Outdoors

**Côte d’Ivoire may sound like a French perfume,** but it’s actually a compact West African gem packed with incredible things to see. The French named it Côte d’Ivoire back when the area was a major exporter of elephant tusks, and in the 1980s the government politely but firmly insisted the world stick to the French name in every language— for **no more “Ivory Coast” on the letterhead, merci.** Today, Côte d’Ivoire is the undisputed cocoa superpower: about **40% of the world’s chocolate** begins its journey here. Add coffee, palm oil, and rubber plantations stretching to the horizon, and you get a country that essentially fuels your morning routine and your dessert cravings. All that agriculture means the countryside is a deep, endless green; take just a short drive around and it feels as if **every hillside is auditioning for a screensaver**. Indeed, **when it comes to nature, Côte d’Ivoire is exceptionally blessed**: over two million hectares of wooded savannahs, dense equatorial forests, granite plateaus, pristine primary rainforest, mangrove systems, expansive beaches, and vast plantations of cocoa, coffee, and bananas. Culturally, **60 ethnic groups** coexist in Côte d’Ivoire, each with their own language, wild dances and initiation ceremonies, and crafts so beautiful you’ll happily blow your souvenir budget. **Yamoussoukro**, the planned political capital, offers a surreal contrast to the kinetic energy of economic center Abidjan, its broad, empty avenues lit by endless rows of streetlights and anchored by the immense Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, **the world’s largest church** (yes, even larger than St. Peter’s in Rome). **Abidjan**, meanwhile, could make most major cities look practically zen, with gleaming skyscrapers, creative chaos, and traffic wilder than Sharjah on a Friday afternoon. After a few tough decades, Côte d’Ivoire is firmly back on its feet and rolling out the red carpet for visitors again. What was once the wealthiest and most stylish country in West Africa is now eager to remind the world why it’s so special. **So spray on a little of that imaginary perfume** and join us for what smells like a great adventure, with hints of cocoa. **Let’s go!** **Day 1 // Abidjan** *Bienvenue en Cote!* Following arrival and immigration formalities, what better way to kick off our trip than on a sweet note? We’ll head to the upmarket area of Cocody for a visit to **Chocoladrome**, where its friendly owners will lead us through tastings of homegrown cocoa goodies, from banana laced bars and bubbly "chocolate champagne" to pure cocoa butter. After, we’ll hit the town and see what else this neighborhood has to offer. We’ll have free time to wind down at any number of stylish **restaurants and rooftop shisha bars**, indulging in panoramas of Abidjan paired with grilled meats or fresh salads while grooving to Afrobeats. **DAY 2 // Yamoussoukro via Tiassale** This morning we’ll hit the road and head up north, with a stop in **Tiassalé,** a spot by the Bandama River famous for its hippo population. Next we head to **Yamoussoukro**, the country’s administrative capital, whose most famous landmark is unmissable to visitors heading into the city. The massive **Basilique Notre-Dame de la Paix** looms over the surrounding area, reminiscent of the famed St. Peter's in Rome – except this church is even bigger, holding the Guinness World Record as the largest church in the world. After we’ve had our fill of grand architecture and stunning stained glass artwork, we will **meet the Baoulé people**, known for their sophisticated art (particularly masks and sculptures), and their rich culture linked to ancestors and rituals. We will experience the lively, **UNESCO-listed Goli mask dance**, with dancers in elaborate masks and outfits pulling off moves the rest of us can try to imitate…though likely at the expense of our dignity. **After, we’ll witness master artisans weaving the famed Baoulé cloth**, transforming humble cotton into dazzling colors and patterns. **DAY 3 // Man** Today we head west to **Man**, which welcomes visitors with an impressive sight: **eighteen mountains encircle the town**, providing a stunning backdrop in every direction. In addition to its natural surroundings, this is a lively center of trade, with rice, cassava, livestock and more changing hands in Man’s markets. We’ll start with a short hike, crossing a swaying vine bridge and navigating a bamboo forest to make our way to **a beautiful waterfall**. Late in the afternoon, we’ll continue on to a Yacouba village, where **stilt dancers** will tower above us with the nonchalance of people who have seemingly never heard of gravity. **DAY 4 // Man** Today we start with a short drive to the trailhead of **Mont Tonkpi**, at 1,227m. From there, we hit the trail, and once at the top we’ll be rewarded with views covering the city of Man, the rock formation La Dent de Man, and the chain of eighteen mountains. We’ll ascend the 15-storey observation tower, built in 1965 next to a year-round spring. After returning to the lowlands, we continue to the **Sacred Forest of Gbêpleu**, guarded by the Dan community, where ritual practices are still performed and masked figures may appear at any time – to the extent photography is not permitted inside the forest. **Day 5 // San Pedro ala plage** It is time to wave the Man goodbye and head south on road that threads through coffee and cocoa country, with a brief pause in Soubré for its lively market and perhaps a plate of freshly grilled fish. Named after Saint Peter by early Portuguese mariners who adapted the Spanish “San Pedro” into the French “San-Pédro,” the city now reigns as the world’s largest cocoa exporting port, its docks alive with the rhythm of loading ships and the scent of roasted beans drifting on the breeze. Late afternoon we’ll spend in San Pedro ala plage, where golden sand meets your “when was the last time I swam in Atlantic?” Time for fiery orange at sunset and grand welcome to the coast. **DAY 6 // Grand-Béréby** Just a short distance away is **Grand-Béréby,** where a **traditional wooden pirogue boat** awaits to take us on a serene journey along the Néro River through mangroves alive with monkeys. After, we’ll wander the timeless **fishermen’s quarter**: think painted pirogues resting on the sand, fishermen hauling nets and coiling ropes, and fish grilling over coconut husk fires. Time slows down in fishermen’s quarter: painted pirogues rest sleeping on the sand, fishermen coil ropes, barracuda turn golden over coconut husks. **A simple lobster dinner on a beachfront, at a humble table lit by candles and the first stars.** As night deepens, although the time is measured by tides, its time to turn the constellations. Nighttime belongs to turtles. Watch your step, the leatherback nests here. **Day 7 // Grand Bassam** After a lazy morning, we drive to San-Pédro for a short domestic flight back to Abidjan. Next, we head east to the country’s first capital, **Grand-Bassam**, where endless palm-lined beaches compete with the **UNESCO-listed colonial town** for the “best views” award. Cooled by the Atlantic breeze, we’ll explore the city, a living witness to the early ivory and cocoa trades. **Day 8 // Abidjan** Wake up to the call of sandals for a last walk on golden sands. Its time to get back home and scream: Au revoir Cote, see you soon! **Level of difficulty:** Easy **Activities:** Trekking, swimming, boating, cultural immersion, encounter of wildlife. **Accommodation & meals:** Hotels and lodges - **single rooms.** Meals excluded. **Cost:** **7,200 AED** excl. flights until FEB 09. **Flights:** Excluded from trip budget. Trip is based on Emirates schedule from DXB: DAY 1 EK-787 - DAY 8 EK-788. **Specifically excluded:** Meals, visas. **Visas:** Visa on arrival at Abidjan airport (ABJ) based on a compulsory printed ["Approved pre-enrolment](http://www.snedai.com)" obtained before departure. See yah at Cote x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 0504848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / docs@trekkup.com [Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](linktr.ee/trekkup)](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

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

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 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 Us for an Exciting 10 km Hike at Mushrif Hiking Trail!** 🌄 Start your morning with an energizing adventure through the scenic **Mushrif Park Hiking Trail:** a perfect mix of nature, sandy paths, and gentle hills. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, this trail offers the ideal blend of challenge and fun in a beautiful setting. 📅 **Date:** Saturday 🕖 **Time:** 7:00 AM 💵 **Fee:** 80 AED --- **[BOOK TODAY](https://luma.com/wm8ojvn6)** \-\-\-\- 📱 **Note:** Join Our [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EnP5zsWhLoLJVHZxvpYO4h) to confirm your attendance and receive all event updates. **What’s Included:** 🥤 Refreshing water to keep you hydrated. 🍎 Fresh fruits & healthy snacks 😊 Great company and positive vibes 👟 A friendly host to guide you along the trail **What to Bring:** 👟 **Comfortable hiking shoes:** the trail includes sandy areas, so please wear proper footwear for grip and comfort. 🎽 Sporty, breathable outfit 🎒 Any personal essentials you may need Get ready to reconnect with nature, make new friends, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Mushrif Park. Let’s hit the trail together and create unforgettable memories! 🌞👣

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and indulge in an unforgettable evening under the dazzling sky at our Desert BBQ Night! 🌌 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **🌟 Set Up Under the Starry Desert Sky** Picture-perfect moments await as we transform the serene desert landscape into a haven of warmth and laughter, all beneath the mesmerizing blanket of stars. Let the natural beauty of the desert enhance your experience as you gather around for an unforgettable night. **🎤 Karaoke, Music, and Dancing** Unleash your inner superstar with exhilarating karaoke sessions, or simply groove to the beats of live music under the starlit sky. Dance the night away with friends, old and new, as you create unforgettable memories in this magical setting. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** 🔥 **BYOF (Bring Your Own BBQ) Experience** Bring your own BBQ food to grill to perfection! We provide all the necessary grilling equipment and fire-ready setups, ensuring that your culinary creations are cooked to perfection under the starry desert sky. Whether it's marinated meats, fresh vegetables, or tantalizing skewers, unleash your inner grill master and savor the satisfaction of cooking your favorite dishes in the heart of the Dubai desert. **🔥 Bonfire Bliss** Gather around the crackling bonfire and bask in its warm glow as you share stories, laughter, and moments of pure joy with your fellow desert adventurers. Let the flickering flames ignite a sense of camaraderie that will warm your heart throughout the night. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **🍔 Eating and Drinking All Night Long** Indulge your taste buds with a delectable feast of BBQ delights and refreshing beverages that will tantalize your senses throughout the night. Savor every bite and sip as you enjoy the flavors of the desert under the starlit sky. **🎲 Fun Games and Board Games** Get ready for some friendly competition and laughter with a variety of fun games and board games. Challenge your friends or make new ones as you engage in lively activities that will keep the energy high throughout the night. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **💆 Relaxing and Storytelling:** Wind down from the excitement of the night with moments of relaxation and reflection. Gather around for captivating storytelling sessions that will transport you to distant lands and inspire your imagination. **What to expect?** * Set up under the starry desert sky. * BBQ your favourite meal. * Grilling equipment and fire-ready setup. * Bonfire, relaxing, storytelling, socializing & fun games. * Music, chilling, karaoke and dancing. * Soft drinks, coffee and tea. *Don't miss out on this extraordinary Desert BBQ Night! Join us for an evening of laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories in the heart of the Dubai desert.* **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Book your tickets now and get ready for an extraordinary night under the stars! 🌌🔥* *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

**Summary** Celebrate America's 250th year and the [Columbus Clippers'](https://www.milb.com/columbus) 50th season by watching [Franklin County's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Clippers) best team play the [best game in the world](https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/babe_ruth_140116) at [one of the ten best](https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/minors/2025/03/26/huntington-park-voted-top-10-minor-league-ballparks-usa-today-10best-awards/82656048007/) baseball stadiums in the United States in their 2026 home Saturday opener! The first pitch is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. The gates always open an hour before the scheduled first pitch. I'm usually at the ballpark a half an hour before the scheduled first pitch. Clippers' games usually last around two and a half hours. Being a few minutes early will help us secure good seats. **Parking** I personally always like to park in the [McConnell Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/McConnell+Garage/@39.9685114,-83.0103938,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388f24145462d1:0x6238c0f0c851ab70!8m2!3d39.9692957!4d-83.0081175!16s%2Fg%2F1jkw6y27y?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). If nothing else is going on in the area, this should be $7. However, I've also seen it be as high as $22. I can't say for certain what it will be for this game, but once I know, I will post in the comments. Alternately, there are other lots in the area you can try which will probably be a few dollars cheaper. [Here is a map](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/q_auto/milb/ernng44ya2xkr4wbheql) of all the garages and lots surrounding the stadium. Keep in mind that many of these are outdoor lots and your car will be out in the elements. If you decide to look for a different lot, I would mildly recommend either the Buggyworks Lot or the Broadbelt Lot, but I have never parked in either of these myself. Although it won't apply for this game, keep in mind that street parking is also free citywide in Columbus on [Sundays and holidays](https://www.columbus.gov/files/sharedassets/city/v/1/public-service/right-of-way-permit/on-street-parking-out-of-service-policy-and-procedure-final-8.15.2022-signed.pdf). **Where We'll Be** Here is a [map of the ballpark](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/milb/qkqohbqjgtx5uwo6zkgn.pdf). We'll be sitting on Level 3 of the [Left Field Building](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/huntington-park) (aka the "AEP Power Pavilion"), which features a 110 foot bar with six open patios overlooking the field. This area is covered and will be out of any sun or rain that may transpire. If you enter the park through the Center Field Entrance (which is at the intersection of Nationwide Blvd. and Neil Ave.), there will be a door to your immediate right after you enter that leads to a staircase up into the Tower. This door is not well-marked, and if you've never been to Huntington Park before, you may wonder if you're actually allowed to go in and up the stairs. Yes, you are. We'll be on the Tower's "Level 3". I have uploaded to the Photos section of this event page, below, a picture of the sign you want look for after you ascend the stairs, so you'll know you're on the correct floor. **Tickets** Do not buy your tickets ahead of time. They will literally be twice as expensive if you buy them on Ticketmaster. Instead, go to the ticket window near the Center Field Entrance. Buy a *Standing Room Only* ticket (don't worry, you won't be standing), which will cost you a flat $8 with no other taxes or fees. These tickets never sell out, and this is the cheapest way to get into the park. **Carry-Ins** Per the team's [website](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/a-z-guide): "Soft-sided coolers are permitted in the general seating area [which is where we'll be], but not hard-sided coolers; also no alcohol, glass bottles, or cans will be permitted. SMALL bags or backpacks of food items and beverages in plastic bottles are ok. Reusable water bottles are permitted, but must be empty upon arrival. Diaper bags are allowed." I always bring a disposable plastic bottle of water and refill it as I need at the park. Bottled water at the game is something like 4 or 5 dollars. So if you want a bottle of water, I recommend bringing your own bottle instead of buying it at the park. **Food & Drink** The area we'll be in has burgers, hot dogs, salads, soft pretzels, ice cream, and other sorts of things you would expect at a baseball game. I've posted pics of the menu in the Photos section, below. The burger and fries are $14 plus tax, and they're not bad. (This is what I usually get.) The beer is *really* overpriced. It's like $9, or $20 for a pitcher. If there's some people to help me drink it, though, I'll buy a pitcher of Michelob Ultra. While we'll be on the penultimate floor of the Tower, the top floor (which has a great view, but is fully exposed to the elements) has a [Dirty Frank's](https://dirtyfranks.com/) hot dog stand. I've never gotten anything from there, though I've been told it's good. The Donatos pizza stand is also a very short walk away from where we'll be. I love Donatos, but the pizza is so expensive at the ballpark. It's like $9 for a personal-sized pepperoni. It is good, though. **Peroration** Let's (watch them) play ball!

Hosted by Wild Ones Columbus How to Install a Bog Garden, with David Marsolo Saturday, March 14th, 2026 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (Eastern Time) Innis House (Inniswoods Metro Park) , 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH Public Welcome Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking A bog can serve the same functions as a traditional rain garden but has the advantages of being low maintenance, climate resilient and attractive for a much longer part of the year. David Marsolo is a long time Wild Ones member. He has been maintaining artificial bogs at his suburban Westerville home for about 20 years. He will describe how to install a bog and fill it with many interesting native plants including pollinator and host plants https://columbus.wildones.org/calendar-of-events-and-programs/?wo_event_id=11160