Jamaica

📍 **Venue:** Sportsbay - Al Karama We play badminton here every Wednesday, 8-10 PM. [Al Karama Venue: Google Map](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RdqEivDhapk7wTL99) Join our [Join the Al Qouz/Jumeirah Whatsapp Group Here](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FUaEchwklSPFUyeJnSb52W?mode=ac_t) **👋 First time joining?** [Click here to WhatsApp Sarfaraz (+971551899547)](https://wa.me/971551899547?text=Hey%20Sarfaraz!%20This%20is%20my%20first%20time%20joining%20Badminton%20For%20All%2C%20Dubai.) and confirm your slot. **📝 Key Info** This is a group open for players of all levels, nationalities, genders and races. \*Cost per session: 40 AED *Duration: Each session lasts 2 hours* *Equipment: We use feather shuttlecocks; please bring your own racket* *Slots: Booked on a first-come, first-served basis* *Play: Players will be rotated around multiple courts and will get games similar to their level of play* **Late Backout & No-Show Policy** **We strictly enforce our late backout and no-show rules to ensure smooth operations.** Organising replacements on short notice is difficult and disruptive, especially as our organisers have day jobs. Please be mindful of our policy: * **RSVP Policy:** Please RSVP for sessions exclusively through the Meetup app. WhatsApp is mainly for regular updates on attendance, timings and last-minute changes. Any requests made via WhatsApp might not be considered for session sign-ups. * **Late Backouts:** Backing out within 9 hours of the session is considered a late backout. You will be required to pay the session fee in full, even if a replacement is found. * **No-Shows:** If you fail to show up without notice, you must still pay for the session. * **Respect for the Organisers:** Our organisers finalise the list the night before or early morning. Last-minute changes mean they need to leave their work to arrange replacements. This affects not just the organisers but the overall experience of the players. * **Waitlist Responsibility:** If you're on the waitlist and no longer wish to attend, it’s your responsibility to remove your name. We assume that anyone on the waitlist still wants to join the session if a spot opens up. * **First-Come, First-Serve Basis:** We ensure fairness by adhering to a first-come, first-serve system. Please do not ask for special treatment or last-minute slots outside of this. **Note: Players may cancel without penalty up to 9 hours before the session. After this time, the session fee applies regardless of waitlist status. Please book and cancel responsibly to avoid disruptions for everyone involved.**

Through ancient lands, over mountain peaks, and along endless coastlines, Southeastern Africa is a fascinating corner of this vast continent, with hidden gems at every turn. Located on the shores of the Indian Ocean, **Mozambique**’s thousands of miles of coastline have made the country a popular destination for its warm, turquoise waters, stunning marine life, and white-sand beaches. Meanwhile, the Kingdom of **Eswatini** (formerly Swaziland) and **Lesotho** are two of Africa’s only three **present-day kingdoms**. Beautiful Eswatini may be a small country, but it packs a punch, offering an opportunity for an unforgettable road trip via rolling hills, lush forests, and thundering waterfalls. It’s home to national parks and nature reserves that offer the chance to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and more, and it features a proud and ancient history as well as the rich cultural traditions of its indigenous people, the Swazi. Lesotho, a high-altitude nation known as **“the Kingdom in the Sky,"** is packed with imposing mountain ranges. With one of the world’s smallest networks of roads, due to the extreme terrain, this is a truly off-the-beaten-path destination where you’ll feel on top of the world. Get ready to island-hop in the tropics, encounter bucket-list wildlife, meet with local tribes, and traverse dramatic mountain passes as you trek in some of Africa’s most remote treasures. **Let’s go!** **Day 1 // MOZAMBIQUE** Arrival at Maputo International Airport, immigration clearance, transfer to hotel for overnight. Free time at leisure. **Day 2 // MOZAMBIQUE** Time to discover Mozambique’s stunning coastal areas! Our first stop is Santa Maria, where we will spend the morning snorkeling and swimming. Later we’ll take a short boat ride to Inhaca Island, where we’ll enjoy a seafood lunch and visit the local market, and our last stop of the day will be the pristine beaches of Portuguese Island. **Day 3 // ESWATINI** Today we cross the border into the **Kingdom of Eswatini.** Our destination is **Hlane National Park**, where we’ll hop into safari vehicles for a drive around the park in search of lions, elephants, rhinos, hippos, giraffes, zebras, and an array of birdlife. After lunch we’ll rest and then set out for a sunset drive. **Day 4 // ESWATINI** It's time to drive towards the centre of the country, visiting **Mantenga**, a place where Swazi history, culture, and tradition are brought alive against the stunning backdrop of the Mantenga Falls and Nyonyane mountain. Later we’ll make a stop at a contemporary **Swazi art market**. **Day 5 // ESWATINI** In the morning we’ll hit the trails for a visit to the famed **Sibebe rock**, a geological wonder that is some **3 billion years old**, over three times older than Australia’s famed Uluru (Ayers) Rock. The surrounding trails provide magnificent vistas all the way to the Lubombo Mountains in the east. Sundowners at Sibebe infinity pool to cheer the discovery of this hidden gem. **Day 6 // ESWATINI - LESOTHO** Start with two short connecting flights via JNB to **Maseru, the capital of Lesotho,** and a drive through lowlands, where the twin peaks of Thaba Li Mele, known as Nipple Mountain, rise against the horizon. The road leads upward into the Maloti Mountains, with **grand landscapes of river valleys and basalt cliffs of the Kingdom in the Sky.** At Semonkong, beside the Maletsunyane River, have dinner with local specialties, Famo music, and a presentation of a Basotho blanket-famous tribe hospitality. **Day 7 // LESOTHO** Exciting day ahead, as we **saddle up Basotho ponies and packhorses** to **depart for a 6-hour trek** towards highlands with rivers, ridges, and picture-perfect scenery. Stop at midway viewpoint for picnic lunch. In the afternoon we’ll arrive in Ketane Village, not far from a river for a swim with sundowners. Evening under the stars, stay in Basotho huts or camp. **Day 8 // LESOTHO** After breakfast hit the trail to **Ketane Waterfall, seen only by few outsiders.** You'll be quickly rewarded with some grand views in the mist. Later on pack up and ride back to Semonkong, different trail, crossing mountains and rivers with nature mix and local snacks. In the afternoon reach Semonkong Lodge for a shower and perhaps a sundowner at the Duck & Donkey. **Day 9 // LESOTHO** Leaving Semonkong behind, **keep your camera ready** as we wind up a drive to Malealea Lodge. Kaleidoscope of landscapes unwinds along the road, flexing Kingdom's treasures. Stop at **Thaba-Bosiu**, the fortress of King Moshoeshoe I, for a short glimpse into Basotho nation's history through exhibits, dances, and songs. Next to the **Kome Caves**, used for refuge during the Lifaqane Wars over 200 years ago and still home to descendants. Lunch before reaching Malealea for musical dinner. **Day 10 // Departure** Sadly it's time for the last valley's views. We’ll shortly get back on the road for a transfer to airport, where we’ll wave goodbye to The Mountain Kingdom and Africa. **Level of Difficulty:** Easy, available for everyone. **Duration:** 10 days. **Activities:** Trekking, boating, swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing, wildlife and indigenous tribes encounter. **Rooms:** African upmarket standards, hotels and lodges – shared rooms, single at extra cost subject of availability. **Meals:** Restaurant meals excluded. **COST: 9,600 AED excl. flights until MAR 05.** **Flights:** Emirates + Airlink, approx. 4500 AED. **Requirements:** Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate, malaria prophylactics. **Visas:** **MOZ:** Visa free / on arrival / eVisa, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Mozambique](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Mozambique) **ESW:** Most of passports visa free entry / consulate visa, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Eswatini](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Eswatini) **LES:** Visa free or pre-arranged visa, support available. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Lesotho](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Lesotho) **SA:** Visa free or eVisa [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_South_Africa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_South_Africa) *It is sole responsibility of participant to secure admission to the country of destination.* **YELLOW FEVER Vaccination Certificate** is mandatory for crossing inter-african borders. See yah in Africa x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 00971 50 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

Ever dreamt of having **elephants walk up to your lodge room while you sip a coffee** and watch the sun rise over lush savannah and eucalyptus trees? Built on stilts in the tradition of the Taita tribes, you’ll watch the **bush unfold from the comforts of this world-class lodge**, take game drives from sun up to sun down in search of zebras, buffaloes, giraffes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, antelopes, and oh so many birds. With a salt lick at your feet and an elephant to offer a helpful trunk, you’ll be the lion king or queen of Kenya! **Spread over 28,000 acres of gentle rolling hills**, forests, and savannah in the southeast corner of Kenya and just a few hours drive from white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is home to cape buffalo, African bush elephant, leopard, lion, cheetah, Masai giraffe, zebra, hartebeest, impala, waterbuck, Thomson's gazelle, lesser kudu, dik-dik, Hyena, and diversity of birdlife for spotting. Since most vegetation is lacking in vital salts and minerals, a salt lick is a natural source of nutrients, providing sodium, calcium, iron, zinc, and trace elements that local wildlife needs for bone and muscle development. **Animals will often seek out sources of salt,** both naturally occurring as well as artificial, making for ideal spots for wildlife to congregate, as important as a watering hole. With a **Zanzibar-esque vibe along tranquil white sands**, fresh seafood served in thatch-roofed huts along turquoise waters and golden sand dunes, the beaches of Mombasa, in Kenya’s second largest city after Nairobi, makes for ideal relaxation spot along the Indian Ocean, with 16th century forts, snorkelling gardens, and all-you-can-eat seafood as you take in the sunset from this little-known beach paradise. **Let’s go!!** **Day 1 // Touch down Mombasa** After arrival and immigration clearance, we head right for the wildlife sanctuary. Its time to meet up with local residents of elephants at the lodge for dinner and rest or perhaps jump on a night drive to check customs of nocturnal animals. **Day 2 // All Day Game Drives** With coffee in hand, we’ll be face-to-face with the wildlife over breakfast before heading out for an all-day game drive in search of zebras, buffaloes, giraffes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, antelopes, and oh so many birds. When we’ve had our fill of the full African safari experience, we’ll head back to the lodge for dinner and toast our field trip with a sunset on the bush. If you’re up for even more, there’s still an option for night safari to spot the nocturnal movements of big and small game alike. **Day 3 // Return to Watamu & Beach** With early morning breakfast and one last game drive at sunrise on the way out of the sanctuary, we’ll head back to Watamu with optional visit to Maasai village en route. We’ll reach our beach lodge in late afternoon in time for sunset and dinner on the coast. **Day 4 // Tropical Coast** After breakfast of black tea and Mandazi or Vibibi, we’ll pack up for boat trip towards nearby islands. If we're lucky we may spot humpback whales on the way. Return for lunch, later in the afternoon Tamarind Dhow sunset dinner cruise. **Day 5 // Chill on the Beach** Lazy start of the easy day with a tropical beach stroll and swim accompanied by the gentle breeze. Continue idyllic exploration until its time to head to airport. Bye bye Mombasa! **Level of difficulty:** Easy, available for everyone, kids friendly. **Activities:** African safari, beach strolling, swimming, snorkeling, boating, optional night game drives. **Accommodation & meals:** included, lodge and beach resort, double sharing. Meals included. **COST: AED 4,000** excl. flight until MAR 12. Past this date cost will change. **Specifically excluded:** visa (ETA), insurance. **[Visa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Kenya):** No visa to Kenya, only simplified Electronic Travel Authorization at [www.etakenya.go.ke](http://www.etakenya.go.ke/) See yah in Kenya x Trekkup Crew [Whastapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) [Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

**Hi Footballers!** Get ready for a game at **MVP Lab**! We’re playing **5v5** on a modern artificial turf pitch (**indoor**). Whether you're a beginner or a veteran player, everyone is welcome to join and have fun! 🙌⚽️ The participation fee is **59 AED**, which covers the field booking, organizer costs, **sauna and ice bath** . To join the game and see who else has signed up, make sure to download the **CeleBreak app**. You can find it on both the **[App Store](https://apps.apple.com/co/app/celebreak/id1244710855?l=en-GB)** and **[Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lewisblack.celebreakOne&hl=en)**. 🚨 **Important:** Please join through the app to **reserve your spot!** 🚨 One of our organizers will be at the pitch to welcome you, provide bibs, and get everything set up. Come as you are and **have fun in our games!** We can’t wait to see you on the pitch! 💪 **PS:** Don’t worry about the number of attendees on Meetup—the real player count is shown in the app!

Explore the wonders of Jordan on this 5-day adventure. Begin your journey in the bustling capital, Amman, where you'll delve into its rich history and vibrant culture. Discover ancient treasures at the Citadel, explore the intricate mosaics of Madaba, and marvel at the breathtaking views from Mount Nebo. Immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of Petra, the 'Rose City,' and uncover its hidden secrets as you traverse the Siq and marvel at the Treasury. Journey through the stunning landscapes of Wadi Rum, where you'll encounter Bedouin traditions and rugged desert beauty. Conclude your unforgettable experience with a relaxing stay by the Dead Sea, where you can float in its therapeutic waters and soak in the serene surroundings. This 5-day tour promises an unforgettable blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty in the heart of Jordan. **Inclusions:** * A total of 12 meals: 4 breakfast, 4 lunches and 4 dinners. Note: Vegan/Vegetarian food options are available * Transport to all the destinations of the trip * Round trip transport from and to airport * Accommodation for 4 nights in below hotels (or similar) in twin-share rooms of the same gender: * Petra: (Sella Hotel) - 4 stars (or similar) * Wadi Rum: Hasan Zawaideh Camp - Standard Tent (or similar) * Dead Sea: Grand East Hotel - 4 stars (or similar) * Free entry visa upon Arrival at Amman Airport for most of the nationalities (Passport details are needed in advance) * The best Jordanian guide in town * Entrance fees * Tours in all locations * 2 hour 4x4 ride in Wadi Rum * Great people and great fun! **Important Notes:** * **Group size:** Small group experience - Avg. 10. Max 16. * **Physical rating:** Light physical activities are included. * **Meeting point & time**: * Meetup time: 12:00pm. * Meetup location: Queen Alia International Airport Arrivals * **Solo & women friendly:** Solo and female travelers are more than welcome; 70% of our participants are usually solo adventurers and women. * **Important Note:** Bookings cannot be rescheduled within 14 days of the trip. * **Single supplement:** You can book a single room supplement (to have your own room) for 500aed per person. Please let us know if you want to book this and we will process it separately based on availability. * **Health and travel insurance**: It is mandatory to have a health and travel insurance in the country where this experience is happening. If you don't have insurance or your current insurance doesn't provide coverage, you can obtain one [here](https://explore.safetywing.com/nomad-insurance-complete?referenceID=26286700&utm_source=26286700&utm_medium=Ambassador) ! * **Tipping Information:** If you'd like to show your appreciation to your guide, please bring cash in JOD for tipping. * **Visa requirements:** * We can issue for you a visa on arrival to Jordan (that is included as part of the trip) for all nationalities except for the below (for which we can issue a visa but needs 14 working days): * Nigerian * Bangladesh * Sri Lanka * Iran * Iraq * Cuba. * Pakistan * Vietnam * Philippine * Cambodia * Senegal * Sudan * Magnolia * Myanmar * Uganda * **Instagram:** Follow us on instagram for our latest adventures: [arabian.wanderers](https://www.instagram.com/arabian.wanderers/) **Itinerary:** **Day 1:** **Amman Airport – Amman City Tour – Petra Hotel** Ahlan Wa Sahlan! Welcome to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan! Arrive to Amman on any flight on the morning of the trip **before 10:30am**, our representative will assist you on arrival with the immigration procedure. **Meeting time in Airport:** 12pm Begin your day with a city tour of Jordan's capital. Amman, also known as Rabbath Ammon in the Bible, is a vibrant modern city. The historical sites are situated downtown, where we will visit the Citadel, housing remnants from the Roman to the early Islamic period. We'll then visit the Archaeological Museum, wander through the Souq to experience daily life, and conclude at the 2nd-century Roman Theatre with 6000 seats. Afterward, we'll proceed to your hotel in Petra for check-in and overnight stay. **Day 2:** **Petra Visit** After breakfast, we will journey to the captivating red rose city of Petra, Jordan's most renowned attraction. Petra's origins date back to around the 6th century B.C., when it was established by the Nabataean Arabs, a nomadic tribe that settled in the region and established a thriving commercial empire that stretched into Syria. Accompanied by our adventure leader, we will traverse the canyon known as the Siq, leading to Petra's most iconic structure: the Treasury. Continuing along the Street of Facades, we'll explore the Royal Tombs and Pharaoh's Castle. You'll also have some free time to explore Petra at your leisure, perhaps even climbing the 800 stairs to reach the Monastery El Deir. **Day 3:** **Petra Hotel – Little Petra – Wadi Rum 2 H Jeep Ride – Wadi Rum Camp** In the morning, we'll embark on a journey to the otherworldly landscape of Little Petra, where we'll explore Siq el-Barid, often referred to as the "Mini Petra," featuring its own modest gorge (Siq) leading to an array of intricately carved tombs and monuments. Following our visit, we'll continue our journey southward for approximately 1.5 hours to the protected expanse of Wadi Rum, renowned as one of the most striking desert landscapes globally. Here, traditional Bedouin communities still thrive, and on a thrilling 4x4 Jeep tour, you'll traverse through canyons, across sand dunes, and encounter ancient Nabatean rock inscriptions. Upon arrival at your camp, check-in and indulge in a delightful dinner amidst the tranquil desert surroundings. **Day 4:** **Wadi Rum Camp – Kings Way – Mt. Nebo – Madaba – Dead Sea Hotel** After breakfast, we embark on a scenic journey along the historic King's Way, an ancient caravan route of great significance. Our first stop is at Wadi Al-Mujib, a vast valley adorned with magnificent geological formations. Continuing our expedition, we arrive at Mount Nebo, the revered site where Prophet Moses beheld the Promised Land before his passing. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the ancient monastery and marvel at panoramic views encompassing the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and segments of the Holy Land. Our journey then takes us to Madaba, where we'll visit the renowned St. George's Church to admire its celebrated 6th-century mosaic map of Palestine. Finally, we proceed to your hotel by the Dead Sea for check-in, where the unique, mineral-rich waters await. You can spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, perhaps by floating effortlessly in the buoyant waters, indulging in a therapeutic black mud treatment known for its skin benefits, and soaking in the serene atmosphere and unique landscape. **Day 5:** **Dead Sea Hotel – Amman Airport** After breakfast, we will collect you from the lobby of your hotel and drop you off at Amman Airport by 9 a.m. Bid farewell to Jordan—Ma'a Salamah!

Just updated, as it's been announced that EID holidays will start on Thursday. Yey!! This EID, we go deeper into Oman. High mountain plateaus, remote cave regions, turquoise wadis, dramatic cliff-top camping at **Jebel Shams**, and historic villages — this is a true multi-terrain expedition designed for adventurous spirits. We move as a team. We camp high. We explore wild. *** ## 🗓️ Itinerary ### **Wednesday – Arrival in Ibri** * Drive from Dubai (\~3 hrs) * Hotel check-in at your convenience * Rest night * Group breakfast meet-up Thursday morning *** ### **Thursday – Salmah Plateau Camp** * Breakfast at hotel * \~4 hr highway drive toward **Salmah Plateau** * 1–2 hr sharp unpaved mountain ascent * Camp near **Majlis al Jinn** * Sunset on the plateau * **Camp dinner included** * Overnight wilderness camping *** ### **Friday – Sinkhole, Wadi & Nizwa** * Camp breakfast * Visit **Bimmah Sinkhole** * Continue to **Wadi Al Arbaeen** (short hike & swim if water allows) * \~3.5 hr drive to **Nizwa** * Hotel check-in & rest *** ### **Saturday – Valleys & Jebel Shams Camp** * Breakfast & hotel check-out * Drive toward Jebel Shams (\~2+ hrs) * Side track at Valley Necrosis * Visit historic village **Bani Subh** * Camp setup at Jebel Shams * Optional short section of the **Balcony Walk** * **BBQ dinner at camp** * Overnight high-altitude camping (cool evenings) *** ### **Sunday – Wadi Damm & Return** * Camp breakfast * Pack up & descend * Stop at **Wadi Damm** (swim if water available) * Return to Dubai * Estimated arrival around **6 PM** (timing depends on departure & stop duration) *** ## 💰 Cost **AED 850 per person** ### Includes: * 1 hotel night in Ibri * 1 hotel night in Nizwa * 2 wilderness camp nights * **Breakfast (Thu–Sun)** * **Camp dinners (Thu & Sat)** * Drinks: water, juice, coffee & tea * Route planning & full trip coordination ### Optional: * Camping equipment rental: **AED 150 per set per night** * Car lift option: **AED 200 per person** *(Fuel cost to be shared with driver)* * **Single hotel room surcharge:** AED 150 per night per person *** ## 🚙 Vehicle Requirements (Essential) * **4x4 vehicle mandatory** * Must have **recovery points and basic recovery gear** * Drivers are fully responsible for their vehicles * Life Unbound is **not responsible for any vehicle damage** *** ## 🛂 Border & Entry Information * **Valid passport required** (recommended 6+ months validity) * **All UAE residents are visa-free for Oman** * UAE tourist visa holders must check online whether an Oman e-visa is required * UAE exit fee & Oman entry fee apply at the border * Vehicles under bank loan require a **Bank NOC** to enter Oman Participants are responsible for ensuring valid documentation. *** ## 💳 Payment Policy * **Full payment required upon confirmation** to secure your spot. Please WhatsApp me at 052 818 4114. *** ## 🤝 Life Unbound Philosophy This is not a rushed sightseeing tour — it’s a shared expedition. We support each other. We respect nature. We leave no trace. **Adventure is worthwhile.**

Come and have tea, meet new friends and engage in an open conversation about life's purpose, our collective responsibility towards humanity, our existence on this planet, diverse religious perspectives, spiritual insights, the interconnectedness of all people, gender equality, the convergence of faiths, and current world issues. Location: Burj Crown Building - Lounge Room on the 7th floor. Above "Baba Roma" restaurant. Free parking is available in the Dubai Opera House parking. 15 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd - Downtown Dubai [https://maps.app.goo.gl/h5NH1VNXSHCJC7bq5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/h5NH1VNXSHCJC7bq5) Time: 19:30 for an 20:00 prompt start

**The birthplace of voodoo** and pivotal centres of the slave trade for nearly three centuries, Benin, Togo and Ghana have rich and complex histories and fascinating cultural traditions that continue today. We’ll discover this little known corner of West Africa on **an 11-day journey** deep into these countries’ northern reaches and along the Gulf of Guinea coast, to the heart of the regions **where voodoo is still widely practiced** today. We will wander the fetish markets for relics, sail through stilt villages, and discover the mysteries of ancient practices. In **Benin**, formerly known as Dahomey, we will get to know the roots of Voodoo beliefs and practices. The country is also famous for its wonderful local craftsmanship and numerous bustling bazaars. We’ll look through the often-surprising assortment of offerings at a fetish market, visit the **Python temple**, and explore the **Slave Route in Ouidah**, a place where enslaved peoples were sold and forced to bid farewell to their homeland forever. With a population of around 20,000, **Ganvie is the largest lake village in Africa**, standing on stilts in the middle of Lake Nokoue. 500 years later after its founding, the people of Ganvie have developed their own distinctive culture and lifestyle on the lake. Shaky houses, churches, mosques and other structures are built **using red ebony wood,** which is resistant to rotting and hence ideal for the watery conditions. Neighboring **Togo** is a narrow strip of land located to the west of Benin. Another stronghold of Voodoo and animist practices, and a key region of the so-called "Slave Coast" in centuries past, it features picturesque hilltop villages and palm-lined beaches. Togo has suffered under the **colonisation of three different nations**, resulting in a melting pot of influences that linger to this day. Here we will have the opportunity to learn about the customs of local communities, from **mudbrick castle** **architecture** of the Somba people and traditional ceremonies like the **Fire Dance** to animist beliefs reflected at **shrines and fetish markets**. We’ll make our through verdant landscapes and have close encounters with wildlife, visiting the **Valley of the Bats** and spotting rare butterflies in the green hills. **Ghana**, the economic powerhouse of Western Africa, is a place where modernization intertwines with ancient rituals. Home to several very unique traditions, such their **elaborately decorated coffins**, Ghanians are open and welcoming people, and there will be excellent opportunities here to see the true face of Africa. From encounters with Voodoo priests and slithering reptiles to immersion in colorful markets and lush jungles, this trip is a deep dive into the culture and landscapes of Benin, Togo and Ghana. Our journey through this little-known region will surely reveal plenty of surprises, leaving you will memories of a lifetime and a few stories to tell! Take a quick look at what awaits you here: [https://vimeo.com/392949560](https://vimeo.com/392949560) **Let’s go!** **Day 1** :: BEN :: Cotonou **Day 2** :: BEN :: Amazons, snakes and slave port **Day 3** :: BEN :: Stilt village and ancient palaces **Day 4** :: BEN :: Sacred hills and fetish shrines **Day 5** :: BEN-TOG:: Border crossing, mud castles and Fire Dance **Day 6** :: TOG :: Crafts and Bat Valley **Day 7** :: TOG :: Hills of Kouma Konda to capital Lomé **Day 8** :: TOG-GHA :: Border crossing and Volta Region **Day 8** :: GHA :: Akossombo waterfalls **Day 10** :: GHA :: Accra and fantasy coffins / Departure *Full details available to confirmed RSVPs.* **Level of difficulty:** Easy **Activities:** Sightseeing, walking **Accommodation & meals:** Hotels and lodges, double sharing rooms. Meals excluded. **Cost: AED 11,900** **including flights** until MAR 05. Past this date cost will change. **Flights by Ethiopian:** DAY 1 :: DXB-COO DAY 10 :: ACC-DXB **Specifically excluded:** Meals, visas, single supplement. **Visas:** **Benin:** E-visa 60 USD **Togo:** E-visa 40 USD **Ghana:** transit visa on arrival 50-100 USD **Yellow Fever Certificate** is mandatory for this trip. See yah in West Africa x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 0504848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/) [Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

BRUNCH and Weekend Vibes at Querida Mexican & Friends 🌮 Join us this weekend for a relaxed Mexican-style brunch in the heart of Al Barsha. Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/i3vLDu4aaRkq5ZGcA Menu: https://qr.emenu.ae/querida/#/en/category/32795 Fresh tacos, classic plates, and cozy vibes 📍 Querida Mexican & Friends , Al Barsha

## Exclusive Dine-Out Offers at Querida – Al Barsha 📍 **Querida Restaurant** ### 20% OFF Available for dine-out bookings via: * Talabat * Zomato * Careem * The Entertainer Book through your favorite app and enjoy 20% off your total bill. *** ### 🇦🇪 15% OFF for Fazaa Members Show your **Fazaa** card and enjoy 15% off your dine-in experience. *** 🌮 Authentic Mexican flavors 🌶 Freshly prepared daily 🥑 Guacamole. Tacos. Birria. Pozole. 🍹 Refreshing hibiscus water & mocktails 📍 Al Barsha, Dubai

Try out this stunning fusion style of smooth sensual moves and funky transitions in an easy-to-follow dance to classic & modern tunes. Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating from Angola, and reshaped in Portugal. It is a derivative of semba, with a mix of Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue. New styles derived from the traditional kizomba were developed in Europe such as urban Kiz and Tarraxinha. Danced to sensual music, happy folklore or electronic trance and fuelled by passion; kizomba is one of the most versatile genres that will help you express your deepest emotions! AED 99 /1 class AED 599 /8 classes (monthly package!) AED 899 /16 classes (monthly package!) Book your spot NOW! 8 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/pabEn 16 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/w7hbw For enquiries call/text 055 803 4003

THIS IS A NON-PROFIT EVENT It's a free training every Sunday. For sharing TaiChi and culture and a national love to people we meet. Transfer good evengy. Currently we have apply Guinness World record on 28th September, 2025. For most Nationalities doing TaiChi Together. We try to get different nationalities friends to participate Together. Also to send a message to the world that all of us can united as One. Welcome global Citizens to participate Together💪 It's our pleasure to share Chinese Martial Arts with you. ☀️Practice Qigong and Taichi with Chinese Masters on a lovely Sunday morning. Qigong, pronounced “chi gong,” was developed in China thousands of years ago as part of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves using exercises to optimize energy within the body, mind, and spirit, with the goal of improving and maintaining health and well-being. ☯️Tai Chi is an internal Chinese martial art practiced for both its defense training, its health benefits and meditation. It is a fist system based on the dynamic relationship between polarities (Yin and Yang) *Event plan :* 1. Greetings 2.Qigong Breathing exercise 3.Qigong warm up and BaDuanJin practice 4. Yang style of Taichi 24 forms group practice 5. *Beginner Group* : Taichi level 1 *Advance group* : Specific training and practice with weapons 6. Group photo Please bring *water bottle* with you. There is a public water refill station. Feel free to bring snacks for sharing. You can bring a *Yoga mat* for meditation. (If the weather is good enough we are going to practice yoga after Taichi event) Most importantly, Bring a *big smile* 😊 Meeting Point: South Ridge Park https://maps.app.goo.gl/2JXMQxRTtRgdv4ok7 Our group will be seen practicing there, the park is not so big and it will be easy to find us in our Uniforms. In case you cannot find us, send a message in the comments section. *** DISCLAIMER: 1. Photography & Social Media - Group photos may be taken and shared on online social platforms and used for future Meetup event postings. If you have any objections, please refrain from participating/posing in the group photos and inform the organizer IN ADVANCE. 2. Safety & Medical Conditions: This is each person's own responsibility, so please check all safety and medical precautions before you participate in this event. The organizers are NOT liable in case of any mishaps/injuries. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask the Organizers/Masters BEFORE participation in this event. Stay healthy stay safe. Spread love spread passion❤️ Keep exercise keep positive.🤸🏻‍♀‍

Try out this stunning fusion style of smooth sensual moves and funky transitions in an easy-to-follow dance exercised to classic & modern tunes. Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating from Angola, reshaped in Portugal & France. It is a derivative of semba, with a mix of Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue. New styles derived from the traditional kizomba were developed in Europe such as urban Kiz and Tarraxinha. Danced to sensual music, happy folklore or electronic trance and fuelled by passion; kizomba is one of the most versatile genres that will help you express your deepest emotions! AED 89 /1 class AED 599 /8 classes (monthly package!) AED 899 /16 classes (monthly package!) Book your spot NOW! 8 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/pabEn 16 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/w7hbw For enquiries call/text 055 803 4003

Chad, officially known as the Republic of Chad, is a landlocked nation in the north-east of Africa. Home to around 12 million inhabitants of different ethnicities, it is a place where cultures converge across three climate zones of the Sudan, Sahel and Sahara regions. **Buried deep in the heart of the Sahara Desert is the** **Ennedi Massif – a UNESCO World Heritage Site** famed for its sandstone mountains and unique rock formations. Spanning 50,000km, the Ennedi Massif continues to provide much needed shelter for the inhabitants, the flora and the fauna of this region – and has done for millennia. **Here natural beauty and biodiversity come together** to form some of the largest sandstone arches on the planet. And hidden among them are natural springs, known as gueltas that house the endangered West African Crocodile, while also serving as a life source for flocks of Barbary Sheep, herds of camels and generations of nomadic people since time immemorial – all while the Barbary falcons swirl overhead above the lofty sand spires. The spectacularly unique landscape of the Ennedi Massif was formed by **millions of years of erosion**, and it is the permanent underground waters of this plateau that sustain such a rich ecosystem. With **thousands of paintings engraved on the rocky surfaces** of its caves and canyons, this region offers up one of the largest rock art collections in the Sahara to tell an ancient story. Experts estimate some of the **oldest rock art in this region dates back to the repopulation of the Sahara at the end of the last ice age – about 10,000 years ago!** And because of the sheer volume of the paintings and engravings in this area, it has been possible to reconstruct, decipher and map out not only the daily lives, cultural and economic values of our Saharan ancestors, but also form a perspective on the main stages of the climate and environmental change that took place here. **The landscape of the Ennedi Massif is, in a word, breathtaking**. The silhouettes of the cliffs, rock formations and tassilis plateaus set against a backdrop of glistening golden sand dunes in some parts, and forest covered valleys in others, offers a symphony of contrasting beauty. With one sweep of the eyes, you are transported from dizzying heights to the depths of narrow gorges, and from immense desert plateaus to refreshing water basins, framed by delicate and imposing natural stone arches. **A sanctuary of calm and beauty, the Ennedi Massif is a magical kingdom** that has stood the test of time. And standing proud as one of the last remaining biodiverse ecosystems in the world’s largest desert, the Ennedi Massif is a testament not only to the existence of our prehistory, but also a real snapshot in time of life during the ‘green Sahara’ era. **Let's go!** **DAY 1: N'Djamena** Meet at the airport for the Ethiopian flight via Addis Ababa to N'Djamena. After the immigration process and police registration, take a quick look at the capital city. Tonight, we will stay at a city hotel. **DAY 2-3: N'Djamena – Moussoro – Road to Kalait** Leave the city toward Moussoro and continue to a desert camp in the village of Kalait. The road leads north across the alluvial plains of Lake Chad, passing small Sahelian settlements with villages, mud huts, and markets that offer a glimpse of simple African life. Make a short stop for supplies before continuing to Massakory, which marks the end of paved roads and the start of true off-road ride. The landscape gradually transforms into the semi-desert of the Kanem region, with acacia trees and sandy tracks along the dry Bahr el Ghazal riverbed. Arrive in Moussoro, a small town serving as a key stop for fuel, surrounded by semi-arid zones where nomadic Arab and Kreda families tend to their camel and cattle herds, a testament to the harsh yet resilient Saharan lifestyle. Pushing onward through sometimes challenging sandy pistes, we head to Bathandjenna, a nomadic meeting point with numerous wells and herds of camels grazing on marginal pastures. If lucky, we will spot wild Dorcas gazelles or fennec foxes. The scenery becomes increasingly arid, with isolated tents replacing villages. Welcome to Kalait, a bustling Saharan crossroads and market hub for the region, where we set up our desert camp amid the emerging sandstone formations signaling the approach to Ennedi. Overnights are in mobile tent camps, with meals prepared by our team under the stars. **DAY 4: Kalait – Guelta Bachikélé – Ennedi** Our first stop in the village of Kalait is a market for last minute supply pickup before heading into the Ennedi mountains. Here, we will spend our time exploring numerous sandstone rock formations carved by wind and erosion to create unreal shapes. We will also visit several rock art sites with works overhead depicting cows, camels, and warriors. If time allows, we will pass by an ancient burial site in the Tubu territory. First, we reach the Ennedi Guelta of Bachikélé, a water source differing from others with clean waters from a permanent spring, surrounded by abundant vegetation, palm trees, and fruits that feed local baboons. Here, we will meet indigenous inhabitants - nomads, passing small groups of tents as we spot them on their way to pasture with their camels or drawing water from wells. **The landscape in this region is truly spectacular, and we will camp in one of the prettiest areas in the Ennedi mountains in the northeast, known for its all shades of red. This is one of Africa’s most unexpected areas, with natural arches and isolated deep gorges.** **DAY 5: Ennedi – Rock Formations and Arches** Today, we head to the Arch of Julia, an imposing and inexplicable structure carved by wind and sand into a magical setting, followed by the enormous Arch of Aloba, one of the world’s largest at 120 meters high and 77 meters wide, where wind creates challenging circuits. Nearby stands the Five Arch, a stunning cluster of five natural bridges. **DAY 6: Ennedi – Labyrinth and Rock Art Exploration** As we delve deeper into Ennedi’s hidden gems, we start with the labyrinth of Oyo, a maze of wadis bordered by sandstone mountains with yet another set of fantastic shapes, as we cross sinuous passages and precarious pinnacles. Next is the rupestre peintes of Terkei, one of the richest Saharan cave art sites featuring Neolithic depictions of animals like giraffes and elephants, shepherds, warriors, and enigmatic "flying" horses. Continue to Wimina, a site with additional prehistoric rock art echoing ancient narratives of daily life and culture. **DAY 7: Guelta d'Archei – Trekking Guelta - Kalait** Today’s highlight is undoubtedly the **Guelta d’Archei, the only permanent waterhole in the region**, **situated amid a dramatic and towering gorge**. Here, we will see possibly up to 600 camels quenching their thirst as their bellowing echoes bounce off the rock walls. The guelta is also home to one of the **last populations of the Saharan crocodile**, which live in small waterholes. Reduced to a population of around only 10, no young Saharan crocodiles have been seen for years, leading to speculation that the population is either entirely male or female and headed for extinction soon. With a bit of luck, we should be able to spot them. As we head out of Ennedi, we stop back in Kalait before heading south. The landscape changes back through a more typically African setting, with settled villages and mud huts replacing the camel hair tents of the Tubu. **DAY 8: Kalait – Moussoro** The drive leads southwest through the Bahr el Ghazal wadi, that drains into Lake Chad during rare floods. This region is part of the Kanem prefecture, where archaeological sites have yielded human remains from 7 million years ago. Passage includes areas with acacia stands and low vegetation supporting wildlife such as jackals and fennec foxes, with Chad's total mammal count at 134 species. Nomad camps of Kreda groups, who form the largest subgroup in Bahr el Gazel, appear along the track, often near wells providing water from aquifers. Arrival in Moussoro, the capital of Bahr el Gazel province, to refuel. **DAY 9: Moussoro – N'Djamena** The final stretch of 230 kilometers head south on a mix of tracks and paved sections through Sahelian zones in the Chari-Baguirmi region, passing sparse settlements. The route borders areas affected by Lake Chad's shrinkage, which has reduced from 25,000 square kilometers in the 1960s to about 1,500 today, impacting local fishing communities. Arrival in N'Djamena in the afternoon will mark the end of our Sahara-Sahelian expedition. Overnight in a hotel. **DAY 10: Return** It is time to bid farewell to Chad and head back to the airport for the return flight home. **Level:** Easy, however it is a journey to the heart and soul of Africa, area with limited facilities. **Activities:** Trekking, off roading, immersion of Saharan and Sahelian cultures, experiencing one of the simplest life on the planet. **Duration:** 10 days **Accommodation & meals:** 2 nights in the hotels in N'djamena - double sharing and mobile camping. Meals included except meals during transfers. **Specifically excluded:** E-visa, restaurant meals on transfers, entry fees if any, insurance. **Cost:** **2350 EURO** + flight approx. 4,950 AED. **Cost valid until FEB 28.** **Requirement:** Comfortable shoes, camping equipment, head lamp, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, sleeping bag, disposable plates and cutlery, gifts for tribes. **Visa:** E-visa for all passports. **Yellow Fever Certificate** is required for entry to Chad. This is a travel to malaria endemic region, prophylactics is compulsory for all participants. **Expect:** **Real, raw Africa!** Limited facilities with shower only every other day, lifetime experience with indigenous African tribes, waking up to sound of villages, stunning landscapes, tons of smiles but also striking poverty - share your t-shirts! Come back home with high appreciation of your life. See yah in Chad xx Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050484823](https://wa.me/971504848238) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

We thought of one of the interesting things that can be enjoyed at this time of the year. We will be meeting at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church for a "Fish Fry" in Marian Hall on Friday, March 27th at 5:00 PM. It might be fun for you to experience what has become a tradition on the Fridays before Easter. They will have fried fish or baked fish, French fries and Cole slaw, as well as beverages, all for $16.00 for adults. They will have other beverages and desserts available for sale, as well. We have never tried this, and sometimes there are quite a few people at these events so we hope that we will be able to find each other easily. I'll try to have signs outside Marian Hall that Identify our group. We hope to have you join us!

We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able! Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!

The topic for March is "Our Bodies, Ourselves" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

Discover Kiro, AWS’s innovative development environment that adapts to your workflow. Whether you prefer specification-driven development or a more intuitive, vibe-based approach, Kiro empowers you to build applications your way. In this session, speakers will explore Kiro’s core functionality and its evolution through re:Invent 2025, along with demonstrations of prompts used to create APIs, hooks, and steering documents. In the latter part of the session, watch as we build a complete example from scratch, showcasing Kiro’s agentic AI workflow in action for spec-driven development and vibe coding. What You'll Learn - Core Kiro concepts and development philosophy Feature evolution: pre and post re:Invent 2025 Practical examples: API creation, hooks, and steering docs Live coding demonstration with real-time problem solving Who Should Attend - Developers, solutions architects, and technical leaders interested in modern AWS development tools and AI-assisted coding workflows. **Speakers Bio:** Matthew Jorat: Matthew Jorat is a Customer Solutions Manager at AWS with nearly three decades of expertise in AI, cloud transformation, migration, modernization, IT, technology, and business. His career spans infrastructure engineer, solutions architect, security auditor, customer success director, support and services director, and operations officer. He was an early adopter of AWS services as a customer, and his current role at AWS uniquely blends his technical and business skills as he partners with executive teams to translate strategic priorities into measurable business outcomes through cloud adoption, AI implementation, and operational excellence. Matt leads end-to-end AI initiatives for enterprise customers, identifying high-impact use cases and maintaining relentless focus on measurable ROI. He holds eight AWS certifications and serves as Adjunct Professor at Franklin University teaching cloud computing and AWS architecture. His expertise encompasses GenAI, agentic AI systems, migration, modernization, and optimization strategies that drive transformation at scale. [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjorat/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjorat/) Girish Bhatia: Girish Bhatia is a seasoned technology delivery leader with deep expertise in cross-domain program management. He holds multiple AWS certifications, including AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, AWS Certified Developer – Associate, and AWS Generative AI Practitioner, and is also an AWS Community Builder. Girish brings over two decades of experience in the information technology industry. Throughout his career, Girish has led major technology-driven business transformation from modernizing on-premises applications to driving large-scale cloud migrations. His work includes API-based integration platforms, data-center and mainframe modernization, and enterprise cloud adoption initiatives. Based in Columbus, Ohio, Girish works at a tech-forward fintech company. He is passionate about AWS serverless architectures, Generative AI and emerging cloud technologies. An avid learner and builder, he continues to explore and apply the latest innovations in AWS to help organizations accelerate their digital transformation. https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/[https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/) **THANK YOU** *Franklin University* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Franklin University*, please visit their website: https://www.franklin.edu/ **DIRECTIONS** Franklin University Fisher Hall 300 E. Main St, Columbus, OH 43215 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jxjBA2hUmS5qrvhq8 Parking is FREE! Please park in Lot C in front of Fisher Hall. See attached map. NOTE: Map the address only. When mapping with Google Maps it may use the Fisher Hall at OSU, which is NOT correct. **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com

Join Black Love & Friends for an elevated evening of connection at the stunning rooftop lounge at Lincoln Social in downtown Columbus. Sip handcrafted cocktails, enjoy breathtaking skyline views, and engage in meaningful conversations with professionals and creatives in a relaxed, upscale atmosphere. This is more than a meetup — it's a space to build authentic connections, expand your circle, and enjoy Columbus nightlife at one of the city's most beautiful rooftop venues. ✨ Stylish atmosphere 🍸 Crafted cocktails 🌆 Iconic rooftop views 🤝 Genuine connections Space is limited and rooftop events fill quickly.

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.

Let’s try some Filipino food at a well known Grandview area restaurant, This is the menu: https://www.canva.com/design/DAHByDNxwDA/TO8oxEmjQrBp_PP_mLPUag/view?utm_content=DAHByDNxwDA&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h435abfbbb3#1