Italy - Florence & Tuscan Hill Towns with Photo Leader Ron Rosenstock - Florence & Tuscan Hill Towns with Photo Leader Ron ...
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© Ron Rosenstock
Italy - Florence & Tuscan Hill Towns
with Photo Leader Ron Rosenstock
October 16-26, 2021
Experience Venice – Optional Extension October 26-30
Tour Highlights ~ A Photographic and Cultural Adventure
• Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, with its rich tapestry of history depicted in its architecture, sculptures, and paintings
• A stay in the Tuscan countryside, with its grapevines and cypress trees
• Tuscany’s medieval towns and villages: Monteriggioni, San Gimignano, Volpaia, Radda in Chianti, and others, equally well-
preserved
• Departure limited to 12 participants to optimize your photographic experience
• Optional extension to the Canals of Venice
For more information or to register contact
Strabo Photo Tour Collection:
607-756-8676 www.phototc.com
The Strabo Photo Tour Collection is proud to announce a special tour to Italy, led by
accomplished photographer Ron Rosenstock. Ron will take you to his favorite
locations in Florence, the hill towns of Tuscany, and the canals of Venice. We always
welcome tour companions who are not photographers. The trip’s leisurely pace will
provide ample opportunity to wander through medieval hill towns, and feast on the
renowned regional foods and wines.
This departure is limited to a maximum of twelve participants. It is intended for
people of all levels of interest and accomplishment in film, or digital photography.
While the emphasis will be on photography, this is also a cultural journey, which we
believe will enhance your ability to capture the essence of Tuscany in your images.
Your photography expert and leader, Ron Rosenstock, has been leading photo tours
to Tuscany and Venice since 1985. Along with the local guides, Ron will take you to
photo locations you could not access on your own, including monasteries, churches,
and vineyards. In Florence, there will be quiet, pre-dawn photo walks led by Ron. He
will take you to premier photographic locations to capture the Ponte Vecchio, the
Uffizi Corridor, and the Duomo. If you are participating in the Venice Extension, early
morning shoots will take you along the Grand Canal where Ron has found the
location from which Claude Monet painted his impressions of the Santa Maria della
Salute Church. While we have specific itineraries, we have the flexibility to take
advantage of photographic opportunities we find along the way.
Tuscany has perhaps produced more accomplishments in art and science than any
other place in history. It is the birthplace of the Etruscan civilization, the Italian language, and the age that shaped modern history,
the Renaissance. Imagine a small region that can claim Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo, Dante, and Botticelli as its native
sons! The first part of our trip will center on Florence, the capital of Tuscany, the city where the Renaissance began. It is a living
museum of art and culture. We will explore its streets, piazzas, and great works of art and architecture in the company of excellent
guides.
A short drive from Florence transports us into the beautiful Tuscan countryside. We will stay in Chianti, among the best-preserved
landscapes in Italy, some virtually unchanged since artists depicted them five hundred years ago. The region has large areas of
woodlands, interspersed with vineyards and dotted with medieval towns high on hills and ridges. The quality of light here has inspired
generations of artists. Our journey will explore this glorious land in depth. Everywhere there is something of compelling beauty,
curiosity, and interest — brilliant architecture, classic Tuscan landscapes, the daily life of the people themselves, providing continuity
between past and present.
The accommodations that have been chosen combine simple
elegance with excellent location. In Florence, you will stay at a small,
family-run hotel in an ideal location. Centrally located in a quiet
neighborhood, yet just a fifteen-minute walk from the major sites of
the Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo. In the Tuscan countryside, you
will stay at the Villa Rosa di Boscorotondo, a meticulously restored
country villa. It provides an absolutely perfect location for country
walks and day trips to Tuscan hill towns and villages. You will have a
light breakfast before departing for the day and return to a
traditional Tuscan meal in the evening.
Photo Leader
Ron Rosenstock’s core teaching is based on a saying of the twelfth century theologian and philosopher, Mister Eckhart, "Art is not just
for special people, but everyone is a special kind of an artist." Ron's teaching is designed to bring out the inner creative spirit within
all of us. His teaching reflects the techniques of his teachers, Ansel Adams and Minor White. Learning not just to look, but to see, and
then to know how to get a finished print, whether you are concentrating on infrared, black and white, or color. Ron uses a digital projector to demonstrate how he finishes his images with Aperture and Nik Software. He also shares photographic exercises that are an aid in "seeing photographically." Those participants that bring a laptop have the opportunity share their images with the group for comments. Ron’s tours will help you to make more meaningful photographs, whether you are a beginner or advanced photographer. Passenger Testimonials “Joyce and I both felt that it was a trip-of-a-lifetime. The group was small enough so that we became friendly with everyone, and it was not too unwieldy in getting around. The places we stayed were as nice as you could ever hope for. The photographs that we were able to take make me look as though I am a pro. The quaint little villages that we visited in Tuscany have left a lasting impression on us, and the special vineyards and little churches just made the whole trip so special. The places we ate, and the food, both were first- rate. The extra effort that you made was greatly appreciated.” ~ L. Dobens “Ron, you provided ample opportunities to capture the essence of the landscape. However, I cherish most your times of sharing on creating your images, and the suggestions and comments you gave me regarding my own photographs. I am often recalling something you said or an image comes to mind as I contemplate some scene. I expect to see long-term results from my time with you.” ~ D. Lusk “Ron was a perfect trip leader. He dealt with all personalities of the group in a tactful manner. He made decisions based on what was best for all. He’s got a special talent.” ~ J. & B. Cummings. Itinerary October 16 Home Depart on your overnight flight to Florence. (Meals on plane) October 17 Arrival in Florence You can arrive at any time today at Florence Airport (FLR), take a taxi to the hotel. There will be an introductory meeting at 6PM in the hotel lobby, followed by a welcome dinner. Overnight Florence (D) October 18-20 The Magic of Florence The next three days will be spent exploring Florence. After breakfast each day the local guide will outline the daily activities. Prior to breakfast, Ron will plan sunrise walks on a couple days for those who want to walk through the deserted streets to photograph the city before it awakens. Being in the heart of Florence, our hotel affords us a perfect location so that daily excursions can be done easily on foot. The famous Ponte Vecchio, the most popular and oldest bridge that spans the Arno River is about a fifteen minute walk. Just beyond the bridge are the massive Pitti Palace, originally built in the fifteenth century, and the Boboli Gardens. If you are looking for a good view, take a brisk walk up the hill, or take a taxi to the terrace coffee shop or the ramparts of Forte Belvedere, located just behind the gardens. You are certain to photograph one of Ron’s favorites at sunrise, Florence’s Duomo. Florence’s town square, the Piazza della Signoria, has been the heart of political life since the fourteenth century. The Piazza also is home to the Palazzo Vecchio (Old Palace), built in the thirteenth century, and the Uffizi Gallery. We will also visit local markets, artisan shops, and spend time photographing sunsets or the streetlights lining the bridges across the Arno. Your last day in Florence you can choose to do additional photography with your photographic leader or perhaps wander on your own, visiting one of the city’s numerous museums, cathedrals, or attractions. Each day you will have lunch at one of the many restaurants, trattorias, or bars. In the evening, you can go to a restaurant with the group, or go out on your own. (Breakfast daily) Please note: The art of enjoying an Italian meal can take time, if you prefer to grab a light bite and meet with the group later, feel free to request time and place from Ron and/or your local guide.
October 21-October 25 The Tuscan Countryside
The next five evenings will be spent at a Villa located in the
heart of Chianti. The contrast between the city and the Tuscan
countryside is striking. Today, more than sixty percent of Chianti
remains forested, as there are strict limits on how much land
can be cultivated.
The village of San Leolino has a beautiful little church that has a
commanding view of the town of Panzano and surrounding
countryside. The hamlet of Monterenaldi is nearby on a quiet
country road that winds through vineyards and farms. Day trips
allow us to visit a number of Tuscany’s most picturesque towns,
such as Radda in Chianti, Volpaia, Montefioralle, Greve in
Chianti, Castellina, Monteriggioni, one of the most perfectly
preserved fortified villages in all of Italy.
San Gimignano is one of the most picturesque of the Italian
hill towns, known as the “city of the beautiful towers”.
Fourteen of the seventy original towers remain, giving the
town a striking appearance. Near Pienza, we may visit the
Monastery of Sant’ Antimo, a splendid Romanesque abbey
and church built around the year 1100, set in quiet,
unspoiled surroundings. Overnights Tuscany (Breakfasts and
dinners daily, one lunch is included at a local vineyard)
October 26 Florence – Home
After breakfast you will depart for Florence. Those on the
extension will continue on to Venice via vehicle or train with
Ron. If you are not a part of the extension you can be taken
to the Florence airport. Please verify with Strabo Tours for
approximate flight times, estimated at 1PM or after.
(Breakfast)
Venice Extension
Venice, the legendary city of art and the capital of the Veneto region, is built on an
archipelago of more than 100 small islands separated by a dense network of 177 canals
and joined by 400 small bridges. Water is everywhere, shaping the life of the city, and
reflecting its compelling beauty. Venice is a wonderful city to explore on foot.
October 26 Venice
Arrive this afternoon in Venice where you will be transferred to the hotel for check in.
After getting settled, meet Ron (time to be announced) in the hotel lobby for an
introductory walk around the hotel and the San Marco Square. You will photograph the
Ducal Palace, one of the city’s most significant monuments along with the Piazza San
Marco, Basilica and its towering Campanile or bell tower. The Piazza is flanked by arcades
of shops and open-air cafés and was built in 1340 to be the home of the Duke – the head
of the Venetian State. Nearby, the famous Bridge of Sighs arches over a narrow canal.
(Breakfast, Dinner)
October 27-29 Venice
Given appropriate weather conditions, Ron will plan sunrise photo shoots along the Grand
Canal and in other scenic locations, then enjoy breakfast back at the hotel. Ron will let
you know what time to meet in the lobby for your next photography walk and session. He
will get you acquainted with some of the less frequented, yet equally fascinating areas of
the city. You will surely enjoy this off-the-beaten path walk, through narrow alleyways and
across bridges to discover the beauty and structure of Venice. Cross the Grand Canal to
reach the Rialto, once the commercial heart of the city. You will walk through a maze of
alleyways that once defined the “red-light” district to reach the Church of San Polo.
One day you will explore several islands in the lagoon with your photo leader. The boat ride to Burano gives a unique vantage point
from which you can enjoy the beauty of Venice’s lagoon. What makes it especially picturesque are the tiny houses washed in bright
colors, resembling something from the pages of a storybook. You will find Torcello Island to be quite the opposite; it is practically
deserted with a population of only sixty people. Those interested in glassware may stop at the island of Murano, famous for its
unique and colorful selections.
Across the waters of the lagoon to the domes and bell tower of San
Giorgio Maggiore, a Benedictine Monastery that has been in operation
since the tenth century. It will offer great views from which to
photograph the busy waterfront.
If time permits, Ron may organize a group outing to San Michele, the
island cemetery of Venice. Studded with dark cypresses and enclosed
within high terracotta walls, the island is worth a visit. The cemetery
itself rambles over most of the island; with its carved tombstone and
chapels it has a curious fascination. (Breakfast each day)
You can enjoy time at leisure, going for a gondola ride, shopping, or
visit the museums. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection features
twentieth century works, displayed in her lavish apartments. Ron
invites you to join him at one of his favorite restaurants for your last dinner in Venice. Venice is full of magical places to explore with
your camera. The evenings offer wonderful sunsets over the Santa Maria della Salute Church, lights reflecting in the canals, and
buildings lit by the glow of lanterns. (Breakfast each day, Farewell Dinner)
October 30 Venice – Home
Ron will direct you on departing the hotel via water taxi to the airport in time for your flight home. (Breakfast)
General Information
Land Cost: $3795, per person, minimum of 8, maximum of 12 paying participants, shared
accommodations. There is a small group supplement of $300 per person if 5-7 paying
participants.
Single room supplement: $695, *single rooms are subject to availability. We try to
accommodate single travelers who request single accommodations, as well as single travelers
who are looking for a roommate. If a single room is requested and we are unable to find a
suitable roommate, or you are in a single for another reason, you will need to pay the single
supplement. Note: The land cost is based on current exchange rate between the Euro and US
dollar. Should these rates change significantly, there may be an adjustment in the trip price.
Extension Land Cost: $1795, per person, minimum of 4 or more paying participants, shared
accommodations.
Extension single supplement: $595* see above.
AIR ARRANGEMENTS
Contact Strabo Tours if you would like a quotation from your gateway city.
The main trip price includes:
• Group ground transportation, transportation to Venice if
participating on the optional extension (airport transfers not
included).
• Accommodations as detailed in the itinerary, based upon two people
sharing a room.
• Meals as detailed in the itinerary.
• The photographic expertise and leadership of your escort.
• Services and expenses of the local guides.
• Service charges in hotels and restaurants for scheduled meals.
• Extensive pre-departure information and services.
The main trip price does not include: International air fare; air fare
tax; airport transfers; transportation or accommodations for those
not traveling with the group; meals not listed in the itinerary; any activities not included in the itinerary, or those listed as optional;
some museum and entry fees (see below); medical or travel insurance; personal expenses such as excess baggage charges, passport
fees, medical expenses, laundry, film and processing, phone charges; porterage, tips to your guides and staff.
Note: Flights/Transportation into Florence will vary; therefore, you will want to budget about $25 for the taxi in Florence; $10, one
way, for the train between Pisa and Florence; $50 between Rome or Milan and Florence. You should also budget a few dollars for
porterage of your bags, if required, upon arrival at and departure from the hotel. Although the trip will not be museum oriented, you
may wish to visit the San Gimignano museums and tower ($9) or various museums in Florence, which must be paid for at the facility.
Hotel staff can assist you with details and arrangements.
Deposits, Cancellations AND Refunds
A deposit of $750 ($500 on domestic tours) per person is required. Specific tours may require an additional deposit due to
accommodation bookings or transportation requirements. If applicable these will be noted on your invoice. Payment in full is
required when bookings are made less than 120 days before the departure date. Space is subject to cancellation by Strabo if payment
is not received when due.
If a passenger wishes to cancel they must send notification in writing to: Strabo International Tour, Co., P.O. Box 580, Dryden, NY
13053; fax 208-545-4119. At the time we receive your notification, the following per person charges apply:
• 91 days or more before departure: $300 cancellation fee ($150 fee on domestic tours), plus Strabo’ costs, as well as fees that are
charged by the suppliers providing the services included in your tour, and/or the airlines providing the air transportation.
• 61-90 days before departure: $500 ($250 on domestic tours) minimum cancellation fee, plus Strabo’ costs, as well as fees that are
charged by the suppliers providing the services included in your tour, and/or the airlines providing the air transportation. Fees may
range from 25% to 100% of tour costs. • 60 days or less before departure or any time after departure: NO REFUND. REFUNDS FOR SERVICES THAT ARE VOLUNTARILY NOT USED BY YOU CANNOT BE MADE. A Note About Meals Lunches will be informal, taken in one of the many shops that sell delicious sandwiches, pizza, pastry, and other delights. This will allow maximum flexibility, the cost can be reasonable at $10 or up to $20-25 depending what is ordered. Dinners will be slightly higher or ranging from $15, cafeteria style or sit down restaurants can be $30 or $35. Venice can be 10-20% higher. Your guide will give you ideas where to eat if you wish to dine on your own, or you can go with your guide to a local restaurant s/he chooses. Focus And Pace Of The Trip Each of the areas we will visit has something unique to offer, and we will have time to explore them at leisure. In each location, there will be options for either going with a local guide and emphasizing the informational aspects, slowing down and concentrating on a few special locations with your photographic guide, or exploring entirely on your own. The trip is suitable for virtually every level of photography or special interest. Although it is geared for photographers, non- photographers will get a great deal from the experience as well. The pace is suitable for anyone who is reasonably fit. To get the most out of the trip, you should be able to walk for several miles a day. There are sometimes hills to climb. Accommodations are strategically located, however, and there are wonderful photographic opportunities available without straying very far from the premises. Please call us at 607-756-8676 if you have any specific questions on fitness or health. Insurance Each participant must be covered by medical insurance that is valid overseas. We strongly urge you to evaluate your risk and to take out insurance on your trip. It is vital for you to realize that if you experience a delay or find it necessary to cancel or cut short your trip for any reason, you will lose part or the entire sum you’ve invested in it (see the section “Deposits, Cancellations and Refunds” in the trip brochure). Your tour could also be cancelled or cut short due to reasons out of Strabo’s control and cannot be held responsible for. Travel insurance helps to minimize the risk of monetary losses you would incur in the event of a delay of your departure due to weather, airline strike, missed connection, etc., your inability to travel for reasons such as illness, injury, unforeseen financial complications and other personal circumstances, or if you were required to cut your trip short for medical or any other reasons. There are restrictions and limitations on any insurance program. For this reason, please read carefully the enclosed pamphlets, which outline their program of trip cancellation, baggage, and medical insurance. There are various levels of coverage you should be aware of before making your purchase. Trained agents are available to answer your questions, so don’t hesitate to call the toll-free number in their brochure. It is to your advantage to apply for insurance at the earliest possible time, so don’t delay in making a decision.
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