Tanzania

**Somaliland’s status may be unofficial, but its hidden gems are officially amazing!** Having declared independence from Somalia but not yet recognized, it’s a country that’s not technically a country. From Africa’s most vivid cave paintings (to suit an archaeologist’s dreams) to ancient temples in forgotten villages to the captivating charms of a city risen from the ashes! **Hargeisa,** with its friendly, bustling markets of camels, money exchanges with towers of bills, and curiosities around every corner with many tales to tell. is surely one of Africa’s most unique destinations. **The cave paintings of Laas Geel** (“Camel’s Well”) spread over 10 alcoves are some of the most vivid rock art in all of Africa, with depictions of horned cattle in ceremonial robes accompanied by their human herders, as well as animals as varied as giraffes and even a domesticated dog. It’s estimated that these **paintings date back to 18,000 BC, or nearly 20,000 years ago!** **From the low-key charms of Hargeisa to the jaw-dropping wonders of Laas Geel, Somaliland is a “country” not to be missed!** **Let’s go!!!** **Day 1 // Hargeisa** Meet at Dubai airport at 2 a.m. for a direct flight to Hargeisa at 4:10 a.m. After arrival and immigration, transfer to the hotel for a quick rest before heading into town for a walking tour of the central market, war memorial, and a stop at the livestock exchange for those who want to purchase a goat or a camel with a wheelbarrow of local currency. Afterward, we’ll head to dinner at a restaurant run by Yemeni refugees. We’ll have chai with the locals before heading back to the hotel. **Day 2 // Laas Geel + Berbera** After breakfast, drive to the caves and rock art of Laas Geel, a complex of rock shelters that feature some of the most impressive Neolithic rock art in Africa. Estimated to be nearly 20,000 years old and the second oldest in all of Africa, the paintings depict wild animals, ancient pastoralists, and other scenes from prehistoric times. We’ll explore the colorful caves and continue to the coastal city of Berbera, where we will visit a historical Ottoman mosque and Ottoman houses. Late lunch at an Ottoman house. Next, we'll head to the old town, where you will find more Persian and British architecture of historic significance. This will be a great chance for some amazing photographs, as well as a visit to the untouched Berbera beaches. In the evening, we head back to Hargeisa. **Day 3 // Return** Early morning flight back to Dubai. Bye-bye, Somaliland! **Activity:** sightseeing, short hiking, boating. **Duration:** Long weekend FRI – SUN. **Accommodation and meals:** 4 star hotel, single rooms. Meals excluded. **Cost: 2910 AED** excluding flights until JAN 17th. On this date we will close the list. **Specifically included:** Letter of invitation for visa on arrival, single rooms. **Specifically excluded:** visa fees payable on arrival, restaurant meals, insurance. See yah in Somaliland 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)

**Twin Heart Meditation: A Guide to Inner Peace and Healing** Twin Heart Meditation is a unique and powerful form of guided meditation that combines the practice of loving-kindness, self-healing, and energy healing. This meditation focuses on activating and balancing the heart and crown chakras. The goal is to create a sense of inner peace, promote emotional well-being, and help practitioners connect with their higher selves and the universal energy around them. **Few Benefits of Twin Heart Meditation :** * Greater Happiness and a Sharper Mind * Reduced stress, anxiety and depression * Improve your relationships * Improved health Contact: **054 994 3703** for more information

Far less popular on the tourist trail than its neighbor India, but much more intriguing, **Bangladesh** remains a very little known corner of the world. You'll find a truly fascinating combination here: cultural immersion to discover **untouched,** **remote tribes,** but also **brutality of modern industry at the one of the** **world’s largest ship breaking yards**. While 80% of the country is made up of fertile lowlands called the Bangladesh Plain, in the far southeastern corner of Bangladesh, bordering Myanmar, is the **Chittagong Hill Tracts area**, featuring **green, undulating topography** that is strikingly different, and incredibly scenic. Here, in the **Bandarban Hill District**, it is not only the landscapes that are unique – many of the inhabitants are very different from the majority of Bengalis, making for a fascinating **crossover between subcontinent and far east cultures**. The first settlers of these hills were tribes from Myanmar, and today there are **11 distinct ethnic groups** **who are** **only found in the Bandarban area**. Their lifestyle and culture differ greatly from those of the plains Bengalis, from their thatched bamboo huts to their **distinctive languages, rituals, dress** **and handicrafts**. A visit to the **Chittagong Ship Breaking Yard** is a unique opportunity to see up close as giant cargo ships, oil tankers and other vessels are broken down, bit by bit…there aren’t many places in the world where we can get access to a place like this! This **cemetery of steel and iron**, with monster ship carcasses in various stages of decay, is a sight to behold. **Let’s go!** **Day 1: Bandarban – Golden Temple, Tribal Village, Nilachal** Arrival to Chittagong Airport; meet the team and drive to **Bandarban**. After some lunch, we’ll set out to discover the area. First stop is **Golden Temple**, an impressive, glittering gilt structure housing the massive Buddha Dhatu Jadi statue. The temple belongs to the Theravada Buddhism order, which is practiced by the Marma indigenous people, the dominant ethnic group in the Bandarban area. Next we visit the **Tanchangya tribe**, who earn their living cultivating the land. They are known for their traditional costumes and ornaments, and Tanchangya women can be easily spotted because of their unique dress and hairstyle. Later we’ll head to **Nilachal**, high up in the hills about 1600 to 2000 feet above sea level. From here we’ll have stunning views of the surrounding area, the city of Bandarban, as well as Cox’s Bazar beach, and enjoy a magnificent sunset. **Day 2: Bandarban – Chimbuk &** **Nilgiri, Tribal Villages** After breakfast, we’ll set off to capture more amazing views. **Chimbuk** is the third largest mountain in Bangladesh, and its peak lies up a winding road overlooking the hills and towns below. Next we’ll head to **Nilgiri**, a popular resort area and a place of spectacular beauty. In the afternoon, we’ll get to know the diverse local peoples a bit better. First stop is the village of the **Tripura indigenous people**, who subsist on slash-and-burn farming in the remote hills and valleys. This small Animistic and Hindu ethnic group only numbers around 60,000 people, but clings proudly to its traditional ways. We’ll stop at the **Shaila Prapat waterfall** before heading to **Bawm tribal village**, home to a group hailing from Chin state in western Myanmar. The group’s first wave of migration to Bangladesh took place more than 500 years ago, and today 200 Bawm families live in the Bandabar area, facing much discrimination due to their Christian faith. Last is the **village of the** **Mru (or Murong) people**, also originally from Myanmar, who left their homeland due to invasions by rival tribes and colonisation by the British. This peaceful Buddhist society relies on hunting and bamboo crafting, and values the preservation of its unique cultural traditions. **Day 3: Chittagong – Potenga Beach, Ship Breaking Yard** We’ll head to Chittagong, making a stop at the **Bandarban hanging bridge** on the way. After a couple hours’ drive we’ll get some sea views at popular **Patenga Beach**. In the afternoon we’ll enjoy a truly unique experience, witnessing the dismantling of iron and steel giants at the **Chittagong** **Ship Breaking Yard**. Once the world’s largest, the scale of industry at this ship breaking yard is truly astounding, the site teeming with over 200,000 workers taking apart and salvaging materials from vessels from around the world. After dinner we’ll head to the airport, saying bye-bye to Bangladesh after a fascinating few days of discovery. [https://vimeo.com/206645153](https://vimeo.com/206645153) [https://vimeo.com/204837040](https://vimeo.com/204837040) **Level of difficulty:** Easy available for everyone. **Activities:** short trekking, sightseeing, boating, cultural immersion. **Accommodation & meals:** 4 star hotel double sharing, meals included except breakfast D1 and dinner D3. **Cost: AED 4550 incl. flights, until JAN 07.** **Requirements:** mosquito repellent, trekking shoes, your best lenses. No check in luggage on this trip. **Excluded:** * any costs related to visa, * meals as mentioned **Visa:** Most of nationalities get [visa on arrival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Bangladesh) at 50-55 USD. *Visa cost is not included in trip budget. Admission to country of destination is at strict responsibility of traveler.* See yah in Bangladesh x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 00971 50 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶 **​Imagine this 👇** * ​A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background. * ​An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor. * ​Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand. * ​A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect. It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫 **​✨ Expect the unexpected:** * ​Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing. * ​Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet. * ​Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over. ​So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Coffee 😊

📢 Arabic Mafia Night Join us for Mafia Night on Monday at 8:00 PM. 💵 Price includes one drink: 🧋 60 AED for gentlemen 30 AED for ladies 🍹 Shisha is also available on the menu. 📍 Location: Shisha Café, Al Barsha 🗣️ Arabic speakers only For RESERVATIONS: 055 577 8561 https://chat.whatsapp.com/H5mESw5B29FF7jNHJjf0jy?mode=wwt https://www.instagram.com/winner_dinner0 *Visit our website* https://winner-dinner.com

Welcome, Planetpreneurs! Whether you're a founder, a working professional in the ESG space, or dedicated to sustainability, this meetup is for you. Join us for a coffee, share your story, and build powerful connections. Let's network, inspire each other, and drive positive change together!

**PLAY : 🎧The‎ Biggest‎ THURSDAY ‎ Party** **THURSDAY \| FREE ENTRY \+ OFFERS** **OFFERS FOR ALL💥** * **Free‎ Entry on‎ Guest-list till 12.30** * **Ladies Free Drinks till 1AM** * **4‎ Drinks + 1 Shisha‎ Men‎ : 99** * **4‎ Drinks +‎ 1 Shisha Ladies : 69** 📍**OUD METHA DUBAI** **📞 Reservations:‎ 0543231214** (Special Note : Reservations only through WhatsApp)

**Hop on board rail journey of a lifetime on longest train in the world for TREKKUP to Mauritania.** Atop heaps of iron ore and below the stars we journey most daring way and surely you will earn star status as true adventure seeker! Journey begins in Nouakchott along the Atlantic Ocean before our 4x4 caravan heads into the vast dunes of the Sahara. Most attractive Moorish oasis town of Chinguetti along the “coast” of the great Saharan sand ocean with labyrinthine lanes along stone mosques and libraries. We’ll trade wares and ride camels along ancient trade routes and watch sunsets on oceans of sand. Highlight of our journey will be hopping on board train in Choum along the eastern corner of Western Sahara. We’ll pack our provisions and warm blankets for the night before climbing on board the longest train in the world at nearly 3 kilometres of rail cars packed with iron ore. As it lumbers through the desert sands we’ll sit atop heaps of ore for comfy night under stars and truly unforgettable experience! With 7th Century oasis villages, endless golden sand dunes, and most unique rail journey in Western Africa, this trip will make you true traveller to places unknown. This time we invite you to join us for an extended journey to check out on enigmatic Western Sahara, safe but disputed territory between Morocco and self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. **Let's go!!** **Day 00 // JAN 23 // Departure** Meeting at 1pm at DXB T1 for Royal Air Maroc to Casablanca at 15:15-20:55. **Alternatively, meeting at Casablanca airport at 21.45,** for connecting flight to Nouakchott, 23.50-01.45 (+1). **Day 01 // JAN 24 // Noaukchott** Arrival and visa formalities before transfer to hotel in Nouakchott. After breakfast and first look at city, obtain provisions and begin journey through sand swept vistas, caravan routes and sand dunes on the way to Chinguetti. Arrival late afternoon and catch the sunset atop the dunes overlooking Tenewchert Oasis before returning to hotel for dinner and rest. **Day 02 // JAN 25 // Tergit Oasis / Chinguetti** Our first stop will be the ancient library and ruins of Chinguetti. We’ll meet the local librarian for poetry and stories before continuing to Ouadane to wander the many hidden corners of this 7th century city on a hill. Along the way we’ll pop out to see the great and mysterious African Eye, visible from space and a true geological oddity! Dinner and night in hotel. **DAY 03 // JAN 26 // Africa Eye / Ouadane** **Day 04 // JAN 27 // Art Rock / Pass of Amogjar / Azoughi** **Day 05 // JAN 28 // Night on the Wagons** After quick breakfast we head to the mud-hut town of Choum where our train journey begins. With our blankets and provisions ready we’ll hop aboard the longest train in the world, atop the iron ore and under the stars we sleep. **Day 06 // JAN 29 // Train Arrives in Nouadhibou** After hopping off the train, hop on 4x4s for quick ride around town and absorb the amazing journey before heading to hotel to wash off the dust. After lunch we’ll check out from Mauritania and cross the border to Western Sahara or, **in case of** **any train delays (which are nothing new),** we’ll spend a night in Nouadhibou. **Day 07 // JAN 30 // Nouadhibou (WESTERN SAHARA)** Drive across the plains of Sahara to Dakhla. Visit city and surrounding dunes: Lasarka peninsula, old lighthouse, ostrich park and few other curiosities, given the time allows. **Day 08 // JAN 31 // Dakhla (WESTERN SAHARA)** In the morning return flight to Casablanca, VIL-CMN 11:45-13:45 and further back home. **Level of Difficulty:** Easy with limited facilities ahead. Open train ride is somewhat rough experience. **Activities:** Light trekking, off-roading, sightseeing, open-wagon riding. **Duration:** 8 days. **Accommodation & Meals:** Basic hotels and meals included, double sharing. **Cost: 7680 AED** excluding flights, **until JAN 18. On this date we will close the list.** **Flights on Royal Air Maroc** at approx. 3900 AED are excluded from trip budget: DXB-NKC JAN 24 15:15 - 01:45 (+1) VIL-DXB JAN 31 11:45 - 01:40 (+1) **Visa:** Mauritania: e-visa UAE residents get visa on arrival to Morocco. See yah in Mauritania x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [docs@trekkup.com](docs@trekkup.com) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

To make use of the beautiful winter weather, join us for a relaxed anime-inspired beach picnic as we soak in the sunset, ocean breeze, and good company ✨😊 We’ll be sitting on picnic mats, sharing smiles, casual anime games, and laid-back conversations while the sky turns golden. To keep things cozy and comfortable, everyone is encouraged to bring their own picnic mat or blanket if they can. 📍Location: TBD 🕔 Time: Meeting at 5pm to catch the sunset. 🍪 I’ll bring a little something from my end. Feel free to bring any snacks you enjoy. 🌊 Beachwear welcome (comfortable, not swimwear) To confirm attendance please join our wtsapp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BaVC4Y1G4lmH9tIuvTBJKc Whether you’re new to the community or already part of the Anime Society family, this is the perfect chance to connect, relax, and make new memories together. More fun coming soon 👀

**Mystery, Fun & Reward! Join a Paid Blind Date** Meet someone new, enjoy great conversation, and get **compensated for your time**! A safe, fun, and exciting way to connect—no pressure, just adventure. **To register, please** **[fill out the form by clicking here](https://forms.fillout.com/t/v8zvFc1rxdus)**[!](https://forms.fillout.com/t/v8zvFc1rxdus) Whether you want to hire a companion for the evening to lighten your burden, or volunteer to be one yourself, you may also receive payment. **Here’s how you can participate:** 1. **Rent a companion** – Enjoy the company of someone for the evening. 2. **Volunteer to be a companion** – Offer your time and companionship. 3. **Get paid to be a companion** – Participate and earn for your time. **Why participate:** * **Combating Loneliness:** In a society with deep-seated loneliness, our service provides simple human connection. * **Nonjudgmental Support:** People get a supportive presence without the pressure or expectations of a friend or therapist. * **Unique Experiences:** having someone witness a personal milestone or someone to sit with during a difficult time. To register, please **[fill out the form by clicking here](https://forms.fillout.com/t/v8zvFc1rxdus)**[!](https://forms.fillout.com/t/v8zvFc1rxdus) If you are unable to complete the form or have any questions, you can **contact us at +971 0586879963**.

If you’ve been daydreaming about fresh powder and wide-open slopes, **Pakistan delivers a winter escape you probably didn’t see coming**. Nestled high in the Swat Valley, **Pakistan's cheeky answer to Switzerland, minus the cuckoo clocks** or eye-watering prices, feels like the universe's best kept secret finally spilling the beans. At 2,800 metres, Malam Jabba Ski Resort is now one of the region’s top winter destinations. The surrounding **Swat Valley blends jaw-dropping mountain scenery with a deep historical and cultural layer**: Gandharan Buddhist ruins, the emerald-green Swat River, and pine forests that stretch as far as you can see. The resort has everything you need for a solid ski trip: an **800-metre groomed main run, gentler green slope, a modern chairlift,** affordable equipment rental, and a ski school with patient instructors. Whether you’re charging the red run or the type who still whispers “bismillah” before pushing off the turn, you’ll feel right at home. In recent years Malam Jabba has even hosted international winter events, proof of how far the facilities have come. While minor logistical challenges exist, the overall experience is highly rewarding, with fresh local cuisine, new infrastructure and an atmosphere of genuine welcome that characterises travel in northern Pakistan. All in all, this is your chance to discover a different side of Pakistan: snow on the Hindu Kush, crisp pine air through the window, endless white peaks and sky. **Open your eyes, you’re inside a postcard!** Ready? Let’s roll. **DAY 1 // FRI // DEPARTURE** Meet at DXB Terminal 1 at 15:00 for the 17:00 direct flight to Islamabad. Touch down around 21:00 local time, clear immigration, and head straight to our hotel in the quieter northern part of the city. **DAY 2 // SAT // FIRST SNOW** Early wake-up and we’re rolling north on Swat Expressway. Four to five hours of stunning scenery later. pine forests, the turquoise Swat River flashing by, roadside chai stops until we arrive at Malam Jabba around midday. Check in to our hotel, grab lunch with mountain views, then head to the rental shop for boots, skis/snowboard and passes. Afternoon: first ride up Pakistan’s longest chairlift, a gentle recon lap on the slopes, and plenty of time to breathe that crisp high-altitude air. Sunset from the terrace with hot kahwa is non-negotiable. Overnight Malam Jabba. **Day 3 // SUN // FULL SKI DAY** Breakfast overlooking the peaks, then straight to the slopes. Unlimited runs on the red and green pistes all day. Late afternoon options: hike up for fresh tracks, or take the chairlift at golden hour for one of the best views in Pakistan. Evening wind-down: board games and tea in the hotel lounge, or join the optional night walk under a sky packed with stars. Overnight Malam Jabba. **DAY 4 // MON // LAST SKIING & RETURN** One final morning session – usually the snow is perfect and the slopes are quiet. Ski till your legs smile, then check-out at 11:00. Lunch at the resort, then we hit the road back to Islamabad. Quick look at capitol if time allows, drop off at airport for return flight home. **Grade:** Easy to moderate, available for fit beginners. **Activity:** Skiing, cultural immersion. **Accommodation/meals:** Hotels, double sharing. Two dinners are included; lunches and meals on transfers are excluded. **Cost:** **3380 AED incl. flights until JAN 07.** **Past this date cost will change.** **Specifically excluded:** * Visa, * COMPULSORY Insurance, ie. Heymondo.com, AXA, AIG or similar, * Lunches and meals on transfers, * Gear rental / ski instructor fees. **Visa:** Simplified visa process in now available within mobile app. More info: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Pakistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Pakistan "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Pakistan") See you on the chairlift! 🏔️❄️ Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238 "https://wa.me/971504848238") / [linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup "https://linktr.ee/trekkup") Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

Try out this stunning fusion style of smooth sensual moves and funky transitions in an easy-to-follow dance to classic & modern tunes. Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating from Angola, and reshaped in Portugal. It is a derivative of semba, with a mix of Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue. New styles derived from the traditional kizomba were developed in Europe such as urban Kiz and Tarraxinha. Danced to sensual music, happy folklore or electronic trance and fuelled by passion; kizomba is one of the most versatile genres that will help you express your deepest emotions! AED 99 /1 class AED 599 /8 classes (monthly package!) AED 899 /16 classes (monthly package!) Book your spot NOW! 8 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/pabEn 16 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/w7hbw For enquiries call/text 055 803 4003

Try out this stunning fusion style of smooth sensual moves and funky transitions in an easy-to-follow dance exercised to classic & modern tunes. Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating from Angola, reshaped in Portugal & France. It is a derivative of semba, with a mix of Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue. New styles derived from the traditional kizomba were developed in Europe such as urban Kiz and Tarraxinha. Danced to sensual music, happy folklore or electronic trance and fuelled by passion; kizomba is one of the most versatile genres that will help you express your deepest emotions! AED 89 /1 class AED 599 /8 classes (monthly package!) AED 899 /16 classes (monthly package!) Book your spot NOW! 8 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/pabEn 16 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/w7hbw For enquiries call/text 055 803 4003

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy the weather! We meet Saturdays at 10am, halfway between the Reston *Container Store* and *Not Your Average Joes* (by the metal benches), leaving no later than 10:05. Every week, rain or shine, we start by walking along the Green Trail to reach Lake Anne Community Center. Once there, we pause for water/bio (often staying a few minutes extra from April-November, due to the local Farmer's Market), and then we circle Lake Anne and head back to our starting point. It's roughly 3-4 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to *Not Your Average Joes* or another local restaurant for a quick drink/meal before tackling the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels. Dogs are welcome, and we recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll walk rain or shine. Also, feel free to bring a friend! By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.

**Weekly Intermediate Argentine Tango lessons**\- Monday evenings RSVP required! Please text Todd at 202-361-8633 in advance of attendance. Limited to 12 (6 leads/6 follows). This is an intermediate class for tango lovers who want to explore more! This class rotates focus on the many rich tango themes available. We explore ways to lead/follow with different outcomes in neutral technique to enhance communication in the dance. We often review material from our immersive camps as well. Come join us in our Annandale home location! Some tango experience required (at least one immersion camp or at least 10 tango lessons). Price: $30 for one session/ $125/5 session card (cash, check, Venmo, Apple Pay only; no credit card or Paypal for this event) Location: 7507 Pleasant Way, Annandale, VA (must RSVP in advance in case of cancellations!)

I’ve been here once and I was very impressed with their food and ambience. https://www.maharanipalace.com/

Network with an average of 60+ business professionals, all attendees get an opportunity to give a 30 second elevator pitch, enjoy a light breakfast, 10 minute educational presentation on topics that change weekly, and enjoy networking before and after the meet up.

**\*\*\*This group is filled. Check out our next departure on Feb 20, 2026:** **https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/310787716/\*\*\*** Gaze at the Northern Lights, enjoy a sleigh ride, be a reindeer herder for a day, learn about the Sámi culture, visit an ice hotel, catch a fish (or two) through a hole in the ice, taste some good Scandinavian delicacies, visit the ABBA museum...My, oh my! These are just some of the fun activities we are planning to do during this once-in-a-life time adventure! Like all our adventures, this one is crafted from the ground up with the true spirit of Meetup in mind. We handle every little detail before and during the trip, accompany and guide the group, creating a stress-free journey with a laid-back, friendly vibe. No big tour operators, no inflated prices — we work directly with locals to give you authentic experiences and unbeatable value. Come as strangers, leave as lifelong friends — and make memories that stick forever! ***We visit:*** * Stockholm * Kiruna (Lapland) * Helsinki * Copenhagen (optional extension) ***The trip includes:*** \* 2 nights in Stockholm \* A night train from Stockholm to Lapland in a private sleeping compartment \* 4 nights in Kiruna \* 3 nights in Helsinki \* Airfare from Kiruna to Helsinki \* Arrival and departure transfers \* Sightseeing tours in Stockholm and Helsinki \* Boat ride in Stockholm \* Food tasting in Helsinki \* Breakfast daily \* 2 dinners and 3 lunches \* Northern Lights Tour \* Jukkasjärvi Icehotel Half-Day Tour \* Full-Day Reindeer Tour \* Ice Fishing or Husky Sleigh Ride **Price per person, double occupancy: $4770** (we match roommates for those wishing to share) **Price for single room: $6320** ***Not Included:*** x Transatlantic Airfare (we can help you arrange that) x Meals not listed above x Tips and any personal and incidental expenses x Optional extension to Copenhagen The only way to secure your spot is a $500 deposit **\*\*\*Deposit link removed as this date is sold out. You can reserve your spot for our next departure on Feb 20, 2026 [HERE](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/310787716/) \*\*\*** Deposit is refundable up to 90 days before the departure (less PayPal fees).\*\*\* Final payment due 60 days before departure\*\*\* ***[Click Here](https://forms.gle/MqXy8zWAB6pv2dW37)***[ and Fill out this Form if you are making a Deposit](https://forms.gle/MqXy8zWAB6pv2dW37) For a detailed Day By Day itinerary: **[Click Here](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)**[ to fill out our info request form](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8) Limited capacity of 14 total. This trip will fill up extremely quickly. \*\*\*Airfare from/to the US not included\*\*\* **OPTIONAL EXTENSION TO COPENHAGEN offered at $590 per person/double or $785 solo occupancy (air from Helsinki to Copenhagen not included)** ***[Click Here](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062)***[ to Message Direct to Anna with any questions including airfare quotes.](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062) She can help you arrange the airfare and answer any logistics questions. [Click Here to see all our other fun events](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events) SOT 2000318-10

Whether you're new to Insight meditation or an advanced practitioner looking for like-minded people to sit with, you're welcome to join us at our Sunday morning drop-in group, sponsored by the Insight Meditation Community of Washington. Insight meditation cultivates our natural wisdom and compassion. Meditation practice develops concentration, which allows us to calm and steady the mind. This class includes a 30-minute lightly-guided meditation, followed by a short talk and time for questions and discussion. The size of the group usually runs somewhere between 25-40 people in-person and between 12-25 online. Chairs are provided, or you may bring a sitting cushion or bench. You may also use the blankets and bolsters offered by the yoga studio. **We offer both in-person and online attendance.** To learn more about our topics and teachers, view our videos or **get the Zoom link**, visit our [class page](https://imcw.org/event/?eventId=735&utm_source=MeetUp&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=vienna-drop-in).

Meet for coffee and let’s discuss fun travel ideas and past trips.