Testimonials
Testimonials
Some kind words from our previous course members
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I had an amazing time at the Treetop Travel Journalism summer course in Berlin this July. The program was really well organised by Will, who is not only kind and humble, but also made sure everything ran smoothly from start to finish.
Our journalism workshops were led by Nadja, a very experienced journalist from whom I learned so much — especially about interviewing and writing proper articles. Her mentoring gave me a clear idea of what it’s really like to work in journalism, and I really appreciated the professionalism she brought to the summer course.
We were a small group, which I really liked, because it meant each of us got personal attention to improve our skills. I also really enjoyed the podcasting course with Benjamin, where we were challenged to create a full podcast episode in just 24 hours.
On top of all that, we took German classes with Wiebke. Of course, one month isn’t enough to become fluent, but I definitely picked up the basics and, by the end, I could already understand much more of what people were saying around me in Berlin.
Maya, the editor of our magazine, also deserves a big mention. She’s highly experienced in graphic design, and her input made the magazine come alive. The final product wouldn’t have been the same without her work.
Overall, this program was a real turning point for me. It showed me how much I want to continue in journalism. I loved how creative it was and how it let us explore Berlin in such a fun way. If you’re considering this program — whether to gain journalism experience for your CV or simply to spend an amazing summer in Berlin learning something new — go for it! You won’t regret it.
5/5
Maud C
July 25
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This summer school experience in Berlin was absolutely wonderful—we explored nearly 16 spots around the city!
I really appreciate every team member’s effort and support throughout this journey. Writing a magazine in English was such a challenge for me, but we pulled it off together in the end.
Thank you to all the teachers, too! I especially loved the podcasting class—it’s so engaging to tell a story just through voices.
Will is always so kind and helpful, and he truly cares about everyone.
If you’re someone who loves writing stories and wants to explore life in Berlin, I’d definitely recommend this project.
5/5
Nancy Y
July 25
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Spending a month in Berlin with TTJ was more than just experiencing Germany’s capital — it gave me a deeper dive into journalism. I found the podcast session on the importance of dialogue incredibly inspiring and useful for my further work. A big highlight was the mentorship from Nadja Vancauwenberghe, ExBerliner co-founder, who pushed us to connect with locals and create some great interview pieces. The supportive atmosphere throughout the programme made it comfortable to ask questions and share ideas. Plus, the German classes helped me sharpen my language skills and were a lot of fun, much like discovering the city’s many layers through hours-long solo explorations.
5/5
Berenika S
July 24
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I had the incredible opportunity to participate in TTJ’s July 2024 program, and as for someone with no journalism background it was truly a rewarding experience. One of the exceptional aspects was the guidance provided by Nadja Vancauwenberghe, the founder of the “Exberliner Magazine” and a highly skilled editor. At the beginning, I wasn’t entirely sure about her role in the team, but it very soon became clear. With her amount of experience as a writer, Nadja expertly guided us through the complexity of the “writing journey,” helping us with pitching and editing of our articles. Her feedback was invaluable, pointing out what needed to be added or removed, always with an eye toward improving the clarity and impact of our work.
Another highlight of the course was the diverse group of participants. Coming from different countries, everyone brought their unique stories and perspectives to the table, making discussions rich and intriguing. It was inspiring to learn from others’ experiences and exchange ideas about journalism on a larger scale.
As for the “background”, Berlin itself was more than just a setting – it was an indispensable part of the program. The city’s rich history combined with its energy allowed us to connect with our topics in an authentic and dynamic environment.
From the logistics point of view, the organization of the program was excellent, thanks to the efforts of the manager – Will. He ensured that everything ran smoothly: from helping us to find well-located accommodations to suggesting must-see sights around Berlin. Will also arranged guided tours that added depth to the time in the city. His support didn’t stop there – he played a considerable role in helping us edit and finalize the content for the magazine we made.
Overall, TTJ’s July course exceeded much more than my expectations, offering not only personal growth but also a chance to connect with talented individuals.
5/5
Ekaterina P
July 24
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Had the best month out in Berlin this August. Super immersive experience, Will led the whole creation of the magazine so well and is a top dude, and it was great to have some pro tips from journalist Nadja Vancauwenberghe to help tie our articles together. Also managed to learn some German with the lovely Wiebke too!! If there are any budding writers out there looking for an interesting and unique experience, TTJ has it all. Thanks!!!
5/5
James H
August 24
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This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to join TTJ’s journalism course in Berlin, which focused on creating a travel magazine, and it was a wonderful experience!
First of all, the project itself was amazing. Collaborating with other international students to create a magazine was super exciting. Nadja, our journalism teacher, was a total gem. She gave us constructive feedback that really elevated our articles and guided us to turn our scattered ideas into solid, publishable pieces.
Wiebke, our German teacher, was also wonderful. Her classes were not only helpful but also fun, as she often made us play games to better understand the language.
The accommodation was great, too. We stayed in two spacious flats in a peaceful, beautiful residential area. The location was perfect—close enough to the city “center” and well-connected to subway lines, but quiet enough to relax. The flat owners were super friendly, and the price was surprisingly affordable for Berlin.
If you’re considering joining, do it. You won’t regret it.
5/5
Diego G
August 24
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I’m so glad I found the TTJ course, I had such a fun month in Berlin and I think the best part of it is you’re doing so many different things – working on writing skills, photography skills, designing a magazine, visiting places, meeting people and learning German. We also got to do two days of a podcasting course which was really interesting. Really great experience and would recommend to anyone who’s interested in travel and learning new things!
5/5
harriet F
August 23
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This is such an amazing course. You get to know the coolest city, whilst meeting such interesting people. Creating the magazine is such an incredible experience: you learn so much about writing and design (skills that will be so useful going forward). German lessons are also so helpful (and with the best German teacher!) The creative freedom you are given to input your own ideas is insane – you get to make the magazine your own and its such a cool feeling seeing what you have created at the end! Will is amazing throughout – he will get you settled, give the best advice on where to go and provide guidance on writing/layout. Can’t recommend enough!
5/5
mina A
August 23
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Such an amazing course and unique experience – we met so many incredibly interesting people and got to know Berlin. Getting to create a magazine from scratch was an amazing experience as it includes elements of writing, design, photography and teamwork! Will is incredibly passionate about what he does, and guides you as you create the magazine. I couldn’t speak of it any higher! Thank you so much Will.
5/5
scout J
August 23
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An inspiring and enriching experience!
5/5
agustina B
Winter 23
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An absolute blast working with Will and an eclectic team to bring forward the Autumn/Winter 22/23 edition. So much fun!
5/5
otis H
Winter 23
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A cool and fun project! I had a great time assembling a magazine with a handful of lovely people! If you want to practice writing and editing texts, this is a great place to start :))
5/5
laura R
Winter 23
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A wonderful experience to be a part of. A close knit team with a common interest in creativity; a nurturing environment to grow your ideas into reality. Highly recommend to anyone wishing to expand their creative portfolio and to make friends from across the globe. Will is a great guy with time for everyone. Treetop Travel Journalism provides an unforgettable experience for all who attend. Thanks Will!
5/5
beth R
Jan 2020
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I recently participated in a graffiti workshop and loved it! The graffiti artists were generous with their knowledge and helpful in guiding us in useful techniques. I easily lost four hours and left the workshop feeling like I’ve obtained a new set of skills. It was a lot of fun!
5/5
regina B
October 21
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A professionally edited publication run by an experienced writer and editor. Whether you are a recent University graduate, or a working Journalist, this program will help you hone your craft, as well as putting you in touch with other writers. Highly recommended.
5/5
josh S
Jan 2020
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I always wanted to live in Berlin with a creative and inspiring project – my participation with Treetop was my perfect solution 
I was able to improve my writing skills while discovering a beautiful and vibrant city.
Thanks again to you Will for your advice and enthusiasm,
See you soon I hope!
Rach
5/5
rachel D
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What an intense working experience! I collaborated with Will as photographer and, since the very beginning, we’ve both been on the same wave! Definitely not the last time I’ll be working on an assignment with him.
5/5
simone L
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Had such a great time on this course from start to finish, and made new friends on the way. Will (the guy in charge) knows the city inside out and runs the whole thing incredibly. Thanks for the memories!
5/5
george C
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I fell in love with the city largely because of your input and tips and I’m so grateful for the experience.
5/5
shanti C
September 2019
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My time spent in Berlin working on the magazine ‘Techno is not for Everyone’, was unforgettable. It was really special to experience a city from the perspective of a journalist, leading you to a range of places from a critical standpoint.
The best part was meeting the crew and sharing our ideas, and the journey then to a collaborative magazine. I developed new skills in graphic design and photography, as well as fining my writing and editing. You have complete creative license, which is a rare opportunity.
Will is a great team leader and has a great way of bringing people together. I have made friends in Berlin that I will certainly keep in touch with moving forward, and will be sure to visit soon! His effort to making team excursions such as the winter hike and graffiti workshops were really thoughtful and make a great day out.
This is a unique experience enlightening you to an amazing city through a creative and collaborative project. I would highly recommend to anybody who wants to go further in journalism, or has an adventurous spirit!
5/5
hannah B
Jan 2020
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I can’t speak highly enough of Treetop Travel Journalism!
The writing project gives you the opportunity to explore your own creative ability, promoting independent thinking and also team work. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to gain journalistic experience or broaden their portfolio. I had never worked on magazine design prior to the project but learnt quickly from the great team and thoroughly enjoyed being able to work under guidance to improve this skill.
Additionally the excursions organised made the experience so much more than any other typical ‚learning‘ course that I have ever done. From street art classes to hikes, there is something for everyone and the relaxed atmosphere of the group made everything enjoyable. We couldn’t have been luckier with the team that we had, everyone was diligent, committed and open minded and I definitely made friends for life. A big thank you to everyone involved!
Whether you want to see Berlin for the first time and document your experiences or are already familiar with the amazing city, I can’t recommend this project enough!
5/5
lauren D
Jan 2020
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TTJ is a beautiful project, offering a platform for various groups of people with a broad variety of backgrounds to engage in the conception, research and writing of a multitude of topics.
From exploring and developing ones’ writing skills, with fabulous support and focus groups, to the development of multiple publications and a wonderful network of fabulous minds.
5/5
claire M
Summer 2020
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Treetop travel journalism was an amazing experience! It gives you the opportunity to discover the city and present your ideas in creative ways. Will was incredible! First of all he creates a safe environment for creativity and expression. Any concept that one thinks about, he has a positive attitude and finds ways to accomplish it. (Very helpful for introverts and people who are scared to share their ideas) Also it was a pleasure to work with such a nice team. The magazine’s diversity came from the fact that, everyone could explore aspects of the city that they were fascinated about. Thus, instead of creating a typical travel guide, the contribution that each made, resulted in an exciting magazine.
Another important factor that made this month very fun was the learning process. I didn’t know about magazine design or travel writing, and I learnt both of them in one month. Ljuba was very kind and patient to show us how InDesign works. She introduced us to the program and also gave us constructive criticism, in order to improve aesthetically and technically our designs.
In addition, even though i didn’t expect it, i really liked the graffiti workshop! As a person who is terrible at drawing and very clumsy, as soon as i heard that we had to do our own graffiti painting, i felt anxious. However, the artists were willing to guide and help me to execute what i had in my mind. Both of them literally taught me in 4 hours ,how i can bring to life my idea. The final painting exceeded my expectations a lot and it was definitely my favourite day from the month.
Finally i would like to say that i am very thankful for being part of this project and for everyone who was involved in it. If you want to learn about Berlin, magazine design and travel writing, treetop travel journalism is the perfect place for you!
5/5
carolina T
Jan 2020
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I’ve had a fantastic experience being part of the writing project in Berlin. What I loved most was the creative freedom combined with the valuable feedback from Will and the team. It is so exciting to be able to discover places, interview interesting people and then share your perspective with the readers professionally.
I also truly enjoyed the graffiti workshop. We had all the materials and real street artists, friendliest people, guiding us. I immersed in the process and unlocked my creative potential. Again, I appreciated the absolute freedom to express myself.
Special thanks for the hike around one of Berlin’s most beautiful lakes. It was a trip for mindfulness, meditation and peace. I came home spiritually recharged.
I am 100% satisfied with the course. It helped me find out and realize the talents that I’ve always wanted to develop.
5/5
