Lebanese Culture

Important - Please Read ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Welcome to London's Highest Rated International Languages Exchange group with over 1400 reviews rated 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🇬🇧🇪🇸🇫🇷🇯🇵🇮🇹🇩🇪🇮🇳🇧🇷🇰🇷🇨🇳🇪🇬🇭🇰🇺🇦🇺🇸🇹🇷🇹🇼🇷🇺🇵🇱 To learn more about us and our community visit [www.languages.london](https://www.languages.london/) WHEN & WHERE Join us on Tuesday for our global language exchange and social from 7pm. The venue is the Craft Beer Co. in **BRIXTON** and we have the first floor exclusively for our event. The venue is a really friendly pub with a great selection of drinks (especially beers!) including non-alcoholic options. Plus excellent access to public transport. HOW WE DO IT It's simple .... \~ When you arrive please collect your personalised language badge from us, **BEFORE** you order your drinks. We'll be waiting to give you a warm welcome 😃 \~ Please wear your badge during the event and return it before you leave. \~ Start meeting the community and having fun, lots of fun! You should confirm your place to attend. There's normally a small fee of £2 to attend our events, but our events in Brixton are free until the end of January! Please buy something from the bar to support the venue, who kindly offer us a dedicated space. 🇲🇽🇻🇳🇧🇬🇵🇸🇸🇪🇮🇱🇦🇺🇨🇦🇳🇱🇨🇴🇭🇺🇿🇦🇹🇭🇵🇪🇧🇴🇳🇬🇪🇬🇳🇿🇨🇭 **WHO** Languages in London events are organised for our community - being social, making new friends, building cultural bridges and always very relaxed. We have the largest number of languages and countries represented in our weekly language exchange and social events. This is **not** a dating event. Our events are open to Internationals, Locals, Expats, Students, Travellers..... Everyone! This is the event for a truly global community and for citizens from around the World 🌎 Is this the Intercambio you've been looking for? Want to practice your ingles, espanol , francais, italiano, Deutsch, portugues or other European languages? Asian languages ? Or maybe prefer to only speak English, that's just fine. **All languages and all fluency levels are welcome** Spread the love, bring your family, friends and colleagues 💙 The creator and organiser of **Languages in London - Girish**, will always be visible at the event and there to support you and help with introductions, if you prefer. These are real events with real people. We aren't one of those groups that fill our events with fictitious attendees👻. We want to remain the **BEST** language events group in London, being the biggest isn't our focus. **No-shows at our events are removed from the group.** **Inactive members are also regularly removed from our group.** **LANGUAGES** Here's a selection of some of the languages that our community speak or have been practicing English, Spanish (incl Latin American), French, Italian, Portuguese (incl Brazilian), German, Japanese, Chinese (Mandarin & Cantonese), Russian, Korean, Hindi, Turkish, Arabic, Ukrainian, Polish, Hebrew, Swedish, Bulgarian, Vietnamese, Hungarian, Bengali, Dutch, Catalan, Farsi, Greek, Urdu, Welsh, Romanian, Norwegian, Czech, Slovakian, Estonian, Danish, Finnish, Turkmen, Latvian, Lithuanian, Nepali, Yoruba, Filipino, Thai, Albanian, Croatian, Serbian, Ebo, Gaelic, Icelandic, Afrikaans, Tamazight, Tagalog, Creole, Malagasy, Mongolian, Tok Pisin and more... you get the idea! 🇷🇴🇬🇹🇨🇿🇳🇴🇩🇰🇫🇮🇨🇾🇺🇾🇪🇬🇧🇬🇦🇷🇰🇪🇱🇰🇲🇦🇹🇳🇩🇿🇸🇬🇲🇾 **SUSTAINABLE** 🌎🌳 Like you, we really care about our planet. We don't like single use paper name tags, stickers or wristbands as they can't be reused or recycled and can even damage your clothing ☹️ The Solution? Our personalised and completely reusable Languages in London badges! 🏆👍 So, please make sure you return your badge to us, before you leave the event. We'll sanitise it (anti bacterial & disinfectant cleaners) and use it again & again & again. Thanks for helping us do the right thing and keep our costs down🙏 **SAFE SPACE FOR EVERYONE** 👮‍♂️ We don't tolerate prejudice or harassment of any kind, at any time. Be polite and respectful to everyone else and they will reciprocate. Let's keep the space safe, welcoming for everyone and free of any political agendas. Please report any concerns to the Organiser immediately. Please look after your belongings, the venue is a public place. We may take photos or video at the event for future promotional use. Let us if know you'd rather not be included, we respect your choice 📸 **SPREAD THE WORD** 🗣️💬 If you enjoy our events, please tell your friends and colleagues and help us grow **your** community, thank you ♥️ Join our community - [www.languages.london](https://www.languages.london/) We're looking forward to welcoming you at Languages in London 😊😃👋 🇲🇰🇳🇵🇧🇩🇵🇭🇦🇪🇦🇱🇧🇪🇮🇪🇲🇹🇰🇿🇱🇦🇯🇴🇱🇹🇱🇻🇪🇪🇰🇭🇨🇱🇲🇳🇨🇺

This is our monthly meetup at All Bar One on New Oxford St (near Tottenham Court Road station). The meetup is for Japanese/English language exchange, networking and for those with a genuine interest in Japanese culture. There is also a good music community at the events. We'll be downstairs at the back right. Please try and stay in our allocated area to help with fire regulations. We advertise on other sites including Japanese ones so it's usually a really good crowd. Please note to cover running costs (approx £400 per year now) there is a voluntary £1 entry charge which can be paid via PayPal or to the organiser on the day. The event runs the second Tuesday of each month. Please see our alternate links: https://www.instagram.com/japanesemeetuplondon https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100048134632550 ミートアップの会場は: All Bar One , 108 New Oxford Street, London, WC1A 1HD お陰様でMeetupは今年で18年目になりました。参加費は皆様わずか£1となっています。1階（グランドフロア）奥に始まります。 英会話を練習したい方/ロンドンで友達を作りたい方/日本語を勉強している外国人達と知り合いたい方, 好例の毎月第二火曜日のミートアップにいらっしゃいませんか。どうぞお気軽にご参加下さい! 次のイベントは： 02月10日（火) 90人ぐらいはイベントに来ます。オルガナイザーは黒い「富士山 」Tシャツを着ます！ https://www.instagram.com/japanesemeetuplondon https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100048134632550 場所： 冰All Bar One , 108 New Oxford St, London, WC1A 1HD 日時：19時から 最寄駅：地下鉄Tottenham Court Road 駅 備考： 予約不要。お気軽にお立ちより下さい。 Our group is friendly and informal. You can turn up any time during the event. We will be in the rear area of the pub downstairs. Hope to see you there! The Organiser is Paul in black "Fuji" T-Shirt. 日時：02月10日(火)、19時から 最寄駅：地下鉄Tottenham Court Road 駅 備考： 参加費無料。予約不要。お気軽にお立ちより下さい。 The event is from 19:00 to 23:00. It's close to Tottenham Court Road station. There is good space to chat to people in Japanese and English. It is very informal and the crowd are friendly.

This coming week we'll be looking at the **Bauhaus** movement of art and design which played such an important role in twentieth century European art. Come and learn with us in a relaxed and friendly environment. All welcome. *If you come after 18.45 ring the doorbell*

This House Believes That Marriage Should Be a Five-Year Renewable Contract **Why Are We Having This Debate** Love is in the air, Valentine's Day is around the corner and despite Taylor Swifts recent engagement, marriage rates are at their lowest here in the UK since the 1970s. The number of people looking for a serious relationship has increased, with several dating apps showing over 45% of using are looking for their special someone. But, with a culture that increasingly shows commitment as a price to pay for a relationship not the reward of a loving life well spent we ask - should marriage get an update and stop looking for perfect now and forever, and instead accept people will only ever be perfect for right now! **Articles** **[UK Marriage Rates Predicted To Fall To 28% - Russell-Cooke](https://www.russell-cooke.co.uk/news-and-insights/news/uk-marriages-predicted-to-decline-to-historic-lows-by-2050 "https://www.russell-cooke.co.uk/news-and-insights/news/uk-marriages-predicted-to-decline-to-historic-lows-by-2050")** **[Online Dating Stats, Serious Relationships In Highest Demand - Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/dating-statistics/ "https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/dating-statistics/")** Come along and have your vote! **What To Expect** 3v3 panel debate where our members explore the strongest arguments for a given topic. A debate should tell the audience what they need to know and not just what the speakers think. If you feel the same way, then we want to meet you. Debate London is the year-round series of free public debates held across London. The series is run by Debate London, a social enterprise that helps its members to advance their personal and professional development by teaching them how to debate. All of our speakers are club members who have agreed to defend a particular perspective the audience need to hear, rather than just share their own personal opinion. After presenting the point of view assigned to them, the audience are then given the floor to cross-examine them and share their own position. The only time we hear what the speakers really think is at the end of the debate when they tell us where they really stand and whether this changed at all while learning how to defend the perspective assigned to them.

*"I never do 50/50 on a date!", "High value women should never initiate!", "The man must be taller!"* \- we constantly hear about dating rules and etiquette\, typically related to how each gender should behave during the first date/s and what failing to do so means\. But where do these rules come from? Are they universal across cultures and time? And do they really help? We'll discuss... 1\. What are the top "dating rules" we heard of regarding how men and women *should* behave? 2\. As gender roles evolve\, do people's attitudes to dating rules reveal their beliefs about such roles? 3\. Can and should gender roles change\, or should they be permanent? *Join us for a relaxed group conversation where we explore the real life, the grey areas, and how our different cultures and backgrounds shape our views about key topics.* *Expect real talk, no judgment, and a chance to hear how others see it.* **\*Come for the discussion, stay for the friendships. Our weekly discussion series brings together thoughtful people for honest conversations on relationships, life, and society—with warm social vibes before and after.\*** **WHAT TO EXPECT:** * Good vibes only: we chat big topics in a chill, respectful way. No arguing - just open-minded exchange. * We warm up with casual socializing (come solo or with friends!) * The topic starts around 7:45/8pm, wraps around 9:30. * 🍕 There's pizza, drinks, milkshakes and snacks available at the bar (incl plant-based options) * And most people stay until late for drinks and mingling! **DISCUSSION FORMAT:** **Our group conversations are open and flexible - there is a very soft guided flow to ensure we focus on the main questions, and to ensure that everyone gets a balanced opportunity to speak. Here's a typically structure, but we adjust on the day depending on the turnout:** \- Introductions and thoughts *(\~5 mins).* \- Group breakouts per question *(\~20 mins x 3).* \- Final round of opinions *(\~10 mins)*. \- Mix and mingle\, make new friends\, get drinks etc *(\~until late)* **EVENT ETIQUETTE (Rules & expectations)** \- Debate the topic\, not the participants \- no personal attacks\! \- No phones\, no interrupting\, no bystanding \- Always follow the moderator/host instructions and guidelines **WHAT IS WORLD CITIZENS?** We're one of London's longest-running and largest communities. Since 2012 we run socials, cultural activities and stimulating discussions to foster meaningful exchange and learning among London's global professionals. They are inspired by MUN (Model United Nations) and salon discussions and offer a more relaxed and social evening version. **LOCATION DETAILS** What: Discussion session followed by social/networking When: Tuesday, 7:30pm until late. Where: Curzon Aldgate (bar area), 2 Canter Way, E1 8PS Closest stations: Aldgate East, Aldgate, Tower Hill/Gateway Cost: Pay for your own meals or drinks Hosts: We have a rotating team and the actual host of each event varies. Our regular members can also help you out with basic matters. *NOTE: like most guests, our volunteer hosts also attend after work and may happen to arrive after the start time. If you are punctual or earlier than our hosts, we highly appreciate this! Please feel free to start socializing already and/or get something to eat or drink - that’s the point of our events anyway. Our regular members can also help you out with any basic matters.* **\*Our other weekly events\*** \- Friday evening socials every week \- Saturday afternoon cafe in Chelsea \- Canary Wharf socials every other Wednesday \- Outdoor fun \(hiking\, kayaking\, etc\) every weekend \- Dining\, cultural and travel activities on\-demand **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, while meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP"! **DISCLAIMER** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Though we have high standards in planning, this is a private informal activity so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour, towards our guests or team members. We collaborate with the police when needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our team's decisions may not be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

Miłość do siebie receptą na szczęście. 📅 10 /02/2026 | Spotkanie Toastmasters Czy można być naprawdę szczęśliwym, nie będąc po swojej stronie? Na naszym lutowym spotkaniu zaprosimy Cię do podróży, która zaczyna się w jednym miejscu w relacji z samym sobą. W formacie Toastmasters (mowy, ewaluacje, role i dynamika spotkania) przyjrzymy się tematowi miłości własnej: •czym naprawdę jest, •dlaczego bez niej trudno o pewność siebie, spokój i spełnienie, •i jak wpływa na sposób, w jaki mówimy, działamy i budujemy relacje. Będzie trochę refleksji, trochę teorii, inspirujące wystąpienia i przestrzeń do własnych odkryć. Wyjdziesz z czymś więcej niż tylko dobrymi mowami -z nową perspektywą na siebie. 📅 Wtorek, 10 lutego ⏰ Godzina 19:15 📍 London Mindsports Centre 📌 21 Dalling Rd, London W6 0JD Obok stacji Ravenscourt Park Jeśli chcesz rozwijać się jako mówca i jako człowiek - to spotkanie jest dla Ciebie. 💛 Do zobaczenia! Jeśli jednak wolisz uczestniczyć online, to będzie też możliwość uczestniczenia przez Google Meet https://meet.google.com/sxz-jkqp-ihp Więcej informacji o klubie na naszej stronie: http://www.polishyourpolish.org.uk/ www.facebook.com/pyplondon www.instagram.com/polishyourpolishlondon www.linkedin.com/company/polish-your-polish-toastmasters Strona Ogniska Polskiego: www.ogniskopolskie.org.uk

**RSVP TO ATTEND THIS EVENT. ALL TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE TO ATTEND THIS EVENT..** **Welcome to Socialite Connections – Speed Networking for Film, TV, Music, and Media** Join us for an exclusive **Speed Networking for Film, TV, Music and Media**. Connect with creative professionals looking to accelerate their connections and grow their businesses. Imagine meeting and connecting with a room full of like-minded creative professionals in a fun and time efficient manner. You must book a ticket via the link: https://fatso.ma/3dD7 Book here via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/speed-networking-for-film-tv-music-and-media-at-temper-city-tickets-1976448981107?aff=oddtdtcreator **We start the event at 6.00pm with a warm welcome.** Speed Networking is a dynamic and efficient way to connect with professionals across various creative industries. Break out of your networking comfort zone and say goodbye to missed opportunities with this structured format. We have hired the mezzanie room upstairs with own bar.. **Temper City -** Temper City is hidden away, moments from Bank, Moorgate and Liverpool Street Stations, serving the best steak in the Square Mile. Home to the biggest smoker in the temper family and one of the world's biggest restaurant fire-pits. Punchy wine list and choice of tequila and mezcal-focused cocktails available both in the restaurant and out on the terrace. **Event Schedule** **18:00 – 20:30 \| Welcome to the event** where your name will be checked off the guest list, you will be given a name badge and you will be introduced to each other. **19:00 – 20:00 \| Speed Networking Event Starts:** Take part in an exciting speed networking event focused on the film, TV, music, and media industries. This fast-paced environment is designed to help you make valuable connections, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities in a relaxed environment. **20:00 \- 20:30 \| Network & chill:** It will be a free form event where guests can mingle amongst each other in a relaxed environment, when the speed networking are finished. **Why Attend?** Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to expand your network and forge valuable connections on a 1-2-1 basis. With just 3 minutes per attendee, you'll get the opportunity to speak to everyone attending in a timed and structured format. Are you a filmmaker, musician, media professional, or creative entrepreneur looking to expand your network and accelerate your career? This is your ultimate chance to connect, collaborate, and create magic in just one extraordinary night! **Who Should Attend?** Connect with Film, TV, Music and Media Professionals in a relaxed setting. **Producers, Directors, Artists & Actors, Musicians & Screenwriters, Media Lawyers, Photographers & Videographers, Investors, Anyone interested in Film, Media, TV, and Music Industry.** **Tickets are limited to just 40 attendees.** We like to make sure everyone gets the opportunity to talk to each other. You must book a ticket via the link: https://fatso.ma/3dD7 Book here via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/speed-networking-for-film-tv-music-and-media-at-temper-city-tickets-1976448981107?aff=oddtdtcreator You are invited to join the dedicated Whatsapp group for the event and start networking before the actual event. Register now to secure your spot and be part of this transformative networking experience! **Tickets need to be bought online in advance to attend this event. Tickets are not available at the door.** **Refund policy: There is no refund at this event. Your ticket can be reassigned to another person of your choice.**

12 days that shook Iran. In October 2025, Fault Lines travelled to Iran to investigate the human cost of Israel’s attacks and the risk of another war.When Israel and the United States launched a 12-day war on Iran, Donald Trump hailed it as ‘one of the greatest moments in history’. More than 1,000 people were killed in Israeli strikes that ripped through homes, hospitals and even a prison during visiting hours. The team met grieving families who lost loved ones, from 12-year-old Amir Ali and his father, to two-month-old Rayan and his parents - and followed the painful recovery of four-year-old Kian, who survived with life-altering burns. The brother of Maryam Vahed Panah, killed in the attack on Evin Prison, also features in the documentary. *Target Tehran* dexamines the motives behind the attacks, which Israel and the US claim were centred on Iran’s nuclear programme. The Q&A will be followed by a discussion. Reservation details: [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/screening-qa-target-teheran-tickets-1980456830693?aff=erelpanelorg](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/screening-qa-target-teheran-tickets-1980456830693?aff=erelpanelorg) [-www.meetup.com/gaia-books](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-books) [-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros) [-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres) -Instagram: @persian_culture_ -Persian Culture Whatsapp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2)

**Welcome to our group!** If you're interested in Korean or Japanese culture, join our friendly meetup. This is a great place to share your passion, socialise or practice your language skills. ​**Location** ​We meet every two weeks at Macarong, a cosy Korean cafe in Golders Green - where you can have great conversations, and maybe try some tasty food or drinks too. **How to find us** There will be a small sign on our table saying "Meetup". ​**Waitlist Policy** ​Seating is limited, so if you're on the wait list, please arrive after 3:30 PM, when the cafe gets a bit quieter. ​**What to Expect** ​Our meetups have a friendly atmosphere - there's usually mix of new people and regulars. ​**Finding our group** ​We'll be at a table towards the back of the cafe. Let's share laughs and memories together! ​**RSVP Notice** ​We aim to welcome everyone who wants to come, but RSVP may close if the wait list is too long. See you soon! 👋

Let's read Modern Standard Arabic together and help each other. This get-together continues weekly. Please disregard attendee numbers, as most members come without registering here. There is no charge for this time together.

Please aim to turn up for 1:00-1:30 when teams are being arranged. The Hunt starts at 1:30. You're losing search time if you're late! This Sunday Picture Hunt will have different images to the Monday one and is primarily aimed at people not available during the weekdays. **We meet outside the new Sainsburys entrance further down the building. I’ll be wearing a red Meetup cap.** The National Gallery was founded in 1824, after the British government bought a collection of 38 pictures from the banker and collector John Julius Angerstein, consisting of Italian, Dutch and English works. We have a unique take on Treasure Hunts that broadens your art knowledge while sleuthing around gallery rooms. You are all presented with a sheet of 20 part images taken from paintings in a few adjoining designated rooms. You will also have a map of the Gallery. The selected adjoining rooms are listed P, Q, R and S. The clipboard holder enters the room letter to note the image location. Your collective mission is to find them. Usually it’s groups of three to four depending on numbers. Or bring a team of up to three guests with you! Check previous winners and Hunt sheet in the pics below. Dead simple, right? Well, yes, if you can spot them all. Generally though, results are always close. Check photos for the previous Hunt sheet. If you’re new, you can see what your team has to do. Stella said " I was apprehensive about trying this, but once I did, I loved it, our team was great fun". We are a happy and friendly group whose membership for some now goes back ten years. It’s very addictive wandering around looking at famous artwork. Our events make you see new parts of a painting you hadn’t noticed before. Or that fresh work has been introduced. We’ve done quite a few in the last two years and feel very much at home here. We never get tired looking at famous art. I think we come here more often than paying Gallery members! There's plenty of seating around to take the odd rest and look at the same time. Our Treasure Hunts are interesting and challenging, bringing out the best of your teams detecting skills. We meet outside the Sainsburys entrance further down the building. Look out for me under a red Meetup cap! The starting process is as follows. The earlier your team sets off, the more time you have. So turning up early ready for a 1.30 start is a bonus. Team answer sheets have to be back by 3.15. We meet back in the area next to the Espresso cafe where we mark up. In case of a tiebreak, there will be a general art knowledge numerical question where the “nearest to” wins. First team prizes are interesting varieties of chocolate. There is also a prize for the funniest/outrageous team name judged by Sue, my glamorous assistant. So there’s everything to play for. Some players are thinking of team names before they turn up! We always pop into the local Silver Cross in Whitehall for a quick drink after if anybody so wishes. Hunts are good fun and the proven experience so far is that members get to know each other better after working in teams as you all have to communicate. Great icebreakers. This is what Meetup is all about. Come and join us. **There is a £7 cash/card charge on the day. I supply a pen and clipboard but it helps you to bring a pen as well to mark your own sheets.** **Rucksacks now have to be worn front of body.** Items left in the cloakroom are charged at £3 per item. Contact number on the day is 07422334411 if your transport is delayed. If texting leave your name. **Don’t forget to cancel via the “Edit RSVP” button if you can’t make it. Please do this well in advance when you know, so it allows good notice for someone else to take your place, and minimizes waiting about time on the day for other attendees.** **Your consideration is greatly appreciated.**

Salam, Discussions of the Arab world, particularly the Gulf States, increasingly focus on sectarianism and autocratic rule. These features are often attributed to the dominance of monarchs, Islamists, oil, and ‘ancient hatreds’. To understand their rise, however, one has to turn to a largely forgotten but decisive episode with far-reaching repercussions—Bahrain under British colonial rule in the early twentieth century. Drawing on a wealth of previously unexamined Arabic literature as well as British archives, Omar AlShehabi details how sectarianism emerged as a modern phenomenon in Bahrain. He shows how absolutist rule was born in the Gulf, under the tutelage of the British Raj, to counter nationalist and anti-colonial movements tied to the al-Nahda renaissance in the wider Arab world. A groundbreaking work, *Contested Modernity* challenges us to reconsider not only how we see the Gulf but the Middle East as a whole. We‘ll continue with our 2026 reading list: 3-*Sultana’s Dream* by Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain—Bangladesh 4-*The Opium War: Drugs, Dreams and the Making of China* by Julia Lovell 5-*Rickshaw Boy* by Lao She—China 6-*The* *Motorcycle Diaries* by Che Guevara 7-*One Hundred Years of Solitude* by Gabriel García Márquez—Colombia 8-*How Europe Underdeveloped Africa* by Walter Rodney 9-*Heart of Darkness* by Polish author Joseph Conrad—Congo 10-*The Wretched of the Earth* by Frantz Fanon 11-*Homegoing* by Yaa Gyasi—Ghana 12-*Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty* by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson Enjoy Bahrain! Join me on: [-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros) [-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres) -[www.meetup.com/persian-culture](www.meetup.com/persian-culture) -Instagram: @persian_culture_

Chef Akbar will teach delicious, authentic Tajik dishes followed by a sit-down meal. Warm and easy, like being with family! Course fee (£54.88). **ABOUT THE CUISINE** Tajik cuisine, with its roots in the ancient Silk Road city of Samarkand, is a beautiful blend of flavours and traditions from across Central Asia. Influenced by Persian, Turkish, and Russian cooking, it celebrates fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and gentle spices. From fragrant rice dishes like Palav to soft, hand-folded dumplings and vibrant salads, every meal is a reflection of generosity, hospitality, and the joy of sharing food together. Tajik cooking is colourful, comforting, and deeply tied to family and community—food made to be enjoyed with love. **ON THE MENU (subject to change):** * **Shee** \(Lamb Broth with Pickled Sorrel and Root Vegetables\) \| Meat \(Lamb\)*; Milk* * **Tuy Kabob** \(Wedding Kebab\) \| Meat \(Lamb\); *None* * **Moshkichiri** \(Mung Bean and Rice with Yoghurt and Onions\) \| Vegetarian; *Milk* * **Bichak-i Kadugi** \(Butternut Squash\-filled Pastries\) \| Vegetarian; *Eggs, Gluten (Wheat), Milk* * **Chalpak** \(Semolina Flatbread\) \| Vegan; *Gluten (Wheat)* * **Salati Bahor** \(Spring Salad\) \| Vegetarian; *Milk, Mustard* This menu contains meat (**lamb**). Allergens include: ***eggs, gluten, milk, mustard.*** Further details and reservation link: [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/tajik-cookery-class-with-akbar-london-pop-up-tickets-1978959356708](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/tajik-cookery-class-with-akbar-london-pop-up-tickets-1978959356708) Do you speak French and would like to be part of a reading group and other events in French? [https://www.meetup.com/gaia-livres/](https://www.meetup.com/The-London-French-Club/) Do you speak Spanish and would like to be part of a reading group in Spanish? [https://www.meetup.com/gaia-libros/](https://www.meetup.com/London-Spanish-Club/) Or join my eclectic English book club: [https://www.meetup.com/gaia-books](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-libros/) instagram: @persian_culture_ -Whatsapp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2)

This is something you always wanted to do...Just not alone! Come explore India and Dubai with us! We’ll wander through the colorful streets of **Delhi**, take in the beauty of the **Taj Mahal**, and soak up the royal vibes of **Jaipur.** To top it all off, we’ll celebrate Holi—the festival of colors—like locals do, in an authentic and joyful way! **But that’s not all!** After India, we’ll enjoy a bonus 3-night stay in the glamorous city of **Dubai**, one of the world’s most fascinating cities. From jaw-dropping skyscrapers to desert sunsets, Dubai is the perfect mix of modern luxury and deep-rooted tradition. This isn’t your typical tour. It’s a Meetup-style journey filled with curiosity, connection, and shared experiences. We’ve done this trip before, and every time it’s been more than just a vacation—it’s been eye-opening, transformative experience that connects you to new perspectives, cultures, and unforgettable memories with new friends. *What is included in India* ➢ 2 Nights’ stay in Delhi ➢ 2 Nights’ stay in Agra ➢ 3 Nights’ stay in Jaipur ➢ Meals : 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners ➢ Round trip airport transfers by air-conditioned vehicle ➢ Local English-speaking guides for sightseeing ➢ Entrance fees to monuments as per itinerary ➢ Rickshaw ride at Chandini chowk (ancient bazaar) in Delhi ➢ Elephant ride in Jaipur (subject to availability) ➢ Old and New Delhi sightseeing included Rickshaw ride ➢ Agra sightseeing included Magnificent Taj Mahal and Agra fort ➢ Jaipur sightseeing included with Amer fort, Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal ➢ Holi celebration in Agra ➢ All taxes, driver allowances, parking etc. *What is included in Dubai* ➢ 3 Nights’ accommodation in Dubai with breakfast ➢ Meals: 3 breakfast, and 2 dinners ➢ Round trip airport transfers in Dubai on private basis ➢ Driver/Guide in Dubai ➢ Half day Dubai City Tour (Includes Photo Stop at Burj Al Arab, Photo stop at the Atlantis at the Palm Island, Visit to Gold and Spice Souks etc.) ➢ Dhow Cruise with Buffet Dinner ➢ Desert Safari with BBQ dinner (4x4 sharing vehicle) & Arabian Tanoura dance show and belly performance ➢ All taxes and tourism Dihram *What is not included:* ➢ Any International/Internal Airfare ➢ Visa, insurance ➢ Any meals other than specified in cost include ➢ Porterage, tips, laundry, beverages, cost of personal nature like telephone charges ➢ Any sightseeing not mentioned in inclusions **Cost:** * **$3990 per person (based on room sharing)—we offer easy roommate matching!** * **Prefer a room to yourself? Solo supplement is $1500 for a total of $5490** RSVP with your email address to receive detailed Day-by-Day itinerary or [fill out this form](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8). **If you wish to attend, deposit of $250 is the only way to secure your spot. Please pay the deposit through this secure [Deposit Link](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/4XM44PYUEYJEJ).** Deposits are refundable up to 90 days before departure. **Airfare is not included**, but we are holding a group space from Los Angeles for $1299 including all taxes and the flight from Delhi and Dubai. To secure you airfare from LAX submit a **nonrefundable $200 deposit [HERE](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/W5DSZYQWFTBEQ)** **If you are not in LA, we can help you arrange the airfare from any other city.** **Space is limited** and this event is cross posted to our sister groups. RSVPs on this post do not reflect actual number of participants. Don’t wait—this trip will sell out fast! \*\*\*[Click Here ](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)\*\*\**to fill out our google info request form for detailed itinerary on this or any of our other international events.* Got questions? [Click Here](https://www.meetup.com/members/14363992/) to message Ekaterina direct with any questions. Still have questions? We do a monthly [Q&A Travel Zoom](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/297487010/) on all our events. **We believe in good decent social!** We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free events, local/regional camping getaways, and our overseas trips too. ***[Click Here](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events)***[ to see all our events](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events) Our events create and foster community and a sense of discovery. We welcome and are inclusive of all. ***Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it!*** SOT 2000318-10

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** In BreadBreakers, we use the common space of the dining table to have conversations where neighbors can **hear, be heard, and know one another.** If you're hungry for good discourse and deeper community, join us for a Community Dinner in Reston and help blaze the trail to a healthier, more connected society and democracy. Here’s how it works: For just two hours, multiple tables of people set aside the need to "win" and instead focus on sharing, listening, and connecting. Guided by experienced table hosts, we'll tell our stories, try to understand each other, and practice being in community with those with different views or backgrounds. **At this dinner, participants will get to choose between three different topics, including some current events.** Topics range from the political, to the spiritual, to the philosophical, to the off-the-wall - but no matter which table you choose to sit at, you can be sure it'll be like no dinner conversation you've had before! You can also **suggest a topic** by emailing us at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com. Food will be provided for free. For those who wish to provide a donation to help fund BreadBreakers, you can [give here](https://pushpay.com/g/restorationrestonumc?fnd=pO6G-N7oO7FH7Mp1u-x6mA&fndv=Lock&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl) or at the event. We'll have vegetarian and gluten-free options available. If you have any additional dietary restrictions (Celiac Disease, vegan, etc.) please let us know at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com so that we can implement the appropriate food handling procedures. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of talking with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by [Restoration United Methodist Church](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers) in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community. All faiths and all stripes are welcomed. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

Learn the elegant art of Japanese Calligraphy in a single, focused project! **When:** Sunday, 15 Feb 2026, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM **Where:** Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 **Registration** is **Online Only** at: https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6471021 **Details:** Learn the elegant art of Japanese Calligraphy in a single, focused project! We'll teach you how to properly use and care for the tools. By the end of class, you will create a beautiful, inspirational Japanese word on Hanshi paper to display proudly in your home. Start your calligraphy journey today! This class includes the Brushes that you'll need in this class so you can keep practicing on your own! Children are welcome, but registration is required. Any child under 12 must be registered and attend with a parent or guardian.

We will be participating in a trivia night event at craft house located in Fairfax on Tuesday. Trivia starts at 7:30 pm. Parking: There is free parking. Please show up by 7:15 pm so that we organize accordingly. We may field multiple teams depending on turnout. Please plan on arriving and staying for the entire trivia event. To ensure you get a spot on a trivia team: * Please arrive by 7:15 PM, or notify the hosts that you are running late by 7:15 PM. If you arrive after 7:15 or don't notify the hosts, you are not guaranteed a spot on a trivia team and may need to form your own, separate team. * Please RSVP so we know to expect you. Don't be like Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn from Wedding Crashers and crash a trivia event (i.e., don't show up without being on the attendee list). \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- If you have Instagram, you can check out our account at asiandiningandadventuregroup for photos and announcements of group outings!

Bonsoir à tous! Venez nombreux pour causer autour d'un repas ou d'un verre chez La Madeleine. On n'a que deux règles: (1) qu'on y parle exclusivement le français et (2) qu'on achète quelque chose à boire ou à manger (c'est La Madeleine qui le demande). Merci et à bientôt!