This is a tour designed by and for photographers. Although we will make stops at Chinese Government approved tour sites, we will also spend lots of time at great wildlife and scenic spots. China is a country rich with photo opportunities. There are great shots of scenery, people, buildings and bicycles everywhere you point your camera. Non-photographers will find the same visual marketplace charming and amazing. This is our third trip to many of the sites.

You can find lots of our images from China (and other destinations) at the following links:

• http://www.wildimagesphotography.com/
• http://www.rickessler.com/
• http://www.flickr.com/photos/24948886@N05/page2/#photo2357721415

We are more than a year away from our departure. At this time the itinerary and in-country costs have been negotiated and the Chinese tour operator has agreed that the cost will not increase. However, there will likely be small changes as that is the nature of China travel. We are looking at US airfare but airlines do not want to quote for more than one year in advance.

About the Leaders (Tom Isgar and Ric Kessler)

We are Florida based professional photographers. This is our third trip to China. We have been professional photographers for years (Ric since the late 60’s). While we now shoot digital (Ric – Nikon and Tom – Canon) we both began with film and chemistry darkrooms.

We both lead trips – China, Alaska, Africa and South America. Tom’s photography focuses on wildlife, nature and travel. He also does underwater photography and writes for two magazines. Tom has recently been to the Baja, Colombia, Uruguay and Ecuador. Ric made two spring trips: one to Alaska to shoot Northern Lights and another to Utah for red rocks and spring flowers. Ric is leading a trip to Alaska for bear images in September and Tom is taking guests to Botswana.

We strive to provide wonderful photographic adventures for those who travel with us.

Payment Schedule

$3,995-Not including Airfare from the US, which is estimated at $1700 (Estimated Total: $5695):

• $1000.00 non-refundable deposit at time of application.
• $1600 by December 1, 2009 (Approximately 1/3 of the balance)
• $1600 by March 1, 2010 (Approximately 1/3 of the balance)
• $1495 by June 1, 2010 (Approximately 1/3 of the balance) The third payment will be adjusted based on the actual cost of airfare.

Service included:

• All entrance fees as per the itinerary
• All transportation by tour bus
• Hotel accommodation based on 4 star hotels with Breakfast in the hotel
• English speaking National tour guide and local guide
• All meals (lunch and dinner)
• VIP seat for Sichuan opera face changing and unique local variety show
• International Airfare with Airport taxes (Estimate $1800.00.)

Service excluded:

• China visa
• Medical costs
• Travel insurance*
• Extra cost in the event of landslides, road blockage, etc.
• Personal expenses
• Photos in the monastery
• Gratuities and Tips to driver, guides, and hotel staff

*Travel insurance is required. The primary purpose of this insurance is to protect your payments. Secondarily it is important just in case of injuries, delays, etc. Insurance can be purchased from any provider but we recommend that you use Travelex Insurance 800-228-9792 or online: www.travelexinsurance.com When asked for location number put in 09-0379. When asked for agent code put in Ric Kessler.)

All participants will be required to submit a signed copy of the Terms and Conditions (which will be mailed to you along with other tour information upon receipt of your reservation request) at least 90 days prior to departure. Your spot on the tour will not be considered secure until this form is completed and returned.