TRIP OVERVIEW
Debbieâs photography workshops arenât typical; theyâre an experience – or shall we say, a big adventure with your passport, camera, and new friends! Whether expert or beginner, there is something for everyone on this ladiesâ Swiss photographic adventure. If youâre interested in expanding your photography skills, there are lots of opportunities to learn and ask questions. All skill levels are welcome!
We are traveling by the punctual and clean Swiss public transportation (train, boat, and cable car) to some of Switzerland’s most picturesque locations.
If seeing as much as possible in a short space of time is your travel style, you arenât going to be disappointed. SWITZERLAND 2022 is an energetic workshop filled with picturesque locations, invigorating mountain hikes, charming hotels, mouth-watering local cuisine, breathtaking scenery, quaint villages, fast trains, slow trains, cable car rides over alpine peaks, cheese, chocolate, fondue, cow bells, old town charm in historic cities, tranquil lakes, fresh mountain air, decadent Movenpick ice cream, boat rides to two fairytale châteaux, magical evening light, feather beds, dainty pastries, pâtĂŠ on fresh baguettes, and dawn/twilight shoots… and so much more!
THE ITINERARY.
2 -13 September, 2022
2 Friday – Arrive in Genève, Switzerland. Orientation at the hotel.
* 3 Saturday – Montreux. Château de Chillon.
* 4 Sunday – Gruyères. Cheese museum. Château and village tour.
* 5 Monday – Spiez. Explore the lake-side village.
* 6 Tuesday – Grindelwald. Cable car to Männlichen & hike.
* 7 Wednesday – First Cliff Walk & hike. Mtn. cart ride. Gindelwald walking tour.
* 8 Thursday – Thun. Old town walking tour. Twilight shoot.
* 9 Friday – Thun Château. Boat trip to Oberhofen Château.
* 10 Saturday – Sachseln. Hike/relaxation. Three-course dinner.
* 11 Sunday – Stans. CabriO Cable Car to top of Mt. Stanserhorn.
* 12 Monday – Genève. Old City walking tour.
13 Tuesday – Depart Genève, Switzerland.
*Hotel breakfast included. Â
WHAT DOES FITNESS LEVEL âMODERATEâ MEAN?
You need to be capable of lifting your luggage on and off trains and walking for sustained periods along varying terrain such as steep and uneven mountain footpaths, up moderate to steep inclines, and on cobble stone streets. There will be limited strenuous activity at high altitude, but it is highly advised that you take walks before the trip so you can cope with 10 days of walking/hiking/lifting.
WHERE ARE WE STAYING?
We are staying in seven hotels. Each has been carefully selected for its location, charm, view, and amenities.
WHATâS THE WEATHER LIKE IN SWITZERLAND?
Swiss weather is unpredictable at any time of year, and rain is fairly common. In Genève, it could be anywhere from 70°- 54° F, and could get down to 30° in the Alps. In other words, we will be wearing easy to peel off (and put back on again) layers. It can go from hot to cold and is chilly in the evening/morning.
ARE WE SHOOTING AT DAWN AND DUSK?
Yes, we will be making the most of the time of good light, but we will be active at any time of day. Dawn is around 6:45 am, meaning a 6:15 am wake-up – if the weather cooperates – so if you are too exhausted and would prefer to sleep in, that is perfectly fine. Thereâs no pressure.
WHAT CLOTHES & SHOES SHOULD I BRING?
Be comfortable. A detailed packing list will be sent to you, upon confirmation.
WHAT CAMERA KIT SHOULD I BRING?
You will need to have a bag that can hold the gear youâd like to shoot with. Keep in mind that this includes your lightweight, travel tripod. You will also want to have some extra room for a water bottle and a packed meal on the days we carry a picnic lunch. A camera backpack with a padded hip belt is vital for distributing the pack weight comfortably.
* DSLR Camera
* At least two camera batteries & charger
* At least two 64 GB memory cards â bring lots!
* Tripod that fits to the outside of your camera backpack
* Comfortable neck strap for carrying your camera
* Your favorite lenses! Three standard lenses are recommended – a wide angle lens (16 -35 mm), medium zoom (24 -70 mm), and a longer zoom (70 -200 mm), so you are able to seize all photographic opportunities. The most used will be the 24 -70 mm range, so make sure this focal length is covered.
DO I NEED A COMPUTER?
Although not essential, itâs a great idea to bring a laptop with you so you can discuss imagery with myself and others in the group. It really is a great learning experience, so I highly recommend bringing a laptop to learn and for personal entertainment. I make a point of tutoring my clients on digital photography to help complete the learning process.
FOOD AND DRINK?
This isnât only a photography trip, but, also, a cultural experience. We will have many opportunities to sample the delicious local cuisine during dinner each evening at reputable local restaurants. If youâre vegetarian like me, you wonât have a problem eating here. If youâre vegan⌠well, this is the Land of Cheese and Chocolate. Water in public fountains is clean and free â bring a water bottle.
WHAT VACCINATIONS DO I NEED?
Check the Swiss Government website for up-to-date requirements, Covid regulations, and a Swiss-approved Covid vaccination. The Covid Certificate is compulsory to access restaurants, bars, breakfast rooms, cultural venues, sports and leisure areas, and many other places and events. https://covidcertificate-form.admin.ch/foreign
WHERE DO I MEET YOU?
I will be arriving early to make sure things are ready for your arrival. You will meet me at the Hotel ibis budget Geneva (a short seven-minute bus ride from the airport) for the Workshop Orientation. Further information provided before departure.
I WANT TO GO! WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit and a signed agreement of the Workshop Terms/Conditions & Waiver form. Contact me today! Space is limited.
