Travel Enthusiasts

Let us enjoy a wonderful evening stroll at Great Falls - Maryland. Please note there is a $10 / car or $35 / annual entrance pass. The annual is well worth it to revisit this beautiful location. For those interested, there is an option to have yummy pizza nearby at Potomac Pizza afterwards. We will meet at 5pm in front of the Visitor Tavern Center.

Below is the alltrails link to the hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/maryland/capital-crescent-trail We will only be doing 3 miles overall in this hike, out and back. Parking and Metro Access: Park in the garage near 7150 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20815. Or park on the streets----- street-parking is free on Sundays. For metro: just get down at Bethesda metro station. We will meet at the trailhead next to the Ourisman Honda, check out the photo section of this event for a visual of the location. Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.

Dulles South Toastmasters club meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of every month at Gum Spring Library with the meeting hours 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm. Club Officers will be in the room at 3:15 pm to answer your questions and provide information. Guests are welcome. Pleas join us!

**🪷 COST:** You must register with this link to attend- [Register Here!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/woodland-and-water-resonance-a-forest-therapy-and-sound-bath-walk) **🌿 Description:** Early March, by the water, carries a different kind of awakening — **softer, reflective, spacious.** 🌊 Nestled around a 350-acre reservoir Beaverdam Park offers wooded paths, natural-surface trails, and peaceful lake views. Forest and water meet here, creating the perfect setting to slow down and listen. ✨ We’ll begin with a **gentle, guided forest therapy walk** through the trees, pausing along the way to notice the stillness of the reservoir and the subtle signs of early spring. After enjoying a snack & sipping foraged tisane/tea while sitting near the water, we’ll settle in for an **immersive outdoor sound bath**. 🎶 Singing bowls and resonant instruments will blend with the soft lapping of water, breeze through branches, and birdsong overhead. The lake amplifies and carries sound in a uniquely soothing way — supporting nervous system reset, emotional clarity, and deep restoration. We’ll close with a silent walk back along the trail, taking in the serenity of forest and water. 🌿 **A morning of reflection, resonance, and renewal.** **🥾 What we'll do:** We will walk \~2 miles, depending on timing and the desires of the group. This is an out and back hike with minimal elevation gain or loss. **👋🏼 Meeting point:** Meet at 9:50am in the parking lot. We will start at 10am. **🚙 Parking:** Park by the National Recreation and Park Association building adjacent to Brambleton Community Park West. Google map location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qBEq9qVXnamC6H6E8 **🚻 Miscellaneous:** We will have access to a bathroom along the way. **🎒Preparation:** * Water * Layers of clothes based on the weather * A snack if you would like * ​Sturdy comfortable shoes * Bug spray * Sunblock & a hat **🪷 COST:** You must register with this link to attend- [Register Here!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/woodland-and-water-resonance-a-forest-therapy-and-sound-bath-walk) **🌐 WEBSITE: [https://imaginebeingwell.org/](https://imaginebeingwell.org/)** 🌐 **NEWSLETTER:** [CLICK HERE](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter) to Sign Up to join Imagine Well Being’s mailing list to stay informed on the latest news and upcoming events. **⭐️ LIABILITY RELEASE:** With my RSVP, I hereby stipulate that I am physically sound to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all classes, gatherings and workshops are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and instructors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and instructors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs. I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and instructors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs. **I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops.**

Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.
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Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions
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1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?
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Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles
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4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?
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Optional Questions: AI & Being Human
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7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?
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Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning
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10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?
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Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche
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13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?
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Optional Questions: Work & Purpose
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16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?
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Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection
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19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?
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Optional Questions: Time & Mortality
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22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?
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Optional Questions: Society & Culture
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25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?
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Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy
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28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

**Gold Mine and Great Falls Overlook. A Moderate 6.5 Mile Hike** THIS IS A SECOND HIKE THAT IS LISTED FOR GOLD MINE DUE TO THE HIGH DEMAND. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THAT THIS HIKE STARTS AT GREAT FALLS PARK MD BECAUSE OF LIMITED PARKING AT ANGLER'S INN. NOTE: There is a $20 entrance fee per car unless you have a National Parks Pass. This hike features the remnants of a quirky gold mine and the classic overlook of Great Falls. The mine was established by a Union soldier who was stationed along the Maryland side of the Potomac River near Great Falls during the Civil War. He noticed a glint of gold and after the war, he returned to the area, bought some farmland, and started mining for gold. Eventually, 30 small mines were opened by various prospectors. One of the largest mines was the Maryland Mine. Today, little remains of these mines, but there is a loop trail that passes by one of them. The hike starts at the Great Falls Maryland Parking lot. The hike passes by the mine remains, and offers splendid views overlooking the Potomac river and visits the classic overlook of Great Falls. All who sign up will go on the waitlist. Wednesday afternoon, hikers will be moved to "going" based upon their ranking on the going or waitlist of the original hike. **Please note**: You must sign up by 9:00 PM the night before the hike. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00 **Directions to Trailhead**: The GPS Coordinates are 39.001617, -77.247334 The Street address is 11710 MacArthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854. NOTE: From this address, follow signs down to the visitor center parking lot. NOTE: There is a $20 entrance fee per car unless you have a National Parks Pass. **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed. **Details** Rating: Moderate Distance: 6.5 miles Elevation Gain: Approximately 590 ft Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour Facilities: Toilets can be found near the trailhead Fees: $20 or National Park Pass **Cancellation**: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather**: The weather for this location can be found [here](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/690036e3ff6946c13bced978e7393968725ea6a1ed2958c0052a973f390e4af3). **Notes**: -Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance free event. -To find out more about PATC, [click here](https://www.patc.net/). -Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here](https://www.patc.net/membership).

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/b/2/5/event_4871045.jpeg Greetings and welcome new members! WINTER GREENS - every Sunday until April Fool’s Day, no fooling 😊 Play 9 or 18 holes during the winter season. The 18-hole, par-71 layout features well-bunkered, undulating greens, gently rolling fairways, free-flowing tees, tree-lined areas along portions of the course, meandering creeks, and several water hazards. Herndon Centennial Golf Course 909 Ferndale Ave. Herndon, VA 20170 (703) 471-5769 http://www.herndongolf.com Greens Fee: 9 holes $34 walking/$48 riding; 18 holes $54 walking/$74 riding Pull Cart $5.00 *** Please stay mindful and keep pace with the group ahead of you to avoid congestion on the course. \*\*Note there is a $2 charge to sign up for this Meetup. This is a non-refundable fee used to cover no-shows and website costs. Each golfer is responsible for paying green fees to the course on the day of the event. If you fail to show up on the day of the event (without canceling 48 hours before the event, you will be responsible for your greens fees to the course. NoVA Golfers Association, LLC is a Meetup group only, and it is not responsible for any liabilities associated with the event.

**This talk has completely sold out in advance and no door tickets will be available. It also is being staged at Penn Social in DC on March 16th and plenty of tickets remain available for that date.** [Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Terrors of Irish Fairylore,”** an introduction to Ireland’s strange and unsettling folkloric “Good People,” with Brittany Warman, former instructor at Ohio State University, co-founder of The Carterhaugh School of Folklore and the Fantastic, and co-author of the new book *Fairylore: A Compendium of the Fae Folk.* [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-irish-fairy-terrors](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-irish-fairy-terrors) .] Today it is common to think of fairies as small, childlike, sparkly creatures with glittering wings and dresses made from flower petals. But the fae of traditional Irish folklore were no such things. Amoral, capricious, even malicious when they chose to be, the too-frequently forgotten fairies of times long past would, more often than not, haunt nightmares. Join Brittany Warman, a folklorist who has earned a devoted following among Profs and Pints fans, as she explores the darker side of Irish fairylore. The figures she'll discuss include: The Leanan-Sidhe, a vampiric fairy who gives artistic inspiration in exchange for your mortal spirit. The Dullahan, a fairy with a human spine for a whip and a habit of hurtling across fields in a death coach made from human skin. The Banshee, a mournful fairy whose cry signals a death in the family to which she's attached herself. Dr. Warman also will examine the surprising impact of fairy folklore on two classics of Irish Gothic literature, Oscar Wilde's *The Picture of Dorian Gray* and Bram Stoker's *Dracula.* It’s a talk that will remind you that the relationship between the Irish and the spooky stretches well beyond Halloween. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: “The Banshee Appears,” an 1862 illustration by Robert Prowse (Wicklow Heritage / Public domain).

…Carroll, 304 pages [Physics] • Hardcover • Kindle • Audiobook • Library: https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=611358 Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)** ### Review Praise for Quanta and Fields: “Readers will be electrified by his discussion of wave functions, entanglement, fields, and so much more. From the most infinitesimal of subatomic particles to the seemingly vast infinities of the universe’s great expanse, Carroll’s latest inquiry illuminates, well, everything.” —Booklist "In that void between hand-wavy popular science and academic textbook, this modern, informative and engaging account of quantum physics ticks all the boxes. Carroll the Explainer at his very best." —Jim Al-Khalili ### About the Author Sean Carroll is Homewood Professor of Natural Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University, and Fractal Faculty at the Santa Fe Institute. He is host of the Mindscape podcast, and author of From Eternity to Here, The Particle at the End of the Universe, The Big Picture, and Something Deeply Hidden. He has been awarded prizes and fellowships by the National Science Foundation, NASA, the American Institute of Physics, the Royal Society of London, and many others. He lives in Baltimore with his wife, writer Jennifer Ouellette.

## 🌸 Sacred Bloom: Meditative Watercolor + Soundscape Experience **Sunday\, March 8th \| 5:00–7:00 PM** **Walker Nature Center – Reston, VA** Hosted by Mind Body Paloma & She’s Artsy Studio Step away from the noise and into a space of softness, creativity, and connection. **Sacred Bloom** is a 2-hour immersive experience designed to help you slow down, regulate your nervous system, and reconnect with your inner creative flow. We’ll begin with a **45-minute restorative soundscape**, using layered sound and vibration to gently calm the body and quiet the mind. This portion of the evening invites deep relaxation and grounding, creating space to release tension and settle into stillness. From there, we’ll transition into a **45-minute meditative watercolor practice**. This is an intuitive, process-led approach to painting that focuses on presence rather than perfection. Through guided prompts incorporating breath, movement, and emotion, you’ll allow water and color to move freely across the page. ✨ No prior art experience needed ✨ All materials provided ✨ A welcoming, supportive environment This workshop is not about technique or creating a masterpiece. It’s about expression, reflection, and giving yourself permission to rest and explore creatively. You’ll leave feeling grounded, calm, and gently reconnected to yourself. Spots are limited to keep the experience intimate. We look forward to blooming together. 🌿🌸 Self Investment: $80 Link to register **[HERE](https://www.shesartsy.com/shop/sip-sfx25)**

Please join us on **Sunday, March 8 from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm** as we head back to **[Mookie's BBQ](https://www.mookiesbbq.com/index.html)**, a venue in Virginia, in support of a fellow meetup member. This is a bonus meetup outside of our normal weekday meetups. **Please RSVP to indicate your attendance and HONOR YOUR RSVP**. If your plans change and you are unable to attend, please update your RSVP particularly since this venue has limited space. Regular no-show or late notices may get you dropped from the group. It is important that we are able to provide an accurate count to the venue and that all people who want to AND are able to attend are able to do so. **We ask all attendees to pay $1 to participate in the meetup.** This money helps maintain our meetup membership & cover various meetup costs that arise. You can pay $1 on Venmo @amanda-uherek, via Pay-Pal, or in-person (please choose paying friend/family not a business, good or service). **REMINDER:** everyone is responsible for their own tabs. If you have questions / comments / suggestions please message us. We'll have hand sanitizer & decks of cards on hand. Cheers - Amanda

Welcome to the JGOOT Travel Hacking Enthusiasts Meetup Group! Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the world of points and miles, this group is perfect for anyone looking to travel more luxuriously for less. Don't let the name fool you. Caruso's Italian Grocery is a fun restaurant/bar. We'll have fantastic food, drinks and conversation! Come hang out with fellow travel enthusiasts and swap stories, tips, and tricks about travel hacking! Whether it’s maximizing rewards programs or finding the best ways to use points for flights and hotels, this is a casual, laid-back space to share ideas and pick up new strategies. Connect with experienced travelers and get inspired to level up your adventures. Located in the Washington DC area, we host engaging, interactive events where you can ask questions, share experiences, and find inspiration for your next adventure. Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality? Come join us and learn how to travel smarter, better, and for nearly free! 🌍✈️ \*RSVP fee: $25 in advance. Fee covers the location, light appetizers, and ensures accuracy of number of attendees. Caruso's Italian Grocery has a full menu of food and beverages for purchase.

Like their Fairfax location, this cafe has lots of options for bites and drinks, and some unique house made syrups. Friendly staff, dedicated parking, and plenty of seating. Let’s chill Tuesday morning to set us up for a productive rest of the day. (No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)

Hands-on learn how to save life & limb, when mired in the wilderness of an urban disaster zone, travel or rural area far from hospital, or natural area miles from an access point, during the critical minutes or hours before ambulance arrival. Come away with actual do-it-yourself care-giving skill and confidence, and 2-year SOLO certification. Counts as WFR Recertification, too. No prerequisites. YOUR SPOT IS NOT RESERVED UNTIL YOU'VE COMPLETELY REGISTERED AT WWW.SOLOWFA.COM \***Spaces are limited. REGISTER: www.solowfa.com or 434.326.4697** Can't make these dates? Check out more course locations and dates on our website (www.solowfa.com) WHO: Open to the general public, adults & teens with solid attention spans. Know your loved ones are safe wherever they are. WHY: Mired in a disaster zone, travel or rural area far from a hospital, or natural area miles from an access point ... accidents, destructive weather, and terrorism happen, and all-too-often members of a group are not capable of dealing with the emergency. This leads to improper care of the patient, and endangers the entire group. Many recreational accidents are preventable, and improper care of trauma can compound even simple injuries. Very few first aid programs actually address the issues of providing emergency care in a setting where 911 is overwhelmed or not immediately reachable. In this course, classroom instruction and Q&A are interwoven with practical work and problem-solving exercises. Hands-on experience - a most powerful learning tool - during scenarios comprise \~50% of class. TIMING: This is a 2-day class, Saturday and Sunday, 8:00am -7pm each day. Fee: $295 (Earlybird)

Join the [Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) and [A Fighting Chance Foundation](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about) for a special fundraising event at Lost Rhino Brewing in Ashburn VA on Friday, March 13th. Come out to enjoy a fun Friday night of music, friendship, and great food and drinks, all for two great causes! **Special musical guests** – The Outpatients (Northern VA band well known for their Americana musical mayhem). **Tickets: $10** at the door, with all proceeds benefiting Loudoun Wildlife and A Fighting Chance. Lost Rhino is also graciously donating **10%** of all sales to both organizations. Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy is a volunteer-powered nonprofit working to protect, preserve, and restore wildlife habitat while shaping a Loudoun where people and wildlife thrive together. Learn more at: [https://www.loudounwildlife.org](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) A Fighting Chance is ensures that all pets are given the best chance possible to recover from a life-threatening medical condition or accident regardless of the financial circumstances of their caregivers. Learn more at: [https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about)

Join us on this magical trip to Japan to experience the enchanting allure of spring, where nature paints the landscape with vibrant colors. We chose this season for the unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the country’s most iconic destinations at their best: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka. We will also visit the Japanese Alps with stays in Matsumoto and Kanazawa. Each city boasts unique attractions and seasonal charm that will captivate our senses and leave us with unforgettable memories. A true Meetup Experience! What is included: * 3 nights in Tokyo * 1 night in Matsumoto * 2 nights in Kanazawa * 2 nights in Kyoto * 3 nights in Osaka * Arrival and Departure Airport Transfers * Transportation throughout by Coach * English Speaking guide throughout the itinerary * Sightseeing tours with admissions fees per itinerary * Breakfast Daily * 2 lunches, 5 dinners Experience: * Visit to shrines, temples and castles with amazing Spring Blossoms * The Bullet train-Shinkansen * Sushi Making Class * Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony * Maiko Dinner (apprentice geisha) * Samurai Experience What is not included: * International Airfare * Tips for the guide and driver * Meals not listed in the itinerary * Items of personal nature Japan during spring is a feast for the senses, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and urban excitement. We will enjoy it all and this promises to be an unforgettable adventure with our fellow Meetup travelers! **Land Tour cost $5760 per person, double occupancy** **(we match roommates for those wishing to share)** **Solo occupancy additional $1050** **\*\*\*International Airfare not included\*\*\*** The only way to guarantee your spot for this meetup is a **$400 deposit.** **[CLICK HERE](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/TB7SYRJPHPT5A) for secure deposit link:** Upon submitting the deposit, please **[fill out this form](https://forms.gle/toSHuzqVMT92rutL7)** RSVP to the event with your email to receive additional info. **RSVP DOES NOT RESERVE YOUR SPOT.** Deposit is the only way to hold your spot. **[Click Here for secure deposit link.](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/TB7SYRJPHPT5A)** Your deposit is fully refundable up to 90 days before the departure. For airfare and other info on the trip, [click here to message Anna](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062) [Click Here](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8) to fill out our google info request form to receive detailed itinerary. We believe in good decent social. This event is cross posted to several other groups and the number of RSVPs on each is not reflective. [Click Here ](https://www.meetup.com/ccccc-c/events/299222593)for the main location of this event. Still have questions? We do a monthly [Q&A Travel Zoom](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/296044209/) on all our events Come to the zoom and ask any questions. Great way to get the info you want without all the other fluff. As well as meet us and other attendees. [Click here for General Policies](https://www.meetup.com/MoreToExplore/events/282719353/) and useful info about our international trips. We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too. [Click Here to see all our other fun events](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events) Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it! SOT 2000318-10