Travel Buddies: Fun Trips & Travel Partners found here!

ALOHA & HAPPY 250TH INDEPENDENCE DAY !!!!!!!!!
******** I quit doing the annual July 4th in the Sonoma Sq .park, After 8 years ! Too much work !
This time I need your RSVP for a different location, just across from the Village square. Facing North towards the hills!
*********
We can meet at Mary's Pizza on the North side of the Square between the
Cheese Deli & the Swiss hotel restaurant ! Parking is in the big lot behind.
Come in thru the back doors & walkways. We can walk around the park
and maybe sip some vino , etc. before having some dinner .
***********
BY 9;00 pm. we will have to walk the 2 blocks to find the best location
to view the best fireworks you have ever experienced ,in this small town!
You know what to bring , as it can get cool at dark. It gets so bright that
you might need some sunglasses ! Yes ! You heard me correctly !
********
My phone is 925 787 3041. My email: boldbackroads@gmail.com
You may want to bring a flashlight or use your phone !
INDIE TOM
PS: I'll show you where my Gold awarded short Film was first shown at the Historic Sebastiani Theater !!!!!!!!

Email us at joinus@photoflytravel.com for the daily itinerary!

We really outdid ourselves this time. Join PhotoFly on our inaugural adventure throughout the unmatched beauty of Alaska's land & sea. This Alaska Cruise-Tour blends the best of both worlds: five nights deep in the wild heart of Alaska, where mountains, forests, and wildlife reign, followed by an intimate 7-night small-ship journey past calving glaciers and into remote coves. Think whale watching, kayaking, and zodiac landings in spots the big ships never see!

• 12 Nights/13 Days Alaska Small Group Tour
• Quaint Lodge & Hotel Accommodations (land tour)
• 1 Domestic flights INCLUDED!
• Breakfast daily
• 7 Lunches, 8 Dinners Included
• Privately guided adventures throughout
• All taxes, transfers, fees included

Part 1: The Wild Interior - 5 Nights

• The Alaska Rail: Traveling by rail in Alaska is more than just getting from A to B—it’s part of the adventure. The tracks wind past glacier-fed rivers, towering peaks, and endless forests, all while you sit back and soak it in.
• Fairbanks: Alaska’s quirky northern hub, where frontier history meets Arctic adventure. Legendary Gold Dredge No. 8: Pan for treasure at this historic mining site near Fairbanks, where we can relive Alaska’s gold rush era. Discovery II Sternwheeler: Step aboard the Discovery II for a 3½-hour cruise along the Chena and Tanana Rivers—rated the top boat tour in North America. Visit Chena Indian Village: Here, Athabascan guides share their traditions and survival skills, offering a rare glimpse into Alaska’s Indigenous heritage passed down through generations. Alaska University Museum of the North (Optional): Discover this treasure trove of Alaskan art, wildlife, and Indigenous culture. From towering totem poles to rare wildlife exhibits, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the state’s history and natural wonders.
• Denali: Experience Alaska at its wildest, where towering peaks, sprawling tundra, and abundant wildlife, including grizzlies, caribou, and Dall sheep roam the land. Experience a full-day Denali adventure with breathtaking views of Mt. Denali, wildlife spotting, and optional hikes. Along the way, scan the ridges and riverbeds for grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and foxes. Birders are in for a treat too, with over 150 species calling this vast wilderness home. With trails to suit every level, hiking here puts you right in the heart of Alaska’s most celebrated landscape.
• Talkeetna: This quirky, laid-back town with a frontier spirit serves as the gateway to Denali and the Alaska Range. Its historic downtown is filled with colorful buildings, cozy cafés, and local shops, giving visitors a taste of small-town Alaska charm. Take flightseeing tours over glaciers and peaks, or enjoy fishing, hiking, and river activities. The town's stunning views and easygoing vibe make it the perfect base for exploring the wild landscapes of Alaska’s interior.
• Anchorage: Anchorage blends wild Alaska with urban energy, where moose wander greenbelts and the Chugach Mountains rise just beyond downtown. Stroll the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for sweeping inlet views, or dive into local history at the Anchorage Museum and Alaska Native Heritage Center. Fresh-caught seafood, buzzing breweries, and easy access to glaciers and wilderness are just a short drive away.

Part 2: Cruising Alaska Off the Path - 7 Nights

Our small-ship adventure cruise is your front-row seat to one of Alaska’s most awe-inspiring wildernesses, where thunderous tidewater glaciers calve into icy fjords and humpback whales breach against snow-draped peaks. Unlike the big liners, nimble vessels slip into secluded coves and narrow inlets, giving you access to hidden bays alive with sea otters, puffins, and brown bears foraging along the shore. Days are filled with kayaking beneath towering cliffs, hiking old-growth rainforests, and Zodiac excursions that bring you nose-to-ice with glacial walls—every moment a chance to feel the raw pulse of wild Alaska up close. This is the cruise for travelers who crave intimacy, adventure, and a true connection with nature’s grand stage.

• Juneau: Alaska’s quirky capital, is tucked between snowcapped mountains and the shining waters of the Inside Passage, where no roads lead in or out—just planes and ferries. The star attraction is the mighty Mendenhall Glacier, easily reached from town, while whale-watching cruises, flightseeing tours, and glacier hikes open the door to unforgettable adventures. Downtown, historic saloons, fresh-caught seafood, and a vibrant arts scene give this frontier city a lively, down-to-earth charm.

Exploring the Inside Passage & Glacier Bay National Park
Sailing Alaska’s Inside Passage is a journey through a labyrinth of emerald isles, fjords, and towering mountains, where glaciers calve thunderously into icy waters. In Glacier Bay National Park, colossal rivers of ice spill from the Fairweather Range, creating a landscape alive with cracking ice and echoing roars. Humpback whales, sea otters, and puffins thrive in these nutrient-rich waters, while brown bears and mountain goats roam the rugged shoreline. Few places on earth combine such raw wilderness, cultural history, and wildlife encounters, making this one of Alaska’s most unforgettable voyages.

• Hobart Bay: Paddle tranquil waters by kayak, hike with naturalists to discover hidden flora and fauna, or spot eagles soaring above the treetops. The day winds down with wildlife watching, happy hour, and expert talks back on deck.
• LeConte Glacier: This southernmost tidewater glacier in the Northern Hemisphere offers an intimate wilderness experience unreachable by mega ships. Spend the day exploring by kayak or small boat, with the chance to land ashore and wander among icebergs beached like frozen sculptures.
• Thomas Bay: Explore this ethereal, misty bay, where whales surface and Cascade Creek thunders through the forest in a dramatic series of waterfalls. With trails for every level, plus unmatched water access for kayaking, zodiac tours, and wildlife encounters, it’s one of Southeast Alaska’s hidden gems.
• Whale Watching & Kuiu Island: This island’s wild west coast offers calm bays teeming with playful sea otters and some of the world’s highest densities of black bears. Add in the chance to spot humpbacks bubble-net feeding along the reefs, and you’ve got a quintessential Alaskan wilderness experience.
• Snorkeling in Alaska: Slip into one of the warmest wetsuits around and snorkel into a surprisingly vibrant “cold-water tropical reef.” Explore an astonishing variety of sea stars and the Pacific’s hidden underwater wonders in this wild, touchable world.

Glacier Bay National Park: UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve is massive. In the calm of the night, the ship’s crew has taken us deep into Glacier Bay National Park. Less than 1% of visitors to the park have the opportunity we are about to have – get on land with, or kayak in front of Margerie Glacier, a deep blue, mile-wide chunk of ice!
The Brown Bears of Chichagof Island: A rugged wilderness paradise, renowned for its dense populations of brown bears and Sitka black-tailed deer. In the Backcountry: Discover the vast, infinitely discoverable Tongass National Forest where calm waters and gentle shorelines invite kayaking, paddleboarding, and guided hikes amid bald eagles, harbor seals, and the occasional whale spout. With every turn dictated by wildlife and the seasons, this is an intimate introduction to Southeast Alaska’s wild beauty.

Activities & Adventures

• Shore Excursions and Zodiac Cruises: Zodiac rides emphasize active wildlife and nature experiences. Guided shore excursions, walks, wildlife spotting, and Zodiacs to/from landings are all included!
• Hiking: Venture beyond the shore and reach higher ground for more expansive vantages on guided hikes through forests and across glaciated environments. The leadership of certified mountain guides & assistants makes this a safe and once-in-a-lifetime experience. Physical fitness is essential. Special alpine equipment is provided if needed (ropes &/or crampons). *Optional BUT INCLUDED for those interested
• Kayaking & Paddle Boarding: We hope to offer kayaking & paddle boarding on several days in the "passage". Basic kayak experience is welcome but not required. Physical fitness is essential to participate. Kayaks/paddles are provided. *For more details, please refer to the daily itinerary.
• Snorkeling: Try your hand at a snorkel (we have the warmest wetsuits known to man, fear not) and unlock an entire universe of discovery as you peruse the most diverse population of sea-stars on earth – a surprise to many who visit this place.
• On-Board Workshops/Presentations: Most of our time will be spent experiencing & photographing the landscapes & wildlife of this Alaskan region. In the evenings, and when cruising from one location to the next, we'll have the option of partaking in a wide range of onboard workshops and presentations. Certain topics may include navigation, astronomy, geology, & botany along with in-depth presentations that explore the fascinating life of the regions' whales, land mammals, birds, and other animals that call this magical realm home.

Encounters with Whales
Whale watching in Alaska is nothing short of breathtaking, with chances to encounter the ocean’s most majestic giants in a pristine, untamed wilderness. From the deck of an expedition ship or the spray-kissed edge of a zodiac, every sighting is unforgettable in its own way.

Curious whales sometimes circle beneath the Zodiac or even spy-hop, rising to eye you with astonishing intent. Peering into a whale’s gaze, with only a thin rubber hull between you, is a truly unforgettable moment and a vantage point that few get to witness and photograph.

Email us at joinus@photoflytravel.com for the daily itinerary!

Price From: $7,995.00

Go here to sign up: https://photoflytravel.org/tour/amazing-alaska-small-group-tours/

PhotoFly Travel Club (http://www.photoflytravel.com/) is preparing another amazing adventure in the land of culture and exquisite cuisine. Traveling to Venice and Northern Italy offers an unforgettable experience, blending rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful landscapes. Venice, known for its canals, iconic gondolas, and historic landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, is a must-see destination.
Beyond Venice, Northern Italy boasts diverse attractions. Milan, a global fashion hub, is home to incredible art and architecture. The lakes of Northern Italy, such as Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, and Lake Garda, offer scenic beauty with opportunities for hiking, scenic cruise, and relaxation.
The region is also renowned for its fine cuisine, including risottos, pasta dishes, and exquisite wines. Instead of taking the well-traveled tourist tracks of the central and south, this trip stands apart taking our club members to places off-the-beaten-path.

• 11 Nights/12 Days Northern Italy off-the-path
• Charming Boutique Hotels
• Breakfast daily
• Welcome/Farewell dinners + 1 lunch included
• Privately guided adventures throughout
• All taxes, transfers, fees included

Join Here: https://photoflytravel.org/tour/northern-italy-venice-and-the-dolomites/

Venice (3 Nights)
Venice is a unique and enchanting city built on a network of over 100 islands, connected by canals and bridges. Known for its romantic ambiance, The landmarks here are known by name worldwide, like St. Mark's Square, and now it is your turn to experience them. The city's canals, especially the Grand Canal, serve as main waterways, where gondolas and water taxis glide past historic buildings

• Walk St. Mark's Square: The main piazza of the city, the public square it the cultural hub here with the dazzling promenade anchoring one side.
• Tour Doge's Palace: A Venetian Gothic style palace containing grand ballrooms, intricate mosaic work, a giant gilded staircase (scala d'oro), and Renaissance master artworks adorn the former residence of early leaders.
• Tour St. Mark's Basilica: One of the world's most grand and luxurious cathedrals featuring an illustrious design, endless mosaics, and stunning blend of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture.
• Ferry Trip to Three Islands: Venice sits in a lagoon built upon many islands with several of them home to arts, culture, and practices not found anywhere else in the country.
• Murano is home to some of the finest glass blowers and artisans in the world. Visit one of the factories to see how it all comes together by hand in an exquisite balance of patience, technical ability, and creativity.
• Burano is known for the candy-colored houses along the canal, great for taking pictures and an ideal stop for lunch with a view. Also here are the famed lace makers who have created delicate yet lasting textile pieces for centuries. We'll stop into a workshop to see the stunning pieces created through complex braiding and twisting.
• Torcello is one of the quietest, most traditional islands away from the crowds. Today, there are few inhabitants and here is perfect for a relaxing walk along the canals, a view of the city's first cathedral dating back to the 7th century, and archeological remains.

South Tyrol: Bolzano (2 Nights)
Bolzano, located in the South Tyrol region of Northern Italy, is a picturesque city that blends Italian and Austrian influences, reflecting its unique cultural heritage. Surrounded by the stunning Dolomite Mountains, Bolzano offers a mix of natural beauty and urban charm, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

• See Ötzi the Iceman: Preserved inside a museum, learn about the world's oldest and most important 'wet' mummy that has provided incredible insight into life during the Copper Age. You will see these remains!
• Feely Enjoy Bolzano: Explore areas around the main Piazza Walther, take a trip to a nearby winery, explore local markets, sip espresso at a cafe, or wander aimlessly around this youthful city.
• Day of Hiking and Exploring: These mountain regions, Val d'Ega and Val di Fassa, are stunning alpine areas to be explored, photographed, and hiked. This trip gets into the heart of the granitic Dolomites, the southern reaches of the European Alps.
• Cabe Car Experience up Monte Baldo: With sweeping views of Lake Garda while gently climbing inside the modern gondola, exit on top of Monte Baldo rising to over 7,000 feet. From here, enjoy lunch with an unrestricted view of water on one side and endless mountains on the other.

Lake Como (1 Night)
Lake Como, located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy, is one of the most beautiful and sought-after destinations in the country. Surrounded by the majestic Alps, the lake's crystal-clear waters reflect the stunning mountain scenery, creating a breathtaking landscape. The lake is shaped like an upside-down "Y" and is dotted with charming towns and villages, such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, each offering a unique atmosphere of elegance and tranquility.

• Guided Tour of Villa Balbianello: Known for its breathtaking setting, the villa is surrounded by lush gardens and offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The villa dates back to the late 18th century and has been meticulously preserved, with its classic architecture and elegant interiors reflecting its rich history. You may have already seen this place in several major Hollywood movies.
• Explore Bellagio: This is a charming town located on the shores of Lake Como in Northern Italy, often referred to as the "Pearl of Lake Como" due to its picturesque beauty.
• Scenic Lake Como Cruise: Departing from Bellagio, the boat gently cruises past lakeside towns and villages while a local guide shares knowledge of what we're seeing. See sprawling villas and exotic gardens from the 17th and 18th century, admire the stunning scenery, and listen to the history of these storied areas in the open air.

Lake Maggiore (2 Nights)
Lake Maggiore is one of the largest and most scenic lakes in Italy, located in the northern part of the country, stretching across the regions of Lombardy and Piedmont, with a portion extending into Switzerland. The lake is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, surrounded by lush mountains, rolling hills, and charming lakeside villages.

• Explore and Tour Three Borromean Islands: The Borromean Islands are a group of beautiful islands located in Lake Maggiore, off the coast of Stresa in Northern Italy. Comprising three main islands—Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori—and two smaller islets, the Borromean Islands are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and historical significance.
• Isola Bella is the most famous of the islands, known for its opulent Baroque palace (tour of the inside) and meticulously landscaped terraced gardens, which overlook the lake. The palace, once a private residence of the Borromeo family, is now open to the public and showcases elegant rooms filled with art and antiques. The gardens are a highlight, with exotic plants, fountains, and breathtaking views.
• Isola Madre is the largest island and is celebrated for its lush botanical gardens, home to rare plants, exotic flowers, and vibrant bird species. The formal Italian-style Baroque garden is raised on artificial stone giving it the appearance of a stone ship filled with an estimated 2,000 species of flora.
• Isola dei Pescatori (Island of the Fishermen) is the most picturesque and charming, with a quaint village of narrow streets, cobbled paths, and traditional lakeside homes. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy an espresso or snack between a casual exploration.

Entreves (2 Nights)
Entreves is a picturesque Medieval alpine village located in the Aosta Valley in the Italian Alps, near the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. Known for its cobblestone streets and stone houses, it is a popular destination year-round for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities in both winter and summer.

• Tour Fenis Caslte: Built mainly in the 13th and 14th centuries, the castle served as a prestigious residence for the noble Challant family rather than a purely defensive stronghold. Its double ring of battlements and numerous towers create a dramatic, almost fairytale-like appearance.
• Skyway Monte Bianco Experience: This is an extraordinary cable car that offers breathtaking views of the Italian Alps and the towering Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak. This modern engineering marvel connects the town of Courmayeur to the Punta Helbronner station at over 11,000 feet above sea level. It is one of the most spectacular ways to experience the stunning landscapes of the Mont Blanc massif.

Milan (1 Night)
Milan, Italy’s second-largest city, is a global capital of fashion, design, and culture, offering a perfect blend of historic grandeur and modern sophistication. Located in the northern part of the country, Milan is known for its stylish atmosphere, world-class shopping, and vibrant arts scene. Like other cities, there are several 'must see' sites here and our brief time includes visits to these stunning attractions.

• Tour Duomo di Milano: Simply known as the Duomo, it is Milan's most iconic and breathtaking landmark, a stunning Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the city.
• View Da Vinci's The Last Supper: Captivating visitors from around the world for decades, this masterpiece is immediately recognizable. Painted in the late 1400s, marvel at the scale, emotional depth, and masterful depiction of Jesus announcing at dinner his betrayal.
• Explore Piazza della Scala: This is one of Milan's most elegant and historic squares, located just a short walk from Piazza del Duomo. The square is best known for being home to the world-renowned Teatro alla Scala, one of the most famous opera houses in the world, which dominates the northern side of the square.
• Walk Galleria Vittorio Emaneule II: One of Milan's most famous and luxurious landmarks, an elegant 19th-century shopping arcade located next to the Duomo di Milano. Opened in 1877, the Galleria is a stunning example of 19th-century glass-and-iron architecture, featuring a soaring glass roof and intricate mosaics on the floor, depicting various Italian regions.

Email us at joinus@photoflytravel.com for the daily itinerary!

Price: $4,995
Single Supplement: $895

Check out our club's official trip page: https://photoflytravel.org/tour/northern-italy-venice-and-the-dolomites/