In one area, powerful storm winds toppled a train from its tracks, the officials said
americas5 hours ago
You are new to the city and want to make new friends but, most importantly, hope to meet up with individuals who have the same interests, passions, and hobbies as you. Now, in a metropolitan setting like ours, we can't go about ringing the doorbell and checking on who likes to listen to a particular band, who scribbles poetry during free hours, or who enjoys conducting cooking classes. But wouldn't it be fun to hang around with our own circle, people who get our obsession with the arts?
Enter the world of Meetup, a platform for finding and building local communities, and you are sorted. People all over the world use the portal and app to meet new people, learn new things, find support, get out of their comfort zones, and pursue their passions, together. It's simple, convenient, local and most gatherings are free-to-attend. Newbie or old-timer, it's a great platform to pursue a hobby or a serious passion. You'll be surprised how many people just like you are looking for that connection, company and encouragement. Don't mind the cliché, but there is something for everyone in this community. For instance, in Dubai, there are groups dedicated purely for specifics like belly dance lovers, sessions for crafting better sentences, debates on stories vs plots, classes for practising a new language, floral abstract painting workshops and more.
In 2012, I joined The Dubai Writers' Group and didn't miss the Saturday sessions for two years; needless to say, I hobnobbed with the local writers, gained some useful writing tips and made wonderful friends. Somewhere between
then and now, I joined another group, Young Architects Forum Dubai, purely to explore the city as a tourist. One evening, a bunch of strangers and I spent a good time at the Spice Souk, Deira. We clicked pictures, heard stories from the vendors selling spices, 'I Love DXB' ware, local scents et al. Down the line, I formed my group, Written Word Society, to ensure we stay connected with words and one another.
How does Meetup work? The group owner announces a forthcoming event (daily/weekly/fortnightly etc.) and a notification of the same reaches the members. You simply RSVP. For starters, there are no fixed rules on the number of times you show up. Wondering how to find the right group for yourself? Choose your city, select a category - Arts, Writing, Films, Theatre, Music, Hobbies and Craft, and beyond - and start exploring. Next, look for events near you neatly categorised in slots - Today, Tomorrow, This Week, This Weekend. and simply register your interest. The most beautiful part of the Meetup events here is the people, of course. As expats, you'll learn about the arts of the other, and with people constantly exiting and entering the city, the gatherings never get boring. There's always a new member, a fresh thought, and an art form to learn.
purva@khaleejtimes.com
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