Travel Tips

Meet at Smithsonian metro at 7am, walk around the Tidal Basin, and back to the metro. Peak bloom was announced and I want to beat Friday’s rain!

**The SUBCONTRACTING Symposium** Thursday, MARCH 26 at Carahsoft in Reston VA Room 2E Tickets Required PLEASE USE ***Discount Code:*** **MEETUP** for a lower ticket price. Networking & Cocktail Reception included in ticket price. Full Agenda, Ticket Purchase and More at the Event Link: [https://subcon2026.eventbrite.com ](https://subcon2026.eventbrite.com )

Join Us for a Women’s Glamping Getaway Weekend at OBX! We invite you to experience a fantastic weekend of glamping at KOA Hatteras. Whether you're looking to reconnect with nature, unwind with friends, or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, our Women’s Glamping Getaway offers the perfect escape. Nestled in the serene beauty of the Outer Banks, this weekend promises not just comfort and relaxation, but also a chance to forge new friendships and create lasting memories. Accommodation Options Include: Tent Camping Camping Cabins (without bathrooms) Deluxe Cabins Vacation-Style Rentals With prices ranging from $50 for a tent camping site to $150 for a Deluxe Cabin or Vacation-Style rental, there’s a variety of lodging options to suit everyone's needs. The cabins can accommodate 2 to 6 people, while the vacation rentals can house up to 4 people. Activities: Guided Nature Walks: Explore the stunning landscapes of Hatteras Island. Exploration of OBX Towns to include historic and nature related sites Evening Bonfires: Share stories and laughter around a cozy bonfire, complete with s'mores and good company. Dining Options: Whether you’re craving a casual meal or an upscale dining experience, there’s a wide array of culinary delights to satisfy every palate. Regardless of your preference, the neighborhood is sure to provide a dining option that meets your culinary wishes. Alternatively, if you enjoy cooking over an open flame, the campsite is equipped with grills for your convenience. This unique retreat is designed to offer you a blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring you return home feeling refreshed and inspired. Reserve your spot today and embark on a journey of tranquility and camaraderie! Due to the number of individuals interested in attending, each person will be responsible for arranging and covering their own lodging and meals. If you'd like to share accommodations, please feel free to post your preferences. https://koa.com/campgrounds/cape-hatteras/

Let's take a walk along the Tidal Basin to see the Cherry Blossoms! We will then continue up the Rock Creek trail along the Potomac to Georgetown/Foggy Bottom! Route: * Start at the Smithsonian Metro Station * Walk towards the Washington Monument and then we will be moving clockwise around the Tidal Basin (stopping a few times to take some quick photos with the cherry blossoms) * Then towards Jefferson, FDR, and Martin Luther King Monuments, and the Japanese Lantern * We will then walk north to the Mall, walk around the Lincoln Memorial, and then towards the Rock Creek Trail * Head North along the Rock Creek Trail along the Potomac and pass by the Kennedy Center, towards Pennsylvania Ave * At Penn. Ave we will walk towards 23rd St and end at Foggy Bottom Metro Station * (optional and tbd) Enjoy drinks in Georgetown Milage: 5 mi Start Location: Smithsonian Metro Station (mall entrance) End Location: Foggy Bottom Metro Station Approximate Time: 6pm - 8pm Map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/q1jefw7dEyKGsVDZ7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/q1jefw7dEyKGsVDZ7) Terrain: This will be mostly flat, on paved or gravel ground \-\-\- We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early, because we will leave without you. We're always looking for new leaders who can showcase their neighborhood or any cool places they know, so please reach out either at an event or on meetup if you are interested. If you've enjoyed our walks please consider donating a few bucks to help us keep this group running (meetup is expensive!). [Donation Link](https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2158403661070336114)

**No pressure. No plans. Just new friends ✨** Whether you’re visiting Washington DC for the first time, just arrived, or simply love meeting curious, open-minded people, this bi-weekly **Just Gutsy** meetup is an easy way to share stories, make friends, and explore the city together. **Who it’s for?** • Solo travelers • Expats & digital nomads • Locals who love meeting travelers **What to expect?** ✨ Relaxed, **self-led** gathering 🤝 Small group energy 🌍 Travel stories, tips & shared adventures 🍹 Grab a drink or snack if you like **How it works?** This is a self-led meetup, meaning I set it up for you but the magic happens between you. To make sure everyone finds each other smoothly, please follow these simple coordination steps: 1️⃣ **RSVP** Thoughtfully If you’re planning to come, tap “Going.” It helps others feel confident joining and builds momentum before the meetup. Even if you’re 80% sure, RSVP. If your plans change, please update your RSVP so others aren’t expecting your attendance. 2️⃣ **Confirm 2 Hours Before** (Essential) To ensure the meetup runs, please comment on this event page at least 2 hours before the start time: “Confirmed for today 😊” This allows everyone to see, ahead of time, who is actually coming. The meetup moves forward when at least 2 people confirm 2 hours before the event. If fewer than 2 confirmations are posted by then, attendance may be low that day. This avoids anyone showing up uncertain. 3️⃣ **Signal Your Arrival** When you arrive, comment on this event page: “Arrived” + where you’re sitting + what you’re wearing Example: “Arrived. Sitting outside near the entrance. Wearing a black t-shirt.” This ensures everyone can easily find each other. Recognition Tip Having a clear profile photo on Meetup is highly encouraged — it makes recognition effortless and helps the group form faster. **When & Where?** 📅 Day: Every Tuesday & Saturday 🕓 Time: **4:00 PM local time** 📍 Meeting point: In front of **Compass Coffee.** **Arrive on time,** smaller groups make it easier to connect. **Why join Just Gutsy?** • Meet open-minded people who genuinely want to connect • Feel at home anywhere in the world • Be part of a growing global solo travel community • Early members get lifetime premium access to the future Just Gutsy app 🚀 Join here 👉 https://justgutsy.com/ WhatsApp: After attending, you’re welcome to join the Washington DC Just Gutsy WhatsApp group to stay connected and suggest spontaneous meetups: 👉 https://chat.whatsapp.com/KwwHR0npG3aB8VykYjN3hw **About Just Gutsy** **Just Gutsy** is a global community for solo travelers who are free spirited, love exploring the world believe that real connections make the best memories. Hi, I am Syrine, I started solo traveling in 2018 and it changed my life, from introvert to extrovert. Along the way, I loved meeting people, but also felt how hard it can be to find connection when traveling alone. I’m building Just Gutsy so no one has to feel alone on the road — and so anyone who’s still shy to take that first step has a welcoming place to start. 💛

Mountains to plains to tropical beaches, Tanzania has it all. You will get an opportunity to let out the Tarzan in you through this experiential multi-day safari in Tanzania. Immerse yourself in nature and wildlife during our game drives at Manyara and Ngorongoro. You may also experiment with wildlife photography at Serengeti National Park. Enter the world of colorful coral reefs at Mnemba and swim along with the tropical fishes. End your trip at Zanzibar with a remarkable snorkeling and scuba diving experience. Highlights Visited Places: • Arusha • Lake Manyara • Serengeti National Park • Ngorongoro • Zanzibar • Prison and Spice islands • Mnemba Atoll Travel Experience: • Admire the wildlife at Lake Manyara • Enjoy a game drive at Ngorongoro crater • Enjoy the safari at Serengeti National Park • Discover the history of Zanzibar • Explore the Prison islands • Meet the giant tortoises at Changuu island • Learn more about local spices • Go snorkelling at Prison island • The Rock restaurant • Recline near the sandy beaches at Zanzibar • Snorkelling at Mnemba • Look for the ‘Big 5’ (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard) Tour Start Kilimanjaro Tour End Zanzibar Flights • Arrival: Day01 before 12pm • Return: Day09 anytime after 12pm Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport(JRO) Abeid Amani Karume International Airport(ZNZ) Itinerary Day01 Kilimanjaro – Arusha Day02 Lake Manyara Day03 Serengeti NP Day04 Serengeti - Ngorongoro Day05 Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha Day06 Zanzibar Day07 Prison & Spice Islands Day08 Mnemba Atoll Day09 Zanzibar Cost: Safari + Zanzibar (Double Occupancy) $3990 / person Safari + Zanzibar (Single Supl) $4590 (Single) Safari ONLY (Double Occupancy) $2990 / person Safari ONLY (Single Suppl) $3590 (Single) Inclusions Price Includes • All park and conservancy fees • Crater service fee • Professional Safari Guide and Driver • Accommodation as per the itinerary (Lodge / Camp) (Double Occupancy) • All meals during the Safari • 4×4 Safari vehicle • Zanzibar 4D/3N hotel stay, activities & transfers as per the Itinerary • ONE WAY FLIGHT: Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar – On Day06 Price Excludes • International Flights • Meals (other then mentioned above) • Personal Expenses • Tips and gratuities • Transfers other then mentioned in the Itinerary (available at extra cost) • Travel insurance / Visa ———————————————— For detailed itinerary and to reserve your seat follow the link below: [https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/tanzania-serengeti-ngorongoro-safari-with-zanzibar/](https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/tanzania-serengeti-ngorongoro-safari-with-zanzibar/) Questions? Text / Call - 2023787696 - Himanshu - Organizer

Come celebrate the golden anniversary of the showcase transit of Washington, the Metrorail! We'll be traveling back and forth over the original stretch of the Red line that opened on March 27, 1976, distributing [t-shirts](https://transitenthusiastsdc.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/t-shirt-order-form.pdf), balloons and stickers. Once we've spread our cheer, we'll retire to the Metro Bar just outside the Rhode Island Avenue station to reminisce and celebrate more. Join us! **NOTE**: Our "official" celebration begins at 4:30. We may add a noontime celebration if there is enough interest. Please email me at williamrice63@gmail.com if you'd like to participate in the earlier event. **ALSO NOTE**: WMATA has of this writing not yet announced what it is doing to celebrate. We will monitor its communications and keep you updated if we adjust our activities to accommodate the agency's plans.

**NOTE: AN RSVP ON MEETUP DOES NOT SERVE AS A BOOKED SPOT. PLEASE FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS BELOW.** 🎶 **[Queer Night Out: Meshell Ndegeocello](https://www.lesbifriendstravel.com/events/queer-night-out-meshell-ndegeocello)** 📍 The Music Center at Strathmore 📅 Friday, March 27, 2026 ⏰ 8:00 PM Soulful music. Legendary artistry. Intimate vibes. Lesbifriends Travel invites you to join us for a special night with Meshell Ndegeocello, the Grammy-winning bassist, singer, and pioneer whose music blends neo-soul, jazz, funk, and spoken-word storytelling. Our group will be seated in Orchestra Center Tier, Row EE, offering beautiful views inside one of the region’s most stunning concert venues. With only a few Lesbifriends attending, this outing creates the perfect opportunity to enjoy powerful live music and connect with community in a relaxed setting. 🎟 **Ticket Info You Should Know:** * Tickets are $90 each * Tickets must be purchased **[HERE](https://www.lesbifriendstravel.com/events/queer-night-out-meshell-ndegeocello)** * Only 2 tickets left * This is a meet-up opportunity and we are not affiliated with the show or venue 🍽 **Dinner Hangout:** For those who buy tickets and want to connect, we’ll be organizing **a dinner before the show**. If interested, we’ll add you to the list and send restaurant details **at least one week before the show**. **Who This Is For:** Black queer folks who love live music, iconic artists, and intimate cultural experiences. ✨ Lesbifriends Travel invites you to sit close, feel the music, and share a beautiful night of artistry together. **Note:** By attending this outing, you agree to being photographed. However, if communicated, we will try our best not to capture you in photos and post you publicly. That request must be communicated ahead of time/at the beginning of the outing to photographer and host.

Greetings from the capital! Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, people from all walks of life — students, diplomats, travelers, locals — gather to unwind and connect. [[Click this whatsapp groupchat link to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GNKKoBtgiU73RYeypZoN6y)] Our age range is mostly 20s to 30s. If you enjoy discussing culture, politics, travel, or just want to practice a new language, this group is for you. A perfect blend of diversity and dialogue, right in the heart of D.C.

Spend your Sunday morning with us on a scenic hike along the C&O Canal Towpath. This is the perfect opportunity to **meet new friends**, reconnect with familiar faces, and enjoy the beauty of Great Falls from the Maryland side. We'll walk along the towpath, chat along the way, and take a well-deserved break at the **Great Falls Overlook** to soak in the stunning waterfall views. Whether you're here for the hike, the conversation, or both, this adventure is all about enjoying the journey together! This is an **easy and beginner-friendly hike** which is generally flat with a few gentle inclines and a manageable 180 feet of elevation gain. The towpath is well-maintained and ideal for all fitness levels, making it a great choice for those looking to ease into hiking or simply enjoy a relaxed outdoor experience. To learn more about the trail, click the link in the **Trail Map section below**. **Meeting Time & Location:** Join us at **9:30 AM at the Carderock Cliffs North Parking Lot**. We'll meet at the trailhead, located midway down the parking lot on the right side (as you enter). **Distance:** 7 miles **Elevation Gain:** 131 feet **Difficulty:** Easy This hike is accessible for all skill levels, taking place on the towpath and Berma road, which both feature mostly flat ground and wide paths. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 3 hours. **Pace:** Moderate Pace We’ll maintain a steady, comfortable pace with regular but brief breaks for a balanced mix of exercise and enjoyment. **Parking** Free parking is available at the **Carderock Cliffs North Parking Lot**, which is also our meeting point. **Trail Maps (AllTrails)** [Take a Hike! @ Great Falls Overlook (Maryland, towpath)](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-january-23-2025-7e6b20d?u=i&sh=ylk43q) **Restrooms** Restrooms are not available on this hike. **Dog Attendance** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Lunch After the Hike** Following the hike, we’ll head over to TBD for a casual lunch. It’s the perfect opportunity to continue conversations, spark new ones, and unwind with your fellow hikers. Whether you’re new to the group or a regular, we’d love for you to join us - and for many, this might just be the best part of the hike!

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Join WTA for a magical trip to the Netherlands during the most beautiful time of the year—Tulip Season! Discover Amsterdam’s artistic heritage, charming canals, and world-class museums like the Van Gogh Museum. Stroll through vibrant tulip fields at the famous Keukenhof Gardens, a true feast for the eyes. Venture to The Hague and Delft to explore historic churches, canal-laced streets, and iconic blue-and-white pottery. Savor authentic Dutch cuisine, sample local cheese, and experience the country’s timeless charm at every stop. **To view the full ITINERARY & REGISTER visit:** **[WTA AMSTERDAM 2026](https://womentravelabroad.com/trip/amsterdam/)** **ITINERARY** **Day 1 – April 7** – Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). Private transportation will take you to your accommodations for the week. After settling into your hotel, your group will get to know each other over a local welcome dinner. **Note:** We recommend your flight from the US arrives before 11 am on April 7 to allow adequate time to join the day’s activities. If you wish to arrive one day early, on April 6, charges for the additional night’s stay can be added to your invoice. **Day 2 – April 8** – Today, you will take a memorable tour of the Anne Frank House. Discover Amsterdam’s WWII history and follow in the footsteps of Anne Frank as she went into hiding in the Secret Annex. Jewish Anne Frank hid in 1942 from the Nazis during the occupation of the Netherlands; two years later, she was discovered and died in 1945 at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. Afterward, continue your cultural journey with a visit to the renowned Van Gogh Museum. Home to the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, the museum offers a profound look into the artist’s life, featuring iconic paintings, sketches, and personal letters that reveal the struggles and brilliance behind his art. **Day 3 – April 9** – FREE Day. Enjoy shopping throughout the city, or take a scenic bike ride through the countryside. Cycling in Amsterdam is the most authentic way to travel. There are around 515 km (320 miles) of dedicated cycle lanes in Amsterdam, making it the perfect setting to cycle the city or beyond. The countryside area is famous for its quaint villages, historic towns, farms, nature reserves, and lakes. You will have many opportunities to stop and take one-of-a-kind photos of the picturesque sights. **Day 4 – April 10** – Your group will spend today at the famous Keukenhof Garden, known as the Garden of Europe. This is one of the world’s largest flower gardens and is found to be the most beautiful in spring. Keukenhof Park covers an area of 32 hectares and has approximately 7 million flower bulbs planted annually. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture all of the vibrant colors and unique displays at the Keukenhof Garden! Transfer from Amsterdam to begin your adventure in The Hauge as the fun continues. **Day 5 – April 11** – Begin your day with a walking tour of the Hague! Today you will visit notable sites include Binnenhof Court of Parliament, the Royal Palace Noordeinde and its lush gardens, and many local monuments. Have a free afternoon to explore on your own before joining your group to indulge in a delectable group dinner. **Day 6 – April 12** – Day trip to Delft for a walking tour of this charming and historic Dutch town. Stroll along picturesque canals, cobbled streets, and tree-lined squares as you explore landmarks such as the Markt, the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), and the Royal Delft pottery factory. Admire the town’s rich artistic heritage, famously tied to painter Johannes Vermeer, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere that defines Delft’s small-town charm. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café before returning by train to your accommodation in The Hague. **Day 7 – April 13** – Depart The Hague via train for your return to Amsterdam. You will depart back to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) for your connecting flight to the US. Your departure flight needs to leave after 12 pm to allow time to return to Amsterdam. \*Please note that this is a tentative itinerary and is subject to change. **WHAT’S INCLUDED:** ▪️ 7 days & 6 nights’ accommodations ▪️ Single occupancy, boutique hotel ▪️ Airport transfer ▪️ Local transportation ▪️ Keukenhof Garden Tour ▪️ Anne Frank House ▪️ Hauge City Tour ▪️ Amsterdam City Tour ▪️ FREE DAY to explore ▪️ Daily breakfast ▪️ Daily group lunch (excluding FREE DAY) ▪️ Daily group dinner **WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:** ▪️ Roundtrip airfare from the US to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) ▪️ Travel insurance ▪️ Items of a personal nature ▪️ Meals not listed above ▪️ Optional excursions and tours not listed above ▪️ Gratuities and tips for personal services

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!

**🫶 Effortless Online Speed Dating – No Pressure, Authentic Connections, Beginners Welcome!** **🚨 DON'T SKIP THIS: RSVP Does Not Mean Entry!** To lock in your spot, click the link for your age group below, sign up, and complete the quick personality quiz. **We have limited capacity** – claim your place today! **⬇️ Choose Your Age Range & Finish Registration:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=mosaic-mates-empowered-singles&ar=18-32&face_v=19.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=mosaic-mates-empowered-singles&ar=30-46&face_v=19.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=mosaic-mates-empowered-singles&ar=40-58&face_v=19.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=mosaic-mates-empowered-singles&ar=55+&face_v=19.0) --- 😊 **Feeling uneasy about meeting face-to-face?** Totally understandable! No prior experience necessary. No dating profile needed. Just real humans having real conversations. Our online setup makes it effortless for newcomers to connect with Cleveland singles in a no-pressure environment. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Remote workers who enjoy the flexibility of virtual meetups - Curious newcomers eager to give speed dating a shot - Singles who feel uneasy about meeting in person and prefer starting from home - Beginners who want to date without the stress of face-to-face encounters **How It Works** 1. **Secure Your Place** – Choose your age range and finish the registration process. 2. **Do the Short Personality Assessment** – This lets us optimise your matches for the night. 3. **Connect via Zoom** – No setup required. Just click the link and you’re good to go! 4. **Enjoy the Conversations** – Every round is timed and hosted so each chat feels easy and fun. 5. **Your Results** – Check your matches and take the next step with someone special. **Event Details** - **Format:** Runs on Zoom – convenient, personal & ideal for newcomers - **Location:** Right from your home – no need to go anywhere at all! - **Host:** Expert moderator who ensures every conversation flows smoothly - **Vibe:** A cosy, supportive atmosphere where Cleveland singles open up with ease - **Rounds:** Several short rounds so you can meet plenty of people - **Support:** Our host is on hand before, during, and after the event 💡 **First-timer tip:** Don’t overthink it – just be yourself! That's what people find most attractive. --- ✨ You deserve to meet someone wonderful – and you can do it from home. We’ll see you on Zoom! 💞 ✨

Join us for a flat 2.6 mile hike along the Alum Creek Trail from the rear parking lot of the Easton Hilton Garden Inn to the Strawberry Farms Park and back. This scenic trail along Alum Creek is a gem. Come and hike it with us!

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville](https://www.crimsoncup.com/about/location/clintonville)!