. We go **rain, mud, or sunshine**. If you are likely to cancel because of weather, please do not RSVP. This group works because people show up as planned. Last-minute cancellations affect everyone (especially with car sharing). *** ### 🥾 The Plan * 3-hour hike at a **sporty pace** * Small group for a focused and great experience * Optional drink after the hike *** ### 🚗 Car Sharing (commitment required) We meet at a metro station and drive together to Sint-Pieters-Leeuw (15min drive) * Drivers are essential for the hike to happen * If you volunteer as a driver, you are **committing to the group** * Cancelling as a driver last-minute may prevent others from joining 💶 €10 per passenger (shared costs) 👉 When you RSVP, please clearly state: * “Driver (X seats)” **or** * “Passenger – needs a ride” *** ### ⚠️ Reliability rule * If you cancel last minute or no-show, you may be removed from future events * This keeps the group fair and enjoyable for everyone

🌙 Evening Hike – Kravaalbos (Start: cafe stinne Meldert 18:45) *This evening hike begins at 18:45 from the parking area right next to cafe Stinne, perfectly timed to enjoy the soft light as the forest transitions into dusk. The route covers a maximum of 8–10 km, making it an accessible and relaxed walk suitable for all levels*. We meet at 18h45 for an 8 km evening hike through the Kravaalbos, a forest known for its peaceful atmosphere, soft trails, and rolling terrain. Around springtime, the woods often transform into a magical landscape filled with bluebells, covering the forest floor in shades of purple and creating that unmistakable fairytale vibe. The route leads us along a mix of wide paths and narrower forest tracks. Some sections can be muddy, so hiking shoes 🥾 are strongly recommended to keep things comfortable and steady underfoot. The pace is relaxed, giving everyone time to enjoy the scenery, chat, and take in the evening light filtering through the trees. After completing the loop, we head to Café Stinne to wrap up the evening with a drink together. Make sure to bring cash or cards, as payment options may vary. A calm, social, and nature‑rich evening out—perfect to start the week on a good note. To get there from Brussels maybe carpool possible via Asse train station.

**This weekend’s hike takes us through the heart of Haspengouw at the peak of the blossom season.**Expect gently rolling landscapes filled with **flowering apple, pear and cherry trees** turning the region into a sea of white and soft pink. We start our hike in **Alken**, walking through the nature reserve **De Grote Beemd**, following the river **Herk** and passing the historic **Graetmolen**. From there the route leads us straight into the ***orchards where the blossom landscape changes*** with every turn. Along the way we may even come across a **pop‑up bar between the orchards** — the perfect place to pause, enjoy the moment and soak in the spring atmosphere. We’ll have our lunch break near the elegant **Mariagaarde Castle** before continuing mostly along the **GR 128 (Vlaanderenroute)** towards **Sint‑Truiden** on quiet paths with wide views over blooming Haspengouw. After our hike we can continue our good habit, of taking a nice beer/pancake/snack in a local pub in Sint-Truiden before returning to Brussels. ***Don't forget to pay Maikel a drink :-)*** We will walk both ***on paved and unpaved roads***. I’ve ***never walked this road before*** so it’s possible that there are some mistakes in the planning. **●●Meeting point** We meet at ***08h20 in front of the Starbucks in Brussels Central***. The train ( IC1507 Hasselt) leaves from ***platform 3 at 08h41***. We arrive at our ***destination Alken at 09h49*** and start our hike to Sint-Truiden. **●● Train tickets** ***\- single ticket Brussels to Alken \(11\,40 € weekend / 6\,80 € with train card\+\)*** ***\- single ticket Sint\-Truiden to Brussels \(10\,20 € weekend / 6\,10 € with train card\+\)*** **●● Trains back to Brussels:** There is a ***direct train train every hour*** from Sint-Truiden to Brussels at ***XX:19 from platform 1.*** ***LAST TRAIN = 22h19*** **●● Specifics** distance: \~ 27 km elevation gain: \~ 101 m net walking time: \~ 6h00 level: ***easy – open to everyone*** ***In the unlikely case of too bad weather, we may cancel a hike, even few hours before the event. If this must happen, we will of course update the Meetup website and send out an email to those registered. So, it is important to have access to either the Meetup.com website and/or your emails.*** ●● ***What to bring*** \- warm comfortable hiking clothes – ***waterproof hiking shoes*** \- extra socks to change \+ compeed for blisters \- enough water \(min 2 l\) and food for lunch/breaks \- sun protection oil\, a hat and sunglasses OR a raincoat (please consult the weather forecast on [www.meteo.be](http://www.meteo.be/)) **\- some money to pay Maikel a drink ;\-\)** ●● ***Basic rules*** Please RSVP only if you ***really intend to come***. And if your plans change ***update your RSVP latest 1 day before the hike*** so other people still have the possibility to join. This is basic courtesy towards others. ***People who cancel at the last day or don’t show up for the hike will be blacklisted for future hikes.*** Do not show up for a hike unless you are on the roster (i.e. Yes RSVP - but not Wait Listed) **●● *Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability*** **By signing up for this event you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.**

Once a year, something special happens near Brussels… The forest of Hallerbos transforms into a purple-blue carpet of wild bluebells 🌸 , one of the most beautiful natural sights in Belgium. We’ll explore this magical forest together, enjoy a relaxed social walk, and take time to connect, take photos, and just enjoy the moment. 👉 Perfect mix of nature + good vibes + international community 🥾 The Plan - Meet 12:30 for brunch at Midi Station (Time Off) - Train departing from Midi station to Halle at 14:14 - Arrival Halle at 14:24 where we'll take a shuttle bus to the bluebell forest - Scenic walk through the bluebell forest - Distance: \~7–9 km (easy pace) - Duration: \~2.5–3 hours (with stops) - Photo stops & chill moments included 📸 - Optional drink or snack after the walk 🧡 No rush, no pressure — we walk together 🚆 Meeting Point & Transport We’ll go together from Brussels: 📍 Meeting point: (e.g. Brussels Central Station – exact spot shared before event) ⏰ Departure time: (to be confirmed) OR 📍 Direct meeting at Hallerbos (details shared in WhatsApp group) 🌍 Who’s This For? - Expats & locals - Nature lovers 🌿 - People who enjoy social walks - Solo attendees welcome 🙌 👉 You don’t need to know anyone — that’s the whole point 💸 Participation To join, you must be a Sunday Vacations member: - Explorer: (€5/year) - Voyager (€50/year) - Ambassador (€150/year) 👉 Membership: [https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership](https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership) ⚠️ Important Notes - Bluebells are fragile → please stay on paths - Bring comfortable shoes (can be muddy) - Weather-appropriate clothing \*Respect nature 🌿 📲 WhatsApp Group A WhatsApp group will be created before the event for: - Live updates - Meeting point confirmation - Easy coordination 🌟 Why Join? Because moments like this are rare… And they’re even better when shared with the right people. [www.sundayvacations.com](www.sundayvacations.com)

**This event is free for Sunday Vacations members. Membership starts at €5/year.** 👉 Join here: https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership *Please RSVP only if you are reasonably sure you can attend and update your RSVP if your plans change.* Escape the city bustle and join us for a magical evening walk from the royal gardens of Tervuren, through the ancient Sonian Forest, ending at the picturesque Rouge Cloître. This hike is perfect for anyone looking to unwind, breathe some fresh forest air, and enjoy the golden hour colors. 🗺️ The Route We will start at the Tervuren Station (terminus of Tram 44). We’ll begin by walking through the formal gardens and ponds of Tervuren Park, enjoying the open views and the sunset light reflecting on the water. From there, we will dive into the Sonian Forest (Fôret de Soignes), walking under the canopy of the majestic beech cathedrals. We will walk through the magnificent Arboretum that boasts centennial trees and majestic Giant Sequoias. The path will lead us gently downhill towards the historic Rouge Cloître (Red Closter), a 14th-century Augustinian priory nestled on the edge of the forest where we will stop for a well deserved drink. 🕒 The Plan * Meeting Time: 14:50 * Meeting Point: Just outside the Tervuren Station (Terminus of Tram 44). * The Walk: We depart at 15:00 sharp. * The End: We aim to arrive at Rouge Cloître around 18:00 - 18:30. * Après-Walk: We usually grab a drink at the beautiful Maison du Prieur in Rouge Cloître. 📋 Practical Details * Distance: Approximately 12 km. * Duration: \~3.5 hours walking time. * Pace: Casual to moderate. We wait for everyone, but please be comfortable walking this distance. * Terrain: Mostly flat/downhill with some unpaved forest paths. 🎒 What to Bring * Comfortable Shoes: Walking shoes or sneakers (trail runners are great if it has rained recently). * Water: Stay hydrated! * Layers: Evenings can get chilly in the forest. 🚇 Getting Home The walk ends at Rouge Cloître. From there, it is a short 10-15 minute walk to Herrmann-Debroux metro station (Line 5), buses and tram 8 which connect you easily back to the city center. Note: This event is free of charge. Participation is at your own risk. Please **RSVP only** if you intend to come so we don't leave anyone behind! See you on the trail! 🌳✨

Join us for a fun and social **day trip to Parc Astérix**, one of France’s most famous theme parks, just outside Paris This is not just an amusement park visit — it’s also a dive into a **legendary part of French and Belgian culture**. -- ## 🏛️ What is Astérix & Obélix Astérix and Obélix are iconic comic book characters created in 1959 by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo. 👉 The story: a small Gaulish village resisting the Roman Empire thanks to a magic potion 👉 Themes: humor, friendship, satire of European culture 👉 Status: one of the most famous comics in Europe (especially France & Belgium) For many locals, this is **childhood nostalgia + cultural reference + humor all in one** Visiting Parc Astérix is like stepping inside that world. -- ## 🎢 What to expect • Thrilling roller coasters (like OzIris & Toutatis 🎢 • Fun water rides) • Live shows & themed village • A mix of adrenaline + chill + social vibe We’ll go as a group but keep flexibility inside the park so everyone can enjoy at their own pace. -- ## 🚆 Logistic **Departure:** Brussels (exact meeting point shared in WhatsApp group) **Destination:** Parc Astérix **Travel:** Train + shuttle or carpool (to be confirmed depending on group) **Return:** Same day in the evening. 👉 A WhatsApp group will be created for coordination -- ## 💰 Cost • 🎟️ Park ticket: approx. €55–€65 (depending on availability / group rate) • 🚆 Transport: approx. €30–€80 (train or carpool share) • 🍔 Food & drinks inside park: optional (~€15–€25 • 👥 Sunday Vacations organizing fee: 5€ -- ## 👥 Who is this for • Expats curious about local culture • Theme park lovers • Social explorers who enjoy group trip • Anyone who wants a fun, easy day escape from Brussel -- ## ✅ Important • This is a **members-only event** 👉 Membership starts from €5/year: [https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership](https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership) • Please confirm your spot via the link (to be shared) • Ambassador & Voyager members can use their code to waive the organizing fee. -- ## ⚠️ Disclaimer Sunday Vacations / UJAMAA ASBL acts as a **community organizer only** Participants organize their transport and tickets individually -- ## ✨ Why join Because this is more than a theme park It’s a chance to • understand a key part of local culture • meet amazing people • and just have a fun day -- If you’ve been in Belgium or France for a while and never heard of Astérix, 👉 this is your moment.

This trail is a meandering path through the woods. There will be some overlooks and a couple stops at the creek as well as time along a waterway. It will not be a fast paced hike. There is some elevation change and uneven terrain. I will be using poles just to be safe! Will aim to get in about three miles. Optional lunch after if there is an interest.

Joins us for a 3 mile hike this Friday evening along the beautiful Alum Creek Trail. This fully paved trail is pretty flat and winds along Alum Creek. We will travel 1.5 miles south along the trail to a scenic bridge before turning around. Hope to see you Friday!

Over time I'm hoping to organize a hike to all the Franklin County Metro Parks. This is the first one so if you're interested jump in! We'll start with the Canopy Walk, a cool feature of this park. Climb 100 stairs to the top - or take the elevator if stairs aren't your thing. At the top there are a bunch of things to play on - a rope bridge, a fireman pole that we can slide down - and more! About fifteen minutes there and we'll head to the natural trail, Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail for 2.2 miles then do a 1.7 mile loop on the paved Greenway Trail. We'll be passing our cars as we transition if you only want to do the first loop, or the second loop. Pace of around 3.5 mph but no one left behind. If there is an interest we can grab lunch nearby afterward.

Let’s walk the gardens and enjoy what has spring has on display.

We'll hike 3.4 miles on the Killdeer and Yellowlegs Trails - both out and back gravel trails. If we want more mileage we can repeat an out and back. Pace of around 3.5 mph, no one left behind and those who want to go faster sure can! As always optional lunch after. This is the second Metro Park in the lineup for me - with 21 to go (plus more are being added).