Wine Tours

Sierre Leone and Freetown, Liberia and Monrovia - **freedom country and freedom town** \- two destinations where slavery and emancipation take on a whole new meaning\, with one being the site of **African resettlement from Europe and the other from America**, these are lands of searing heritage. Sierre Leone’s Freetown, with its vast beaches along the peninsula, lively surfing culture, chimpanzee sanctuary among the rainforests, and nearby islands with decaying slave fortresses, or another with butterfly colonies and pygmy hippos! **Bunce Island**, where trading in gold, ivory, cane wood, and slaves in the tens of thousands was launched from a fortress all the way across the Atlantic to the Americas, where the vast majority of the slaves of the Antebellum south came from. Today it’s a ruin of old stone and rusty cannons but the memories of this place continue to haunt. Just a little bit American and kind of West African, **Liberia is unlike anywhere** you’ve been before, with mountains to climb, world’s most beautiful beaches to surf and swim, vast parks full of untouched wildlife, city scenes out of the American south, and founded as the homeland of freed American slaves, it’s a step off the map into Africa’s last frontier! Monrovia is a scene of stately ruins, like the **Hotel Ducor and it’s famous swimming pool**, or the Masonic Temple’s peeling paint, broad streets of plantation-style mansions and Antebellum architecture, a marked contrast to Freetown’s Portuguese influence. You’ll even find a few speakers of “Pidgin” English, if you listen carefully! **Let’s go!!** **Day 1 :: Arrival + Firestone, The Rubber Tree Forests** Liberia is the only country that has **never been either a colony or a protectorate**; it was founded by Krio, freed slaves who returned to Africa from the US, hence the name "**Liberia: the country of freemen"**. Krio make up 5% of the population and control a large part of the economy and politics; they are considered the creators of the nation and the modern economy. 80% of the population speaks the Krio language, which is a form of "Pidgin" English. Immigration clearance and proceed to on a rough road through a spectacular **rubber plantation forest called Firestone**, the largest contiguous rubber plantation in the world, located in Harbel, Liberia, which first opened in 1926. In the mid-1990s, former Liberian President Charles Taylor's soldiers, many of whom were children, raided the Firestone plantation for fuel and supplies. Firestone pulled its executives out and left the plantation, and many of the company's Liberian workers were later killed. After the civil war, the company revived its operations and is now back on track. After a tour of the plantation and the surroundings, head to our ecolodge for overnight stay. **Day 2 :: Libassa + Monrovia** Leisure morning in tropical idyll setting. For curious, exploration of the site in a **search for Pangolins** \- live a dream of Liberia's wild and unspoilt nature\. Later in a day\, its time to head to Monrovia city\. Check in to hotel, start exploring Monrovia, we’ll pass by many curiosities including the **Temple of Masonic Lodge**, the most significant symbol of the Krio culture and the abandoned **Ducor Palace Hotel** (or what remains of it), a former luxurious hotel with a swimming pool overlooking the ocean. We ll also learn about the Mende people and the Bundu Mask in the forests outside the city. Head back to our hotel in the evening for dinner and rest. **Day 3 :: Crossing to Sierra + Tiwai or Gola NP** Check out from hotel and head to Sierra Leone on slightly better roads towards the border. **Bye bye Liberia!** Further on the boats to Tiwai Island for some **monkey jumping, bird calls, and maybe a crocodile** or two. If we’re really lucky, we’ll spot the elusive Pygmy Hippo! \*On this day we may opt for Gola Rainforest National Park instead. **Day 4 :: Tacugama via Bo** After binch beans and some coffee, we’ll head out to the second capital of Sierre Leone, the bustling Bo before moving on to **Tacugama Chimp Sanctuary**, home to many chimpanzees who have become injured and need help returning to the wild. We’ll drive into the hills for a panorama of the city and charming sunset. **Day 5 :: Bunce and Tasso Island** Bunce Island, made famous for being the last stop on the slave trade before being sent off to the Americas. The island was declared a national monument in 1948. A major European commercial fort was built here during the slave trading era, serving as a meeting place for European traders and African merchants. Over 50,000 slaves—women, children, and aged men—were transited to the Americas. The trading of slaves, gold, ivory, and cane wood was prevalent during the 1800s, and many slaves sent to South Carolina and Georgia were traded on this island. See and feel the island by touching the history yourself. **Day 6 :: Banana island + Freetown City Tour** Morning set out towards Kent for Banana Island, where we spend half day **swimming and getting to know the local community**, explore the Portuguese influence, and learn the ways of the Krios peoples of this former slave island. After lunch, return to the city, start with visiting the National Museum and the Big Market, which operates daily. It is a covered market selling a range of crafts, bric-a-brac, traditional medicines, and mystical items. **Day 7 :: Crossing to Conakry** **Bye-bye Sierra Leone!** Early in the morning crossing to Guinea Conakry, check in to hotel, city tour. **Day 8 :: Isles de Los** We will end up our trip with idyllic escape to Iles de Los, tropical paradise of 3 islands, for some swimming, relaxing or just playing beach football with the kids. **Day 9 :: Departure back to Dubai** Its time to head to airport for return flight home, Bye Bye West Africa! **Grade:** Easy - available for everyone. **Activities:** Trekking, boating, swimming, sightseeing. **Accommodation & meals:** hotels and eco lodges - double sharing, meals excluded. **Cost: 8,900 AED** excl. flights. Cost valid until MAR 05. **Flights, approx. 5000 AED:** Day 1 DXB-ROB Ethiopian Day 9 CKY-DXB Emirates **Specifically excluded:** flights, visas, restaurant meals, single room supplement. **Visas:** **Sierra Leone:** E-visa 85 USD **Liberia:** Pre-arranged visa 110 USD **Guinea Conakry:** E-visa 85 USD See yah in West Africa x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

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

•45 AED including one DRINK 🍵/🍸 •Unlimited time and games •Free parking Admin: •Farah: 0555778561 Follow our Instagram page [https://instagram.com/winner_dinner0?utm_medium=copy_link](https://instagram.com/winner_dinner0?utm_medium=copy_link) TODAY'S WHATSAPP GROUP [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JtY1vnR2WTw8nyTdwu8dsk?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GybpupeYXqYLlaVaycvNyh?mode=hqctcla) Kindly note: Showing up without informing the admin or joining the WhatsApp group is strictly not allowed and could lead to a ban from the group. 🚫🚫

**🎾 Elevate Your Padel Game!** Whether you're a beginner eager to learn the ropes or a seasoned player aiming to polish your skills, our lessons cater to all levels of expertise starting from just 120 AED onwards per person. 🌟 Why Choose Us? 🌟 * **Learn from the best:** Our coaches bring years of experience and a passion for Padel straight from the heartlands of Argentina and Spain, renowned for honing the skills of numerous professional players. * **Tailored packages:** Schedule your lessons according to your preferred timing. * **Affordable rates:** Starting from just 120 AED onwards per person. * **Multiple venues:** Danube Sports World, ZY Padel & Fitness Hub, Champs Sports Club, and Padel Art. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to elevate your Padel skills! Feel free to reach out for any further information or to book your spot today. **💬WhatsApp us at +971585129190**

Sip & Paint Fridays in Dubai | Portræt Soirée Portræt Soirée Fridays is a relaxed, social Sip & Paint night set on the stunning terrace at Vida Emirates Hills, right by the pool. Every Friday at 7 PM, enjoy a unique art experience with live music, delicious bites, and all art materials provided. This isn’t a formal class — it’s a fun, social, creative evening where you can unwind, connect with others, and explore a new art theme every week. We mix it up with different formats, including games, challenges, and interactive art experiences, so no two Fridays are the same! 🎨 What’s included • All art materials • Guided but flexible portrait & creative art sessions • Delicious bites to enjoy during the session • Live music on the terrace • Interactive art games and weekly themes 🥂 Who it’s for • Beginners and experienced creatives alike • Anyone looking for a fun, social Friday activity in Dubai • Couples, friends, or anyone wanting a creative night out 📍 Location & Time Where: Vida Emirates Hills, terrace by the pool When: Fridays at 7 PM Duration: ~2 hours 💳 Pricing & Booking Price: AED 275 per person Special pricing for groups of 2+ RSVP required - spots are limited to keep the experience intimate. Join us for a weekly night of creativity, laughter, and expression - every Friday is a new adventure at Portræt Soirée!

Don't have a group, completely fine. badminton sessions for all levels.. Aed 45 for two hours, aed 28 for one hour come and play with us. teams will beade on levels to have exciting matched contact no +971 50 6658 933 join below WhatsApp group for regular updates. [https://chat.whatsapp.com/L5XeBmwIJ33GNRli4CF7Bc](https://chat.whatsapp.com/L5XeBmwIJ33GNRli4CF7Bc)

With over 8 years of successful parties... What are you waiting for??? RSVP & be on board!!! Meet new people on the yacht, socialize, play, enjoy great music played by a professional DJ, and have fun! FUN, FOOD, and DRINKS await you as you forget about your usual commitments and expectations! 😉😉 The trip consists of a yacht cruise from the new Dubai Marina Harbour, admiring the iconic sights of Dubai Marina, Atlantis, and the Burj Al Arab. **Yacht Features:** * Selected crowd: 60% women, 40% men * Music * Snacks and light bites Escape your usual life for a day! **TIMING:** 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM As per the description. We allocate 20 minutes for boarding, but no more. **All the following men/women are welcome:** * 21+ * Open-minded * Want to relax and escape usual commitments and stresses * Playful mentality * Social and conversationalists * Relaxed and willing to chill Full PAYMENT 💰💰💰 is required to RSVP. \**Entry Fee:* Gentlemen AED 500 + VAT https://buy.stripe.com/cN29CufQhgrP6jK28F Ladies AED 200 + VAT https://buy.stripe.com/eVa5me0Vn7VjbE46oZ Includes: * Light bites * 3 drinks per person * Additional drinks available for purchase ➡️ For information, contact Minna at 052 650 1454 If it’s your first time, please arrive on time to ensure you don’t get lost :) **IMPORTANT RULE ON TIMING:** If you RSVP, it is very important that you turn up or update your RSVP status at least 1 day prior to the event. If you RSVP and do not attend, it is unfair to those who are punctual. Please be mindful and only RSVP if you are confident you can make it. Otherwise, you will be permanently expelled from the group. SEE YOU SOON!

Step into a world of enchantment at our exclusive event, "Welcome to our Tea & Tête-à-Tête!" 🌺🫖✨ It's not just an event; it's a transcendental journey for the soul, a sanctuary where every woman can find solace, connection, and a sense of belonging. Picture yourself sinking into luxurious, velvety armchairs, a steaming cup of fragrant tea cradled in your hands, its aroma swirling around you like a comforting embrace. As you take that first sip, you'll feel an instant connection with the like-minded women around you, all seeking the same respite from the hustle and bustle of life. The atmosphere is filled with the gentle hum of heartfelt conversations, laughter, and the clinking of delicate teacups. You'll be captivated by the wisdom, stories, and experiences shared by fellow attendees, forging bonds that will last a lifetime. 😊🍵🌸 But it's not just about tea; it's about the magic that happens when women come together. We've meticulously crafted a safe haven where every woman's voice is not only heard but celebrated. Here, you'll find unwavering support, encouragement, and a sisterhood that uplifts and empowers. As you immerse yourself in this world of connection and camaraderie, you'll leave with more than just memories; you'll depart with a heart full of inspiration, renewed strength, and a smile that reflects the warmth you've experienced. 🌟💖✨ 📞 For more details and to secure your place in this extraordinary event, reach out to our dedicated organizer, Christina, at +971 50 750 8123. She is eager to assist you on this transformative journey! 🌟🌟🌟 Our Tea & Tête-à-Tête events have been hailed as transformative, and this one promises to be no different. With only 15 coveted spots available, don't wait too long to register! Click on the following link to reserve your place in this enchanting gathering: 🌟Registration is only possible via WhatsApp group.🌟 [https://chat.whatsapp.com/ByxxsfNp43hHkOkVGPUKZY](https://chat.whatsapp.com/ByxxsfNp43hHkOkVGPUKZY) Don't miss this rare opportunity to sip exquisite tea, engage in profound conversations, and connect with extraordinary women. Join us at Tea & Tête-à-Tête and let your spirit soar! 🌺🫖✨

Harboring the spirits of ancient Khmer warriors, vine covered temples deep in the jungles of Cambodia draw ghost seekers near and far, with whispers around every bas-relief and spooky shadows under moonlight silhouettes of centuries old towers of stone. **The largest religious monument in the world** is sure to hold secret tales of ghosts and ghouls with a few spectral sightings for those who know where to look! **We’ll dive deep into the jungles on bikes** with the mud splashing on our way to forgotten temples and Buddha’s face peeking out from overgrown vines, trees, roots and bushes. With monkeys howling hello along the way and waterfall swimming to wash off the dirt, we’ll reach our jungle-camp amongst the forgotten temples filled and ancient ghosts of a lost civilization. Built over 35 years with the aid of over **6,000 elephants and 300,000 laborers**, Angkor Wat is the most spectacular temple structure in the world, a symbol dear to Cambodia and a pilgrimage site for Buddhists all over the globe! Larger than the Vatican, older than the Taj Mahal, more stones used to construct than the Pyramids of Giza, and the backdrop for the **most stunning sunset, moonrise and sunrise you’ll ever see!** [https://vimeo.com/234219041](https://vimeo.com/234219041) **Let's go!** **Day 0 // MAR 15 :: Departure** Departure from Dubai via Bangkok. **Day 01 // MAR 16 :: Welcome to Siem Raep!** After traditional Khmer welcome ceremony, we’ll check-in to hotel, take rest and test drive our bikes to see sunset at Bakheng Mountain with a short hike to visit the temple atop for a sunset. Dinner tonight will be accompanied with classical Apsara dancers depicting scenes from Khmer mythology. Cycling 20 Km **Day 02 // MAR 17 :: Floating Village and Tonle Sap** After breakfast, we will ride to the enchanting temple of Banteay Srei, which is usually everyone's favorite site. The special charm of this temple lies in its remarkable state of preservation, small size, and excellent decorations. Next we will continue the ride to Kampong Khleng floating village to take the boat to the main lake of Tonle Sap Lake, then return to the our village built on stilts for an overnight. **Happy Cobra Soup will be served for dinner tonight!** Cycling 70 Km **Day 03 // MAR 18 :: Bang Mealea – Siem Raep** In the morning we wave goodbye to the house owner, then take the boat back to the mainland. Ride to visit the **Kampong Kdei Bridge, which is the longest centuries-old bridge** in the province. Then ride to visit Banteay Mealea Temple, which was built in the middle of the 12th century. Afterwards continue to have lunch at a local restaurant. Further on, we continue back to the city to prepare for **the optional** **night visit in Angkor Watt!** Enjoy speechless ambience, hear the whispers around every bas-relief and spooky shadows under moonlight silhouettes of centuries old towers of stone. *Do note optional visit of Angkor at night is a subject of special permit at extra cost.* Cycling 70 Km **Day 04 // MAR 19 :: Angkor & Neighbourhoods** After late breakfast we start a ride to Angkor Wat temple during the day light, for you to have fresh comparison. Continue to Bayon Temple, renowned for its unique and intricate stone carvings, especially the large stone faces that decorate many of its towers. Then we head to Ta Prohm, recognized for its beautiful bas-reliefs and carvings, partially collapsed and overgrown with fig trees. You will feel the sense of mystery and adventure, as we wander through the ancient stone structures intertwined with tree roots. The evening is free for leisure however you can **crash the traditional Khmer wedding** (optional). Cycling 30km **Day 05 // MAR 20 :: Koh Ker Group Temple** After breakfast we ride to Koh Ker, which was once an ancient capital of Cambodia. The Koh Ker complex is 35 meters high and its design resembles a seven-stepped stupa. The temple faces west towards Angkor city and was built to worship the god of happiness. We will stop for lunch along the way and in the afternoon, we will ride back to Siem Reap for a farewell dinner. Cycling 70 Km **Day 06 // MAR 21 :: Departure** In the morning after having breakfast, leisure or souvenir shopping until departure transfer. Bye, bye Cambodia! **Level of difficulty:** Easy to moderate **Activities:** cycling hiking sightseeing **Duration:** 6 days **Accommodation & meals:** 4\* hotel double sharing, 1 night homestay. Dinners excluded except arrival day and floating village. **Cost: 3,950 AED** excluding flights until MAR 05. **Flights:** [Emirates approx. 4200 AED](https://www.skyscanner.ae/transport/flights/dxba/sai/260315/260321/config/11182-2603152235--32348-1-27061-2603161240%7C27061-2603212350--32348-1-11182-2603220645?adultsv2=1&childrenv2=&cabinclass=economy&rtn=1&outboundaltsenabled=false&inboundaltsenabled=false&stops=!direct,!twoPlusStops). **Specifically included:** Support truck + mechanic, bottled water, snacks on the road, all sightseeing entrance fees, mountain bike and helmet. **Specifically excluded:** flights, visa cost, insurance, dinners, broken spares are subject to additional charge. Angkor at Night, subject of local government approval and fee of 150 USD. **Scooter option:** available at extra cost: you need to be a driver with at least driving license B. Scooters are automatic and take different route to bikes, covering the same destinations. Day 1 - 20km, D2 - 100 Km, D3 - 150km, D4 - 50km, D5 - 150 km. **Visas:** E-visa ([https://www.evisa.gov.kh/](https://www.evisa.gov.kh/)) Trekkup Crew [Whastapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/) [Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

PUBLIC PUB CRAWL: EVERY SATURDAY! Online booking is strongly advised prior to the Tour. You can make your reservation on **pubcrawldubai.com**, **INSTAGRAM @ Pub_Crawl_Dubai / Email: contact@pubcrawldubai.com / or WHATSAPP/CALL: +97150148 7537\*\*** **ALL EVENTS HAVE MANY OTHER REGISTERED GUESTS OUTSIDE THE MEETUP GROUP. REACHING US TROUGH OTHER PLATFORMS.** **Standard Ticket Price: AED195** Every Saturday, the one-of-a kind Pub Crawl Dubai brings he fun in town in trendy bars and clubs , with alway different groups and many surprises! Are you ready to be part of the new party saga in Dubai?! Be sure not to miss it cause it's HOT! We will take you on a journey around some of the most fun bars in Dubai with the help of our lovely crew and with many party-seeking guests! Enjoy VIP access to all venues! Get warmed up by our complimentary shots in each place! Socialize, drink and meet people from all over the world easily during 5 hours and in 4 venues. Enjoy the ride in our party bus between bars, with included music on demand, karaoke and much fun! **INCLUDED:** ➤ 4 venues (Business Bay, Al Barsha) ➤ 4 alcoholic shots included (1 per venue) ➤ DJs & Live Entertainment ➤ Private Bus transportation transfer between bars ➤ Microphones & karaoke inside the bus ➤ Table Bookings ➤ VIP access to all venues ➤ Group Photos & Videos ➤ Experienced Pub Crawl Guides Bring your good vibes and we'll take care of the rest! **IMPORTANT TO KNOW** ➤Smart Casual outfit highly recommended (no sportswear, beach clothing, flip flops, costumes, tank tops or sports/swim shorts) ➤Masks are mandatory to bring and wear in all public places, including the bus. ➤In case of an unlikely cancellation of the Event from our end, you will be notified at least a day before and a full refund will be processed. ➤If you have any drink allergies, serious medical conditions, flu or COVID-19 symptoms, are currently pregnant or suffer from agoraphobia, we strongly encourage not joining the event. For any important mentions, please inform us in advance ➤Any misconduct behaviors or law breakings will not be tolerated. Actions will be taken and the guest will be excluded/banned from the event with no refund. ➤For more information on our guidelines, please read our terms and conditions at: https://pubcrawldubai.com/terms-and-conditions/ Why walk when you can CRAWL??? 😜

**Jaw dropping moments** await travelers who reach the Northeast province of Cao Bang in Vietnam. **Jagged mountains, endless limestone karts, winding rivers and massive cascading waterfalls** will be the well-earned award for those who conquer the **windy, zig-zagged roads** and wobbly hanging bridges on scooter. The lush landscape will surprise you at every turn, but then… you feast your eyes on lush waterfalls the colour of emerald and jade. This is not a trip for the faint hearted or the comfort seeking. **This is raw, unfiltered, off the grid Vietnam,** where the roads are as untamed as the landscape they carve through. Sheer drops plummet hundreds of metres, hairpin bends that demand total respect, and suspension bridges that sway like acrobats over raging rivers. The Ha Giang – Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark and the remote borderlands of Cao Bang are some of **the wildest, least touristed mountain regions in Southeast Asia**. Here, the asphalt is often broken, gravel sections appear without warning, and the weather can flip from blazing sun to thick fog in minutes. **You will ride where Google Maps fears to tread**, through territory still dominated by H’mong, Tay, Dao and Nung villages that see more **buffalo carts than foreign scooters.** Renowned for **vast lakes and chalky karsts**, towering over the rugged landscapes of Cao Bang, the Ba Be National Park’s is a sumptuous valley carved from the flow of the Quay Son River. The serenity is dramatically broken when the **river reaches a 300 meter-wide limestone ledge**, and drops sharply down several terraces, creating the Ban Gioc Waterfall – one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural sights. **Ban Gioc breaks records** the world over for not only being the **largest waterfall in Asia**, but the fourth largest to run along a national border with a **width of over 250 meters and three cascade drops of 70 meters.** Separated into three falls by rocks and trees, Ban Gioc’s thunderous roar of the water hitting the cliffs **can be heard kilometers away.** Whether you pick a spot on a pebbly beach, a grassy bank, decide to perch on a boulder in a stream or lay in the curved trunk of a tropical tree –you will no doubt be moved by one of the **most romantic views Vietnam has to offer**. For those feeling extra adventurous we can even wander further up the side of the falls for even more spectacular views from the top of the cascades. It may sound like a dream, but it is in fact one of the **most picturesque parts of Asia**, and we can’t wait to see you there! **Lets go!** **Day 1: Arrival to Hanoi** Arrival, immigration procedure, transfer to hotel. Trip briefing, overnight. Optional sneak peek on local night life. **Day 2: Hanoi – Ha Giang - Quan Ba – Dong Van** Transfer to pick up our scooters. Following an orientation and safety briefing we begin our ride uphill to Quan Ba. As we ride we’ll soak in spectacular views of mountains and villages until we reach the ‘heaven gate’ in Tam Son. Hike around Quan Ba visiting the Twins Hill and the Nam Dam ethnic village of Dao, followed by lunch in Yen Minh – known for its local organic food. We then continue our ride uphill towards the Rocky Highland and Karst Plateau on the way to Dong Van, followed by a visit to the historic Vuong King’s Palace. **Day 3: Dong Van- Meo Vac** After breakfast we head out for a ride to Lung Cu Flagpole on the Chinese border. Road winds through multiple switchbacks climbing the backbone of a limestone ridge right on the Chinese frontier. You’ll ride past ancient stone forests, H’mong hill tribe hamlets with hemp fields, and the northernmost point of Vietnam marked by the Lung Cu flag tower, in complete silence except for your engine and the wind howling through the karsts. We then continue to ride through zig-zagged roads towards the Ma Pi Leng pass, where we stop for a unique 360° panorama of the river Nho Que between cliffs. Often called “Sky Path” it is actually a narrow ribbon of road chiselled into a vertical 1600 m cliff face above the turquoise Nho Que River. Locals call it “the place where even the horses tremble.” We then move on to the lively market town of Meo Vac. Tonight, we stay in a guest house. **Day 4: Meo Vac – Bao Lac** Exciting day ahead as although today’s road may be short, it’s windy and rugged. We’ll be going slow to ensure everyone’s safety. Drive to Ma Pi Leng Pass for some selfies with oh and ahh from the panoramic peak. The road from Meo Vac to Bao Lac is a forgotten masterpiece of the old “Happiness Road” (the hand-built cliff highway constructed by 1,300 young volunteers in the 1960s). Expect broken asphalt, loose gravel, blind corners, sheer drops, and stretches so narrow that two scooters can barely pass. We deliberately ride slow and in tight formation – safety first! After the pass, the road plunges into a hidden limestone canyon almost nobody talks about. Towering rock needles, wild corn fields clinging to 70-degree slopes, and tiny Lolo and H’mong villages that still use wooden water wheels. This stretch feels like riding through Jurassic Park on two wheels. Continue riding until we arrive at Bao Lac, where we’ll check into a comfy hotel. Late afternoon is free to explore the colourful local market or just kick back with a sunset drink overlooking the Gam River. After dark we hit Bao Lac’s surprisingly lively “people’s square,” think karaoke, 10-cent draught bevies, and locals who will insist on toasting every foreigner who rides in on a scooter. **Day 5: Bao Lac – Ban Gioc Waterfall** Today’s another long one, with a 130 km ride from Bao Lac to Cao Bang – renowned for its gorgeous landscapes and fresh cool air. A 40 km descent that runs through 27 numbered turns. The road hugs the Vietnam – China border so closely that at one point you’re literally riding with one wheel in each country. Emerging from the mist at the bottom reveals Ban Gioc in full roar, an explosive reward that feels earned with every twist of the wrist. **Day 6: Ban Gioc Waterfall – Hanoi** Ban Gioc waterfall is simply jaw-dropping... Welcome to Asia’s largest waterfall! We hop on traditional bamboo rafts piloted by local Tay families and drift to the foot of the cascades, metres from where Vietnam meets China. Feel the mist explode over you as 30-metre walls of turquoise water crash down. You can also can grab a kayak or simply strip down and swim in the natural pools right beneath the falls. The water is surprisingly warm, the current is strong, and the roar is deafening. In fact, **this is one of the very few places on earth where you can legally swim on an international border.** A short but steep trail leads to the upper ledge on the Vietnamese side for the ultimate postcard panorama: the full 300-metre width of the falls framed by jungle-clad karsts. After a late lakeside lunch of grilled fish and fresh herbs, we say goodbye to the borderlands. The scooters get loaded onto the support truck and transfer back to Hanoi in a van with several stops on the way. **Day 7:** **Hanoi** Well deserved rest - free time at leisure, late check out. Airport transfer for flight home after midnight **(on Day 8)**. Bye bye Vietnam! **Activities:** Riding, trekking, swimming, boating, sightseeing. **Accommodation & meals:** Local meals included during the ride, shared rooms in 3-star hotels and guest houses. Restaurant meals on transfers and in Hanoi excluded. **Scooters:** Automatic scooter bikes (Yamaha Nouvo Automatic 125CC or similar), truck support. **Van option**: available for non-riders. **Cost: 4600 AED riders, 4990 AED non-riders** until MAR 05. **Specifically excluded:** Flights, compulsory travel + medical insurance, visas, meals in Hanoi and meals on transfers, single supplement. **Flights:** Flights are not included in trip budget. Emirates EK 394 / EK 395 at 4300 AED. **Visas:** E-visa or visa upon arrival. Visa support available. See you in Cao x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 00971 50 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [docs@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

A fun way to compare wines from two different countries at a time. House Wine is squaring off two countries' wines against each other each Thursday in March. March 12, March 19, March 26, and the Finals April 2nd. Meet and Greet format....show up after 7pm, pay your $15 at the cash register, get your wine glass, and enjoy. I will get a table reserved for the group. Remember, you may bring in your own food or takeout. Attendance is your agreement to the Group's Waiver of Liability terms. See our Group homepage for details. Parking is tough at House Wine; there is a municipal lot one-half block north of the shop and sometimes parking at the lot behind Jet Pizza, accessed by the lane between the east House Wine parking lot and the residence to the east.

An elegant evening of blind chocolate tasting, accompanied by five diverse quality French wines. We will have an assortment of French cheeses and meats to accompany the wine. Co-hosted by Paris 75 and Dublin Toy Emporium, in Historic Downtown Dublin. Arrive at 6:30pm at Paris 75 for a glass of French sparkling wine to start your evening and other wines and food will be next door at Dublin Toy Emporium. Dress is business casual or cocktail dress. Details to follow. Estimated cost will be $40. Your reservation will not be firm until you Venmo or Zelle the Organizer. **Faire la Fête NV Brut Sparkling** (Crémant de Limoux) 90 Pts WE - Aromas of wet stone meet tart green pears on the nose of this sparkling wine. Beautifully structured, the palate is chalky and displays tart green apple, wildflowers and lemon pith flavors with a crisp finish. **2000 Château Piron Montagne-Saint-Émilion - Merlot - Cab. Sauv.** CT – 94 Pts - Medium ruby color intensity, with a slight browning on around the rim. Pronounced aromas and flavors of plum, cedar, mushrooms and earth. Tannins are slight at this point. Alcohol is moderate. Finish is moderately long. **2022 Les Sources de Montmiral – Gigondas** 91 Pts Jancis Robinson – Syrah 20% – Grenache 70% – Mourvèdre 10%. Soil: Very stony alluvial terraces and steep hillsides. Aroma: Bouquet of violets and red fruits in its youth, then evolving towards nuances of undergrowth, cloves and tobacco. Tannins: Velvety and soft. Taste: Fleshy palate. It gives a spicy and harmonious finish from the exceptional Terrior of the Dentelles de Montmiral Massif.

Enjoy a bit of Columbus culinary history at Carfagna's market, wine bar and ristorante. We will gather for a glass of wine or two in the wine bar at 6:30 with dinner at 7pm. Arrive early if you like, shop and place your items in a cooler in your car. This is a pay-on-your-own event. I will have a reservation for eight, and you are encouraged to get your own reservation at 7pm. Message me if you want to be on my table. Keep your reservation up to date as the Attendance and Release of Liability provisions are enforced, including the 48 hour No-Show Rule. See the first page of Group Page for details. Read about the history of Carfagna's here and also see their weekly specials. https://carfagnas.com/about-carfagnas/

Calling all founders, CEOs, lawyers, doctors, and entrepreneurs to join our special *Founder Edition* of Sip & Read meetup event. Let's sip on fine wine and discuss our first book **The 5AM Club- Own Your Morning Elevate Your Life, by Robin Sharma**. We will pair this book with our favorite wine at **Wine on High** and engage in thought-provoking discussions on startup businesses and entrepreneurship, and network with like-minded individuals in a cozy book club setting. Come prepared to discuss this month's book. At the end of each book club meeting, we will take next book and venue suggestions from the participants for the next meeting. Whether you are a book lover, women entrepreneur, or a content creator, this event is perfect for sharing ideas and insights with other funders and founders in the entrepreneurial world. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together. Sign up now to reserve your spot! *Fun fact! This meetup was established in 2015 and had over 1,000 members. I had to shut down operations while attending law school, but we're back!!*