Testimonials France: Saintes-Maries Gypsy Pilgrimage & Cowboys of Camargue
“France: Saintes-Marie Gypsy Pilgrimage and Cowboys of Camargue was the second Jim Cline PT I’ve attended. On the first trip I took, Patrick was along as an assistant to Karl Grobl. For this France trip, Patrick was the main man and person who put this first France trip together for JCPT. He did an outstanding job–from the activities we participated in, the photography, the food and restaurants he chose, the accommodations, the recruitment of Cecile Domens to assist with the horses and photography, and the social activities with the locals–he planned and executed it all. Patrick was just fabulous. He deserves 5 stars alone. The ten people on our trip were very compatible with a common interest in photography ( with some birders in the group) and who were more than interested in helping each other when the walking conditions called for an extra arm or hand. We all had a wonderful time. I would consider doing this trip again, however, the one drawback– is the mosquitoes in this region can eat you alive. Don’t let that stop you from having a fabulous time and obtaining great images.” ~ Bonnie F.
“It was a great trip. Loved the people – leaders, friends from other trips, and new people. The itinerary was great, food was great but of course the long meals and late night eating made me gain unwanted pounds. I am sure I will be happy with my photos when I get to see and process them. Thanks, Patrick for another fabulous trip.” ~Shelly R.
“The trip was structured to visit and photograph the two main attractions of the area, the pilgrimage to the church of Saintes Maries de la Mer and the horses of the Camargue. On the two pilgrimage days, we were able to attend the church service and photograph it (and the fervent churchgoers who filled the church) from a vantage point right behind the altar. After the service, the horsemen escorted the statues to the sea, followed by a parade of believers. We were easily able to join the followers and photograph. The rest of the days were spent photographing of the Camargue horses, bulls and gardiens. [Local photography guide] Cecile Domens found excellent vantage points for our photography. Sometimes we slogged through uneven underwater terrain, but Cecile and Patrick helped us navigate on foot. The mosquitos were daunting, but Patrick [trip leader] equipped us with hats/nets and bug repellent was available. One morning was spent with a group of local people who work to keep local folklore/clothing/traditional food alive. They spent several hours with us and were very patient with our photography efforts. A simple but delicious lunch was served. One afternoon we went to a local town with a bull ring in which young men practice a version of bull ‘fighting’ which doesn’t involve killing the young bulls. All of us commented that it was great that we were able to do this. Patrick is very knowledgeable and was a pleasure to work with. Thanks for a great trip!” ~Rosemary C.