Outdoors

Welcome to our Padel Meetup Group in Dubai South Residential District! 🎾 We’re an open and welcoming community for players of all levels — whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced, you’ll find great games and even better company here. We’re proud to be one of the most affordable padel communities in Dubai, with sessions priced at just AED 50. Each session includes rackets, balls, water, and most importantly, a chance to build new friendships on and off the court. Join us for fun, competitive play at our outdoor court, and become part of a growing community that loves the game! Every Wednesday and Saturday: 8-10pm WhatsApp contact: 056 466 786 2

Embrace Dubai's Winter in Our Outdoor Yoga Class Find peace in nature and reconnect with yourself amidst the greenery and blooms of Nad Al Hamar Park 1. This is your time to listen to your body and breathe in the fresh outdoor air. Class Highlights: ‍♀️ Gentle yoga flow surrounded by trees and flowers Special 10-minute singing bowl meditation after practice to align your energy with nature A nice winter wellness experience **Details:** **Location:** Nad Al Hamar Park 1 **Days:** Monday to Thursday ⏰ **Time:** 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM **Contribution:** Donation-based **Registration:** **RSVP required** Come as you are — all levels are welcome. Let’s move, breathe, and heal together in the heart of nature. **Spots are limited — please RSVP to join us.** Simply bring your mat and an open heart. *Feel free to share with someone who needs a moment of calm this winter.*

New year's resolution? Let’s adopt a healthier lifestyle together 💪 Enjoy conversational paced walks in groups while getting to know each other. Join us for a refreshing blend of exercise, conversation, and connecting on a weekly basis. **[REGISTRATION HERE IS MANDATORY](https://jo.my/walk-talk-whatsapp-meetup)** Lace up your sneakers, embrace the outdoors, and get ready for a leisurely stroll that not only benefits your health but also fosters new friendships. **Walking increases cardiovascular fitness, strengthens bones, reduces excess body fat, and boosts muscle power and endurance.** Skip rush hour traffic driving home for a great walk after work. Pack your sports uniform and water bottle the day before and get ready for a joyful evening. **[=== <<< REGISTER NOW >>> ===](https://jo.my/walk-talk-whatsapp-meetup)** **Location** Dubai Marina walk - Just out of Marina mall. [Join our WhatsApp group for meeting point](https://jo.my/walk-talk-whatsapp-meetup) **Parking** Park your car in Marina mall (3 hrs free) and head out to the meeting point on Marina walk. **What to bring with you?** * Comfortable walking shoes and sports outfit. * Change your clothes in your office, car or the mall toilet. * Bottle of water and small towel if required. * Your phone to coordinate meeting if needed. **How does it work?** * We start with a quick round of introductions before we start our stroll. * We walk in groups one direction for 20 mins before we turn and walk back to the meeting point. * We stop at a local cafe for a cup of coffee (or your preferred beverage). **[=== <<< REGISTER NOW >>> ===](https://jo.my/walk-talk-whatsapp-meetup)** **🚶 Walking at Conversational Speed** Believing in the power of movement and meaningful conversations, our walks are designed for everyone, accommodating various fitness levels. Whether you're a casual stroller or a brisk walker, there's a place for you! **💬 Building New Connections** Engage in interesting conversations with fellow walkers. It's a fantastic opportunity to share stories, experiences, and perhaps discover common interests. Forge new connections while enjoying the beauty of the surroundings. **☕ Coffee Break** Right after our walk, we'll stop at a local cafe for a cup of coffee (or your preferred beverage). This is a chance to relax, exchange thoughts, and savor the camaraderie that comes with a shared cup of coffee. **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Complete your registration here](https://jo.my/walk-talk-whatsapp-meetup) 3. Join our WhatsApp group or you’ll be added for meeting point. 4. Arrive at the meeting point a few minutes before the scheduled start time. 5. Bring a positive attitude and an openness to meeting new people. Don't miss out on the chance to walk, talk, and build connections. Let's stride towards a healthier lifestyle together! 🌳👟☕ Happy Walking 👟

Welcome to our Padel Meetup Group in Dubai South Residential District! 🎾 We’re an open and welcoming community for players of all levels — whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced, you’ll find great games and even better company here. We’re proud to be one of the most affordable padel communities in Dubai, with sessions priced at just AED 50. Each session includes rackets, balls, water, and most importantly, a chance to build new friendships on and off the court. Join us for fun, competitive play at our outdoor court, and become part of a growing community that loves the game! Every Wednesday and Saturday: 8-10pm WhatsApp contact: 056 466 786 2

# Join The Royals: Social Indoor Cricket @ Insportz Club (Al Quoz) 👑 **Are you looking for a consistent, competitive, and social indoor cricket game in Dubai? Welcome to The Royals.** We aren't just a weekly game; we are building Dubai’s most elite social cricket community. Whether you are a seasoned pro or someone looking to get back into the nets, our sessions at the iconic **Insportz Club** are the perfect place to play. ### 🏆 WHY PLAY WITH THE ROYALS? We believe in rewarding performance and commitment. Every game we track your runs, wickets, and overall impact to crown a **Most Valuable Player (MVP)**. * **The Monthly Grand Prize:** If you secure **10 MVPs in a single month**, you win an **AED 500 Noon Voucher!** 🛍️ ### 📍 THE VENUE: INSPORTZ CLUB, AL QUOZ We host our games at the legendary **Insportz Club**. It is the heart of indoor sports in Dubai, offering: * Professional-grade courts and nets. * Fully air-conditioned environment (perfect for Dubai weather). * Excellent facilities including changing rooms and a cafe for post-game banter. ### 📅 OUR SCHEDULE We play three nights a week to keep the momentum going: * **Mondays:** The Week Kick-off * **Wednesdays:** The Mid-week Grind * **Fridays:** Prime Social Night ### 📊 DATA & THE FUTURE Every game you play with us is recorded in our **Royals Registry**. We track your runs and wickets because, in 6 months, we are launching the **Royals Dubai Cricket App**. By joining us now, you’ll have a verified player profile and history ready for the big launch! ### 📝 HOW TO JOIN 1. **RSVP** on this Meetup event. 2. **Confirm your spot** via our WhatsApp group (Link provided upon RSVP). 3. **Show up & Play:** Bring your gear or use the high-quality equipment provided by Insportz. **Cost per session:** $$AED 35$$ **Format:** 8-a-side / 16 overs per side (Social Rules) **Don't just play the game—Join the Court. Become a Royal today!** 👑🏏

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

This weekend trip to Heliopolis covers all the highlights and little known secrets, while accommodation booked is in 5 star hotel (sorry to change the Trekkup standards). Filled with history, this massive conglomeration offers fantastic mix of ancient and modern and we re trekkupizing it into the most interesting bunch of places, to make this weekend a lifetime experience. [https://vimeo.com/294763750](https://vimeo.com/294763750) **Friday** \- Meeting at Dubai Terminal 2 at 20\.00 for direct flight to Cairo at 21\.40\. **Saturday** **– Ancient Cairo: Giza, Sakkara, Memphis.** Arrival at Sphinx International Airport at midnight, immigration formalities, transfer to 5 star hotel in Giza. Early morning wake up call, start with Giza Pyramids. Move for some riddles or selfies with Sphinx, drive to Sakkara and further to Memphis for more temples and even older pyramids. **Sunday - Cairo Modern Day** We move in space and time and start discovering Cairo modern history. Quick glimpse on a new Grand Museum (cant be missed), Citadel and Old Cairo. In the afternoon time for relax and shopping! Chilling felluca sunset sailing on Nile and Khan El- Khalili Bazaar for some souvenirs before heading back home. Return to Dubai at 06:15am on Monday morning. **Level of difficulty:** Easy - available for everyone. Kids friendly. **Activities:** sightseeing and getting amazed! **Duration:** Weekend. Back to Dubai 06:15 am on Monday morning. **Accommodation & meals:** included, **5 star hotel** \- double sharing\, single supplement available at extra cost\. **Cost: 4,350 AED incl. flights** on Flydubai until **APR 20**. Past this date cost will change. **Visas:** * Visa - most nationalities can obtain evisa or visa on arrival, 25 USD. [Details here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Egypt) *It is sole responsibility of traveler to secure entry to the country of destination.* **Specifically excluded:** * entry ticket inside pyramid, * extra water, drinks, snacks, coffee etc. See yah at Pyramids x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/) [Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

[Old School Groove](https://www.facebook.com/OldSchoolGrooveBand/) \- Vintage rock\, southern rock\, blues\, reggae\. Originals mixed with 60s & 70s classics\. Getcha groove on\! **[Flint Station](https://www.theflintstation.com/)** is an old depot venue for drinks and live music. They usually have a **bbq food truck** on location. Feel free to bring your own takeout. I'll bring a basket of snacks. NO COVER *They're planning for a beautiful summer evening performance in the beer garden. However, if the weather doesn't cooperate...they will be upstairs in the old-time dance hall. Either way...it's going to be a night to remember!!* **PARKING**: either near the beer garden or across the street.