Semporna Photo Workshop
May 25 – June 1, 2024 (FULL)
If you wish to pay with bank transfer, Zelle, Chase QuickPay or check, please e-mail me at: info@williamyuphotoworkshops.com
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Photo Tour Summary:
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Semporna is a town located on the island of Borneo, in the Sabah state of Malaysia. The enchanting coastal landscape, as people calls it the “Malaysian Maldives”, Semporna is the gateway to one of the best snorkeling and diving location in the world!
The majority of the population here is Bajau, also known as Bajau Laut, or Sea Gypsies, or Palau people. Most Bajau people are living in sprawling stilt villages over the water on the outskirts of Semporna. They are one of the few nomadic seaborne peoples in the world. For centuries, this ancient community of seafarers have lived on the sea and on the boat for most all their lives. The Bajau Laut community have mastered the art of free-diving, with some being able to dive for 20 meters deep while holding their breath for several minutes long!
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Join the award-winning photographers, Danny Wong, William Yu and Kah-Wai Lin for the upcoming tour to Semporna. Immerse yourself into the amazing snorkeling experience (even if you never done it before!), and photograph the unique Bajau way of life!
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When: May 25 – June 1, 2024
Where: Semporna, Malaysia
Cost: US$ for double occupancy; US$ for single occupancy.
Group size: 12 maximum
Category: Photography workshop
Tour Leader & Photography Instructor: William Yu
Language spoken: English
Workshop URL: www.williamyuphotoworkshops.com/semporna
Contact: info@williamyuphotoworkshops.com
The cost of this tour is US$ for double occupancy; US$ for single occupancy, it includes:
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Ground transportation.
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Sea transportation.
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Hotels include 5 nights in 3-stars hotel and 2 nights in private island luxury chalet.
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All meals and non-alcoholic beverages.
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National park permits & marine park permits.
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Snorkeling training and equipment.
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Goodies for sea Bajaus.
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Exclusive discounts on photo equipment in our camera store.
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The cost does NOT include:​
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Airfare to Semporna.
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Visa (we will prepare documents for you).
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Travel insurance.
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Alcoholic beverages.
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Gratitude for guides, captains & drivers.
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Activity Level: Easy
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Workshop Itinerary:​
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Day 1-2: Tawau – Semporna – Mataking
Upon arrival in Tawau Airport (TWU) in Sabah, Malaysia, we will transfer you to Semporna town overland, and proceed to the paradise Mataking Island. After the long journey to Malaysia, all you have to do in the first two days is relax and enjoy the beautiful white sang beach. Other than photography, there’s also activities like glass boat ride and snorkeling.
Day 3: Timba Timba Island – Pandanan Island – Pom Pom Island – Semporna
Today we will proceed to Timba Timba island, Pandanan and Pom Pom Island for snorkeling, these are the world-class locations for snorkeling and photographing underwater world.
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Day 4: Bodgaya Island – Bohey Dulang Island – Sipuan Island
First proceed to Bodgaya Island for shooting Sea Bajau, then trek up to the view point of Bohey Duland for the amazing panoramic view, then lunch on Sipuan Island and snorkeling, be experience close encounter with colorful fishes in the sea.
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Day 5: Maiga Island –Mantabuan Island
First proceed to Maiga Island by speed boat to visit Bajau settlement for photography, then lunch on Mantabuan Island and snorkeling.
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Day 6: Blue Star – Ormadal Island
One full day excursion on Ormadal Island where the largest Bajau settlement, after lunch, walk on the island more photography.
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Day 7: Tiga Island – Mabul Island – Kapalai
Another day to explore Bajau settlement on Tiga Island if the tide conditions allow, then relaxation on the beautiful Mabul Island, lastly snorkeling at Kapalai.
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Day 8: Tawau
Check out and transfer to Tawau Airport to return to your home country.
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Itinerary Disclaimer:
We try our best to adhere to the original itinerary that described above but sometimes little alterations can be born due to the situations that are beyond our control. The detail itinerary is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destination or activities is by no means of guarantee that they will be encountered or carried due to the local circumstances and weather.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
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How do I sign up and pay for this tour?
A deposit of $200 is required for this workshop to hold your spot, you can pay by Visa, Mastercard or PayPal via PayPal.com or send a check (U.S. residents only). The balance is due on Jan 25, 2024. All participants must sign William Yu Photography Workshops/Tours Liability Waiver Form and show the proof of travel insurance before the tour starts.
How many participants do you allow?
Photo tour size is limited to 12 attendees, which ensures that every attendee will get full attention. We need minimum of 8 attendees to make the trip.
What photographic skill level is required to benefit from this tour?
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Any people who has a basic understanding of exposure all the way to the advanced amateur and professional who is in search of a fresh perspective!
What is your refund or cancellation policy?
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No refunds will be given for delays or cancellations due to inclement weather, (which interestingly, can result in some of the most some amazing shots!), either before or during the tour. If the tour is cancelled by the organizer, we will notify you immediately and you will be issued full refund. We are not responsible for any additional costs you may incur due to any delays or cancellations.
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No Refunds for USD200 deposit if cancelled.
No refund after Jan 25, 2024 if paid in full.
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I have some questions, how do I learn more?
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Please send email to info@williamyuphotoworkshops.com
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