THE KINGDOM OF THE PELICANS 2026
Beneath Zeus’s open sky and beside Poseidon’s shimmering waters, the pelicans rose like living myths… Majestic reminders that the greatest journeys are the ones that leave us grateful…. “The Kingdom of the Pelicans” workshop has definitely exceeded my expectations. It’s already a highlight of 2026 and who knows, perhaps even the best photo workshop I’ve ever joined. Not only did I have the chance to admire and photograph these majestic, beautiful animals, but above all I was surrounded by the genuine care and support of our highly experienced guide, Vaios. He offered clear, sharp guidance without ever being imposing, giving us plenty of autonomy and freedom to decide what and when we photographed. He followed our flow and shaped each day around our mood, the weather, and the birds’ behaviour. He did it all with charm and elegance, always respecting the pelicans’ space and well-being. Although we were only guests in the Kingdom, for those four days I truly felt part of the flock. Watching Vaios call in his feathery friends was something else entirely. It was obvious he isn’t just a great guide and photographer. He has a deep, almost spiritual bond with the lake and the birds that live there. Vaios is also an outstanding host. He looked after me from the moment I first enquired about the workshop, through my arrival in Greece (including picking me up from the airport), throughout the workshop itself, and all the way to dropping me off for my flight home. And the welcome and farewell dinners at a Greek taverna? OMG…unforgettable… True Greek hospitality! Vaios, our guide and our friend, going above and beyond… The hotel and the food deserve a chapter of their own. In short: everything felt genuine and delicious. Logistics and organisation … absolutely flawless … the hotel comfortable (needed to recover as the workshop is an intense effort)… Finally, our chef and the entire support crew were absolute stars! Fantastic people who clearly love what they do and belong to this place as an integral part of the whole experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend Vaios and this warm, heartfelt, almost spiritual experience to anyone who loves animals and Greek culture (not only photographers).
