Culture Holidays in Asia

An unforgettable, tiring, enjoyable experience. Wouldn’t have missed it, but was glad to say goodbye to that coach we travelled in most days.
Would highly recommend being in Mexico for the Day of the Dead festival. Oaxaca was a great place to enjoy it – a beautiful city where we were welcomed and felt part of the celebrations. Our guide really helped us understand the history, culture and story of Mexico, from the outset in Mexico City, then led us through it over the following 16 days. I thought that the numerous visits to classical sites would be too much, but every one was different and visits were interspersed with meeting local families, learning to cook local dishes, experiencing local traditions, like following wedding parties, exploring fabulous old cities, enjoying scenery, rivers and mountains. A complete journey through what Mexico offers.

Gail Hopper Discover Mexico – Day of the Dead (Oaxaca)

The “Week in Oman” trip, booked well in advance for April 2026, started with such promise. Neil’s customer service was exceptional, setting a positive tone. Even though I sourced my own, cheaper flights, the anticipation provided by Exodus was palpable as the travel date neared.

But that’s when the poor admin and support became evident. My queries to the Exodus Operations team, intended to ensure proper preparation, were met with generic, outdated direction to the trip notes. Ramadam dates for 2024 and 2025 were irrelevant for 2026, and actual answers remained elusive. The pre-trip administration became a farce: asked for flight details a month out, despite having provided them months prior for the arranged airport transfer. Then, two days later, the exact same request arrived from another team member. My confidence in Exodus’s organizational capabilities plummeted.

Thankfully, when Middle East events cast doubt on the trip, Exodus were back on form. Their communication was swift, options were clear, and the trip was confirmed.

Once in Oman, the experience was truly magnificent, thanks to the incredible team at Zahara Travel. Oman itself, with its stunning landscapes and wonderful people, created cherished memories. While there were minor deviations from the original plan, it became clear Exodus struggles with up-to-date information on their website and trip notes.

Despite the outstanding tour itself, the administrative shortcomings were undeniable. As an experienced fellow traveller aptly put it, “Exodus are not the company they once were.” This trip certainly didn’t demonstrate value for money or actions consistent with their promises.

Roger Bearpark A Week in Oman

Super happy friendly locals, very varied terrain, loads of wildlife and a wide ranging introduction into Sri Lankan culture.

Helen Wardle Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka