VISUAL VOYAGES - Travel Tips

Of course each Visual Voyage is different but there are some things that are useful on every trip.

In France, Italy, and Mexico, any attempts at the language you know is quite helpful. People are generally open and friendly and any attempts made to communicate are greatly appreciated. Often people want to learn English words and some lively conversations can ensue.

Money changing is always interesting. Using an ATM is generally the best way to get money when outside the US. If converting US currency to another currency, this gives the best exchange rate.

On all Visual Voyages it's best to bring whatever art medium you most enjoy. If you should happen on some fabulous item, fine, but to be on the safe side, it's best to bring your own materials. Having said this, we will always be on the lookout for local artist materials and mediums. Dyes from natural plants, handmade papers, natural fibers, natural pigments and interesting new mediums.

With each individual trip you will be provided with a detailed list of things to bring that are pertinent to that trip. However here are some things that you will most always want.

Camera
Binoculars
ART SUPPLIES!
Good shoes that you are used to and have worn comfortably before
Flash light or head lamp and extra batteries
Watersafe pouch for valuables such as passport and money. Maybe watersafe pouch for camera and binoculars.
Travel journal, sketch book
Appropriate clothing, including a swim suit and good sun hat for summer trips. Light, loose clothing in summer is great. A sarong is fabulous! Whidbey Island can get quite chilly at night, so bring some snugglies for in front of the fire, sweaters, jackets, etc.
Sun screen and bug repellant.
Umbrella or rain hat – especially on the Whidbey Island trip in Spring.
A good assortment of remedies for things such as stings, bites, sunburn, aches and pains, sprains etc. We always hope that none of these things happen, but it's better to have the stuff and not use it than to need it and not have it!!
Pack as lightly as possible and never bring more than you can carry. That includes French easels. They are very handy, but make sure they are light weight and equipped with sturdy and comfortable handles.

Accommodations on all tours have either twin beds or single King/Queen beds. Please note this when deciding to book, as you will be sharing a bedroom, and possibly a bed with another artist/voyager of the same sex (unless you have a spouse/partner along of course - then you will have your own room and will not share). There are only a few with twin beds, and our tours only offer double occupancy status. They are all en suite either with walk-in shower or bath with shower.

No, Both tour guides/Instructors speak several languages, and your hoteliers speak English as do our drivers. There will always be someone around to help you translate. AND!...You will learn a few words along the way. The most important ones are “Merci” "Grazi" or "Gracias" which means “thanks”.

Anything not included in the tour price is specified in the tour description. This usually includes a few lunches and dinners on your own, travel insurance, film (if you are not digital), your own art supplies, personal expenses, or extra nights or personal travel after or before the tour begins. Sometimes, because of flight arrangements and wishing to get over jet-lag, some voyagers stay an extra night or arrive a day earlier. The cost of the hotel for these nights is an extra cost. Also, tipping your driver is extra, but appreciated.

Yes. If you are traveling from America, especially from the West Coast, you will suffer from jet-lag more than European travelers or voyagers from the East Coast of America, but everyone will get it. Symptoms include sleeplessness at night, being tired in the afternoon, having a “fuzzy” head, forgetfulness, inability to concentrate or remember anything. This often results in losing luggage, misplacing passports or other important documents, or breaking cameras or falling asleep on the bus or train and missing your connections. To remedy this, seasoned travelers try to arrive a day or two before the tour begins. This is a good idea if you can afford the time and money.

Most people do not like traveling with large amounts of currency and bring travelers checks. You should start with a few Euros (get them at your home bank ahead of time) for tipping baggage handlers, buying a bottle of water in airports, or on the train. Traveler’s Checks can be a hassle to exchange if we are traveling in remote areas, especially if they are in US Dollar denominations. You can pay for most things with your credit or debit card. If you have a 4 digit PIN number you can withdraw cash (in Euros) from bank ATMs everywhere and get probably the best exchange rate possible. Plan on $70 in Euros for days when you buy your own dinner, or $40 in Euros for days that you just sightsee, want extra bottled water or maybe a bit of fabulous French Chocolate! Most places do not accept American Express – but Visa and Mastercard are welcome most everywhere.

The average temperature in Provence during July is around 77, but can get as hot as 90. Italy is a bit warmer, and Mexico - warmer still in the summers - which is why we plan our Mexico trips for the fall. It is cooler in the mountains and at the beach, but you will still need a sweater at night in most places. Average night-time temps are around 55, cooler in the mountains. It will be mostly dry, but rain is not unheard of during this time, so come prepared. Light clothing that can be layered is preferred, cotton, T’s, capris or light slacks. Don’t forget to your swim suit and something nice to show off your tan in the evenings if you like. Most restaurants do not require ties, but a neat appearance is necessary, jean’s OK most places. Beach attire is not acceptable in restaurants unless we are at the beach.
*A note about allergies: when the lavender and sunflowers are in bloom in July, some voyagers get the sniffles. Because of the low humidity, some allergy sufferers also have problems with dust. Make sure you bring your antihistimines.

As a general rule I suggest that husbands/wives/partners come as the trip photographer to chronicle your adventure. If they want to golf or explore on their own, it is not advisable. Although they may not consider themselves an “artist” we guide photographers as well as painters. As long as they would not be bored with our tours and painting/journaling/photo/cooking/wine tasting sessions, they are welcome to come along. You can also take advantage of our couple's discount! It makes matching you with a roomie a cinch!

ABSOLUTELY NOT! While many people in Europe disagree with current American foreign policy, this does not translate into a dislike of Americans. In fact, wherever we have been, the people we have met have been invariably charming, welcoming, friendly, and polite.