Short Stories

📍 **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.**

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 👟

House of Thinking Big: Ideas × Coffee Have you ever dreamed of being part of the early dot-com energy — when ideas were raw, ambitious, and conversations could spark entire movements? Welcome to House of Thinking Big: Ideas × Coffee — inspired by the spirit of early founder circles, when bold ideas spoke louder than decks. We gather a small circle of creative and tech leaders who think beyond borders, value authenticity and intelligent dialogue, and believe that growth begins with people and their ideas. No presentations. No ads. Just caffeine-fueled thinking. ☕ When: 6:30 PM 📍 Where: Starbucks, Emirates Towers Boulevard, Dubai 🎙️ Host: Kate Adiyak — Founder of House of Thinking Big Join the House and think bigger — together. Thinking Big Strategy Timeline 6:30 PM — Arrival & Networking 7:00 PM — Personal Problem Statement 7:30 PM — Resource Mapping 7:50 PM — Action Planning 8:00 PM — Closing No rush — Dubai traffic does Dubai traffic things. Join whenever you manage to escape the roads You will find me with a laptop and a cup of coffee [To keep in touch join my WhatsApp group ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Lnu5UhRArdXJTengnhqLhB?mode=hqrt3)

Masnavi Book 1 Weekly reading and discussion group

**Hi Footballers!** Get ready for a game at **MK Sport in Sharjah**! We’re playing **7v7** on a nice artificial turf pitch (**Outdoor**). Whether you're a beginner or a veteran player, everyone is welcome to join and have fun! 🙌⚽️ The participation fee is **39 AED**, which covers the field booking and organizer costs. To join the game and see who else has signed up, make sure to download the **CeleBreak app**. You can find it on both the **[App Store](https://apps.apple.com/co/app/celebreak/id1244710855?l=en-GB)** and **[Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lewisblack.celebreakOne&hl=en)**. 🚨 **Important:** Please join through the app to **reserve your spot!** 🚨 One of our organizers will be at the pitch to welcome you, provide bibs, and get everything set up. Come as you are and **have fun in our games!** We can’t wait to see you on the pitch! 💪 **PS:** Don’t worry about the number of attendees on Meetup—the real player count is shown in the app!

For the first time ever Mafia Party Game on a Yacht. Join us for an amazing Mafia party game night ( multiple rounds ) on a yacht. Starting: at 7pm till late night. location: Dubai creek Harbour marina. Yacht is parked all night and not going to move so you can arrive at your leisure. Complimentary Water / Softdrink & snacks. Entrance fee: 55 AED Contact: 058 199 2288 ( Ramin ) WhatsApp group link : https://chat.whatsapp.com/ExhRxxpUtNqE3eNgYfhEQR?mode=wwt

**\* Please note: RSVPing on Meetup does *not* guarantee entry. To secure your spot, kindly register through our website — priority is given to website sign-ups.\*** **Fast-paced, unpredictable, and hilarious.** Ten of Dubai’s virtuoso actors converge for a night of scenes, songs and games based on audience suggestions. You score the players on a scale of 1 to 5, and after each round, the players with the lowest scores are eliminated. When only one remains, they are crowned the Maestro! ★★★★★ *“A hidden gem in Dubai, laughs are guaranteed and it’s always unexpected and different. The performers are incredible. And the venue just invites you to have a good time! Love it love it” – Dora Murgu* [RSVP Here](https://courtyardplayhouse.com/event/wednesday-night-improv-maestro-wed-11-mar-2026/)

Love stories, but never find the time to read? Always wanted to start reading but don’t know where to begin? **A Few Good Pages** is a weekly short story circle where we slow down, read together, and have thoughtful relaxed discussions. No pressure, No prep! We meet **every Saturday** to read and discuss **one or two short stories**—quick reads that stay with you. Whether you’re a **wannabe reader** looking to get started, a **busy book lover** who wants to rebuild reading habit, or someone who enjoys **sharing perspectives on a great story**, you’ll fit right in. You don't need to prepare anything in advance - Just show up. Over the past year, we've read and discussed over **200+ short stories,** building a warm, reflective community that values attention, curiosity and consistency. Join our WhatsApp Group for updates: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IpIMc6c87W49FJIg1cRDJk?mode=hqrt2 **Cost & Membership** * First session : **Free** * Drop in : AED 30 per session * Membership options available for those who want to build a consistent reading habit. **Location** Location : L'eto Cafe, 1st floor, Mall of Emirates (D7 is the closest parking Entrance) Please update the RSVP if there's any change in your plans :-) Come for the stories, stay for the discussions!

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

Location link https://maps.app.goo.gl/VRxURSYYQbUtohQX9 في كافيه ليالي القاهرة كل جمعة الساعة 6 مساءً لو نفسك تدخل عالم التمثيل، أو تطوّر ثقتك بنفسك، أو حتى تتعرف على ناس من ثقافات مختلفة… الورشة دي معمولة علشانك. ورشة التمثيل في ليالي القاهرة هي مزيج فريد بين: - التعرف على ناس من جنسيات وثقافات مختلفة في جو اجتماعي ممتع - العلاج بالفن والتعبير عن النفس بدون أحكام - اكتشاف جوانب جديدة جواك كل مرة - التعلّم العملي للتمثيل والوقوف أمام الكاميرا كصانع محتوى - إزاي تقدّم نفسك في أي إنترفيو بشكل احترافي وجذّاب - إزاي تكون مختلف وتشوف الدنيا من زاوية جديدة - إزاي تعبّر عن مشاعرك بصدق… تبكي، تفرح، تغضب، تحزن من غير ما حد يحكم عليك هتتعلّم كل ده على إيد مدرب ممثلين بخبرة 13 سنة ومخرج أفلام قصيرة وطويلة بخبرة 10 سنين ومخرج معتمد من وزارة الثقافة المصرية. 🎬 كل محاضرة = تجربة كاملة كل محاضرة منفصلة، ولكل واحدة ناتج فني… هتشارك في صناعة فيلم قصير من أول الفكرة لحد التنفيذ. 💰 السعر 50 درهم فقط للمحاضرة + مشروب 📞 للتواصل 0507016543 وهتلاقوا لينك جروب الواتساب الخاص بالورشة… https://chat.whatsapp.com/C27ZhJVENqy5OPqYki049j مستنيكم يوم الجمعة الساعة 6 في ليالي القاهرة – الديرة. At Layali Al Qahira Café Every Friday at 6 PM If you’ve ever wanted to step into the world of acting, boost your confidence, or simply connect with people from different cultures… this workshop is made for you. Our Acting Workshop at Layali Al Qahira offers a unique blend of: - Meeting people from diverse nationalities and backgrounds - Emotional healing through art and self‑expression - Discovering something new about yourself every single session - Learning how to act and perform confidently in front of the camera as a content creator - Presenting yourself professionally in interviews - Seeing the world differently and embracing your own uniqueness - Expressing your emotions freely — cry, laugh, get angry, feel joy or sadness without judgment or restrictions You’ll learn all of this with a professional acting coach with 13 years of experience, and a film director with 10 years of experience in short and feature films, and officially certified by the Egyptian Ministry of Culture. 🎬 Each session is a full experience Every class is independent, and each one ends with a creative outcome… You’ll participate in making a short film from concept to execution. 💰 Price Only 50 AED per session + a drink 📞 Contact 0507016543 You’ll also find the WhatsApp group link for the workshop…https://chat.whatsapp.com/C27ZhJVENqy5OPqYki049j We’re waiting for you this Friday at 6 PM at Layali Al Qahira – Deira.

Thanks for joining the Money Minds meetup group. If you would like to be the first to know whenever a new event is announced, please join our whatsapp group using the link; [https://chat.whatsapp.com/DPbMfZndPooGHSxFCLCKHg](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DPbMfZndPooGHSxFCLCKHg) Storyworthy by Matthew Dicks is a guide to crafting compelling personal stories. It teaches techniques for finding, shaping, and delivering memorable narratives from everyday life. Dicks emphasizes the importance of the 'five-second moment' and offers practical advice through his experiences as a storytelling coach and Moth StorySLAM champion.

**Namaste Northern India!** This cross-state adventure takes you through three of the region’s most significant locations, in **a corner of India that has always stood slightly apart**. Set along the country’s northern and eastern edges, **Meghalaya, Darjeeling and Sikkim** are shaped by mountains, mist and borderland histories that have given them identities distinct from the Indian heartland. Culturally and geographically closer to neighbouring regions and countries than to their countrymen to the south, these states reflect **influences from far beyond India’s borders**. Languages, beliefs, architecture, and daily life follow different patterns here, creating places that feel Indian, yet not entirely of India. Longstanding questions of belonging and loyalty linger beneath the surface, shaped by **shifting borders and strong local identities**. Travelling through these regions reveals a shared sense of independence and difference, linking them more closely to each other than to the rest of the country. Together, they form a **connected highland world at India’s edge**, offering a journey into stunning landscapes and rich cultures that challenge expectations and are bound to amaze. **Meghalaya** Bordering Bangladesh, the state of Meghalaya is a **natural** **paradise and a playground for adventure**, its geography shaped by water, altitude and time. Receiving some of the highest rainfall levels in the world, its climate has created a lush landscape of dense forests, cascading waterfalls and raging rivers. Known for its rolling hills, mist-filled valleys, and expansive, breathtaking views, Meghalaya is often referred to as the **“Scotland of the East”** for its cool climate and dramatic highland scenery. One of Meghalaya’s most remarkable cultural and environmental features is its **living root bridges, found only in this region**. Developed by the indigenous Khasi community, this practice involves guiding the aerial roots of the Indian rubber tree across rivers and ravines. Over time, the roots strengthen and interlock, forming durable bridges that continue to grow as the trees mature. Some living root bridges are over 400 years old and can support up to 50 people at once. In certain locations, bridges are built one above the other, creating double-decker structures. Known locally as *Jingkieng Jri*, approximately 100 living root bridges have been identified across 72 villages and are **included on UNESCO’s Tentative List for World Heritage**. Beyond its cultural traditions, **an endless mix of waterfalls, caves and cliffs** awaits us around every corner here. Get ready to be endlessly amazed by the scale and variety of mighty Meghalaya! [https://vimeo.com/1015667082](https://vimeo.com/1015667082) **Darjeeling** Part Victorian hill station, part world-famous tea region, **Darjeeling** sits 2,200 meters up in the eastern Himalayas. More than 70 years after the British departure, traces of colonial life remain clearly visible, and the town continues to attract visitors from across India. Darjeeling’s greatest draw is its **extraordinary mountain setting**. On clear days, Kanchenjunga, India’s highest mountain and the third highest in the world, dominates the northern skyline, joined by a dramatic chain of snow-covered peaks that frame the town and its surrounding hills. Of course, **the name ‘Darjeeling’ is inseparable from tea**, with the area producing some of the finest in the world. Cultivation began nearly 200 years ago, when the British first planted tea here in the mid-1800s. The region’s climate and soil proved ideal, and plantations quickly spread across the hills, with much of the workforce coming from neighbouring Nepal and Sikkim. After Indian independence in 1947, the estates were sold to Indian owners, and Darjeeling tea went on to gain global recognition. Today, **87 tea estates** spread across the seven valleys of the Darjeeling Hills, together producing around **9.6 million kilograms of tea** each year. Once in Darjeeling, the surrounding mountain range draws the eye at every turn. Covering 2,100 square kilometers, the district offers **some of the best trekking routes in the Himalayas**. Longer routes reward hikers with rare **views across four of the world’s five highest peaks**. Get ready for high-altitude walks, sweeping panoramas and mountain views that stay with you long after you leave Darjeeling. **Sikkim** Sandwiched between Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet, **Sikkim is one of India’s smallest states** and one of its most surprising. Tucked away in the eastern Himalayas, this often overlooked area delivers dramatic scenery, a strong cultural identity, and a sense of place that feels distinct from anywhere else in the country. For travellers drawn to **mountain air, open landscapes, and cultural discovery**, Sikkim is for you! Almost 35% of the state is a protected area covered by Khangchendzonga National Park. Glaciers, alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, and sharp Himalayan peaks dominate the terrain, including **the 8,586-meter** **Kangchenjunga**. Winding through these landscapes are paths leading to clifftop Buddhist monasteries such as Pemayangtse, built more than 300 years ago. Sikkim’s **history is as complex as its geography**. Founded as a Buddhist kingdom in the 17th century and ruled by priest-kings known as the Chogyal, it became part of the British Indian Empire in 1890. After Indian independence, Sikkim remained an independent protectorate with its own monarchy, maintaining a degree of separation from the newly formed Indian state. That changed in 1975, when the Sikkim Parliament abolished the monarchy and declared the kingdom an official state of India. The decision was quickly ratified by India’s Parliament but widely protested by the Sikkim people. These **events continue to shape local identity today**, with ideas around independence, belonging and political choice still debated in day-to-day life. Travelling through Sikkim, expect strong opinions and conversations you won’t forget! **Let's go!** **DAY 0 // THU 12 MAR // DEPARTURE** Meet at DXB Terminal 1 for our flight to Guwahati via Delhi, **DAY 1 // FRI 13 MAR // GUWAHATI & POBITERA** Welcome to India! We’ll arrive in Guwahati, the capital of Assam state and the main entry point to Northeast India, located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River. The city is a major administrative and commercial center and is surrounded by hills and river landscapes. We’ll visit Kamakhya Temple on Nilachal Hill, one of the most important Hindu shrines in India and a key centre of Tantric worship. The temple complex contains historic sculptures and stone inscriptions and attracts pilgrims from across the country. In the afternoon, we drive to Pobitera Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its population of one-horned rhinoceros, with an optional boat or jeep safari before checking into our hotel for the night. **DAY 2 // SAT 14 MAR // POBITERA ELEPHANT SAFARI & DRIVE TO MEGHALAYA** Early start to embark on an **elephant back safari** among the rhinos, with guaranteed close encounters in their natural habitat. After breakfast, we’ll begin the drive to Meghalaya, stopping at Nohkalikai Falls along the way. At 340 meters, it’s the tallest single-drop waterfall in India. We’ll view the falls from above, and conditions permitting, hike down to the pools at its base. Afterwards, we’ll continue on to Shillong, where we spend the night. **DAY 3 // SUN 15 MAR // LIVING BRIDGES OF TYRNA** In the morning, we’ll make the short drive to Tyrna village and start the challenging descent into the valley, involving approximately 3,500 stone steps. It’s all worth it for the stunning scenery, with the trail leading to the UNESCO-recognized Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a well-known natural structure created by training the roots of rubber fig trees. We’ll continue exploring the area to see additional living bridges, then visit the Blue Lagoon for a swim. If conditions allow, we’ll also make a stop at nearby Rainbow Falls. Return to Tyrna in the afternoon. **DAY 4 // MON 16 MAR // MAWSYNRAM RIVER HIKE & SPLIT ROCK** After breakfast we’ll drive to Mawsynram, one of the wettest places on Earth, where we’ll set out on a river hike involving shallow crossings and walking through limestone formations. We’ll arrive at the magnificent Umkhakoi Lake, where we’ll have time to kayak in the serene waters. After lunch, it’s time for our Indiana Jones moment as we walk through Split Rock, a narrow rock passage formed by natural geological processes – quite possibly ruptured by an earthquake. Overnight in guesthouse. **DAY 5 // TUE 17 MAR // LAITLUM CANYON & SACRED FOREST, DRIVE TO GUWAHATI** Today we say goodbye to Meghalaya, hitting the road back to Guwahati. On the way we’ll pass through a sacred forest, and stop at Laitlum Canyon for views over the surrounding valleys. Overnight in Guwahati. **DAY 6 // WED 18 MAR // DARJEELING** Today we have a short morning flight to Bagdogra, and from there drive to Darjeeling. After lunch, we visit the Happy Valley Tea Estate to learn about tea cultivation and processing. We’ll walk through the plantation, sitting a lofty 2,100 meters above sea level, and take in views of the surrounding hills. Later, we’ll enjoy afternoon tea at Glenary’s, one of the oldest tea houses and bakeries in the town. Overnight in Darjeeling. **DAY 7 // THU 19 MAR // TIGER HILL & SIGHTSEEING** If the weather is clear, we’ll have a 4am wake-up call and drive to Tiger Hill (2,560m) to watch the spectacular sunrise over Mt. Kangchenjunga. After breakfast, we’ll hop aboard the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a tiny “toy train” running through the landscape. We’ll disembark at Ghoom to visit Yiga Choeling (Ghoom) Monastery, known for its large statue of the Maitreya Buddha and its stunning mountain views. In the afternoon, we drive to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, where we spend the night. **DAY 8 // FRI 20 MAR // SIKKIM: WATERFALLS, MOUNTAINS & MONASTERIES** After breakfast, we’ll head to the Lhasa and Bakthang waterfalls located near Gangtok, before continuing on to Tashi Viewpoint to take in the incredible vistas of the Kanchenjunga range. Next we visit Gonjang Monastery, Do-drul Chorten, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about Buddhist education, history and art in the region. We’ll stop at Ganesh Tok for views over the city, then head back to Gangtok to visit the Handicraft and Handloom Centre. We’ll end the day with a ride on the Gangtok Ropeway, followed by free time in the evening. **DAY 9 // SAT 21 MAR // CHANGU (TSOMGO) LAKE, BABA MANDIR & NATHU LA** This morning we’re taking it higher! We’ll head to the dizzying elevations of East Sikkim, where we’ll find Tsomgo (Changu) Lake, a glacial lake located approximately 3,800 meters above sea level. We continue to Baba Mandir (3900m), a shrine maintained by the Indian Army. Subject to weather and permits, we’ll proceed to Nathu La Pass (4450m) on the India–China border, a historic trade route between India and Tibet. We’ll return to Gangtok in the afternoon, with the evening free to relax or explore as you choose. ***Note: Access to Baba Mandir and Nathu La Pass is subject to weather conditions and permits. In case of non-availability, we will visit Hanuman Tok temple instead.*** **DAY 10 // SUN 22 MAR // DEPARTURE** After breakfast we’ll say bye-bye to magical Sikkim and hit the road back to Bagdogra Airport, to make it in time for our evening flight home. We’ll be back in Dubai just after midnight. ***Note to travellers:*** *India has beautiful discoveries around every corner…but this amazing country can often test travellers' patience with regards to waiting, delays, changes in procedures and general perceptions of logic! Please note that trips may require adjustments and changes in sequence due to unforeseen circumstances. Be ready to go with the flow.* **Level of Difficulty:** Easy to moderate (day 3 & 7) **Activities:** Trekking, swimming, kayaking, caving, sightseeing, rhino safari on elephants back. **Room & Meals:** hotels, guesthouses and mountain resorts - double sharing, meals excluded. **Cost: 7,250 AED** incl. flights until FEB 28. Past this date cost will change. **Specifically Excluded:** visa, meals, insurance. **Visas:** [[https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html](https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html) ]([[https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html](https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html))-](https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html)-) in particular for evisa. See yah in the North x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 - 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/) [Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)]([https://linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup))

Picture a setting sun tinging the **sky with hues of red, purple, and orange, the mighty baobab striking a squat pose against the sky,** its plump trunk leading up to a few delicate flinger-like branches, making for one mystical sight. One Arabian legend says the devil plucked up the baobab, thrust its branches into the Earth, and left its roots in the air. A tree so distinctive they named it twice! Easily recognized by their swollen base at the trunk which gives the tree a bottle-like appearance. They can be **as short as 5 meters to as tall as 12 meters with the bottle-trunk up to 5 meters in diameter**. With blooms in the spring of large white flowers which only open at night, these ancient trees have many tales to tell, given **their estimated age up to 2,000 years!** **Few places on Earth offer such an intense kaleidoscope of nature** as Madagascar, from fertile hills cascading with terraced rice paddies, forests of every kind from wet & rainy to dry and spiny, and a laterite-rich soil which gives the country it’s nickname of “Red Island”. With thousands of kilometres of coastline, the sea is never very far, turquoise and idyllic, dangerous and mysterious, big adventure on the world’s fourth largest island. There is no other place on Earth where you’ll find more **lemurs because they’re only found in Madagascar!** Endemic to the island and evolved from monkeys and apes, they once were as large as the male gorilla! **There are now over 100 species of lemurs**, in all shapes and sizes, from the pygmy mouse lemur to the long-tailed Indri. And while the signature animal of Madagascar is the Lemur, there are many weird and wonderful creatures, from the eerie-looking **fossa-fossa (a cat-dog crossover)**, **colourful and camouflaged chameleons**, oddly shaped insects, vivid frogs, graceful rays and turtles, several species of sharks, and humpback whales during the winter months. **Madagascar, from East to West, from Lemur to Boabab, on the road, the river, and the sea!** [https://vimeo.com/292618272](https://vimeo.com/292618272) [https://vimeo.com/194405246](https://vimeo.com/194405246) [https://vimeo.com/224965822](https://vimeo.com/224965822) **Let’s bao!!** **Day 1 // Tana - Antsirabe** After arrival we head to Antsirabe wile enjoying the views of highlands, rice terraces, vegetable plantations, and traditional Malagasy houses of the high plateau. **Day 2 // On the Road to Miandrivazo** Visit Antsirabe city by rickshaw. Continue drive to Miandrivazo. We’ll make a few stops at local villages and viewpoints along the way, a roadside lunch of local specialties. **Day 3 // Miandrivazo – River trip** Today we start our all-aboard adventure on the boat, enjoying peaceful day at river banks. We’ll meet some local tribes along the riverbank, catch sight of some endemic birds and chameleons, and along the river till we reach a gorge with Lemurs in their natural habitat. We’ll hop off the boat and into nearby waterfall for refresh and camp along the river for the night. At night a local party: traditional dance of West Mada. **Day 4 // Kirindy Forest at Night** We’ll head down the river and check-out from our boat, take a quick car-ferry ride before reaching Kirindy. Short rest in the hotel. Towards later afternoon we'll get ready for a night walk in search of Lemurs and other nocturnal creatures! **Day 5 // Boabab at Sunset in Morondava** This morning we head back to the Kirindy forest for trek through the forest in the daylight, to search for the dancing lemurs, Sifaka and red fronted brown. We'll certainly see lots of reptiles and birds nearby the giant sacred baobab. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and head to most awaited sunset in famous **valley of baobabs, set against magical red and purple sky.** **Day 6 // Relax at the beach** We’ll settle into a peaceful beachfront spot just outside the city lights, with hammocks, shaded loungers, and the gentle sound of waves on the Mozambique Channel. Swim or wade in the shallows until west-coast orange sunset covers the golden sands. **Day 7 // Tana** Today we catch a local flight to Tana where we’ll check-out capitol's Royal Tombs and Pink Palace. Few last selfies with lemurs and their wet-noses. Enjoy a little souvenir shopping at the local market, wander many streets of wooden houses. **Day 8 // Departure** Transfer to airport for return flight home. Bye, bye Mada x **Level of difficulty:** Easy and relaxing **Activities:** trekking, sightseeing, cruising, camping. **Accommo & meals:** breakfasts included, accommodation in **comfy lodges** and hotels, double sharing. 1 nights camping. Single room is subject of extra cost and availability. **Cost: AED 6,600 excl. flight** **Cost valid until MAR 05.** **Specifically excluded**: Lunches and dinners in local restaurants. **Visas**: **Any passport can obtain a visa on arrival** valid for 90 days. See yah in Mada x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/)

Join us for our March Bookends Book Club meetup as we dive into Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman 📚 During our discussion, we’ll explore: - The fine line between isolation and independence - How kindness can transform a life - Mental health and stigma Character growth and redemption - The balance of humor and heartbreak in storytelling Whether you’ve read it or are simply curious about the story, you’re warmly welcome. Our meetups are about meaningful conversation, connection, and building a literary community together!

The topic for March is "Our Bodies, Ourselves" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Sunday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at noon on Sundays. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 12:00 - quick intros. 12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Sunday!

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

Let’s meet and discuss this fun but moving collection of wildly creative short stories. (Photo credit: TimesNowNews.com)