By Lester V. Ledesma.
Nothing says “I’ve been there!” better than a set of awesome travel pictures. I’ve combined my love of photography and travel in a series of “PhotoTreks” to some of Asia’s most exotic destinations, including Vietnam, Bhutan, Myanmar, Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand. One of my most popular offerings is a three-day Northern Vietnam PhotoTrek, which combines a one-night stay in Hanoi with an overnight cruise in the UNESCO World Heritage waters of Halong Bay. Photography and cultural immersion are the main goals of every PhotoTrek, and as such the group size is kept to a maximum of 12 people.
In Hanoi, enjoy the capital’s cozy cafes, ancient monuments and bustling street scene, with great photo ops around every corner. With its craggy rock formations and moody mist, Halong Bay provides the perfect setting for taking stunning landscape photos. These experiences are complemented by informal photography discussions, giving shutterbugs the opportunity to improve their craft.
Hanoi-based Vega Travel provides one of its three mid-sized, traditional wooden cruise boats for the trip, and also books the hotel in Hanoi, such as the Hanoi Bao Khanh next to the Hoan Kiem Lake. The Northern Vietnam PhotoTrek is ideal for weekend photography enthusiasts, and is offered to groups of 6-12 participants at around SGD$900 per person. This price includes lodging, transport and meals, but excludes airfare and visa fees.
Award-winning photojournalist Lester V. Ledesma (www.skylightimages.info) has photographed Asia for almost two decades, and his work appears in numerous international publications. For more information on upcoming PhotoTreks, check out the PhotoTreks FB page at http://www.facebook.com/PhotoTreks.
The PhotoTreks cruise boat docks at one of the many islands in Halong Bay. Traditional wooden boats like these are offered by PhotoTreks’ partner Vega Travel. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
Traditional Indochine patterns adorn one of the cruise boat cabins. Depending on the group size, ships used by PhotoTreks have five to seven fully furnished rooms. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
Dusk finds a fleet of boats moored at one of Halong Bay’s numerous coves. Participants learn basic photography techniques to help them capture the stunning sights. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
The fiery hues of sunrise illuminate the karst formations of Halong Bay. The Northern Vietnam PhotoTreks itinerary is designed to bring participants to scenic spots at the best times of day. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
From a scenic vantage point, PhotoTreks participants greet the sunrise at Halong Bay with their cameras. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
Traditional wooden boats and modern kayaks float side by side in Halong Bay. The Halong Bay cruise features different photographic subjects ranging from landscapes to local life. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
This trio of rice farmers was photographed during a stopover en route to the shores of Halong Bay. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
Hanoi’s bustling street scene is a street photographer’s dream. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
Three generations of Hanoians relax at Hoan Kiem Lake. PhotoTreks participants get to fine-tune their people photography skills, among many other aspects of the craft. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
A group of ladies practice tai chi moves at dawn by the Hoan Kiam Lake in Hanoi. Cultural immersion and photography are the main goals of every PhotoTreks trip. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
Vendors in Hanoi rush to bring their merchandise to the market before sunrise. * Photo: Lester V. Ledesma
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2 Comments
Very nice indeed! What a wonderful way to spend a weekend.
I’d love to do this trip!