Travel Writing

**Please read entire post!** Let's go to Europe Together! 🇫🇷🇩🇪🇮🇹🇪🇸 Join us for one of DC’s most exciting cultural events—Embassy Day. On May 9th, the European embassies open their doors to the public! Experience food, culture, music, and architecture from across Europe—all in one day. ⚠️ Important: You MUST Choose a Team Please use this sign up sheet to sign up for your TEAM: [https://grasshoppersignup.com/s/uukcb3](https://grasshoppersignup.com/s/uukcb3) To make the most of the day (and avoid long wait times), we’re organizing into four breakout teams, each starting at one of the most popular—and more distant—embassies: 🅰️ TEAM A **(arrive at 9:30am)** – France 🇫🇷 (Start your day here) Then continue to: Croatia 🇭🇷 Greece 🇬🇷 Estonia 🇪🇪 Latvia 🇱🇻 Portugal 🇵🇹 Bulgaria 🇧🇬 Luxembourg 🇱🇺 Cyprus 🇨🇾 🅱️ TEAM B **(arrive at 9:30am)**– Italy 🇮🇹 (Start your day here) Then continue to: Croatia 🇭🇷 Greece 🇬🇷 Estonia 🇪🇪 Latvia 🇱🇻 Portugal 🇵🇹 Bulgaria 🇧🇬 Luxembourg 🇱🇺 Cyprus 🇨🇾 🅲 TEAM C **(arrive at 9:30am)**– Germany 🇩🇪 (Germany will be hosted inside the embassy of France). Then continue to: Croatia 🇭🇷 Greece 🇬🇷 Estonia 🇪🇪 Latvia 🇱🇻 Portugal 🇵🇹 Bulgaria 🇧🇬 Luxembourg 🇱🇺 Cyprus 🇨🇾 🅳 TEAM D **(arrive at 9:30am)** – Spain 🇪🇸 (Start your day here) Then continue to: Croatia 🇭🇷 Greece 🇬🇷 Estonia 🇪🇪 Latvia 🇱🇻 Portugal 🇵🇹 Bulgaria 🇧🇬 Luxembourg 🇱🇺 Cyprus 🇨🇾 🕘 Game Plan Each team will start in the morning at their starting embassy to beat the crowds. Its important that you arrive around 9:30 AM, because lines will start to form. After your starting location, you’ll follow your team route and explore the other embassies listed above. 🚗 Transportation Note Please Note: The embassies of France, Germany, Italy, and Spain embassies are farther away from the main cluster of embassies. We made them our starting embassies, because they usually have the longest lines, so if we start our day there, we can possibly avoid the lines, if we get there early enough. 🚕 We strongly recommend taking an Uber/Lyft to get from your starting embassy to the other embassies. 🚗 You can all share an Uber ride from the starting embassies and split the cost among each other. 📢For Example if you're starting off at the French embassy and you finish, then you will need to uber to downtown DC to visit all the other embassies on the list. ✅️These four embassies (France, Germany, Spain and Italy) are some of the most popular stops of the day. Starting early helps us avoid long lines and cover more ground. Let’s explore Europe right here in DC 💗

is is an In-Person Writing Event at Three This is an In-Person Writing Event at Kaldi's Social House in Clarendon! Please join us. This is not a critique session or discussion event. If you're interested in attending one of our regular meetings to discuss the art and craft of writing or to review another's work, please join us for a regular meeting on Wednesdays from 7p-9p.

///reheat.swirled.shoelaces <- What3Words app https://what3words.com/reheat.swirled.shoelaces From the parking lot, the Group heads to the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center and crosses the bridge over the C&O Canal in a northerly direction toward the Washington Aqueduct Observation Deck overlook. The Group heads south down the trail to the Great Falls Overlook on Olmsted Island Overlook to photograph the Potomac River waterfalls, kayakers, great blue herons, and other birds. That trail takes the Group across a couple of waterfalls, where great shots are taken. The estimated full walk is two miles (3.2 kilometers). At the end of this field trip, the Group typically has breakfast at the Tally Ho Restaurant, 9923 Falls Rd, Potomac, MD 20854 - tallyhorestaurant.com. Bring water, a tripod, comfortable shoes, fully charged batteries, and empty memory cards By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I agree to abide by the rules and regulations (where applicable) of the event location, and I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

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/JFESzopY1OgJ5z4r3RINfL)] 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.

FreeWrites are casual gatherings of writers of ALL skill levels. Whether you are working on a manuscript, journaling, blogging , or are someone who only takes pen to paper when writing grocery lists...this is for everyone! How Does It Work? With Natalie Goldberg's guidelines and a set of guided writing prompts, we write. Sharing is optional. There is no critiquing, commenting, or suggestions made. Hope to see you there! Atwater's in Catonsville. Every Monday at 10 am "I can shake off everything as I write, my sorrows disappear, my courage is reborn." Anne Frank \*Join us in the meeting room behind Oca Mocha's Cafe in Arbutus. There is plenty of nearby outdoor parking. Outside food or beverages are not allowed. You may support Oca Mocha (our meeting location) with your food and beverage purchases during our meeting, though it is not required. \*\*Please RSVP so that we know to expect you. There is limited seating in the Oca Mocha meeting room. Thank you

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 Buddhist Kingdom of the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan, boasts of ancient monasteries, towering fortresses, dramatic scenery of mountain peaks, valleys, and subtropical plains, and a soft and tranquil ambiance throughout the country. Nepal is the home of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. A trip to Nepal will never be complete without soaking in the view of the sunrise amidst the towering snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Take a plunge into the world of ethnic groups who take pride in their vibrant art, culture, religion, history, and expression in Nepal, located between the two landlocked countries, China and India. Highlights Visited Places: • Kathmandu • Paro • Thimphu • Buddha Point • Punakha • Chime Lhakhang • Hongtsho • Taktsang • Tiger’s Nest Monastery • Kichu Lhakhang • Pashupatinath Temple • Boudhanath • Swayambhunath • Patan • Chitwan National Park • Pokhara • Nagarkot Travel Experience: • Sightseeing tours in Kathmandu and Pokhara • Hiking • Visits to Buddhist monasteries, temples, and pagodas • Local festivals and performances • Interaction with the Tibetan community • Long picturesque drives • Wildlife activities like elephant safari, canoeing, bird-watching, and jungle tours • Entertaining Tharu Dance performances • Paragliding • Witnessing the sunrise at the peak of Mount Everest Tour Start KathmanduTour End Kathmandu Destination Nepal - Bhutan Flights • Arrival: Day01 before 6pm • Return: Day012 anytime after 6am Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) – Kathmandu Itinerary Day01 Kathmandu Day02 Paro – Thimphu Day03 Thimphu – Punakha Day04 Punakha – Paro Day05 Paro Day06 Kathmandu Sightseeing Day07 Chitwan National Park Day08 Chitwan NP Day09 Pokhara Day10 Pokhara Day11 Nagarkot Day12 Kathmandu Cost: $3100 (Double Occupancy) $3690 (Single Supplement) Inclusions Price Includes * Flight to Paro and Back from Kathmandu * Visa Fees * Govt.fee $250 per Day for Foreign Nationals * Private transportation. * All necessary travel permits * English speaking local guide. * Accommodation on twin room basis. * Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees as per the itinerary * Meal plan: Full Board Basis * All transport by privet car and driver * All accommodations in Chitwean/Pokhara/ **BB** Plan * Guided tour in Chitwan as per itinerary * Sightseeing in Pokhara * Sightseeing in Kathmandu * Mt. Everest Sunrise activity – Nagarkot * Full board Chitwan Jungle Safari package **BLD** * All necessary government taxes including VAT * All necessary monument entrance fees and Chitwan national park permits * Paragliding flight in Pokhara ($90 Off if you want to skip this activity) Price Excludes * International Flights * Meals (other then mentioned above) * Personal Expenses * Tips and gratuities (allow $50) * 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/bhutan-nepal-paro-thimphu-kathmandu-pokhara/](https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/bhutan-nepal-paro-thimphu-kathmandu-pokhara/) Questions? Text / Call - 2023787696 - Himanshu - Organizer

Come join us on this special Mother's Day walking tour of America’s most historic park, Lafayette Square, D.C.! e’ll focus on fun and uplifting stories about the Square’s many heroines and inspiring events. (As well as a few femme fatales.) And tell the general history of the locale. When: Sunday, May 10, 4 pm! Where: MEET in the grand lobby of the Willard Hotel, 1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 PrePay and Pre-Register at: Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mothers-day-tour-of-dcs-heroines-tickets-1988121821888?aff=oddtdtcreator Or, PayPal, sending $22 to savvyveteran@gmail.com via: https://www.paypal.com/us/home Or, pay $22 in cash at the start of the tour. The tour will draw on stories from the guide’s book, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood: https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Secret_History_of_the_Capitol/NaC-zQEACAAJ?hl=en Our fun itinerary will select from: • The capital's newest and most inspiring memorial • The “miracle mansion” that saved the Mayor’s sister • How an enslaved grocer founded a family dynasty that ended segregation • How an intrepid First Lady saved the Constitution and the Declaration • The hilarious political fundraiser that gave us the terms “Big Cheese” and “Mammoth” • How a future First lady saved the family of Lafayette! • The benign, mysterious ghosts of St. John’s Church • Where a most famous anthem was written • Female spiritualists and ladies' seances • Where a most famous speech was authored • The woman who wrecked an entire presidential Cabinet • Camels, bears, and sheep about the Executive Mansion • The First Lady who saved Lafayette Square • The most eligible women in the nation's history • How an opera diva brokered civil rights • The wildest, most fun Inauguration of them all • The most effective lady spy of America's largest war • A famed author’s moving tribute to his deceased wife • How Southern bankers and Northern belles conspired to save Mt. Vernon • The most effective female spy of the world's greatest war • Presidential humor • How Mrs. Grant escaped death • How a humble washerwoman helped rebuild the District And more! Your host is a former Presidential speechwriter and “Tonight Show” writer, and author of such books on history as: Femme Fatalite: https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 We'll wrap up in time for you to take your mom to dinner. This tour makes for a great gift, and is a sure-fire way to further spice up a festive day!

Social Sips & Bites family - this is the kind of day we do best. Easy, fun, and full of connection. We’re taking things to the water with a full afternoon of cruising, exploring, eating, and just enjoying the moment together. No stress, no rush… just good vibes and great people from start to finish. ⸻ **MEET UP — 12:00 PM** L’Enfant Plaza (D & 7th St Exit) Metro: Orange, Blue, Silver Drive: 400 7th St SW (free parking on Sunday nearby) ⸻ **THE RIDE 🚤** We’re cruising the Potomac together Wharf → Alexandria: 12:45 – 1:15 Alexandria → Wharf: 5:00 – 5:30 **Round Trip: $44** Grab your ticket: https://share.google/MR4rRnrVghl6t56e8 ⸻ **ALEXANDRIA VIBES** 🍕🍦 We step off the boat and the day just flows 1. Walk the waterfront. Take in the views 2. Andy’s Pizza — one of the best slices around https://share.google/TOnyMxiqTkhTYGXBF 3. Before heading back… Pop’s Old Fashion Ice Cream https://share.google/hWiZ8i8M06mayPbxM ⸻ This is one of those effortless, perfect SSB days Sunshine, water, food, laughs, and that signature SSB energy

(Bus hike) Wildflower Hike III: Enjoy the Springtime in Shenandoah Forest. This hike includes wildflowers, wonderful views, a peaceful waterfall, and bright blue skies (we hope). Long hikers start at the intersection of Dickey Ridge trail at Skyline Drive and follow Dickey Ridge trail to Fox Hollow trail, where they will ponder an old cemetery as they loop around to Dickey Ridge trail. Meanwhile Moderate hikers start at the Dickey Ridge Visitor center and go south on the Dickey Ridge Trail. They join long hikers at Fox Hollow trail and all hikers follow Dickey Ridge trail to Sneed Farm Road. Moderate hikers cross the road and continue on the Dickey Ridge trail, passing views of the Shenandoah valley below. Long hikers will go left on Sneed Farm Road and take the Snead Farm Loop Trail, passing farm ruins on their right, as they loop around to the Dickey Ridge trail where they will join moderate hikers. All hikers will continue on the Dickey Ridge trail to a parking lot where they will go down the gravel road to Lands Run waterfall about a half mile from Skyline Drive. After enjoying the waterfall, all hikers backtrack on the Dickey Ridge Trail to the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center. Est.: 12.0 miles, 2200 ft. elevation and 8.5 miles, 1400 ft. elevation. There are optional hikes that include an Extra Long hike of 14 miles and shorter moderate hikes ranging from 0-7.5 miles. PATC map 9. Fare: $33 plus park fee or pass. VA Hikes. ***Map and hike description are posted under Photos*** **[DC: Near 17th and K St. NW](https://bit.ly/17thandKnu)** downtown (east side of Farragut Square). Bus leaves at 8 a.m. SHARP, so it's essential to arrive well before 8 am. * **[Vienna Metro: NORTH parking lot](http://bit.ly/vienna-bus)**, last bus shelter (Nutley St. Exit off Interstate 66 on North/Vienna side of I-66) at approximately 8:25 a.m. Park at 9486 Virginia Center Blvd, Vienna, VA 22181 * * Caution: The "south" parking lot also has bus shelters. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of Wanderbirds hikers, you may be in the south lot. There's a walkway that passes the fare gates over I-66 to the north lot. **RESERVATIONS** Wanderbirds Hiking Club is a 501(c)(7) non-profit, and the public is invited on all hiking trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Saturday, but reserving as early in the week as possible helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number and where you'll be boarding the bus. Space permitting, walk-ons are permitted at the second pick-up point. Your hike fee will be paid to one of the hike leaders in either cash or check (we're working on Venmo / Zelle). **FIRST-TIME HIKERS** If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you need. Hikers must be able to keep a 2-mph pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike. Liability Waiver: Many of our hikes take place in remote wilderness areas where cell phone service is not available. Any person participating in any Club activity is responsible for their own safety, health and welfare, and must assume all risks and liabilities related to all Club activities. The Club, its hike leaders, hike sweeps, officers, and other representatives are not liable for any injuries, losses, or damage to persons, children, pets, and/or property, arising from any trips or activities of the Club. You are responsible for bringing enough water, food, and first aid supplies, including those for your personal medical conditions. **CANCELLATION POLICY** Cancellations sometimes play havoc with our hiker accountability as the hike leaders print out the rider list from the MeetUp sign-up website. If the RSVP is not complete or up-to-date, neither is our check-in list. To cancel and receive a full bus hike refund, less the MeetUp $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on the MeetUp website before NOON on the Friday **before the hike**. If you change your RSVP afterwards, no refunds will be issued. While Metro/carpool/trailhead hike cancellations will not be issued a financial refund, hikers on either bus or trailhead hikes are implored to change their Meetup RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at either bus stops or the trailhead. **COVID, RSV, or seasonal FLU precautions** . . . Anyone experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory illness should not attend the event. MORE DETAILS -- [SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](http://www.wanderbirds.org/faq.html)

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!

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 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."

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 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. 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:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. 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! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

*We can only take 13 women on this trip.* **The details...** Immerse yourself in the wild splendor of Scotland on this exclusive **women’s 8-day hiking** adventure. Misty moors, heather-clad hillsides, verdant glens, and ancient castles steeped in folklore will fill your camera roll by the end of this trip. ***Learn more about this all women journey here: [Highlands](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)*** **A guided adventure:** Guided by experienced locals, explore the untamed hills of Glencoe and the Cairngorms during invigorating day hikes. Each evening, unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences, forging friendships and savoring Highland hospitality. This is more than a hiking trip. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich history and traditions. Learn about women-led crofts and take a loch plunge while wild swimming (followed by a steamy sauna). **What to expect...** * Hike in Scotland’s rugged Highlands and experience green Glencoe. * Visit a medieval castles and historic stone villages. * Soak up the history of Edinburgh’s city center. * Indulge in delicious and plentiful Scottish cuisine, including fresh seafood, local beer, and hearty breakfasts. * Traverse heather-clad landscapes while giving your body a good workout. (You must train for this trip.) * Enjoy restorative stays at beautiful hotels. **Wait, there's more...** * Bask in the beauty of the Cairngorms. * Hike with other Bold Spirit women who love to travel as much as you do. * Learn about rewilding and women-led crofting. * Shop along the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh. * Take the plunge into a loch for wild swimming and a shoreline sauna experience. * Stretch both your mind and hamstrings on this special journey. The best part? Our team **takes care of the logistics** so you can focus on enjoying a much needed vacation in beautiful Scotland. Are you ready to meet other women who love to hike and travel, plus see Scotland with professional guides? ***Learn more about this all women tour here: [2026 Hiking the Highlands Journey](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)*** * Ask us questions here: [Tell me more about this trip](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact) * Learn about Bold Spirit Travel [here](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/about). * Rates start at $6195