Travel Writing

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 **7:00 PM on Wednesday evenings.** Edit: As of January 7, 2026, we will be back at Starbucks! 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. **We'll meet inside the coffee shop**. Please buy something to ensure we're welcome back. Sit down anywhere, but let me know you're here so we can introduce ourselves and check in before and after writing! (I'll be the one with the sign.) **SCHEDULE:** 7:00 - Quick introductions 7:20 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:20 - The End: chat, take off, or keep writing 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 Should I Bring?** Whatever you need to be able to write! Note that outlets are limited, so please make sure your devices are charged. Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block the overhead music or the conversation by other patrons. **Other Important Details:** Starbucks has WiFi. TRAVEL / PARKING: The shopping area is about a twenty minute walk from the College Park or P. G. Plaza/Hyattsville Crossing Metro Stations. There's also a bus stop right outside the shopping center on Baltimore Ave. Parking is free. SEATING INFORMATION: Seating is first come first serve. I'll try to grab a table, but be prepared to sit down anywhere. FOOD GUIDELINES: Tea, coffee, and light food are available at the coffee shop. Please thank our hosts by purchasing something to drink.

To secure your spot, purchase your ticket from the Eventbrite link ([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/language-exchange-happy-hour-and-friending-tickets-718774623247](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/language-exchange-happy-hour-and-friending-tickets-718774623247)). RSVPing only on the Meetup Page doesn't allow you to attend the Event. ADVANCE TICKET PURCHASE IS REQUIRED TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT. If the link doesn't work please Copy and Paste the Ticket link in Google to see it. ABOUT THE EVENT Venez apprécier l'ambiance chaleureuse d'une conversation en français autour d'un verre de vin et d'apéritifs à moitié prix. C'est ouvert à tous quelque soit votre niveau, que vous soyez débutant ou bien que le Français soit votre langue maternelle. It is irresistible, to enjoy French convo with half-priced appetizers, glass of wine and rail drinks. The Event is open to all levels of French language, from beginners to native fluency.

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.

It looks like a dive, and it is, but the food is incredible. The best Chinese dishes in town! The name is deceiving because they have so much more than noodle dishes. Here's their menu: [NoodleKingMenu](https://www.noodlekingrestaurant.com/NoodleKingMenu.pdf) I love their walnut shrimp, Hong Kong Fish and French Kew Beef and broccoli. Order your favorite Chinese dish and be surprised how good it is! They have beer and wine as well. All aboard mates!\~

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first international adventure, this trip is perfect for women who want to expand their horizons and create unforgettable memories. **Don't miss this opportunity where you're cordially invited to join us in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam!** **Join one of our monthly live Q&A calls to get your questions answered or visit our website for complete details and to book!** Website: [Over 30 & Overseas](www.over30andoverseas.com) **The Itinerary** **Day 1: Arrival to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam & Welcome Dinner** Your journey to Vietnam, begins with a warm welcome! Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our friendly representative and whisked away in comfort to your hotel. Unwind in the stylish surroundings of your 8 day oasis. Take a moment to freshen up and explore the hotel’s amenities. As the sun begins its descent, gather with your fellow travelers for a delightful welcome dinner. **Day 2: Guided Tour of Ho Chi Minh City + Lunch** Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of the city's history and culture. Your knowledgeable guide will meet the group at the hotel and escort us on a fascinating exploration of Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous landmarks and markets. Lunch will be included. **Day 3: Street Food Tour** Get ready to tantalize your taste buds on a thrilling culinary journey through the heart of Ho Chi Minh City! Our mode of transport will be on the leisurely charm of a cyclo ride. **Day 4: Visit Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta + Lunch** Upon arriving at the Cu Chi Tunnels, delve into the heart of history as you explore the underground network that played a crucial role in Vietnam’s struggle for independence. After this thought-provoking experience, journey to the enchanting Mekong Delta, a verdant paradise renowned for its floating markets and idyllic waterways. Savor a delicious lunch as you immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture and natural beauty. **Day 5: Free day to explore.** **Day 6: Visit Can Gio & Mangrove Forest + Lunch & Dinner** Once in Can Gio, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter playful monkeys in their natural habitat and visit a crocodile farm to learn about these fascinating creatures. A thrilling speedboat ride through the mangrove forest will take you to a hidden Vietnamese base, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich history. As the day winds down, head to the beach for a chance to unwind and enjoy the coastal atmosphere. **Day 7: Visit Landmark 81 & Dinner On A Cruise** In the afternoon, ascend to new heights at the iconic Landmark 81, Vietnam’s tallest building. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city or indulge in some retail therapy at the building’s upscale shops. As the sun begins to set, prepare for a magical evening aboard a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. **Day 8: Check Out & Depart Ho Chi Minh City** Enjoy private transportation to the airport. **What's Included:** * **8 nights & 7 days:** Centrally located 4 or 5 star hotel. * **VIP Private Roundtrip Ground Airport Transfers:** Travel comfortably and directly to your hotel with our hassle-free transportation service. * **In-Destination Transportation:** We’ll provide convenient roundtrip ground transportation for all included activities and excursions. * **7 Breakfasts:** Fuel your adventures every morning. * **4 Lunches & 3 Dinners:** Indulge in select menus of a variety of delectable Vietnamese cuisines for lunch and dinner. * **Connect and Engage:** Engage in a Q&A, and get acquainted with our host during 2 warm welcome video conference calls scheduled before the retreat. **What's Not Included** * **Your round-trip flight/airfare** * **Snacks, Meals and drinks that are not mentioned** * **Alcoholic beverages** * **Visa** * **Ground transportation not mentioned** * **Personal, medical or trip cancellation insurance** (highly recommended!) * **Tips and gratuities for meals and anything not mentioned in inclusions** * **Taxi transport and entrance fees** for any private, individual trips that are not included in the itinerary. * **Souvenirs, phone calls, spa services, taxis, ride shares, laundry, etc.** * **Items of Personal Nature.** * **Anything not mentioned in previous tabs.** For complete retreat details visit [Over 30 & Overseas](https://over30andoverseas.com/vietnam/). Join our New [Facebook Group](http://www.facebook.com/groups/over30andoverseas/) [Sign Up](https://over30andoverseas.com/meetup/) To Our Mailing List

D.C.'s tourist buses ply a small, predictable circle around the monumental downtown. D.C.'s Metrobuses, on the other hand, make a dramatic sweep around the whole city. Join us for the better of the two rides! We'll start at beautiful transit hub Union Station, take the D80 up to Tenleytown in Upper Northwest; then the crosstown C81 across the park to Ft. Totten; and finally the D30 down North Capitol street to return to Union Station. We'll have lunch in the station's food court. Bonus: travel bingo cards will be distributed for those who want even more from their transit outing! Hope you all can make it!

Join our monthly writer meetup to share ideas, socialize, kick off your creativity, and write something! To find us, either take the stairs or elevator to the fourth floor, following the signs for the conference center. We'll be in room 401-A. All writer levels are welcome; we're all about building community and confidence. If you have any questions, please email us! (writingheptagon@gmail.com)

**Founded as D.C.’s neighborhood for the wealthy, and long the sites of foreign embassies and espionage, Embassy Row and Dupont Circle are a center of architecture, statesmanship—and intrigue. Take a walk into the exciting past and alluring present of this world-renowned locale!** **We'll explore the sites featured in our Embassy Row-based spy thriller, Femme Fatalité, and tell many other astonishing tales:** **[https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0](https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit%C3%A9-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExc3VRSmRVM3QxbHVZSzZsbgEemjNuhGEciLMi7f7uOHXsj3Ncsd15ldSDt61f_uXmEvTBkmkQkqsnQHp89YQ_aem_TARtU1K3sAdVb3iGsqpMPQ)** **MEET at the Dupont Circle fountain, 21 Dupont Cir NW Washington, DC 20036.** **When: Friday, April 24, 5:30 pm!** **Length: c. 2 hours.** **Fee: Starts at $22.** **Pre-Register and Pre-Pay at—** **Eventbrite:** **https://www.eventbrite.com/e/secrets-of-embassy-row-mysteries-behind-the-mansions-tickets-1987774399739?aff=oddtdtcreator** **Or PayPal, sending $23 to: paypal.me/EMoser460** **Or pay $22 in cash at the start of the tour.** **Nearest metro stop: Dupont Circle.** **We’ll draw from this action-packed itinerary!:** **· How American agents stole intel from an enemy embassy** **· Vanished, and preserved, mansions of the Gilded Age** **· The site of the worst terrorist attack in D.C. history** **· The first steamboat voyage—in Rock Creek Park!** **· The home of a cursed diamond** **· The architect of Dupont Circle, and the Lincoln Memorial** **· A new spy novel set along Embassy Row and Georgetown** **· Dueling statues of a great imperialist and a great anti-imperialist** **· The first airplane pilot** **· The murderer who impersonated an Iraqi general** **· The inventor who revolutionized farming** **· Where the Attorney General, and a future President, were nearly bombed to death** **· The site of the murder of a ranking foreign diplomat** **· The astonishing influence of the DuPont family on American history** **· Cavalry duel--General Sheridan vs General Stuart** **· The traitorous spy of a valued ally** **· The secret espionage tunnel** **· George Washington’s private club** **· And Washington, D.C.’s even more exclusive club** **· Dupont Circle’s craziest house** **· The lady mogul of the media** **· The Confederacy’s retirement home** **· Statues of famed leaders from Turkey, Czech Republic, India….** **· America’s greatest hero—and villain** **· The suicide that spun off from a great tragedy** **· A President’s ghost** **· Museum of a brewer who outlasted Prohibition** **· The most qualified man to be President--who was never elected** **· And more!** **Your guide is a former writer for the “Tonight Show”, and ex-White House speechwriter, and author of the new historical novel, based on actual World War II espionage in Embassy Row and Georgetown, Femme Fatalité:** **[https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel/dp/B0F5NPSKDS/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FFemme-Fatalit%C3%A9-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel%2Fdp%2FB0F5NPSKDS%2Fref%3Dtmm_pap_swatch_0%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExc3VRSmRVM3QxbHVZSzZsbgEemjNuhGEciLMi7f7uOHXsj3Ncsd15ldSDt61f_uXmEvTBkmkQkqsnQHp89YQ_aem_TARtU1K3sAdVb3iGsqpMPQ&h=AT2L7wAmbpyO2oYeR7L25R66iqrMEoNcjbe1HB4NmqpZxLDETLwlvKC-QDSPHnGzkr2hP_CEgrAZaNEOMRQ_9yIHmOcXQT8Alka4mnS5bNj4Ix5odYjSC-_XPmHj6MFEXa7YwABcxFtMZYymNQ&__tn__=-UK-R&c%5b0%5d=AT1W3otwwvr3TLuWfMCqkXwwAxzbs2I9hmM15ZMK529m4JwnLSFGikFNVBYpOrbQPLhTZnERyTuIKlKseh5L3i0k9Qy7QhVx3Y4TA5lQxojL565xUXKXUfeioYniYqXXxCJUzG71w8brEYFWjyFj1eH7cgReZhrI5nrbdSxC6CuWGBO3K5_sLqCp-jpKIpotAYKyV7lLMIX8mBG2AtKf3cWJV7InEzMf)** **He is also author of the book The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood:** **[https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0](https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0)** **And a forthcoming book on the history of Georgetown.** **MEET at the Dupont Circle fountain, 21 Dupont Cir NW Washington, DC 20036.** **The Dupont Circle metro is nearby.** **Think history is boring? Not on this tour!** **Join us on the tour of a neighborhood steeped in history, beautiful buildings, and foreign intrigue!**

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, April 22 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'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 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 want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Let’s meet and share our thoughts about Carson McCullers’ novella, The Ballad of The Sad Café.

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!

Details Let's join together for a fiesta! (Invite friends - we have lots of room!) Taco Bar Margarita and Beer tasting Complementary chips and salsa Margs/cocktails at the bar for purchase Freshly prepared snacks in the deli for purchase Festive Band/Music Margaritas/Mexican Beer Tasting + Taco Bar: $15.00 per person (covers 4 Margarita or beer samples and one pass thru the Taco Bar) Where: #MarketDistrict (Grandview Yard) location. The party room (our private space) will be decorated with both patios open! Adjoining upstairs area also open for over flow and mingling. After Party: Sometimes, we head to a venue to hear live music afterwards. LDNL is at Black Swan in Hilliard tonight! Wear your bright colors and cheerful !Salud!