Travel Writing

Join us for another optional writing session! Feel free to bring a project you're already working on or start something new with us. If anything interesting comes up while you're writing, you can share it with the group, but no pressure!

Brisk, 3- to 4-mile urban hike starting and ending at Roofer's Union in Adams Morgan. We will hike down toward Rock Creek Park, take Klingle Trail up toward the Cathedral before turning back to Roofer's Union for drinks and food at their rooftop bar. Closest metro Woodley Park.

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Let's explore Adams Morgan!. **Route:** *See map below or screenshot, the route is complex. - Highlights: Duke Ellington Bridge, Walter Pierce Park, Rabaut Park, Meridian/Malcom X Park, 18th street, Kalorama Park **Millage:** 5.1 **Map:** [map](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2566690466?share_token=aEyh685wJjeevYwZ8ZTnb3W5nPLU2XeBwyMp264KxeEV2qXf1L&ref=) (komoot), [map alt](https://caltopo.com/m/FF5SHAC) (caltopo) **Start/End Location (loop):** Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan metro **Time:** \~6:30PM-8:45PM **Terrain:** There will be paved and level ground, with some hills. \-\-\- We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early. Note, we often limit the RSVPs to keep group sizes manageable. If you are on the waitlist but would really like to join, reach out to the organizer. Our events prioritize metro accessibility by meeting and ending at metro stations. Sometimes we start/stop at the same station, sometimes we do not. Please double check the event description to see if you can manage transportation. 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)

**Tuesday Night Rides (TNR) B-Group Edition with Ryan, Dave, Bruce, Ronne, & Renee** As you may have heard, our illustrious TNR leader Ryan is sporting a repaired knee and is in recovery mode. We are recasting the TNR as a **B-ride!** (**no faster than a 15mph** pace). **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: Tuesday Night Rides (TNR) B-Group Edition - Belle Haven * START LOC: Shirlington Library * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/GXU2cMAG7672](https://goo.gl/maps/GXU2cMAG7672) * START PARKING: Any Garage in Shirlington * ARRIVAL: 6:00pm * SPEECH: 6:15pm * ROLLING: 6:30pm (or earlier if everyone is present) * LEVEL: \*\***Medium\*\*** * PACE: \*\***no faster than 15mph\*\*** * DISTANCE: 15 miles (12.5 if you turn around @ Jones Point) * TERRAIN: Trail / Street * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: **CBG_TNR_BELLE_HAVEN_2026** **[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/50977831](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/50977831)** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Detail** **++++++++++++++++++++** For your riding pleasure NoVA CBG presents: Tuesday Night Rides (TNR) B-Group Edition - Belle Haven This is an interesting urban route as we'll start in Shirlington and ride down Mt. Vernon Trail past the Woodrow Wilson bridge to Belle Haven park (water fountain / restroom). We will then come home through Old Town Alexandria, via the legendary hill "Medusa" and the King Street Climb back to Shirlington. * The "B" group will go out to Belle Haven Park and turn back with a total of 15 miles (12.5 miles if you decide to turn around at Jones point). We will be traveling on some streets in Old Town Alexandria so **riders must be aware & comfortable with vehicle surroundings!** This is the Medium level ride because we're going to keep a pace of 13-15mph on flat stretches (slower on hills) and the total distance is approximately 15 miles. This is a NO DROP ride so you will not be left behind but you are expected to try to keep a B-Group level pace (NFT 15mph). **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **++++++++++++++++++++** Shirlington Library 4200 Campbell Ave Arlington, VA 22206 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/GXU2cMAG7672](https://goo.gl/maps/GXU2cMAG7672) We will meet directly in front of the library by the fountains. **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **++++++++++++++++++++** We’ll head to Samuel Beckett’s after the ride for a drink and food. We sit outside so we can bring our bikes and keep an eye on them. Join us if you like! **++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **++++++++++++++++++++** NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best. * Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle). * Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved. * Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved. * Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved. Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations. **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Fine Print:** **++++++++++++++++++++** An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's: * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release " found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/ * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/ Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. NO exceptions. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. Again, no exceptions.

I try to arrive by 6:45! Arrive before me? There will be a reservation under Connor L. You can either ask the host in Sonny's or look for the silver table tent with my name written in green tape. -- Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. Bring your writing materials (such as a notebook or a charged laptop - outlets are limited.) And if you'd like to tune out other patrons at Sonny's or any overhead music, we recommend bringing headphones or earplugs. -- 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! When you show up, I will be sitting at a table with folded "Shut Up & Write" table cards. Say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! -- **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com). -- **Other Important Details:** **WiFi name/password:** Name - Sonny's/Doubles Guest; Password - pingpong **Travel / Parking info:** Sonny's is on the D40/D4X bus line and about a 15 minute walk from either the Columbia Heights or Georgia Ave/Petworth metro lines. There is limited on-street parking. **Venue Guidelines:** Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.

This is the sign you've been waiting for. Come write with us Sunday at 7:30 am at Kaldi's Social House in Arlington. Kaldi's opens at 7. Grab a coffee and join the group! We generally have 10 to 14 writers attend each week, and new folks are welcome to drop in anytime. Intros start at 7:30 am. We will write for one hour. After writing, feel free to debrief, share thoughts or get advice. Our meetups are a safe space for writers to work on their craft. No one will read or critique your writing. Kaldi's Social House website: https://www.kaldissocialhouse.net/ \* Resource \* Many thanks to Justin for putting together a shared file of resource discussed at the meetings. Feel free to add to it! [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/13LONNjZvsO5hEXM7NsBnWCgy3GgPgjAbQxE0lPxp7hc/edit?usp=sharing](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/13LONNjZvsO5hEXM7NsBnWCgy3GgPgjAbQxE0lPxp7hc/edit?usp=sharing)

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is significant for several reasons. ### What Makes It Special Even If You're Not Religious * The scale of the building is awe-inspiring. * The artwork and craftsmanship rival those found in famous European churches. * The chapels tell the story of immigrant communities that helped shape the United States. * It offers a rare combination of history, architecture, art, culture, and quiet contemplation in the heart of Washington, DC. Many visitors describe it as one of the most underrated attractions in DC because it combines the grandeur of a major monument with a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the city's busy museums and government buildings. * **The largest Catholic church in North America** and among the ten largest churches in the world. * **Home to more than 80 chapels and sacred images**, representing the diverse cultural and ethnic communities that make up the Catholic Church in the United States. * **Known for its breathtaking mosaics**, containing millions of pieces of colored glass and stone that cover walls, ceilings, and domes. * **A unique blend of Byzantine and Romanesque architecture**, making it visually distinct from the Gothic cathedrals many visitors are familiar with. * **Visited by multiple Popes**, including Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis. * **A national shrine rather than a local parish church**, meaning it serves as a place of pilgrimage for Catholics from across the United States and around the world. * **Dedicated to Mary, the Mother of Jesus**, under the title "Immaculate Conception," who is the patroness of the United States. * **Features one of the world's largest mosaic domes**, creating a remarkable visual experience even for visitors with no religious background. ### Join us for a casual visit to the Basilica. **Cost:** Free **Time**: 12:15 pm **Who can attend:** Everyone is welcome, regardless of faith background. Please dress respectfully for a place of worship.H

Join us for an evening meditation hike. This is part of a series of unique walking programs focused on methods to tap into your own quiet space. Learn to unwind from your day and listen to the sounds of nature, silence, and your inner wisdom as we take a peaceful walk through the park. Learn a simple yet powerful way to meditate and commune with nature to invigorate your mind, body, and spirit. Each session consists of: \*A Pre-walk "Intro to Meditation" to prepare you for the walk with suggested mediation techniques to use (from 5:30-5:45PM) * Walking in silence along the paths (approximately two miles from 5:45 – 7:15PM, with a brief break) \*A Post-walk reflection to journal and time for sharing (from 7:15 – 7:30PM) Cost is $10 This is a rain or shine event. 7 Days to live everyday as a Wellness Day ([http://www.renewandrecharge.com/7daystowellness/signupforteleconference.html](http://www.renewandrecharge.com/7daystowellness/signupforteleconference.html)) Visit us online at [http://www.frescoadventure.com](http://www.frescoadventure.com) Details for Hiking Adventures Please review the information below and call if you have any additional questions. If you need to make changes in your attendance, please call before 3PM on the program date. Always leave a number for me to contact you so that I may call you back if needed. WHAT TO WEAR: \*Comfortable, well-broken-in, sturdy walking shoes or ankle-high boots. * Protective clothing should include: \*Long comfortable loose-fitting pants * A cotton blend shirt provides for better perspiration and comfort \*Dress in layers for warmth and comfort WHAT TO BRING: \*Water canteen or bottle filled with water (at least 1 quart, bring what you feel you can carry or need to drink) * A journal or pad of paper to record your thoughts WHERE TO MEET: Smithsonian Metro Stop in Washington, DC (we will be near the grassy area on the mall once you come out of the metro) Directions: Metro Riders –Take the blue or orange line to the Smithsonian Metro Stop and take the Smithsonian exit (NOT the Independence Ave exit). We'll meet just outside of the station on the Mall. Drivers – Plan to meet the group at the Smithsonian Metro entrance). The street address of the Smithsonian Castle is 1000 Jefferson Drive, S.W., Washington D.C. For most drivers it can be accessed most easily from 14th Street, turning onto Independence Avenue or Jefferson Drive. Heading NORTH on 14th Street (from Virginia), this will be a RIGHT turn onto Independence Avenue. Heading SOUTH on 14th Street (from Maryland) this will be a LEFT turn to the Smithsonian Castle. There is a better chance of finding parking available on Independence Avenue behind the Smithsonian Museum than directly on the Mall. IMPORTANT: Your RSVP to his hike assumes the following Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility, and Release of Liability Fresco Adventures, a program of Fresco Enterprises, LLC is the sponsor of arrangements for this activity and is not responsible for any damage, loss, injury, or accident due to any act by the participants. Note: There are elements of risk in any activity associated with the outdoors and the use of any related equipment. Although precautions are taken to provide proper organization and suitable equipment so that you have a safe and enjoyable experience, there can be no guarantee of absolute safety against injury and accident. Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility and Release: I recognize the apparent risks of this activity which I and any minor children for which I am responsible, will engage in and confirm that I am mentally and physically capable of participating in the activity. I participate willingly and voluntarily, and I assume full responsibility for any personal injury. I hereby release Fresco Enterprises, LLC, its principals, agents, or volunteers from all liability and waive any claim for damage arising from any cause whatsoever.

Join Bold Spirit Travel for an all-women’s journey through the [heart of Provence. ](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/south-of-france-provence-2026) From charming villages and bustling markets, to lavender fields and coastal cliffs, this adventure blends history, art, food, and stunning landscapes. Your base is a boutique hotel in Aix-en-Provence, the perfect hub for exploring southern France. *\*We can only take 10 women on this trip.* **Highlights** * **Aix-en-Provence** – stroll cobbled streets, browse colorful markets, and enjoy lively cafés. * **Marseilles** – tour its historic basilica and meet traditional soap makers. * **Arles & Wine Tasting** – explore Roman ruins and sip wines at Mas Valériole estate. * **Lavender Fields** – capture the beauty of Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque. * **Cassis & the Calanques** – enjoy seaside scenery and an optional boat ride. * **St. Rémy** – wander the vibrant market and visit Van Gogh’s former monastery. * **Les Baux-de-Provence** – experience the dazzling immersive light show. * **Cabrières-d’Avignon** – discover lavender’s artistry at the Lavender Museum. **What's Included:** * 6 nights in a boutique hotel (shared occupancy; private upgrades available). * Expert Bold Spirit tour leader plus bilingual local guides. * Meals as listed in the itinerary. * Private ground transportation. * Pre-trip support: Zoom call, WhatsApp group, and packing guidance. **Why Travel With Us?** This Provence adventure is designed for women who love travel, culture, and connection. You’ll share meals, explore iconic sites, and enjoy the slower pleasures of the French countryside—with expert guidance and community every step of the way. **Pricing:** * **Trip Cost:** USD 5,885 * **Deposit:** USD 700 non-refundable (secures hotels and guides) Get in touch with us to set up a call and learn [more](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/south-of-france-provence-2026). Contact:[ https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact)

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!

Join us Tuesday (6/2) at 6:30 pm as we hike the Hundred Acre Woods in Westerville. This is a beautiful trail that is filled of hills and roots but a picturesque wooded landscape to hike. Wear your hiking boots if you have them. We will do 2 loops of the 1 mile trail.

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. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.