Islands On Assignment: Hawaii | FAQ

**Travel arrangements: **

You should fly into and out of Kona International Airport (KOA). Please plan your arrival for October 5 and your departure for October 12.You can book a discounted pre- or post-stay at the hotel, please contact the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel directly to inquire about rates. Hawaiian Airlines offers direct flights to Kona from several U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, CA; Phoenix, AZ; and Seattle, WA.

What will the weather be like, and what type of clothing should I pack?
Days and evenings are generally warm, so warm-weather clothing is appropriate. Temperatures at the summit of Mauna Kea can dip to near freezing (no, we're not kidding!), so it's important to bring a jacket, pants and closed-toe shoes (which are also useful for hiking). Meals and gatherings are island casual.

** Do I need expensive camera gear to go on this trip?**
No! Anyone can benefit from the composition and lighting tips we're offering. Bring your point-and-shoot if that's what you have. A camera with the ability to adjust the exposure manually will give you the most benefit.Pack your camera, lenses (wide, telephoto and macro if you have them), batteries (and charger), memory cards, tripod, flash and batteries, your laptop, a card reader and your favorite editing software.

** Is there Wi-Fi (or wired Internet access) in the resort? Is it free?**
In-room Wi-Fi is included in this special all-inclusive package that we've created for you.

** What does $4,980 cover?**
Everything but your flight. It covers seven nights at the resort, meals, limited alcoholic beverages, photography lessons, the use of a GoPro demo camera throughout the event, photo critiques, ground transportation and all excursions. You'll also receive a welcome bag with gifts from such partners as Maui Jim Sunglasses, ExOfficio, Tank H20, Kona Brewery, Koloa Rum, Maui's Winery and Island Distillers Hawaiian Vodka and more! A second photographer can share the same room for just $4,555.

Can I bring my non-photographer spouse or a friend?
Yes. You can bring a non-photographer spouse or friend and pay just $6,999 for the two of you (special bundle rate valid through August 19), which covers seven nights at the resort (double occupancy), meals, ground transportation and special excursions apart from the phtoography group.

** Will I need cash for anything? ****Are tips and tax included?**
We encourage tips for resort staff (bellhops, etc.), spa services and any extra attention given. Drinks on-site are included, but plan to bring cash for off-site drinks and souvenirs.

What's the currency in Hawaii?
The U.S. dollar. U.S. cash and most major credit cards are readily accepted on the island.

What travel documents do I need?
If you are a U.S. resident, no passport is required.

** Can you accommodate special dietary needs, such as food allergies, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.?**
Yes. Let us know specifics on the registration form.

** Will someone meet me at the airport?
** Yes. We'll have drivers there to pick you up.

** Where and when do I need to arrive?**
Book your arrival into Kona International Airport (KOA) on October 5, 2013. Book your departure for October 12, 2013.

** Can I arrive early or extend my stay?**
Yes. We have arranged for special discounted pricing on rooms for three days prior and three days post-event for any guests who wish to come early or stay longer ($159+ per room/per night/double occupancy; this rate is not all-inclusive). Arrangements for an extended stay should be made directly with the Hapuna Beach Prince Resort. A limited number of extended-stay rooms are available at the discounted rate, and reservations must be made by September 23, 2013.

Deposit
An initial deposit of 25% will be applied to the credit card provided when you register. Remaining balance will be due NO LATER than August 30, 2013. If registering after August 30, 2013, registration balances are due in full when registration is completed.

Cancellation Policy
We rely on your attendance to make important arrangements for the workshop. We understand that your plans may change and that you may need to cancel your attendance on Islands On Assignment. We suggest purchasing refundable airline tickets and obtaining trip-cancellation insurance. Islands On Assignment is not responsible for any monetary loss on airline tickets or other losses related to cancellation or withdrawl from the workshop.

• Cancellations received in writing (via e-mail to Maggie.Strassel@bonniercorp.com) on or before August 30, 2013 will receive a full refund.
• Cancellations received in writing (via e-mail to Maggie.Strassel@bonniercorp.com) after August 30, 2013 but before September 22, 2013 will receive a 30% refund.
• There is no refund for cancellations received on or after September 23, 2013 or if you do not show up at the workshop.
• In the event that Islands On Assignment: Hawaii is cancelled for inadequate attendance or other reasons, registrants will receive a full refund.

How physically active is this? Will I get any downtime/leisure time?

Plan on moderate walks and hikes. You can swim in the ocean or the resort pool. You'll have time during the day to rest, and you're free to opt out of anything.

What if I have other questions?
E-mail us at onassignment@islands.com • Download FAQ

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