Welcome to Laughing Planet Journeys, a travel experience led by Eugene, Oregon–based photojournalist Sherrlyn Borkgren. Join us and travel in a way that allows your heart and your lens to meet the world with openness, curiosity, and simple acts of goodwill. Our journeys are not mass-produced or machine-built—they are grass-roots, hands-on experiences guided by a professional photojournalist who has worked for major magazines worldwide.Every detail of our trips is intentionally crafted to support creativity in the field. Designed with photographers of all experience levels in mind, each journey balances artistic opportunity with comfort and flow. We prioritize great light, meaningful cultural experiences, and a wide range of photogenic scenes. Time for editing, rest, and exploration is thoughtfully built into every itinerary. We seek out the best light for you—and alongside you—working together as a team.

These journeys aren’t tours. They’re invitations.

Invitations to slow down, to truly see, and to create stories born from real connection. In Cuba and Guatemala, we step into everyday life with humility and curiosity, guided not by checklists but by the rhythm of the culture and the generosity of the people who welcome us in. Your camera is a bridge, and the experience becomes a gift you carry for life.

Upcoming Workshops

• 2026 February-Cuba-step back in time wth classic cars, hand-plowed tobacco farms, and your opportunity to photograph and spread goodwill. SOLD OUT next Cuba photography workshop in November 2026

• 2026-Guatemala –March 26- April 3 Photograph Easter Week, Semana Santa, come to ancient places, witness sacred traditions, and the profound Holy Week processions building toward Palm Sunday.

2026- November. TBA Cuba 9 days

• Additional Journeys Coming Soon

Find the Guatemala journey information further down the page, please

SOLD OUT Photography workshop CUBA

February 9-17, 2026

Next Cuba Photography

Workshop

is in November 2026

Picture yourself in Havana this February—weathered buildings with rich textures, classic cars rumbling through narrow streets, music drifting from balconies, and human stories unfolding everywhere you look. Cuba is a dream for street photography, offering raw beauty, character, and moments that feel alive.

. You’ll come home not just with meaningful images, but with stories you’ll be telling for a long time.

VISAS: We travel under the official group endorsement for education -1 CFR 515.574 — “Support for the Cuban People and Education.”

Solo travelers are encouraged to come!

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Reviews

Words of Travelers’
”I had a vacation like no vacation in Cuba before thanks to the energy, spontaneity, and creativity of Sherrlyn,
who knows how to engage everyone in thoughtful and uplifting conversation. I now have an insider's view of #Cuba thanks to her coordination of this trip, and made many Cuban friendships, such as with this champion boxer and trainer, Radame Castillo…” Gary Klein 2024 #GuatemalaTravel#photographyworkshops

“ Traveling with Sherrlyn Borkgren is a fun adventure”.

“Want to become a better visual storyteller? Join Sherrlyn's Guatemala/Cuban workshops. She'll show you things you might miss, even standing next to her.”

Bob Dotson, American Story, NBC TODAY’S SHOW, and New York Times best-selling author.

“Sherlyn is a master photographer and culturally sensitive. For anyone interested in honing their skills in storytelling in other cultures, I highly recommend her workshops. Bill Bangham, editor and writer

Say Hello! click here

Send me a note

Text or call during business hours for details at 541579 9929

Guatemala Easter 2026

Enjoy Palm Sunday and pre-Holy Week

Guatemala Photography Workshop Palm sunday March 2026

Click here for a sample itinerary and prices

Guatemala is a land of marvels, a realm where mysteries and wonders await your discovery. Echoing the sentiments of famed author Aldous Huxley, "Lake Atitlan is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful lakes in the world," the breathtaking landscapes, adorned with majestic mountains and volcanic peaks, will leave you in awe.

Only on this journey will you sit with Maya healers and experience ancient Mayan rituals with smells that will linger and whisper tales of a bygone era.

These are no ordinary tours; they are immersive adventures that dive deep into local culture, extend a helping hand to the communities we visit, cultivate new friendships, and capture the very essence of Guatemala through breathtaking photographs.

You choose from climbing a volcano to opting out for an afternoon in a hammock.
Laughing Planet Journeys is an adventure meant for those who have an open and curious mindset. Flexibility is key, as we aim to provide an immersive and authentic experience of Guatemala's culture and communities. We have a structured yet spontaneous agenda because we know anyone who travels must be instinctive to once-in-a-lifetime moments.

What do you need to travel with Us?

We require a spontaneous and cooperative attitude from our travelers. You will be part of a group journey that requires teamwork and support. We are casual and evenly paced. There are almost always workarounds for slower travelers. It is a moderately paced trip and we have 3 days at an altitude of 3500 ‘ around Lake Atitlan.

More Reviews

”I felt that I was inside the culture and had this unique opportunity to be accepted as one of the people. “ Raelynn C.

”I never felt like a tourist except when I was on my own and with others in the group. I saw places, met people, and had a great time.
This is a cultural adventure and I recommend it for anyone who wants to explore and do urban photography.
“ Liz H. #Travel Photograph

2

“I went to Cuba with Sherrlyn and discovered places and people I could not have met on my own. We traveled in an old woody station wagon, and even in a carraige pulled by well-fed horses. We learned from Cuban experts and Cuban locals. We visited a boxing club and a salsa dance. It felt like traveling back in time and gave me an understanding of Cuba and its people that I had never imagined. Everyone should visit at least once and take Sherrlyn as a guide,” Ray Clarke

There were some people with professional cameras, and others had iPhones. It didn’t matter; everyone got the same attention for learning. The philosophy is that if you want to learn, “Ask”. Sherrlyn knows the culture probably better than many Guatemalans. I enjoyed canoeing across Lake Atitlan and also liked the very early morning volcano climb. The climb is hard, and it’s very early in the morning, so think twice if you aren’t a morning person or not in great shape. Had a wonderful time and I’m planning on a future CUBA trip with Sherrlyn .” #GuatemalaTravel#Cuba tours Sevenille 2024

Below: The Guatemala Kite Festival is a celebration of the Day of the Dead, also known in Guatemala as “All Saints’ Day”. It’s a happy, fun day with lots of marimba music and food.

"‘Sherrlyn is not just a tour leader; she's a passionate explorer with a remarkable talent for capturing breathtaking shots published in hundreds of magazines worldwide”. You will acquire hidden gems and a travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary. You’ll travel with Sherrlyn and enjoy friendships with local artists, herbalists, farmers, and more who look forward to meeting you.” Eric