Reviews

Your Words – We tell it like it is! Holiday Reviews by previous Exodus travellers

Here at Exodus we thrive on feedback from our customers. It’s the only way we can ensure our trips continue to be the best they can be. So, for the real tales, twists and turns of the trip you’re interested in, look no further than the reviews from our previous travellers.

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14440 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Karen Cleverly

Reviewed October 2018

Mountain walking in a beautiful country

The first part of the week is a whistle-stop tour of some of Croatia’s top spots (Dubrovnik old town, Bol on the island of Brac, Split, Skradinski buk waterfalls), with a walk each day and quite a bit of travelling.

The remainder of the week is at one base, with longer, mountain walks in Paklenica National Park and a final few hours in Zadar before the plane home.

Our Croatian guide was brilliant and gave us loads of insights into the history of the area, how the mountain people lived as well as taking us to an authentic Croatian restaurant, a mountain refuge and visits to local houses where we sampled local produce.

Most Inspirational Moment

I loved the sunset at Dubrovnik old town, plus the views from the summits we visited were absolutely stunning (my favourite was probably from Vidova Gora on Brac island).

Thoughts on Group Leader

Zeljko, our guide, was fantastic. He couldn't have been any better. He was extremely knowledgeable and was able to answer everybody's questions. He loved his country and wanted to share his knowledge with us whenever he got the opportunity. We got a real insight into the complicated history of the country and into the way people live. We were caught out by an unexpected storm while up on a mountain walk one day. The Bora winds were far stronger than forecast and we had to get off the mountain as it was dangerous. Zeljko was calm and professional, got everyone to safety and managed to organise alternative transport for us all to get us to our destination on the island of Brac. He also made sure that everyone got to where they needed to be at the end of the week (as not everyone was travelling home on the group flight).

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you want to swim, the sea around Dubrovnik was lovely and warm but at Starigrad Paklenica it was chilly (to say the least)! This could just be because of the weather but it's possibly more protected around Dubrovnik. Also the opportunity to swim around the Skradinski Buk waterfalls was not quite what I had imagined. It's fairly touristy and the area for swimming is quite restricted. Also, if you want to wander around the waterfalls on the wooden walkways you won't have time to swim as well. Many of the mountain paths are rocky and loose. If you are used to mountain walking you won't have a problem but some people in the group found this more difficult. We went at the end of September and it was chillier than expected on some days (but very hot on others). As well as light hiking gear, make sure you take a waterproof jacket AND trousers, take some long trousers - not just shorts, and possibly even a pair of light gloves and a hat.

Louise Swiggs

Reviewed October 2018

Amazing

My daughter asked me to join her on this trip in preparation for her trek to Everest Base Camp.
It was hard but amazing in equal measure and I’m so glad I did it!
Keeping positive and being part of a great team are key to completing the trek.

Most Inspirational Moment

The sense of pride at reaching the summit was immense. Having not had much sleep the previous few nights and then the unexpected heavy snow made the achievement even more worthwhile. If you are lucky to get a clear sky at the top, like we were, the views are breathtaking.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lahcen was fantastic - patient and kind and we felt completely safe with him. We had a 2nd guide, Mohammed, at the back of our team of 8 on the summit day who was equally great.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It took us 6hrs (with breaks) on the 1st day to get to the Refuge. It felt like we would never get there! Due to the unexpected snow we were given crampons at the Refuge but thankfully it wasn’t icy so we didn’t need them. The timings of the summit day were longer than the itinerary suggested so I began to have doubts but dug deep and made it! We got up at 3am, left at 4 and reached the summit at 8. Magnificent 🎉 We spent about 45mins at the top taking pictures, snacking and taking in the scenery. It took 3.5hrs to get back down to the Refuge for a hearty lunch then a further 3.5hrs to make the final descent to the gite for the night. This last bit was draining but you know you are on the final stretch. Bring snacks but there are lots of places to stop en route to the Refuge. Our group did not have any problems with altitude sickness. The guides walk at a gentle pace which helps you acclimatise.

Wendy Powell

Reviewed October 2018

Walking up to the castle and down again

You actually have to be quite fit for this holiday. There is a fair amount of walking, especially up to the many castles. In the heat it can be tough especially on the higher climbs. Also some of the terrain can be compared to walking in a dry river bed with a lot of boulders and stones. You will be visiting a fair amount of castles and the odd monastery. You can also see the ghost city of Famagusta. The weather was fabulous, and the group were great fun. Our group leader Gizer was amazing; he was courteous,punctual, and very caring. He was also extremely knowledgable about the various flora and fauna. It was a joy to walk with him. If you stay at the Pia Bella hotel, hopefully you will enjoy it as much as I did. The rooms are spacious and modern with a fantastic bathroom. Also the breakfasts were truly delightful with an incredible choice. Yon can sit outside and enjoy the kittens frolicking in the gardens, or inside the large restaurant area. There are two pools, one quite a bit larger where the sun stays all day long. Enjoy.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing Nicosia; the green line and the very pretty old town.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Gizer was fabulous in every way, I couldn't fault him. Punctual, thoughtful, funny and caring.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared to walk up 680 steps to one castle, possibly in the heat, and then continual walking for the next couple of hours. Wear strong walking shoes or boots, definitely take walking sticks.

Judith Ridout

Reviewed October 2018

Vietnam and Cambodia - Tailor made

Our trip was arranged by Thidara for our family of four – my husband, myself and our two 20-something daughters.
We asked for a trip which incorporated sight seeing with some more adventurous activities and some opportunities to do things independently.
The itinerary met our brief perfectly. We were able to see the main sights on our list with interpretation provided by our excellent guides and also do kaiaking, cycling and visiting a cave which was off the regular tourist trail.
We travelled by boat, overnight train, plane, bicycle, tuck tuck as well as dedicated minibuses with our trusty drivers braving the incredible traffic!
It was a fabulous trip which was made all the more enjoyable as all the stress was removed due to the reliability of our guides and the detailed organisation.

Most Inspirational Moment

The two highlights had to be cruising and kaiaking on Halong Bay and seeing Angkor Wat at sunrise, however learning about the history of both Vietnam and Cambodia was also fascinating. Travelling south by road meant that we crossed the DMZ and could visit the museum there. We also went to the War Remnants museum in Ho Chi Minh. We did a cooking class in Hoy An which was another must do. Our guide helped us out with finding an excellent class which we thoroughly enjoyed.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We had four guides during our trip and all were excellent. Helpful, informative and passionate about their country and its treasures. It really added to the enjoyment of the trip that they were able to answer our questions and guide us through the process of getting to know the culture and lifestyle of this fascinating area.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Vietnam and Cambodia are great places to visit. They feel very safe and there is so much to see and do. The tailor made trip worked very well for us as we had our two daughters with us who are 21 and 23. They enjoyed the freedom of being able to choose places to eat in the evenings but were also keen to do all the activities

Helen Maybee

Reviewed October 2018

Breathtaking scenery and super smooth cycling!

It really was as described on the label – fabulously clear seas teeming with fish, gorgeous vistas of islands, vines and historic villages, with hidden gems of frescos and facades. We rolled out over beautiful quiet lanes and trails, reassured with water and snack stops and very clear landmarks enabling us all
To reach our destination in our own time having enjoyed sun drenched countryside and seascapes. Thanks to Alan and Marion it all ran like clockwork- just time for super gelato before a ferry, light fading as we entered old Dubrovnik enhancing the city’s beautiful architecture. Lovely fish, more fish and pork kebabs overlooking beautiful ports. What’s not to like! Give it a go….

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the first tough summit and realising I am still pedalling the bike with gentle encouragement!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lovely thoughtful person- at ease and aware of all of the party. Good organisation skills ensured a very smooth trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Early October weather was perfect- warm enough still to Enjoy a week of fresh air and swims . We saw one amazing storm from the van but we’re back on bikes within the hour riding home happily!

Jennifer Ford

Reviewed October 2018

Amazing adventure!

This was my first cycling tour and tour with Exodus. I had an amazing experience! The trip was well planned and I feel like it had the prefect balance of cycling, exploring towns on foot and good food. The level of difficulty was more than I thought. I trained in advance, which served me well, but I recommend others do the same, especially if this is your first bike tour.

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting to the top of each hill is so rewarding. You definitely earn the views!

Marjorie Barnes

Reviewed October 2018

SELF GUIDED CAMINO

A fantastic trip with easy to follow detailed notes. No map really required. The accommodation and transfers arranged by Headwater were first class. Blessed with great weather.

Most Inspirational Moment

The second day of walking going to O Cebreiro. The mountain scenery was stunning. Also the most wonderful groups of people met along the way.

Thoughts on Group Leader

N/A

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't pay 30 Euros for a taxi from Madrid airport to Charmartin Rail Station. If you have your rail ticket to Leon then just go by free shuttle bus to Terminal 4, use the machines and get a free rail transfer to Charmartin. Staff are at the machines to help if you get stuck.

Steve Fulton

Reviewed October 2018

Just Fantastic!

Recently returned from this wonderful trip. Everything was perfect – The Mountains are beautiful and have a remote feel (we saw very few other walkers); The Hotel (El Trestellador) was basic but comfortable with stunning views of the mountains and sea and the food was just superb. Our two guides were excellent – knowledgeable, informative, amusing and very professional. The walks were great and well designed, especially the more challenging walks later in the week.

I can’t think of anything negative to say – this was a fantastic trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

Just being in these delightful and beautiful mountains.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We had two leaders during the week, Jose Miguel and Jaime. They were very different, but both were superb - helpful, very knowledgeable and informative, very amusing and totally professional.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is a great trip - go for it!

Sally Bruce

Reviewed October 2018

A Week in Jordan

Highlight was night in the desert. Trek round Petra also very good. Trip to Aqaba seemed a bit superfluous. Maybe cancel that and have two nights in desert camp instead?
Plumbing in hotels variable in efficiency. Likewise air-conditioning on buses.
Attempt to reduce use of plastic bottles laudable but unfortunately we found that we needed more than our own flask-full of water when leaving the coach for expeditions which meant we ended up buying plastic bottles as well. Could suggest having water ‘on tap’ in the hotel foyers as well as on the coach?

Most Inspirational Moment

Night in the desert

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was very conscientious, considerate and polite.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take lots of loose, comfortable long-sleeved garments, not your best clothes!

Kay Rutherford

Reviewed October 2018

One of my favourite trips

This cycling trip is up there as one of my favourites. There are some challenging sections of cycling but you are rewarded by great views as you cycle up volcanoes, through coffee plantations, past rice fields, and watch farmers harvest spices with the pungent smell of cloves as they are dried on the roadside. The mix of other activities makes the trip a real holiday adventure. Snorkelling off Mengangan Island was fantastic, with the colours and variety of fish breathtaking. We even were lucky enough to see a turtle. The.camping on the beach at Rajewesi Beach was a highlight, watching the sun set and rise over the beach was magical.
Wira and his team were extremely well organised, cooked lovely food, very encouraging on the tougher sections and nothing’s too much trouble for them. Their love of their country is very evident.

Most Inspirational Moment

Sun rise over Rajewesi beach

Thoughts on Group Leader

Wira is an excellent leader. Organised, knowledgeable, handles whatever incidents thrown at him with expertise and sensitivity. He also makes the trip great fun.be

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for basic facilities at the beach and coffee plantation home stay but their locations more than make up for it.

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