Peak Oil

**Lebanon is that pocket-sized powerhouse** that somehow fits 10,000 years of history, ski slopes, beach clubs, Roman mega-temples, and the world’s best mezze into an area smaller than Qatar. You can literally have breakfast by the Mediterranean, lunch in the mountains, and dinner in a rooftop bar that **feels like Paris and Dubai had a baby**. Buckle up – this place hits different. **They don’t call it the “Switzerland of the Middle East” for nothing**: snow-capped peaks, ancient cedars older than Jesus, and valleys so deep monks built monasteries into the cliffs just to flex. The name “Lebanon” even comes from the ancient word for “white” – yeah, those snowy mountains have been the national brand since forever. History? Phoenicians invented the alphabet here, Romans dropped the most over-the-top temples outside Italy, Crusaders built castles, Ottomans added souks and soap empires. Modern chapter got messy – civil war, heartbreak, rebuild, repeat – but Beirut rose from the ashes like the ultimate comeback kid and reclaimed its title: **“Paris of the East 2.0”.** And the food? **Mezze spreads so good you’ll forget calories exist.** Labneh that slaps harder than your ex, grilled meats dripping with garlic sauce, and enough olive oil to keep the Mediterranean shiny. Ready? Let’s roll. **Day 1 // Thursday :: Touchdown Beirut** Meet at DXB, hop on the direct FZ-159 to BEY. Land, breeze through arrivals, and get whisked to the hotel. Night owls? First taste of Beirut nightlife – the city that never sleeps (and probably invented after-parties). **Day 2 // Friday :: Crusader Castles, Soap Kings & Cliff Monks** Road-trip north to Tripoli, Lebanon’s underrated second city with serious old-school swagger. * Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles – biggest Crusader fortress in the country, panoramic sea views included. * Get steamy (literally) at Hammam Ezzedine, a 14th-century bathhouse still looking fresh. * Dive into the souks: spices, vintage caftans, and soap so legendary it has its own palace (Khan Al Saboun – watch olive-oil soap being born). Afternoon: Qadisha Valley – aka the “Holy Valley.” Think Lord of the Rings scenery with monasteries carved into cliffs like ancient Jedi temples. Easy to moderate hike past hermit caves and cedar groves, ending at Qozhaya Monastery (home to the Middle East’s first printing press, 17th-century flex). Overnight inside the monastery, we’re going full spiritual glow-up. **Day 3 // Saturday :: Waterfalls, Roman Megalomania & Wine O’Clock** Morning magic: Baatara Gorge Sinkhole – a 250 m sinkhole abyss with three natural bridges and a waterfall that drops through like nature’s own stunt show. National Geographic called it one of the world’s most beautiful sinkholes; we just take pics, don't judge. Then: Baalbek (ancient Heliopolis). The Romans showed up and said “hold my wine” – built the largest temple in the entire empire. Six columns of Jupiter’s temple still stand 19 m tall, and the Temple of Bacchus is so perfectly preserved it looks Photoshopped. Bonus: the biggest stone block ever cut (1,650 tons!) still chilling in the nearby quarry like the ancients gave up mid-lift. Evening: Château Ksara – Lebanon’s OG winery since 1857, run by Jesuits who discovered Roman caves and thought, “Wine cellar, obviously.” Tour the creepy-cool tunnels, taste the goods, realize Lebanon makes banger reds. Back to Beirut for the night. **Day 4 // Sunday :: Beirut, Baby**! Capital energy unlocked: * Downtown time travel: Phoenician ruins → Roman baths → Ottoman palaces → bullet-scarred “Holiday Inn” war relic (now iconic). * Gemmayze & Mar Mikhael – street art, indie cafés, bars in stairwells, the works. * Corniche stroll, mandatory Pigeon Rocks selfie, optional boat ride under the cliffs. * Sunset drinks somewhere rooftop, mezze coma, then “keshek el-fouqara” (poor man’s goodbye) as we head to the airport. Four days. One tiny country. Lifetime memories. **Grade:** Easy – available for everyone. **Activities:** Cultural immersion, trekking, sightseeing. **Cost:** **3,250 AED** **excluding flights or 6,300 AED incl. flights** **until FEB 28th.** Past this date cost will change. **Accommodation & Meals:** **4 star hotel** **&** **monastery** **stay** \- shared rooms\, meals excluded\. **Specifically Excluded:** Visa expenses (if any), meals. **Visa:** Visa on arrival for most passports. See details [here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Lebanon). *It is sole responsibility of participant to secure entry to country of destination.* See you in the cedars! ✨ x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

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)

**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)

Love stories, but never find the time to read? Always wanted to start reading but don’t know where to begin? **A Few Good Pages** is a weekly short story circle where we slow down, read together, and have thoughtful relaxed conversations. No pressure, No prep! We meet **every Thursday** to read and discuss **one or two short stories**—quick reads that stay with you. Whether you’re a **wannabe reader** looking to get started, a **busy book lover** who wants to rebuild reading habit, or someone who enjoys **sharing perspectives on a great story**, you’ll fit right in. You don't need to prepare anything in advance - Just show up. Over the past year, we've read and discussed over **200+ short stories,** building a warm, reflective community that values attention, curiosity and consistency. Join our WhatsApp Group for updates: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IpIMc6c87W49FJIg1cRDJk?mode=hqrt2 **Cost & Membership** * First session : **Free** * Drop in : AED 30 per session * Membership options available for those who want to build a consistent reading habit. **Location** Hosted at Soul Side Wellness, 2603, The Dome Tower, Cluster N, JLT. Please update the RSVP if there's any change in your plans :-) Come for the stories, stay for the discussions!

**Secluded, distant, and untouched - Legendary Tibet** sits high in the storybook heights of the Himalayas, unlike anywhere else on Earth. With an average elevation of 4,500 meters, it earns its title as the **Roof of the World**, offering endless plateaus, snow-draped peaks, and skies so close they feel touchable. The landscape is stark, vast, and impossibly beautiful, painted with valleys, glaciers, and lakes that feel like they belong on another planet. But Tibet is more than just a view, it’s the **spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism**, alive in every fluttering prayer flag and spinning prayer wheel. In Lhasa, the capital, you’ll stand before the towering Potala Palace, once the winter home of the Dalai Lama and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just a short walk away, Jokhang Temple anchors the city’s spiritual life, as pilgrims circle it clockwise on Barkhor Street, murmuring mantras and spinning hand-held wheels in a moving meditation centuries old. Tibet’s identity hasn’t come without struggle. Once a theocratic state of monks and monasteries, it was occupied by Chinese forces in the 1950s and officially became part of the People’s Republic of China. The political future of Tibet remains a subject of global debate—but its cultural resilience is undeniable. **Tibetan nomads, with their yak-hair tents and deep connection to the land, still roam the high plains**. They keep alive traditional crafts like thangka painting and handwoven carpets, embodying a culture shaped by both hardship and deep spiritual calm. Tibet is a place where nature and devotion blend into one, **where silence holds power and every view feels sacred**. And yes, the altitude might steal your breath—but the magic of this land will too. **But Tibet is only part of this journey**. We’ll also meet **pandas** and ride the **highest railway in the world**. Our adventure begins with the **Qinghai–Tibet Railway, a marvel of high-altitude engineering** that reaches a jaw-dropping 5,072 meters at Tanggula Pass. **It glides over 550 km of permafrost**, using futuristic tech to keep the tracks stable. **Oxygen is pumped into the cabins** to ease the ride—making it the perfect way to acclimate while watching the wild Tibetan plateau unfold outside your window. And when we reach Chengdu, prepare for a **totally different kind of thrill: pandas**. At the research center, **these sleepy rockstars** are most active in the morning, so we’ll time our visit to catch the cubs tumbling, munching, and stealing hearts. You might be surprised to learn that pandas have six fingers, including a thumb-like adaptation for grabbing bamboo. **Are you ready for an unforgettable fusion of ancient and modern? Let's go!** **Day 0: Departure** Meet at the airport for your direct flight to Chengdu. **Day 1: Chengdu - Chonguing** Immigration formalities and bullet train to Chongqing. Day and night tour across the highlights of so-called Cyber Punk city. Overnight in Chonguing. **Day 2: Chongqing - Xining - High Altitude Train to Lhasa** Departure to Xining by flight and take a short city tour. Catch the afternoon train to Lhasa (the best views star here). Overnight on the train of soft sleeper (4 persons in 1 cabin) around 20hours. **Day 3: Arrival in Lhasa** Arrive in Lhasa in the afternoon and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for acclimatization to the staggering 3,650m altitude. Take it easy and hydrate. **Day 4: Explore Lhasa** We begin with Jokhang Temple, the holiest site in Tibetan Buddhism, where pilgrims from across the region gather to worship at this 1400-year-old temple. Then we explore Old Town and Barkhor Street, a vibrant market maze filled with incense, prayer flags, and centuries of tradition. **Day 5: Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Karo La Glacier – Gyantse – Shigatse** This morning we hit the road early, traversing the picturesque Yarlung River towards the sacred Yamdrok Lake, one of the three largest lakes in Tibet. We'll discover the vastness and serenity of this holy lake and its surrounding mountains from the Kamba La Pass. As we drive along the lake shore to Nankartse and ascend to the stunning Karo La Glacier, we'll have close-up views of Mt. Nojin Kangtsang. Here we will stretch our legs on a 2-3 hour trail to discover higher glacier lakes.s. **Day 6: Shigatse – Gyatso La Pass – Everest Base Camp (North)** Today we travel through remote areas, passing through picturesque but isolated Tibetan farming villages before heading over Gyatso La Pass (5,248m) for jaw-dropping views. Continuing on through Geu La Pass, we'll reach **Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest**. Here we’ll walk near the Everest North Base Camp (5,150m)—an unforgettable place to breathe in the Himalayas. **Day 7: Rongphu Monastery – Shigatse** We'll catch the sunrise at Rongphu Monastery, with chanting monks setting the tone. If time allows, there will be a quick visit to Tashizom village before we return to Shigatse. **Day 8: Shigatse – Chengdu** We return to Lhasa and catch a connecting flight to Chengdu. Free time in the afternoon. **Day 9: Pandas** Before we say 再见 (goodbye) to China, we’ll visit the Chengdu Panda Research Center. These charming black-and-white creatures are most active in the mornings, with the baby pandas being particularly playful. It won't take long for you to see just how extraordinary they are! Growing to heights of 1.2m to 1.5m and weighing up to 135kg, pandas spend over half their day consuming bamboo. And yes, they are born pink and measure around 15cm. After, we'll have some time for a last round of souvenir shopping before heading to the airport for our direct flight back home, with heads and hearts full of unforgettable Sichuan-Tibetan memories! **Level**: easy to moderate (high altitude ahead). **Activities:** trekking, sightseeing, cultural immersion. **Accommodation & meals:** 4 star comfortable hotels - double sharing. Restaurant meals excluded. **Cost:** **12,310 AED** all-inclusive of international and domestic flights + train rides. **Cost valid until FEB 28, on this date we will close the list.** **THIS TRIP IS STILL AVILABLE FOR PASSPORTS ELIGIBLE FOR VISA ON ARRIVAL** . **Visa: AUS, EU passports visa free,** except Czech Republic, Lithuania and Sweden. [Other passports ](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_mainland_China)\- third party visa agency only\. **Minimum processing time for visa and permit is 4 weeks.** *It is sole responsibility of participant to secure entry to country of destination.* 西藏见 x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 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!

**Welcome to Chile, the slender ribbon of a nation stretching along South America's western edge.** This is a land of breathtaking contrasts, from smoking volcanoes and dry deserts to green vineyards, rough oceans, and almost 900 serious moai statues that seem to judge your poses with ancient eyes. It's here where you'll trek across towering mountains that fade into bizarre, otherworldly lunar terrains, smell the **bubbling geysers exploding from the soil** beside glittering salt ponds buzzing with vibrant wildlife. And then, venture to one of the planet's most isolated islands, where enigmatic giant stone heads stand sentinel, guarding secrets of ancient civilizations. Our trip starts in Santiago, the busy capital full of South America's energy. We'll walk its streets, taste crispy empanadas and drink pisco sour in the warm Andean sunshine. Next, we head Valparaíso, a cozy harbor town that's great to look at: bright street art pops everywhere, and colorful houses tumble down hilly slopes to the ocean. Next we’ll head to the **driest place on Earth, where some areas haven't had rain for more than 400 years.** Here we’ll walk Valley of the Moon, with its rough rocks that look like they're from another planet, and stare amazed at the Tatio Geysers, where hot water shoots up from cold ground. We’ll pass by groups of pink flamingos in clear salt lakes, see elegant vicuñas wandering like fancy llamas, and watch sunsets so bright and weird that your friends will think you edited them. If that's not enough to satisfy your sense of adventure, get ready for Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, a tiny spot in the Pacific that's on every explorer's bucket list. **Here, we'll face the huge moai, a stone giants cut from volcano rocks.** At holy spots like Ahu Tongariki, a line of them gazes forever toward the sea, famous mysteries around the globe. We'll trek to Rano Raraku, the quarry where these giants were made, now a spooky place with half-buried, unfinished statues stuck in time. Our expedition will finish at the green beauty of **Cajón del Maipo, a striking valley right outside Santiago packed with mountain views and great wine spots.** It's the perfect place to celebrate with smooth red and fresh whites, take amazing shots by falling waterfalls and snowy mountain tops, before we leave Chile. **Let’s go!** **DAY 0 // DEPARTURE** Meet at DXB at 12:00 for a flight to Santiago via London (BA). **DAY 1 // SANTIAGO CITY TOUR** Morning arrival to Santiago, immigration, drop the bags to hotel and head out for a tour into Santiago’s gems: from the grand Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace to the bustling Mercado Central. We’ll wander through traditional neighborhoods, visit an enormous, fascinating cemetery, and finish at Los Dominicos, where local artisans make souvenirs actually worth buying. Lastly, we’ll take it all in by riding the cable car up to the top of San Cristóbal Hill for scenic vistas and incredible photos. **DAY 2 // VALPARAISO & CHILL VIÑA DEL MAR** Grab your camera – it’s Valpo day! Once a booming port, this city is now an artsy, hilly maze of murals, cable cars, churches and boho vibes. With incredible street art around every corner, we’ll explore the UNESCO-listed old town and pass by highlights including the cathedral, Sotomayor Square, and the picturesque harbor area. In the afternoon we’ll make a stop in nearby Viña del Mar, a chill, beachy town where we’ll enjoy the endless palm trees and cool sea breeze. **THE ATACAMA DESERT – PLANET EARTH’S DRIEST** **DAY 3 // DESERT VALLEYS** Today we’ll fly into Calama Airport and transfer to San Pedro de Atacama, settling in before heading out for a midday exploration of Moon Valley's surreal, moon-like formations and salt caves. Hike through the dramatic dunes and ridges of Death Valley, feeling the intense aridity and vast silence of this otherworldly site. End the day watching a stunning sunset from a viewpoint in Moon Valley, where the golden light transforms the terrain into a magical panorama. **DAY 4 // HIGHLAND LAGOONS** After breakfast we ll travel southbound to the charming village of Toconao, admiring its historic church built from volcanic stone and browsing local artisan crafts. We will ascend to the breathtaking Lagunas Miscanti and Miñiques, hiking around the azure waters framed by towering volcanoes and spotting wild vicuñas. Descend to Laguna Chaxa in the expansive Salar de Atacama, observing flocks of flamingos wading in the salty shallows. Here we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch, immersing ourselves in the altiplanic beauty. **DAY 5 // GEYSERS AND HOT SPRINGS** Rise early for the trek to El Tatio Geysers, witnessing the powerful steam eruptions and bubbling pools at dawn in this high-altitude geothermal field. Short stop at Machuca village, tasting traditional llama empanadas and exploring the rustic adobe homes and church. Well-deserved time to relax in the afternoon at Puritama hot springs, soaking in the cascading thermal pools surrounded by canyon greenery. Time to return to airport for a flight back to Santiago. **DAYS 6 – 8 // EASTER ISLAND – LEGENDS, MOAI & BEACH VIBES** Off we go to one of the most remote places on the planet: Rapa Nui aka Easter Island. After an early morning flight, our guide will greet us with flower necklaces, setting the good vibes for our visit. Over threer days, expect epic ocean views, sacred rocks, and mysterious legends. Rapa Nui’s undisputed highlight is Ahu Tongariki, the famed ceremonial platform holding 15 *moai* in a row, glowing in the sunset. We’ll also visit the lesser known Ahu Akivi, with seven majestic *moai* staring out to sea. An unforgettable sight is Rano Raraku quarry – like a *moai* factory frozen in time, with nearly 400 statues scattered around like someone hit pause mid-construction. Then we’ll discover the red volcanic rock quarry of Puna Pau, where the *moai* got their giant red “hair buns”. Of course we’ll need to get a taste of that island life, so we’ll be making stops at Ovahe and Anakena beaches – one is pink and wild, the other is soft, white, and perfect for doing absolutely nothing. After getting our fill of this island of stone-faced mystery, we’ll catch an afternoon flight to return to the mainland. **DAY 9 // WINE & WILDERNESS** There’s no better way to conclude our Chilean adventure than with a day that pairs breathtaking nature with world-class wine. As we near the finale, our journey leads us into the majestic Andes Mountains, where the towering cliffs and winding river valleys of Cajón del Maipo create a spectacular natural backdrop. From the wild beauty of the mountains, we’ll transition to the refined elegance of the Concha y Toro vineyards. Here, we’ll uncover the stories and secrets behind some of South America's most legendary wines, that have put Chile on the global wine map. **DAY 10 // DEPARTURE** Its time to say bye-bye to Chile and head back to airport for a flight back home. **Level of difficulty:** Easy - available for everyone. High altitude ahead. **Activities:** Trekking, off-roading, sightseeing, cultural immersion. **Accommodation & meals:** Accommodation in 3- and 4-star hotels, double sharing. Single room available upon request for an extra cost. Meals excluded. **Cost: 13,250 incl. 4 domestic flights, excl. international flights.** **Cost valid until FEB 28.** Past this date cost will change. **Recommended flights:** BA via London LHR at approx. 4600 AED. **Excluded:** Visas, insurance, meals. **Visas:** Western passports, Russia and Far East receive free visa upon arrival. More info here: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Chile](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Chile) *Visa support is not available on this trekkup.* See yah in Rapa Nui x Trekkup Crew WhatsApp 050 484 8238 / [[info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/)]([docs@trekkup.com](http://docs@trekkup.com/)) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

Welcome to Camelot Language School! Our speaking club is a fun, friendly place where everyone feels comfortable speaking and learning together 😊 You’ll practice real conversations, make new friends, and improve your English naturally with a native speaker guiding you along the way. No pressure, just support, laughter, and great conversations. **Join us** and come enjoy learning with us!

we will take a weekly night drive in desert, a capable 4x4 is required, we have most recovery gear, radio recommended. easy to medium drives pls join our WhatsApp group for details of events: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GPPjR6igsdoJHlGXz1yoib

Join Dubai Offroaders for an unforgettable weekend of camping, off-roading, and Jeep adventure in the Dubai desert! This event is perfect for off-road enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to advanced drivers. Get ready to explore the stunning desert landscape, tackle challenging terrains, and have fun with like-minded adventurers. Experience the thrill of driving your 4x4 through the sandy dunes, enjoy a BBQ under the starlit sky, and connect with fellow expats in Dubai who share your passion for off-road activities. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or a newbie looking to learn, this weekend trip promises an exciting blend of off-road driving, camping under the stars, and making unforgettable memories in the great outdoors. Don't miss out on this ultimate Dubai Offroaders experience!

PLEASE REGISTER HERE, TO JOIN THIS EVENT, https://dubaioffroaders.com/web/ Checklist: a) Fully functional 4x4 vehicle with full tank of fuel. b) Air compressor in working condition. c) Recovery rope / strap. d) Compatible radio pre-programmed to DO frequencies. e) Refreshments for you and your passengers (if you have them). f) Offroad flag attached to vehicle. Etiquette: 1) Registering and not coming along may stop others from joining and is easily avoidable - so please be courteous and withdraw if you can't make it. 2) Be punctual. 3) Avoid bringing along unregistered participants without prior permission. Thank you for taking the time to read this and prepare properly - see you on the sand!

Movie Night / BBQ in Al Qudra Desert Whatsapp: +1 585 351 1378 Social gathering to watch a movie or BBQ together in Al Qudra Desert. • Location will be accessible by any car • Carpooling can be arranged with other members, message us for details • Movie selection will be voted on the whatsapp group • Snacks and drinks will be provided • Will start around 10pm and finish 1 or 2, however you can leave anytime Free event Message us with your whatsapp numbers to be added to the whatsapp group. All details and exact location will be on the WhatsApp group

**Day 1: Al Quaa aka the “Milky Way spot” - Stargazing, BBQ, games, telescope & camp** We will leave Dubai at 1 pm and head on a beautiful 2-3 hours road trip to Al Quaa, a secluded Abu Dhabi spot that offers out-of-this-world views of a sky full of stars. We will then enjoy stargazing at the darkest place in the UAE with stellar views of the galaxy, constellations, planets and shooting starts. We will then have the usual best bbq in town, drinks, card games, music, have some melting marshmallows on camp fire and camp under the clear skies full of stars. **Day 2: Sunrise, Bites, and Back to the City** In the morning, we will take a morning walk and watch the sunrise over the dunes. We will then return to camp for breakfast. Once we have finished breakfast and packing, we will leave for Dubai. *Note: Timings might shift a little with sunrise and sunset. Don't worry we'll share the exact plan with you in a whatsapp group before the trip.* *(2 days with camping)* **Price without transport**: 550aed **Price with transport**: 750aed **Including:** * A total of 2 meals, including the famous best BBQ in town for dinner (mixed grill with meat and chicken, vegan burger, hummus, moutabbal, tabbouleh salad, fattoush salad, bread, and snacks) and breakfast. * Beverages (Soft drinks, tea, coffee, water). * Accommodation in private tents (1 person per tent or 2 persons per tent for couples). * Camp equipment (Chairs, lights, private tents, mattresses, Fire pit & wood for bonfire). * A guided stargazing session with access to a Celestron 12096 NexStar Evolution 8 HD telescope for observing planets and celestial objects. * Portable Toilet & Privacy Tent Setup. * Campfire games. * Transportation from regular vehicles to the inside of the desert via dunes off-roading with 4x4 vehicle. **Excluding:** * A sleeping bag with a temperature rating that is 5 degrees less than the expected lowest temperature or a heavy comforter is required, we recommend to buy a high quality one from Adventure HQ to have a good night sleep or you can rent one from us for 50aed * Transportation from Arabian Wanderers' meeting point in Dubai to Abu Dhabi and back (Available optionally for AED 200 if you choose the option with transport) Notes: * **Important note**: Your booking will only be confirmed once you've completed the process on the following link: [https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/al-quaa-milky-way-spot-stargazing-in-the-darkest-spot-in-uae.](https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/al-quaa-milky-way-spot-stargazing-in-the-darkest-spot-in-uae) RSVP on Meetup serves as an expression of intent to attend the event and does not guarantee your place, as spots are limited and tend to fill up rapidly. * **Group size:** Small group experience - Avg. 12, Max 25. * **Physical rating:** Beginner level - Light physical activities are included. * **Meeting point & time:** * **If booking our transport**: * Dubai at 2:45pm: [Artisan Bakers - https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5) in Al Barsha. RTA parking is available i f you want to come with your car. * Abu Dhabi at 4:15pm: [ADNOC Service Station | Shawamekh-(South West) (755) - https://maps.app.goo.gl/adkwrB7c98omTcWS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/adkwrB7c98omTcWS9). There is no parking at this petrol station, so please meet us in a taxi. * **If not**: [Arabian Wanderers – Al Quaa Stargazing & Camping - https://maps.app.goo.gl/z6zSwEwgfQRzyccD6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z6zSwEwgfQRzyccD6) at 6:00pm. Any car can reach the meeting point in Al Quaa where you can leave your car by the side of the road free of charge. There is no need for a 4x4 vehicle as you will join one of our 4x4 vehicles to go to the camp. * **Restroom Facilities:** A portable toilet with a privacy tent will be available. * **Solo & women friendly:** Solo and female travelers are more than welcome; 70% of our participants are usually solo adventurers and women. * **Pet-friendly:** You're welcome to bring your pet on the trip, provided everyone on the tour is comfortable with it. You can confirm this via the WhatsApp group created for all booked participants. * **Note:** Visibility may be affected by weather conditions (e.g., clouds, rain). Event cancellation will only occur in the case of severe weather (heavy rain or very strong winds), not due to clouds or light rain. * **Mobile Coverage:** e& has inconsistent internet and phone coverage. du has inconsistent phone coverage and no internet coverage. * **Important Note:** Bookings cannot be rescheduled within 14 days of the trip. * **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) ! * **Disclaimer:** Even though Al Quaa is the best place in the UAE for stargazing, don't expect it to look like the photos online. While you can see more stars than in most other locations and will definitely be amazed, the photos you see online are taken with professional cameras or high-quality phones that capture low light better than the naked eye. * **Tipping Information:** If you'd like to show your appreciation to your guide, please bring cash in AED for tipping. * **Instagram:** Follow us on Instagram for our latest adventures: [arabian.wanderers](https://www.instagram.com/arabian.wanderers/) For any questions that are not on the booking link, you can WhatsApp us by clicking on this link [https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1](https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1) or call us on: [+971522067219](http://+971522067219/)

The Camp - Al Qudra WhatsApp: +1 585 351 1378 party . BBQ, camp, social gathering we have a sound system Everyone please bring your own food, drinks, chairs etc... carpooling can be arranged directly with other members all setup is there, BBQ, charcoal, fire music etc .. cost free

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!

Join us as we get together to see Ryan Gosling and Sandra Huller in the highly anticipated sci-fi adventure, PROJECT HAIL MARY! The film is based on the best-selling novel of The Martian and follows a man who awakens on a spacecraft before realizing his mission to save Earth. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: A science teacher wakes up on a spaceship, light years from home with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As his memory returns, he begins to uncover his mission to save the Earth. The film is directed by the filmmaking due Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (21 and 22 Jump Street, Into and Across the Spider-Verse) and is based on the 2021 novel by Andy Weir (The Martian). The film stars Ryan Gosling, Sandra Huller (Anatomy of a Fall, The Zone of Interest), Lionel Boyce, Milana Vayntrub and Ken Leung. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5VYsnngkS_U BUZZ AND REVIEWS: The buzz and reviews for PROJECT HAIL MARY are off-the-charts good! The film is earning a 95% Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, where critics call it an “old school blockbuster crowd-pleaser” and “a new sci-fi classic!” It’s “deeply hopeful,” well-acted,” funny,” “dramatic,” and “exceptionally rousing throughout!” Others call it “something truly magical” and one that “we’ll be talking about this one for decades to come!” And I believe Slashfilm says it best: “It will lift up and squeeze your heart, crack you up with laughter, and give you a sense of hope and wonder in a way that few movies have been able to inspire.” MOVIE PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 2:30pm SuperScreen DLX showing and meet in the lobby area between 2:05 and 2:15pm! Tickets already on sale and will likely move fast for this hot ticket / opening weekend showing so advance ticket purchase as soon as possible is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. As a head’s up, this is a longer movie at 2hrs 36mins. DINNER PLAN: Dinner immediately following the movie at 5:30pm at group favorite, FUGU SUSHI, located just next door! Separate RSVP required for the Dinner / Movie portions of this event. An RSVP here means you're signed up for the MOVIE! This portion will be open as long as seats remain. If you also plan to join for dinner, please also RSVP in the separate event listing for the dinner portion of this event. Should be a good one, Dan

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!

So this month's prompt is more general. I think we can all agree that we are living in "unique" times that require coping skills. I think that one role and/or purpose of philosophy is to help us deal with our daily lives and our "unique" times. So, let's share our feelings and thoughts about which philosopher/philosophy we turn to in order to deal with our crazy events. Who/what helps you stay focused in your daily life and helps you sleep at night. I find that Stoicism with a little philosophical pessimism mixed in goes a long way in helping me deal with what I see as very destructive, fearful and mean spirited public policies at both the state and federal levels. Hope to see you on March 28th!

Let’s get together at the Crowne Plaza and talk deals, creative finance, problem solving, whatever you want! Hubert Bruce Hosts, COREE members share ideas and resources. Open to the public!

Join us for the Spring edition of [Nature Loving Fest](https://www.facebook.com/events/895148649812928), a small, thoughtfully curated outdoor gathering celebrating vegan eats, handmade goods, and the beauty of the season. Formerly known as our Vegan Pop-Up, this new chapter reflects what the event has always been — a space rooted in nature, community, and intentional living. Expect around 20 local vendors offering seasonal vegan eats, small-batch bakes, handcrafted goods, and earth-conscious products. Come support local makers, share good food, and celebrate the beginning of a new season with us. Admission is Free.

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!