Looker

Come for Socializing. Stay for the Music 🎶 Socialize, meet new people, make friends, before easing into party mode for a night of fun and dancing. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-single-mingle)** **💬 Social Mixer: Meet & Connect** Begin the evening by mingling with like-minded people in a sophisticated setting. Engage in meaningful conversations, have fun and make new friends. Take advantage of the relaxed atmosphere to make new friends or enjoy with your existing ones. Whether you're looking to share experiences, or simply enjoy engaging conversations, this social is the perfect place for you. **🎶 Afterparty & Live DJ Performance** As the night progresses, ease into party mode with the dynamic beats of live DJ. From smooth lounge music to high-energy tracks, the DJ will create an irresistible ambiance that keeps the energy flowing and the dance floor alive. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-single-mingle)** Let loose, dance the night away, and enjoy the afterparty. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails in an elegant venue with the infectious energy of the DJ, ensures a night to remember. **👔👗 Dress Code: Elegant & Party** Embrace the occasion with your most stylish and sophisticated outfit. Gentlemen, opt for sharp smart casual wear. Ladies, dazzle in chic dresses or elegant evening attire. Let your fashion reflect the elegance of the evening. **Join an evening where nobody left behind, stand on side or feels lonely.** Let new friendship flourish and celebrations abound. Socialize, make new friends and enjoy the vibrant energy of the evening in a beautiful and elegant setting. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-single-mingle)** Dress your best for a fun evening at the best venues in Dubai and get ready to pose for an #instaphoto 📷 **How many people attend?** We get 100 people on average in all our events and invite our members on Meetup and other platforms. Members of other groups who RSVP are included as guests to give an idea of expected numbers. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-single-mingle) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Socializing 😊

your midweek Latin fix 🤩 - Every Tuesday starting at 10PM and ending at 3AM Let’s dance the night away to the charming tunes of Latin & Afro music while enjoying a drink or a bite with friends and peers in the outstanding venue - Twenty Rooftop Bar at Movenpick Grand Plaza, Dubai. Take advantage of the special offers on food & drinks Organized by MOOVnation

Come for Socializing. Stay for the Music 🎶 Join us for an unforgettable evening, where fitness lovers come together, make new friends and have fun. **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-social-meetup)** This evening offers the perfect blend of socializing and fun, set in a sophisticated venue that embodies style and class. **💬 Social Mixer: Meet & Connect** Begin the evening with a social mixer, designed to connect fitness enthusiasts, trainers, wellness professionals, and industry influencers. Whether you're looking to exchange ideas, find workout buddies, or discuss the latest industry trends, this event is your gateway. **[REGISTRATION HERE IS MANDATORY](https://jo.my/mix-mingle-meetup)** **🎶 Afterparty & Live DJ Performance** As the night progresses, ease into party mode with the dynamic beats of live DJ. Let loose, dance the night away, and enjoy the afterparty. From smooth lounge music to high-energy tracks, the DJ will create an irresistible ambiance that keeps the energy flowing and the dance floor alive. **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-social-meetup)** **👔👗 Dress Code: Elegant & Party** Embrace the occasion with your most stylish and sophisticated outfit. Gentlemen, opt for sharp smart casual wear. Ladies, dazzle in chic dresses or elegant evening attire. Let your fashion reflect the elegance of the evening. **Join an evening where nobody left behind, stand on side or feels lonely.** Let new friendship flourish and celebrations abound. Socialize, make new friends and enjoy the vibrant energy of the evening in a beautiful and elegant setting. **[=== <<< REGISTER NOW >>> ===](https://jo.my/mix-mingle-meetup)** Dress your best for a fun evening at the best venues in Dubai and get ready to pose for an #instaphoto 📷 **How many people attend?** We get 100 people on average in all our events and invite our members on Meetup and other platforms. Members of other groups who RSVP are included as guests to give an idea of expected numbers. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Complete your registration HERE](https://jo.my/mix-mingle-meetup) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Socializing 😊

Famous for its unique culture and stunning landscapes, **Bhutan**, the legendary **Kingdom of the Himalayas**, is a country unlike any other. Often called **the last Shangri-La**, this is a place where time runs slower, and the government operates by the unique philosophy of **Gross National Happiness**. Many factors contribute to the famed **happiness and contentment** of Bhutan’s population, from the country’s pride in **preserving its traditions**, languages, and customs to the **prioritization of wellbeing** over material wealth. In this land of dense forests and towering mountains, incredible vistas are all around, and a **connection to nature** is deeply ingrained in the culture. In addition, the practice of **Mahayana Buddhism** profoundly influences the Bhutanese way of life, emphasizing inner peace, compassion, and community harmony. With **stupas and monasteries** on every corner, spirituality is embedded in daily life here. Centuries of religious devotion have led to the creation of incredible landmarks and sacred spaces, including the country’s iconic crown jewel: Taktsang monastery, or **the** **Tiger’s Nest**. One of the most venerated places of pilgrimage in the Himalayas, the monastery appears like something out of a fairy tale, clinging to the rock a towering 800m (2,600ft) above the valley floor. Nowhere in the Himalayas is the natural environment richer and more diverse than it is in Bhutan, home to high, rugged mountains and deep valleys which have been recognized as one of the world’s ten most important **biodiversity hotspots**. One of Bhutan’s ancient names was Menjong Yul, meaning **‘the land of medicinal herbs’**, and the people’s respect for the natural environment means that even today it remains pristine and mostly undisturbed. Here we’ll discover ancient spiritual practices, trek into untouched landscapes and feel the awe of nature’s majesty in this hidden corner of the world. [https://vimeo.com/238777975](https://vimeo.com/238777975) **Let’s go!** **DAY 0 :: FEB 10** Recommended departure to Kathmandu at 17:45-23:30. **DAY 1 :: FEB 11** Connecting flight to Bhutan at 09:00-10:20. On sunny days, the inbound flight to Bhutan is marked by **panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the towering Everest**. The approach through the tiny airstrip of Paro has been termed as “adventurous”, to say the least! Arrival in the afternoon, after which we’ll check in to the hotel in Thimpu and have our first experience with fiery **Bhutanese cuisine**. Later we’ll visit Thimphu’s Memorial Stupa, also known as the **Thimphu Chorten**, a prominent religious landmark in the city with its golden spires and bells. Afterwards we’ll take a short 3-4km hike to Kuensel Phodrang, reaching the **gigantic Buddha Dordenma** at the top of the hill. The **50-meter-high, gilt gold** **statue** fulfils an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th century A.D. and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. Overnight in Thimpu. **DAY 2 :: FEB 12** Today we drive via Dochu-La Pass to Punakha and hike to iconic **Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility),** located on a round hillock on the edge of Punakha Valley. After lunch our exploration continues with a visit to the majestic **Punakha Dzong fortress**, a stunning example of traditional Bhutanese architecture which serves as a winter residence for the Dratshang Lhentshog, the commission for the monastic affairs of Bhutan. Built in 1637, it is picturesquely located in between two rivers – the **Pho Chhu (Male River) & Mo Chhu (Female River)** – and houses sacred Buddhist relics. We’ll then take a walk along the **Punakha suspension bridge**, Bhutan’s longest, stretching 180 m (590 ft) across the water of the Pho Chhu, before checking into the hotel and resting up for the evening. **DAY 3 :: FEB 13** Today after breakfast and formalities we’ll drive to the **Dochula Pass (3,100m)** and begin the hike to the 18th century **Lungchutse Lhakhang temple (3,565m)**. This uber picturesque route passes through primary forests of rhododendrons, magnolias, birches, and bamboos, and occasionally meadows being used as yak pastures. When we reach the temple we’ll be richly rewarded by views over the **entire span of Bhutan’s Himalayan range** and its majestic, snow covered peaks. We will then make our way downhill for about an hour until we reach Dochula Pass, encountering several landmarks and stupas along the path. In the afternoon we will have an opportunity to witness **rural life in Bhutanese village,** and those who would like to can experience a **traditional** **hot stone bath**. For even richer immersion, there is also the option to spend the night in the village. **Celebration of New Year's Eve Bhutan style!** **DAY 4 :: FEB 14** After breakfast we’ll start our last hike, to the sacred **Taktsang Monastery**, known as **the Tiger’s Nest,** situated at an altitude of 3100m in the Upper Paro Valley. During the hike we’ll keep our strength up with a picnic lunch in the woods with spectacular views. Our ancient destination is the abode of gods and monks, a place of great spiritualty since the 8th century. As per the legend of Taktsang, this was the site of a cave in the sheer cliff face used by mystic Guru Rinpoche for meditation. He assumed a wrathful form, Guru Dorji Drolo, riding a flying tigress to subdue the evil spirits in the area. After many centuries, a religious complex took shape here, clinging to the rock face, with the oldest temple built by a Nyingma Buddhist master around 1508. **DAY 5 :: FEB 15** Departure to Kathmandu at 07:00-08:00. Bye bye Bhutan! Optional city tour in Kathmandu before return flight home. **Level of difficulty:** Easy - short but steep trails. The grade may be perceived as moderate to beginners. **Activities:** hiking, walking, sightseeing and getting amazed! Altitude: 2280–3600m, **Duration:** 5 days. **Accommodation & meals:** Comfy 3\* hotels, double sharing. Single room 200 USD extra. Meals included. **Cost: 7,450 AED incl. flights Kathmandu-Paro-Kathmandu, until JAN 30th.** Past this date cost may change. **Connection from Dubai to Kathmandu - excluded.** **Trip starts at Kathmandu airport** on FEB 11th with a flight to Paro. **Specifically included:** * Return flights Kathmandu - Paro - Kathmandu, * Bhutan visa, * All arrangements as per program, **Specifically excluded:** * Connecting flights Dubai - Kathmandu, * Overnight in Kathmandu between the flights, * activities and meals in Kathmandu, * any costs related to visa on arrival to Nepal, * Insurance. **Optional:** * Sightseeing Kathmandu on FEB 15 at 85 USD. **Visas:** **Visa to Bhutan (SDF) is included in trip budget.** [Visa to Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Nepal) available on arrival, if required. See yah in Bhutan x Trekkup Bhutan Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [docs@trekkup.com](info@trekkup.com)

The perfect way to kick off your New Year fitness goals! 🚶‍♂️ **Activity:** 6,000 steps. ⏰ **Time:** Tues 10th Feb, 6:45PM ​ 📍**Start:** DT1 Ellington 🚙**Park:** Downtown Dubai Visitor Parking 8-19 🥤**Post-Walk:** Foundry ​​​​​​**Strava:** [https://www.strava.com/clubs/innermostwalkclub](https://www.strava.com/clubs/innermostwalkclub) Track your walks and follow your progress. ​​​​​​​Bring a water bottle and hydrate with a free serving of The Hydrate Blend, our best-selling electrolyte. 💦 **Innermost Links:** **WhatsApp** (1100+ members): [Innermost Walk Club](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GZjspN0KcecBA36lNgQc4r) **Instagram**: [@innermostglobal](http://www.instagram.com/innermostglobal) **Strava**: [Innermost Walk Club](https://www.strava.com/clubs/innermostwalkclub) **Website**: [www.innermostglobal.com](https://www.innermostglobal.com/)The perfect way to kick off your New Year fitness goals!

This time we will take you off the beaten trail and bring you inside equatorial wilderness, **African adventure Eldorado**, as we search for gorillas, trek through Uganda jungle, meet the pygmies and take in the views from relaxing shores of Lake Bunyonyi! Meeting face to face with mountain gorillas is one of the **most overwhelming experiences in the world of safaris**. Encounter of jungle beast, only a few feet away can be scary, but there is no need to panic! They are actually quite calm animals, **laziness ambassadors by excellence.** Observing the mountain gorillas in their habitat is an amazing spectacle; you will notice the **social dynamics, hierarchy** and most touching of them all, the **gorilla mothers and their babies**, since they live in family units of 30 to 40 members. The timing spent with them is **mesmerizing and hypnotic, it is impossible to stop looking at them**. They pretend to ignore you, from time to time they cross their gaze with yours, and that is when you realize that the differences between humans and them are minimal. Their eyes speak as the human gaze does, with the movements of the lips we can know if they are smiling, worried or angry, the gestures of the hands are almost identical to ours. **Humans and Gorillas share 98% of DNA.** The KING of the Jungle, the silver back, is **one of the most beautiful creatures on earth**… he is imposing, majestic, elegant, strong and gorgeous. His sudden appearance can leave you breathless, shivering… but do not worry, he will ignore you - green leaves are tastier for breakfast. There is a lot of action in the group: **eating, playing, fighting, grooming each other, rolling on the floor, hitting the chest... it is endless**. The baby gorillas will rock it in a proper show of naughtiness… they will make you laugh. Those cute cubs have so much curiosity for humans, so be ready to witness a show of funny and noisy games to catch your attention. Following the rangers advice, choose a good spot, look around and get the best shots of lifetime memories! At the beginning, we will **traverse through the jungle aka impenetrable forest**. The length of the trek is entirely dependent on the gorillas, sometimes the guides can track them down in less than two hours, other times it takes much longer. **Mountain gorillas are nomadic**, travelling in families and staying in an area just long enough to clear it off food. They also don’t follow a clear path, you’ll realize when tracking them, they like to meander. On your first sighting, you may see mothers holding their babies, juvenile gorillas playing, or dominant silverbacks keeping an eye out for their family! But gorillas are only a part of our trip - we will head to **Lake Bunyonyi, an undiscovered treasure of serenity and scenic views**. We will visit the indigenous Batwa people, who are the original forest dwellers of southwestern Uganda. Expect lots of interactions, cultural demonstrations, and storytelling sessions. The Batwa are known for their vibrant music, dance, and folklore. You can enjoy traditional dances, drumming sessions, and songs that tell stories of their forest life, spiritual beliefs, and the deep connection they have with nature. Definitely a trip on **the wild side** with more relaxed approach to seek out gorillas in their habitat and enjoy pristine jungle in the **heart of Africa**! **Lets go!** **DAY 1// TOUCHDOWN RWANDA, KIGALI – VOLCANOES NP.** Meting at DXB T2 at 00:15 for a flight to Kigali at 01:50. Welcome to Africa! Immigration clearance, short rest and a coffee. We will start with key spots of Kigali: Genocide Memorial Museum, Hôtel des Mille Collines, Nyamirambo Women's Center, Parliament and Kandt House Museum. Further on, transfer to Volcanoes National Park. Overnight at hotel. **DAY 2// GOLDEN MONEKY TREK + IBW'ACHU CULTURAL** After an early breakfast, we will move to the park headquarters in Kinigi for a briefing. By 8:00 AM, we will proceed to the trailhead just outside the park to begin our trek. The golden monkeys inhabit the bamboo forests near the edge of the park, offering relatively flat and accessible terrain. After spending approximately one hour observing the golden monkeys, we will return to the trailhead and drive back to the lodge for lunch. Post lunch, we will visit Gorilla Museum at the Karisoke Research Center to learn about Rwanda's gorilla conservation history. Further on we **head to Uganda via Cyanika border** towards Bwindi with a stop at Ibw'achu Cultural Village. Overnight accommodation at Ichumbi. **DAY 3// GORILLA TREK IN BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST** Early in the morning, we will head to Bwindi National Park for gorilla trekking. This experience is considered one of the most thrilling wildlife adventures. The trek takes between 2 to 6 hours and is led by an experienced ranger who will provide insights regarding the jungle's flora, fauna, and the gorillas' lifestyle. After spending one hour with the gorillas, we will return to the lodge and subsequently be transferred to Lake Bunyonyi. Overnight accommodation at Bunyonyi. **DAY 4 // LAKE BUNYONYI AND PYGMIES VILLAGE** After breakfast, we will enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi, navigating its stunning waters and passing numerous islands, including Punishment Island, which has a significant historical narrative. Post boat cruise, we will visit a pygmy village. Overnight accommodation at Bunyonyi. **DAY 5 // KIGALI** Following a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, we will head back to Rwanda and Kigali. Quick look at bazaars for souvenir shopping and a dinner. Head back to airport for a flight back home. **Level of Difficulty:** Easy to Moderate, including jungle trekking. **Duration:** 5 Days. **Room & Meals:** Comfortable lodges / hotels - double sharing, meals in Uganda included, meals in Rwanda excluded. **Cost: AED 10,850 all incl. flights until JAN 30th.** **Specifically Excluded:** Any expenses related to visas, insurance, meals in Rwanda, single supplement. **Visas:** **Rwanda:** Eastern African visa on arrival or eVisa (for both countries). **Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate required for border crossings.** See yah with gorillas x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) [Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

**New participants are required to contact WhatsApp at 0501497147 before signing up for the event to confirm their slot.** Join us for an exciting Doubles Badminton Fun Night at Baseline Sports Al Quoz. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, this event is perfect for everyone looking to have a great time on the court. Meet fellow badminton enthusiasts, improve your skills, and enjoy some friendly competition in a social and welcoming environment. Plying every Tuesday at 7-9 pm baseline sports academy Al quoz 4. Cost will be AED 45/- Per person including court rent , premium feather shuttle and average 8 games will get every plyers. **New plyers must confirm your slots through WhatsApp ( Rensin +971 501497147)** **Note: No cancellation on game day and full payment is applicable if any cancellation on game day** **Join WhatsApp Group ; https://chat.whatsapp.com/GUlBTloYtkrGVLb2ljK1ZV** This event is ideal for those who enjoy social sports, staying active, and connecting with like-minded individuals. Whether you are a singles or doubles player, come and experience a fun-filled evening of healthy living through exercise and sports. Don't miss out on this opportunity to mingle with new friends, network, and have a blast playing indoor badminton. Let's make this a memorable night of sports, recreation, and social bonding!

**Group trips - get an account**: [https://eseek.app](https://eseek.app) \- The app is a \+1 friend 👉 **Join the WhatsApp group:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdjIbmHx2x2xOAwT29rul521?mode=hqrt3](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdjIbmHx2x2xOAwT29rul521?mode=hqrt3) 👉 **Follow Our Instagram:** [https://www.instagram.com/eseek_travel_app/](https://www.instagram.com/eseek_travel_app/) **Join Bali Trip**: 4 Joining So Far! [https://eseek.app/checkout](https://eseek.app/checkout) **Bali Trip Adventure map:** [https://eseek.app/map.html](https://eseek.app/map.html) New business networking angle, are you trying to sell clothing, cosmetics, group tours / trips, personal training, photography, other social group products. Contact **+355 69 862 2330** to get started its free. 🌟 **The home base for women-only adventures!** 🌟 We’ve packed the app with fun experiences you can ❤️ **like an experience in explore menu** and ✉️ **DM** other women who share your interests. 🌴 **Find your +1 for the Bali trip — this week!** ✈️ **How it works:** Browse our weekly events 📅. If something interests you, tap for details and invite one woman 👩 to join you from recommended profiles using a quick 1:1 message 💬. There’s no need to join publicly or commit ✅. So it’s totally normal if no one RSVPs ❌, just sending a quick DM helps you find that friend for travel. Whatsapp messages from the app 📱 are more likely to be seen 👀 — set yours in **My Account > Social Media in menu** so you don’t miss messages from women inviting you to an event 💌. Most trips start with one conversation 💬 and a fun event 🎉. Next stop: **Bali** 🏖️. (If you have issues with gender verification ⚠️, DM us — we can fix it for you 🛠️)

Join us for our next book club gathering as we dive into Lessons in Chemistry, a sharp, heartfelt, and surprisingly funny novel about ambition, resilience, love, and challenging the status quo. This meeting is all about thoughtful conversation in a relaxed, welcoming space. No pressure to have “perfect” insights, just come as you are, with your thoughts, questions, and curiosity. 🗓 Saturday 14th ⏰ 11:00 AM 📍 Bookends Bookstore Grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s talk books 💬 New members are always welcome, feel free to bring a friend!

يسر *ملتقى الراويــــــــــات* ان يدعوكم الى حضور مناقشة رواية *"لم يعد بشراً"* للكاتب *أوسامو دازاي*، يوم الخميس الموافق *12 فبراير 2026* ، الساعة *11 صباحا* ، بمكتبة الصفا للفنون والتصميم، شارع الوصل ،دبي. اللقاء ضمن البرنامج الصباحي للملتقى. تدير اللقاء الأستاذة منيرة داشر. نتطلع الى حضوركم جميعا.

♠️ Private Poker Meetup | Buy-in 5,000 Join us for an exclusive private poker meetup designed for players who appreciate a serious game, strong competition, and a premium atmosphere. This event brings together like-minded poker enthusiasts for an evening of focused play, strategic thinking, and high-level poker action. No beginners’ chaos — only disciplined gameplay and respect for the table. Details: • 🎲 Game: Poker • 💰 Buy-in: 5,000 • 👥 Players: Limited seats • 🔒 Format: Private meetup A great opportunity to test your skills, expand your poker circle, and enjoy the game in a comfortable, discreet environment. 📍 Location details will be shared with confirmed participants only.

Hi all! My name is Lance, I am a fully qualified English teacher from the UK and have moved to Dubai. I run a speaking club in Camelot English School every other Saturday for free in JVC. It is a great chance to improve your English and meet some new friends in a fantastic location. Hope to see you all there!

A cozy, no-pressure book club. **What to Expect:** Welcome to a cozy, relaxed book club built around conversation, curiosity, and community. There is no assigned book and no pressure to finish anything. Come share what you’re currently reading, a past favorite, or a book you’d love to read in the future. We’ll start with casual mingling, move into a light icebreaker, and then open the space for organic book talk and discussion. Expect thoughtful conversations, different perspectives, and a welcoming mix of like-minded and not-so-like-minded readers. **What to bring:** • Yourself • A book you’re reading (or one you love or want to read) • Curiosity and an open mind **Location:** Art & Dine @ The Springs Souk (Near Emirates Hills, Springs, Meadows, Lakes, Hattans) **Policy:** • Attendees are required to avail any item from the menu • Please be respectful and listen when someone else is speaking **Parking:** Free mall parking available **Contact:** Rinku — WhatsApp +971 58 558 2680 This is a warm, judgment-free space to meet new people, exchange ideas, and enjoy stories together.

🚺 **Women-only experience – gents please skip this one!** 👨 Men – we *are* planning group trips for you too, just not the focus right now 😊 💫 We’ve just launched **neighborhood pods for women in Dubai!** The quickest, most spontaneous way to meet and join groups of women at local spots in your area – fun, relaxed, women-only social experiences 💃☕ 👉 **Join the WhatsApp group:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdjIbmHx2x2xOAwT29rul521?mode=hqrt3](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdjIbmHx2x2xOAwT29rul521?mode=hqrt3) 👉 **Follow Our Instagram:** [https://www.instagram.com/eseek_travel_app/](https://www.instagram.com/eseek_travel_app/) **How to get started:** 1️⃣ Download the latest app version at **eseek.app** (available in the App Store) 2️⃣ Make sure your app matches the screenshot in the helper PDF – if not, please update it 📲 3️⃣ Open the guide for easy step-by-step instructions: 📄 **Helper PDF:** [https://eseek.app/WomensMeetups.pdf](https://eseek.app/WomensMeetups.pdf) Can’t wait to meet you! 💖✨

**Our February novel is: Julia by Sandra Newman** **This month is a classic, dystopian, fiction, literary fiction, women’s fiction, and science fiction novel. The book is 394 pages in print and 14 hours and 20 minutes on audiobook.** **An imaginative, feminist, and brilliantly relevant-to-today retelling of Orwell’s 1984, from the point of view of Winston Smith’s lover, Julia, by critically acclaimed novelist Sandra Newman.** Julia Worthing is a mechanic, working in the Fiction Department at the Ministry of Truth. It’s 1984, and Britain (now called Airstrip One) has long been absorbed into the larger trans-Atlantic nation of Oceania. Oceania has been at war for as long as anyone can remember, and is ruled by an ultra-totalitarian Party, whose leader is a quasi-mythical figure called Big Brother. In short, everything about this world is as it is in Orwell’s 1984. All her life, Julia has known only Oceania, and, until she meets Winston Smith, she has never imagined anything else. She is an ideal citizen: cheerfully cynical, always ready with a bribe, piously repeating every political slogan while believing in nothing. She routinely breaks the rules, but also collaborates with the regime when necessary. Everyone likes Julia. Then one day she finds herself walking toward Winston Smith in a corridor and impulsively slips him a note, setting in motion the devastating, unforgettable events of the classic story. Julia takes us on a surprising journey through Orwell’s now-iconic dystopia, with twists that reveal unexpected sides not only to Julia, but to other familiar figures in the 1984 universe. This unique perspective lays bare our own world in haunting and provocative ways, just as the original did almost seventy-five years ago.

Join us as we get together to see the steamy-romance-period-drama, WUTHERING HEIGHTS. Director Emerald Fennell gives us her take on the romance between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw from the classic Emily Bronte novel. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film tells a passionate and tumultuous love story set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors, exploring the intense and destructive relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw. The film is directed by Emerald Fennell (Promising Young Woman, Saltburn) and is loosely based on the classic novel by Emily Bronte. It stars Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi, Alison Oliver, Owen Cooper and Hong Chau! TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fLCdIYShEQ PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet inside the lobby area about 30 minutes before the show begins. Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but early arrival is advised! Be sure to mention you’re with the Movie Group for admission and concession discounts! And, after the movie, don’t miss the best part of the night – food and drinks at the nearby Rusty Bucket! Complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Welcome, readers! Our February read is **_1984 by George Orwell._** In 1984, George Orwell imagines a world where the government watches everyone, rewrites reality, and punishes even private thoughts. Winston Smith dares to question this system, believing that truth and love might still exist. His rebellion draws him into a chilling struggle against a power that knows him better than he knows himself. The novel leaves readers asking whether freedom is possible when reality itself can be controlled. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

We will have lunch at Cap City Diner in Gahanna at 12:00 then walk over to the theater afterwards. The Movie Solo Mio starts at 1:20.It will be posted when tickets available to purchase probably the week before then we’ll post our seat number so we can all sit together 😎

**I’m planning future book club meetups and would love your input. Please choose your top three from the list below—your picks will help decide what we read next!** **Book Options** *The Hong Kong Widow* – Kristen Loesch *American Spy* – Lauren Wilkinson *God of the Woods* – Liz Moore *Listen for the Lie* – Amy Tintera *The Swallows* – Lisa Lutz *The Drowning Kind* – Jennifer McMahon *The Eights* – Joanna Miller *The Quiet Librarian* – Allen Eskens Thanks so much for sharing your pick! Please **reply in the comments** with your top three. I can’t wait to see which books rise to the top and to discuss them together at our next meetups.