Below are some Frequently Asked Questions that should address some of the logistics of Sketching Spain trips. However, we also encourage you to email us with specific issues related to your trip. Please remember that European travel in general invites us all to be flexible, patient and open to new experiences.
If there are two key concepts we hope you will embrace they are: 1. buy travel insurance (ask yourself if you could afford to walk away from the full cost of the trip plus airfare) 2.Communicate with us about all of your needs and concerns so we can address them in a timely manner.
One of the best resources for European travel Is the "Travel Tip" section of the Rick Steves website. Link here to read his explanation of travel insurance.
FAQs 2020:
I'm thinking about this trip, but I have never sketched~?
No problem! Please be assured that Judith & Teresa will guide you thru some simple steps so you can enjoy your time recording the magnificent views on the trip, regardless of your previous art journal or drawing experience. With a small group (class is limited to 10 students on each trip) there will be plenty of individual instruction. However, we do hope that even if you don't consider yourself accomplished (at least satisfied) with sketching you will be open to learning. It is always much more fun if the group is working together.
Any suggestions for flight arrangements to/from the US?
Since both trips have a minimum number of students, we strongly encourage you to wait to purchase airfare until hearing that your trip will run, no later than May 1 (7 person minimum). Danny and Judith can advise you regarding flights and can suggest either on-line booking or using a trusted travel agent via email. We encourage you to arrive a day or two before the trip so you have time to acclimate.
Judith has used Lynne Kawadler with Global Express Travel for flight arrangements & travel insurance, all via email.
I am attending with a friend/spouse, can we share a room or apartment?
We do not offer a double occupancy discount. Each registrant is assigned a separate hotel room since they are European style (aka; small). Even spouses have appreciated having two rooms. In the Barcelona apartments, students may choose to share a room but again, will be assigned a separate room in a shared apartment.
During the free time in either city I'd like to see additional points of interest that I have read about; how will I get around on my own?
Danny can advise you for exploration on your own. This is the advantage of having a professional guide with us each day.
What art materials will I be asked to bring?
Students will be sent a list of art supplies to bring on the trip along with a short video tutorial showing various sketchbooks and materials. We are going to travel light; each student will bring their own materials. Students are encouraged to carry their art materials in a very light day pack. No need to bring a portable stool; we will loan each student a camping stool to use throughout the trip.
Will I have time to do some photography?
Absolutely! Our sketching time will allow students time to explore the area with their cameras if they prefer. Judith & Teresa will be happy to share information about portable printers that are great for travel.
What will the weather be like (typical October)?
Typical weather in Spain in October includes dry, sunny and mild temperatures with averages ranging from 55° - 70° degrees; perfect! However, rain can also fill our days. We have planned the itinerary with a "plan B" in mind in case it is not comfortable to be sketching outdoors. We suggest students bring a small umbrella and light rain coat just in case, but also include a sun hat.
How will we be traveling from one destination to the next?
We will be in a comfortable private coach for most of the trip. While in Barcelona, we may use the subway (fare included). The price of all transport is included. When on your own taxis are inexpensive and Danny can advise on other options.
What is the cancellation policy?
Your deposit and fees are non-refundable. Most students purchase travel insurance as soon as they purchase their airline tickets and/or when they make the final payment on the Sketching Spain trip. (link here to read the Rick Steves information regarding travel insurance) We cannot emphasize this enough: travel insurance is a smart idea! If Adler & Marlow cancels the trip you will be fully reimbursed for your deposit and/or full payment. If you have to cancel due to illness then you will need to seek a reimbursement from your travel insurance. Please be sure to read all of the conditions when you purchase insurance; they are very specific about the conditions. There is travel insurance that provides "cancellation for any reason" which might suit your situation, the Rick Steves link will help clarify.
Should I purchase travel insurance?
Yes, Yes, Yes! You are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance since the tour fees are non-refundable. We recommend purchasing insurance thru AAA or a reputable travel agent or online site. The cost of insurance is determined by the amount of non-refundable fees you will be paying, so it is best to plan on purchasing your insurance after you have made final plans for your trip. Do you need it? Determine the total cost of your trip and ask yourself if you can afford to lose all of that money. Life happens, and we have seen it happen. We suggest using one of the links above to read the information on the Rick Steves website.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
No problem! We are prepared for gluten free and vegetarian options, and will survey participants for other dietary considerations before the trip and will accommodate everyone at all included meals. However, we can not reduce the cost of the trip based on restricted diets or food preferences.
What meals are included?
Please check the itineraries for specific meals and note, typical lunches in Spain are later in the day than in the US. They are multi course meals which usually means that dinner is often not necessary! All drinks with your meals are also included, whether it is wine or non alcoholic.
What additional fees should we expect?
We will cover your entrance fees to all locations on our itinerary. Students will pay for meals not listed in the itinerary and any additional transportation that is not part of the tour. Additionally, Danny will suggest an amount to tip our coach driver and local tour guides. (You will be advised of the suggested tip amount before departing for Spain.) Any “add on” tours scheduled before or after our trip will be an extra charge at the time of booking. If students choose to skip a lesson or outing, they are expected to pay for their expenses while they are on their own.
How rigorous will the walking/touring be?
Generally, students travel at their own pace when we are not working as a group for sketching or on a formal tour. Many of the sketching locations are easily accessed but on uneven ground. Depending on location, there may be a fair amount of up and downhill walking. If walking is an issue, we suggest contacting Danny or Judith to discuss specific challenges and accommodations. Everyone is encouraged to bring comfy shoes, some students find it helpful to bring a walking stick for stability. We will provide you with a portable stool in some locations so you are as comfortable as possible when sketching.
Any packing suggestions?
Travel light! Spain is fairly casual. A small, carry on suitcase is recommended as you will be moving your luggage from your room to the coach when we change hotels. Comfy walking shoes and a light day pack to hold your art materials are a must. We will be driving on some zig-zagging roads along the coast so please bring motion support (Dramamine, etc) if you know you have difficulty in this area. Tourists anywhere are an easy mark for pickpockets, so it is advised that you carry your wallet in a secure fashion.
Suggestions for keeping connected to folks at home?
Please check with your individual phone carriers to determine the best plan for you. You will have access to WiFi in all of our hotels and apartments.
Other tech suggestions: we will stay connected on the trip thru WhatsApp which is a free phone app we would like you to download before arrival. We will share our cell numbers with the group so we can confirm meeting times, etc. during the adventure.
Please explain the payments in Euros vs Dollars
All fees for the trip are quoted in Euros only. The conversion of dollars to Euros varies; you may wish to keep an eye on the conversion rates thru: www.xe.com for an accurate daily rate. The conversion will be made as soon as you submit your payment and it will be based on the rate that applies to that day.
Any other questions? Please email Danny or Judith - you can expect an answer quickly!
I'm thinking about this trip, but I have never sketched~?
No problem! Please be assured that Judith & Teresa will guide you thru some simple steps so you can enjoy your time recording the magnificent views on the trip, regardless of your previous art journal or drawing experience. With a small group (class is limited to 10 students on each trip) there will be plenty of individual instruction. However, we do hope that even if you don't consider yourself accomplished (at least satisfied) with sketching you will be open to learning. It is always much more fun if the group is working together.
Any suggestions for flight arrangements to/from the US?
Since both trips have a minimum number of students, we strongly encourage you to wait to purchase airfare until hearing that your trip will run, no later than May 1 (7 person minimum). Danny and Judith can advise you regarding flights and can suggest either on-line booking or using a trusted travel agent via email. We encourage you to arrive a day or two before the trip so you have time to acclimate.
Judith has used Lynne Kawadler with Global Express Travel for flight arrangements & travel insurance, all via email.
I am attending with a friend/spouse, can we share a room or apartment?
We do not offer a double occupancy discount. Each registrant is assigned a separate hotel room since they are European style (aka; small). Even spouses have appreciated having two rooms. In the Barcelona apartments, students may choose to share a room but again, will be assigned a separate room in a shared apartment.
During the free time in either city I'd like to see additional points of interest that I have read about; how will I get around on my own?
Danny can advise you for exploration on your own. This is the advantage of having a professional guide with us each day.
What art materials will I be asked to bring?
Students will be sent a list of art supplies to bring on the trip along with a short video tutorial showing various sketchbooks and materials. We are going to travel light; each student will bring their own materials. Students are encouraged to carry their art materials in a very light day pack. No need to bring a portable stool; we will loan each student a camping stool to use throughout the trip.
Will I have time to do some photography?
Absolutely! Our sketching time will allow students time to explore the area with their cameras if they prefer. Judith & Teresa will be happy to share information about portable printers that are great for travel.
What will the weather be like (typical October)?
Typical weather in Spain in October includes dry, sunny and mild temperatures with averages ranging from 55° - 70° degrees; perfect! However, rain can also fill our days. We have planned the itinerary with a "plan B" in mind in case it is not comfortable to be sketching outdoors. We suggest students bring a small umbrella and light rain coat just in case, but also include a sun hat.
How will we be traveling from one destination to the next?
We will be in a comfortable private coach for most of the trip. While in Barcelona, we may use the subway (fare included). The price of all transport is included. When on your own taxis are inexpensive and Danny can advise on other options.
What is the cancellation policy?
Your deposit and fees are non-refundable. Most students purchase travel insurance as soon as they purchase their airline tickets and/or when they make the final payment on the Sketching Spain trip. (link here to read the Rick Steves information regarding travel insurance) We cannot emphasize this enough: travel insurance is a smart idea! If Adler & Marlow cancels the trip you will be fully reimbursed for your deposit and/or full payment. If you have to cancel due to illness then you will need to seek a reimbursement from your travel insurance. Please be sure to read all of the conditions when you purchase insurance; they are very specific about the conditions. There is travel insurance that provides "cancellation for any reason" which might suit your situation, the Rick Steves link will help clarify.
Should I purchase travel insurance?
Yes, Yes, Yes! You are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance since the tour fees are non-refundable. We recommend purchasing insurance thru AAA or a reputable travel agent or online site. The cost of insurance is determined by the amount of non-refundable fees you will be paying, so it is best to plan on purchasing your insurance after you have made final plans for your trip. Do you need it? Determine the total cost of your trip and ask yourself if you can afford to lose all of that money. Life happens, and we have seen it happen. We suggest using one of the links above to read the information on the Rick Steves website.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
No problem! We are prepared for gluten free and vegetarian options, and will survey participants for other dietary considerations before the trip and will accommodate everyone at all included meals. However, we can not reduce the cost of the trip based on restricted diets or food preferences.
What meals are included?
Please check the itineraries for specific meals and note, typical lunches in Spain are later in the day than in the US. They are multi course meals which usually means that dinner is often not necessary! All drinks with your meals are also included, whether it is wine or non alcoholic.
What additional fees should we expect?
We will cover your entrance fees to all locations on our itinerary. Students will pay for meals not listed in the itinerary and any additional transportation that is not part of the tour. Additionally, Danny will suggest an amount to tip our coach driver and local tour guides. (You will be advised of the suggested tip amount before departing for Spain.) Any “add on” tours scheduled before or after our trip will be an extra charge at the time of booking. If students choose to skip a lesson or outing, they are expected to pay for their expenses while they are on their own.
How rigorous will the walking/touring be?
Generally, students travel at their own pace when we are not working as a group for sketching or on a formal tour. Many of the sketching locations are easily accessed but on uneven ground. Depending on location, there may be a fair amount of up and downhill walking. If walking is an issue, we suggest contacting Danny or Judith to discuss specific challenges and accommodations. Everyone is encouraged to bring comfy shoes, some students find it helpful to bring a walking stick for stability. We will provide you with a portable stool in some locations so you are as comfortable as possible when sketching.
Any packing suggestions?
Travel light! Spain is fairly casual. A small, carry on suitcase is recommended as you will be moving your luggage from your room to the coach when we change hotels. Comfy walking shoes and a light day pack to hold your art materials are a must. We will be driving on some zig-zagging roads along the coast so please bring motion support (Dramamine, etc) if you know you have difficulty in this area. Tourists anywhere are an easy mark for pickpockets, so it is advised that you carry your wallet in a secure fashion.
Suggestions for keeping connected to folks at home?
Please check with your individual phone carriers to determine the best plan for you. You will have access to WiFi in all of our hotels and apartments.
Other tech suggestions: we will stay connected on the trip thru WhatsApp which is a free phone app we would like you to download before arrival. We will share our cell numbers with the group so we can confirm meeting times, etc. during the adventure.
Please explain the payments in Euros vs Dollars
All fees for the trip are quoted in Euros only. The conversion of dollars to Euros varies; you may wish to keep an eye on the conversion rates thru: www.xe.com for an accurate daily rate. The conversion will be made as soon as you submit your payment and it will be based on the rate that applies to that day.
Any other questions? Please email Danny or Judith - you can expect an answer quickly!