What we’re about
Our travel club hosts adventures locally in Houston and around the world for all things travel, culture, adventure, & photography with our friends at PhotoFly Travel Club! Join us on a local photo walk, or travel talk during happy hour, and then meet new travel buddies for future adventures! This is a the perfect group for those looking to make new friends in Houston and find compatible travel & photography partners for life!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- $$ Explore Trinity River Delta | Lake Charlotte Guided Sea Kayak Wilderness TourLake Charlotte, Texas, TX
$199 per person | 3-4 hour guided sea kayak wilderness tour to explore a world-class quality bottomland hardwood forest and spectacular rookery wetland: Trinity River Delta | Visit Lake Charlotte to witness a natural wonderland abundant in wildlife | Paddle in a maze of flooded channels covered by bald cypress trees | Small group size: minimum 4 | Includes lecture on geology, geography and biology, specialized sea kayaking equipment to efficiently and stealthy cover distances, certified instruction and pictures.
Activity Duration: 4-5 hours
Paddling Time: 3-4 hours
Paddling Distance: 4-8 milesTHIS TOUR CAN BE RE-SCHEDULED AT A DATE CONVINIENT TO YOU.
PRIVATE EVENT, PREPAID REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
WE TAKE APPOINTMENTS.= = =
LOCATION SIGNIFICANCE:
Lake Charlotte is the one of largest bald cypress tree swamps in Texas, part of a complex of at least four lakes that lie to the east of the Trinity River Delta. Hundreds of shorebirds are feeding on the shallow lake bottom. White ibises, blue herons, anhinga, white egrets, eagles, red tail hawks, beavers, wild hogs, deer, snakes, bass, aligator gar and a large contingent of American alligators call Lake Charlotte a breeding ground and home.
Join us! Relaxed pace. Outstanding Earth Sciences field learning opportunity. Small group size. Experienced trip leader. Awesome destination.
EQUIPMENT: We use premium-quality, professional-grade, field tested, kayaks designed for touring the sea. They have sit-inside cockpit seat, with long and narrow hull. We do not use sit-on-top kayaks.
REQUIREMENTS: Good balance skills and reasonable fitness level is advisable. Our sit-inside cockpit touring kayaks can accommodate paddlers only up to approximately 250 lbs. or less. Best for outdoor enthusiasts without motion or sea sickness, comfortable with vigorous exercise. No previous paddling or swimming experience required - instruction provided!
ITINERARY: Tailored to guests' desire, fitness level, group dynamics, weather conditions, etc.
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SIGN UP EARLY!!
A RSVP “Yes” on Meetup merely states your interest.
Seats fill up quickly - the tour is cross posted on several platforms.***TO SIGN UP & CONFIRM LOGISTICS CALL 832-686-3231 ***
Call Constantin Platon to confirm logistics, gear size, set up expectations, fill out waiver and to process payment.= = =
WHAT TO BRING/HOW TO DRESS:
Bring two 33 oz. water bottles and pack a snack/lunch to take with you in the kayak. Bring with you a towel and a set of dry clothing to change at the end for a comfortable ride home.
Dress only with synthetic clothing. Wear outdoor, fast drying, non-cotton/synthetic clothing like hiking pants and shirts. Long sleeve shirts and long pants prevent sunburn and insect bites.
Bring water shoes/closed toed sandals; old sneakers work great. No crocs, no flip-flops, no rain boots. Wear a large brim hat with under chin strap and sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm. Wear paddling gloves or cycling/ workout gloves to prevent blisters and sunburn on hands.
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TOUR OUTCOME:
Despite being relatively close to a major metropolitan area, exploring Lake Charlotte by kayak is a unique experience for most people: you will be amazed by its natural beauty! It's a really cool experience!
By the end of this trip, you will be a more confident kayaker and have increased knowledge and appreciation for the value of wetland coastal ecosystems.
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UNDECIDED? Check out our recent photo album:
Kayaking Joy | Autumn on Lake Charlotte
Lake Charlotte Spring Wonderland
Lake Charlotte Autumn Wonderland
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CREDENTIALS: This tour is organized by Constantin Platon, an experienced outdoor educator, geology professor, and happy camper with 25+ years of experience, and the following current certifications:
ACA Level-3 Coastal/Sea Kayak Instructor
ACA Level-3 River/Whitewater Kayak Instructor
ACA Level-2 River Canoe Instructor (Solo & Tandem)
Sierra International Wilderness First Aid= = =
PLEASE REPLY WITH YOUR PHONE NUMBER!
I am excited to share with you from my expertise, and I look forward to paddling together!
Constantin
[Call/Text: 832-686-3231]= = =
Do you have in mind a Different Drill, Date or Destination?
We also run team building events, birthday parties, church functions, historical and geological field trips and eco tours; overnight camping excursions down the river and weekend long adventures at sea along the Gulf Coast; and advanced paddling skills courses.
Born to Paddle!
- Beautiful Bali!ubud, Ubud
September 4th - September 12th, 2025
Join here: https://photoflytravel.org/tour/bali-small-group-tours/
Email us at joinus@photoflytravel.com for the daily itinerary!
Our friends at PhotoFly Travel Club have invited us to their classic adventure in Bali.
We’ve been exploring Bali for years crafting a one of a kind experience to the best known and unknown treasures of this special island. From the coastal temples of Tanah Lot, to the gorgeous pure white sand beaches and snorkeling on Nusa Penida island, to the man made wonders of the Jatiluwih rice terraces, we will see an incredible slice of diverse spectacle’s throughout Bali. The food is incredible, amazing photography opportunities, and the locals are known for their friendliness.
Canggu and Tanah Lot Temple
- Enjoy the seaside resort town full of surfing, beachside restaurants, and beautiful sunshine
- Tanah Lot Temple: Privately guided tour of the 16th century temple built upon a rock formation along the rocky shore
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces and Munduk
- Walk through the expansive undulating rice terraces in the island's interior and enjoy lunch with a view of the lush scenery
- Travel into the country's interior to Munduk to enjoy various waterfall hikes, an included massage, and quietude away from the tourist areas
Taksu Sanur
- En route to Taksu Sanur, stop at incredibly detailed Ulun Danu Bertan Temple built on the shores of a huge lake to honor a god that provides water to the local farmers
- Visit a local farmer's market to purchase and enjoy a multitude of tropical fruit such as lychee, longan, mango, papaya, rambutan, guava, and more
- Stop at a farm specializing in the production of coffee known as kopi luwak, a Balinese specialty that uses partially digested coffee beans
- Included dinner on the beach overlooking the stunning ocean
- Included massage
Nusa Penida
- Take a short ferry to adjacent islands known for dramatic limestone cliff views, beach paradise, secluded bays, island exploration, and a slower pace of life
- Surrounded by turquoise waters, the island's main street is full of ice cream shops, small bars and restaurants, cheap spa treatments, and plenty of quiet beaches
- Optional activities include snorkeling with the chance to swim with manta rays and a trip to other islands to explore mangroves, unique cultural experiences, and geological wonders
Ubud
- Shop around in this artistic capital known for wood carving, stone carving, painting, custom jewelry, and handmade goods
- Walk through the Monkey Temple containing hundreds of long-tailed macaques in this forest sanctuary throughout the sprawling temple complex
- Final night's Farewell Dinner includes a traditional Balinese dance performance that recreates cultural tales and legends
Bali small group tours inclusions:
- 8 Night/9 Day adventure
- Amazing Balinese style bungalows and boutique hotels
- Privately guided, small group tour
- Delicious local meals throughout - daily breakfast, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
- 3 Massages throughout the experience - great way to unwind and relax at the end of a day’s adventure!
- All taxes and entrance included
- All transfers and ground transportation included
- Roommate pairing
- International airfare is not included but we will assist all guests with finding the best flight! We will be flying into and out of Denpasar International Airport (airport code: DPS)
Email us to see daily itinerary for our Bali tour at joinus@photoflytravel.com
Join Us!
For our solo travelers, we can pair you up with someone of the same sex unless single occupancy is requested.
Price: $2,495
Single Supplement: $595.00Deposit: $600.00
Go here to sign up: https://photoflytravel.org/tour/bali-small-group-tours/
- $$ Neches River RallyNeeds location
WILD WATERS. WILD HEARTS. PADDLE FOR A PURPOSE.
COMMUNITY PADDLING DAY + RIVER ADVENTURE IN EAST TEXAS
🌊 Neches River Rally – Scenic group paddle with rental options:- 🛶 Tandem Canoe – $75
- 🚣 Tandem Kayak – $75
- 🛶 Solo Kayak – $60
👨👩👧👦 Perfect for families, first-timers, and nature lovers alike!
The Neches River Rally is your chance to discover the hidden backwaters, towering cypress groves, and wildlife-rich sloughs of the Lower Neches River. Paddle alongside a friendly community of fellow nature lovers and conservationists, all coming together to support the Big Thicket Association and its mission to protect and educate about the Big Thicket National Preserve.
Enjoy a relaxed 4.2-mile route suitable for all skill levels, with safety volunteers and plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife—from herons and turtles to maybe even a sunbathing alligator. Proceeds from this event help fund conservation and education efforts that keep this precious ecosystem thriving.
📍 Location: Lower Neches River, Beaumont, TX
📆 Date: September 6, 2025
⛺ Make it a weekend getaway with camping and local hotels nearby!***
WHAT TO BRING:
Reusable water bottle, sunscreen, hat, dry bag, and river shoes. PFDs and paddles are included with rentals.
REGISTER NOW!
➡ Comment below or message us to reserve your vessel!
🔗 https://shop.beyonk.com/329f0z5j/experiences
For questions, contact Constantin at 📱 832-686-3231
More details at www.oakgeosciences.com - Picturesque Portugal & Awesome Azores!Lisbon, Lisbon
Portugal & the Azores
September 16th - September 30th, 2025
Join Here: https://photoflytravel.org/tour/portugal-azores-group-tours/
Email us at joinus@photoflytravel.com for the daily itinerary!
Our friends at PhotoFly Travel Club are relaunching their Portugal and Azores tour. It is an excellent program in a small group that highlights the diverse and stunning culture of Old-World Portugal and the gorgeous landscapes, beaches, and villages of the Azores.
Part 1: Mainland Portugal (8 Nights/9 Days)
Porto & the North (3 Nights)
- Privately guided walking tour of city landmarks including city hall, D. Luis bridge, and Stock Exchange Palace
- The most colorful & lively district: Discover Ribeira
- Wine tasting while exploring the valley: Road trip along the route that offers viewpoints, wine, and walks
- Cruise on the Douro
Central Portugal & Mountain Villages (1 Night)
- Free time in Piódão village: This is the perfect place to wander the narrow streets and peculiar alleys made of shale rock
- Exploring Foz d'Égua: This moderate hike begins in Piódão and takes us to an idyllic and unforgettable little village
- Convent of the Soothing of the Blessed Sacrament: This historical landmark and former 18th-century convent is our hotel for the night!
- The Schist Villages: Talesnal & Casal de São Simão
- Fragas de São Simão Walkway: The wooden paths embrace dramatic granite landscapes, steep hills, an enchanting valley, and also vestiges of laurel forest
Coimbra & the Coast (2 Nights)
- Privately guided tour of the University City
- Visit University of Coimbra: Highlights include their massive Baroque Library and Cabinet of Curiosities filled with unusual treasures through the ages
- The Old Cathedral built in 1117
- The Walled Labyrinth privately guided walking tour of Óbidos'
Lisbon, City of Hills (2 Nights)
- Guided tuk-tuk adventure in the capital
- St. George's Castle: Towering dramatically above Lisbon, the 11th-century fortifications
- Belém Tower & the Monument of Discoveries: See and photograph these World-Heritage Sites that represent the epi-center of the Portuguese Age of Discovery.
Part 2: The Azores (6 Nights/7 Days)
São Miguel: The Green Isle (2 Nights)
- Botanical gardens and hot springs
- The most unique meal in the world: The stew cooked using Furnas’s natural volcanic heat!
- The oldest tea plantation in Europe
- Epic photos at viewpoints
- Giant caldera hike
- The Azorean Pineapple: A fun stop takes us to one of the 6,000 pineapple plantations on the island
Faial: The Blue Isle (2 Nights)
- Explore the great crater & interpretation center
- Photograph from multiple viewpoints the caldeira, a massive volcanic cone now classified as a nature reserve
- Enjoy sprawling views of Ponta da Espalamaca with views of Horta town, the Northern Atlantic, and nearby islands
Pico: The Mountain Island (Day Trip)
- Cachorro Rocks: A photo stop reveals unique volcanic rock formations
- Visit Adega a Buraca winery to sample their product and learn about the process
- Visit Whaling Factory and Fishermen Museum to learn about the island's early economic driver
- Visit Church of São Mateus
- Criação Velha Vinyards: The unique methods for producing grapes ideal for winemaking on such difficult terrain is what lead to this site's important designation. Lajido da Criação Velha is the best example showcasing the art of dividing the land and planting vines in the lava rock.
Flores: The Flower Island (2 Nights)
- The westernmost county in Europe
- A curious rock: Rocha dos Bordões is the postcard image and symbol of Flores. The basaltic formation provides a unique and unforgettable landscape with geometrical rock columns that resemble a man-made structure
- The great fajãs: This Portuguese term describes the beautiful coastal formation of a small flat land on the ocean below giant cliffs
- More beauty at the highest point: The Morro Alto forest reserve area is the highest point on Flores Island
- The 7 Lagoas: We'll explore this lush area with a number of serene lakes throughout the valleys
Corvo Day Trip: The Black Isle
- Caldeirão, The Crater: This ancient crater is responsible for the epic landscape of the extinct volcano that gave rise to the island
- The Village: Vila Nova do Corvo is the sole town on the entire island and unites the old and new in two distinct sections
- Lots of wind: Before electricity came to the island wind was the main source of food production via a number of windmills. Today 3 unique windmills still stand and function from this long-lost tradition
Email us at joinus@photoflytravel.com for the daily itinerary!
Price: $4,495
Single Supplement: $895Deposit: $600
Check out our club's official trip page: https://photoflytravel.org/tour/portugal-azores-group-tours/
