Vietnam
Aug. 28- Sept. 10, 2024
$5,995.00
Total cost: Vietnam $5,995
Reservation fee only: Vietnam $1,000
(non-refundable)
Single occupancy: Vietnam $ 900
Remaining balance: Vietnam $4,995
Payment in full is required 90 days prior to the tour starting date: May 28, 2024.
Ha Long Bay add-on $3,000
Payment in full is required at time of reservation due to limited space on the boat
Dates: Aug. 28-Sept. 10, 2024 (Tour)
Dates: Sept. 10-13, 2024 (Ha Long Bay add-on)
Location: Vietnam
Featuring: The bustling streets of Hanoi, the beautiful lush, terraced landscapes of the north, and the well-preserved historical sites and soothing natural beauty of Central Vietnam. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of the Hmong culture, capturing the essence of ancient traditions and smiling locals against the backdrop of breathtaking natural wonders. Seize the opportunity to frame compelling portraits against the backdrop of terracotta-hued villages. This tour is your gateway to a visual narrative that encapsulates the spirit and authenticity of the Hmong people.
North Vietnam unveils a mesmerizing canvas of natural wonders, where emerald-green rice terraces cascade down mist-shrouded mountainsides. Dense, tropical forests teem with biodiversity, and the wandering rivers carve their way through picturesque valleys. North Vietnam is a symphony of breathtaking beauty, where we'll spend seven days photographing this natural beauty as we visit Hmong villages and colorful markets.
After flying inot Hanoi we will go directly to Nha Trang, where awe-inspiring sights are in store. In this area, our focus is on people and cultural photography including fish markets, villages and traditional markets on the coast.
Skill level: All skill levels welcome
Instructors/leads: Jeff Swinger, David Metcalf, Lisa Antonucci
Class size: 10 attendees maximum
What to bring:
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For photographers: Camera, memory cards, batteries, variety of lenses, tripod
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For adventurers (and all photographers!): Open heart, open mind, adventurous spirit and comfortable shoes
Recommended prerequisites: Basic knowledge of your camera, love of travel
Important notes: Pricing is for double occupancy. For single supplement, please add $900 to the cost of your trip.
Activity level: Light to moderate activity, walking and light hikes on uneven ground.
Your trip includes:
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Airport pickup and return
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All ground transportation in Vietnam
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Domestic airfare from Hanoi to Nha Trang (one way)
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All accommodations with private bathrooms* during the workshop
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All meals during the tour
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Guiding by Jeff Swinger and Bali-based photographer David Metcalf
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Image critique and post-processing session (if applicable)
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Park entrance fees
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Local guide fees
Your trip does not include:
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International roundtrip flights from U.S. to Vietnam
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Cancellation and/or travel insurance (strongly recommended)
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Alcoholic drinks
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Vietnamese SIM card for your cell phone
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Items of personal nature
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Gratuity for local guides, models artisans
**Passport required.**
Conditions in Vietnam
Vietnam is considered a "developing country" and as such, first-world conveniences like western toilets and potable water are not always available on-site at every stop. However, we will always have access to filtered and/or bottled water and sanitation supplies.
Accommodations and transportation
Accommodations will vary throughout our trip, but expect four-star facilities throughout the stay, which includes in-room air-conditioning. As for ground transportation, vehicles will be 10-12 seater air conditioned vans with experienced driver and local guide.
Skill sets
All levels of photographers and travelers are welcome! While this is considered photo-centric workshop, this itinerary is designed to engage all participants every step of the way.
Physical ability
The tour is open to all ability levels, but please note there can be some strenuous activity including the duration of the international travel, heat and humidity in Vietnam, and some light hiking -- particularly steps/stairs -- at various temple and park sites. While this is not a hiking tour, we will be as active as conditions allow and take walking tours to explore various attractions.
Flight/travel recommendations
Flights to Vietnam from the United States can take up to 20 hours in the air, so plan your flights accordingly and perhaps build in a day or two to adjust to the time difference and climate. You'll look for flights into (and out of) "HAN" -- Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Miscellaneous
The workshop includes photographic tutoring and advice by our team as well as cultural guidance, teaching and translation by our local Vietnamese guides. You'll receive a packing list for the tour with recommended gear, clothing and footwear, plus a more detailed itinerary, reading recommendations and website links to help get you excited and up-to-speed ahead of our adventure.
Note about payments and deposits
A reservation fee of $1,000 is required upon sign-up to secure your spot. The remaining balance is due 90 days prior to the workshop. After this point, the workshop is non-refundable. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance.