Getting Back Out There: (Re)Discover Your Home Abroad

This month, our members set out to (re)discover the places they live. The explored the streets of their city or ventured outside of the concrete jungles to enjoy the great outdoors.

From street food festivals and museum to bike trips and hikes in surrounding areas as well as exciting and unusual venues, there was a lot to see and learn. Take a look at the event highlights in May.

Rediscover Your City

The Athens Languages and Cultures Group explored the local street food festival in the heart of the city. Members met at Amaxostasio in Gazi to enjoy different meals from around the world. It was a great opportunity to get outside, meet friends, and have a great time.

On Sunday, 8 May the Helsinki Museums and Exhibitions Group got together for a guided tour of the Aalto house and studio. They learned more about the life and work of world-famous Finnish architect and designer Alvar Aalto.

Members joined a walk to remember with the Budapest Special Moments Group. Together, they explored times past along Andrassy Avenue, with a visit to St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Opera House. On the way, members walked past beautiful villas and learned about the life of the aristocracy of the 19th and 20th century.

On 12 June, the Paris & More Group will meet at Versailles to get immersed in the world of King Louis XIV. When it came to the gardens, the Sun King left absolutely nothing to chance. Learn the secrets of the gardens on this guided tour! Afterwards, you’ll have the chance to socialize and explore the grounds of Versailles.

Explore the Outdoors

On 1 May, the Beijing Explorers Group put on their running shoes to explore the forbidden city on foot. This night run was suitable for runners of all levels, and it was a great opportunity to rediscover Beijing.

Members in Aarhus currently have a lot of opportunities to get active with the Aarhus Outdoors Group. Members got together for a hike to (and around) Himmelbjerget, the highest mountain in Denmark. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy the view, and everyone had a great time socializing and enjoying the sunshine. On 22 May, there’s another opportunity to explore the outdoors: the group will meet for a canoe trip.

The Hong Kong DinnerNations Group ventured away from the city center to Long Ke Wan Bay for a hike, lunch, and dinner. The group explored the beautiful surroundings and beach before gathering at a restaurant for dinner.

The Taipei Outdoor & Sports Group explored Taiwan’s most eastern cape on a fantastic bike trail. The excursion included a 4 km ride along the beach to enjoy the beauty of their destination, and, of course, a stop at a snack market for ice cream and cold drinks.

Visit Exciting Venues

Expats in Thailand who want to experience an unusual venue should join the Bangkok Nightlife & Drinks Group on 27 May. Group members will head to a speak-easy, tucked behind a vinyl record store. Located on the 30th floor, and designed to look like a recording studio, the bar is not only a great place to meet, but it also boasts amazing views of the city.

The Turin Art & Culture Group is getting out of the city on 22 May for a trip to Canavese. After a guided walk through the vineyards and a visit to a wine cellar, the group will head to Agliè for a tour of the castle which is also one of the residences of the Savoy family and a UNESCO world heritage site.

On the same day, the Stockholm Spontaneous Activities Group is exploring a castle as well. Located in Solna, Ulriksdal’s Palace boasts a park, cafés, a theater, and a conservatory. The group will explore the grounds and buildings around the palace. There is also an option to join a guided tour in the afternoon.

We want to thank all of our Ambassadors, Consuls, and activity hosts for their dedication, creativity, and hard work. Thank you for making our communities what they are!