Reviews

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

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172 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Reviewed October 2011

VIETNAM ADVENTURE

I’ve never felt sad when leaving a country to come home, but I did when I left Vietnam. What a wonderful and amazing place, full of history, fabulous food and a friendly culture.

Most Inspirational Moment

Where do I start! From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquillity of Halong Bay everywhere we visited was inspirational. But, to pick one place, it would be Hoi An. The beaches, the market, the river, the restaurants and all the charity work that happens there from the Streets cafe to the handicapped workshop making silver jewellery and embroidery. The old town, where we could walk and chat to the residents about what they were doing. Everybody was friendly and welcoming.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Thang was a very informative group leader and gave a vast amount of knowledge about all aspects of Vietnamese culture and history. He was friendly and fun and gave great insight into how the Vietnamese live and what they have been through to get where they are. He is very passionate about his country and I wouldn't have known 90% of the information without him.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't take too much clothing, or too many dollars. ATM's are available everywhere, and so is WIFI.

Suggestions

This is the first time I have travelled with a group, generally I go alone, but this trip was a real eye opener for me to visit a country this way and have learnt so much more that I would have done otherwise. I have fallen in love with this country and will be back at some point in the future. The War Remnants Museum was hard to deal with but worth the visit, and the Cu Chi tunnels were amazing and it really made me realise what a resourceful people they are, and no wonder they won the war over the mighty force of the Americans. Also, they are a generous people in their forgiveness.

Reviewed October 2011

VIETNAM ADVENTURE

A truly fantastic holiday. Group Leader, Linh, was brilliant and added a very personal insight into Vietnamese history and culture. Connections were seamless and essential to cramming so much into two weeks. I firmly believe it would be impossible to have experienced so much without a great guide and itinerary.

Most Inspirational Moment

Halong Bay is amazing. We were there when the rain was pouring down and then when the sun was shining. It's one of those places that you have to stop and really appreciate where you are. Unforgettable. Equally unforgettable, but completely different, was being pedalled around Ho Chi Min city on a three-wheeled bicycle. The motorcycle traffic that envelops you for the whole journey is indiscribable - you'll just have to try it for yourself.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Priceless. Linh, is a great team leader who works tirelessly to make your holiday as perfect as it can be. However, what sets him apart from most other guides is his ability to explain things from a very personal perspective. You can read as many books as you like, but none of them will provide Linh's personal touch. He also takes you to places you'd never find in a guide book - restaurants that are tucked away on a back streets and the homes of local people.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take enough clothing for a week and wash it when you get there. It costs about £1 per load. That will give you plenty of luggage allowance to buy a super cheap suitcase in Hoi An and fill it with ridiculously cheap tailor-made clothes.

Suggestions

Visit Vietnam before is becomes too developed. It is changing so fast that there is no time to lose.

Reviewed August 2011

VIETNAM ADVENTURE

A busy and packed trip with lots to see along the way. A chance to experience the culture, sights and people of this very unique country.

Most Inspirational Moment

Cycling in the beautiful countryside of Hoi Ann, past paddy fields, shrimp farms and banana plantations, spotting water buffalo, local dwelling places and fishermen along the way. A true snapshot of real Vietnamese life. Don't forget your camera and plenty of water! Also the water puppets in Hanoi and the lantern festival in Hoi Ann were spectacular. The cottage industries were very interesting (you can see rice paper, coconut candy and much more being made and then you get to sample the finished products!).

Thoughts on Group Leader

Linh was fantastic. Nothing was too much trouble. He was extremely well organised, yet sensitive to the group's needs. Humerous and with an impressive command of English, Linh went way above and beyond expectations to ensure that everyone had a good time and was well looked-after. His knowledge and expertise of the country was second-to-none and his interesting and informative talks gave me a real insight into Vietnamese history and culture. We were all enchanted by the impromptu singing moments!

Advice for Potential Travellers

I travelled in August, so it was very hot and very humid, with short occasional bursts of rain, so pack accordingly. Vietnamese people dress modestly (I didn't once see a local lady wear a skirt) so slacks, T-shirts and long-sleeved light tops go down well. A brolly is great because you can use it for rain or as a parasol (if you're a lady)! Walking sandals were fine for most occasions. I didn't have a problem with mosquitos but I did take precautions so that's probably why! Crossing the road: much has been said about this and it's all true! Pandemonium in Hannoi and slightly more rdered chaos in Saigon. Fear not! Cycles and bikes WILL make a path around you - but keep an eye out for cars and vans, which are less forgiving!! Don't be phased by the incessant horn-beeping: you haven't done anything wrong - it's just their way of telling you they are there...! And if in doubt, cross with a local! You can get your laundry done very cheaply at Hoi Ann or Nha Trang (local family, NOT at the hotel which is expensive!), so pack lightly. You'll probably be taking back more clothes than you brought because you can get clothes made to fit in Hoi Ann at very good prices. Contrary to previous reviews, the Mekong Delta homestay is NOT communal sleeping - you will be in threes or fours and couples are given their own 'room'. The rooms are clean and comfortable and I had one of my best night's sleeps there! Mosquitos nets and bedding are provided so no need to take your own. Enjoy the experience - it's one I'll never forget! Oh- and do take US dollars (as well as GBP) as you get a better rate of exchange and it's widely accepted.

Suggestions

The only thing that slightly marred the holiday for me was that I found the accommodation in the twin berth cabin on the junk cruise boat (Halong Bay) very claustrophobic and uncomfortable. This was partly because the air con didn't work and so it was incredibly airless making sleeping out of the question. It's 'only one night', but do check the air con works!!!! There were one too many boat trips for me (I counted at least six) and I would have preferred more cultural outings, but overall a fantastic and varied trip. It is pretty full-on though so don't expect to feel 'rested' at the end of it!

Reviewed August 2011

VIETNAM ADVENTURE

A wonderful trip with many and varied activities. Vietnam is fascinating, a country in transition, with interesting scenery, friendly people and a healthy diet!

Most Inspirational Moment

Almost too many to mention: Halong Bay, the Cu Chi tunnels, Hoi An- buying tailor made clothes, the cookery class there and cycle ride to the beach- the general melee of the traffic (especially in Hanoi and Saigon), the War Remnants Museum, a visit to Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and finally, for my daughter, the Water Puppet show in Hanoi.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Trong was great- friendly, knowledgeable, helpful and well organised. This was an unusual trip in that the group consisted of our family alone (parents plus "kids" aged 22 and 18) and Trong was able to relate to each of us well and was good fun to be with. He had lots of local contacts and recommendations for us and generally helped us to make the best of our time.

Advice for Potential Travellers

You don't need too many dollars- we took 50% of anticipated spending which was too many. Agribank ATMs will allow you to draw 4, 000, 000 VND (about £120) for a 20,000 VND( 60p) fee-plus UK fee of course- other banks seemed to restrict the amounts to 2,000,000 for the same fee. You don't need a sheet sleeping bag for the Mekong Delta, though I am not unhappy with the beautiful silk ones I bought for 75000 VND each.Eating out etc is surprisingly cheap!If you are thinking of tailor-made clothes take photos from home if you particularly like any designs- the tailors are expert in making them.If you like milk in coffee you could consider taking some powdered milk since usually condensed milk is supplied.July was very humid and hot especially in the north but we had far less rain than anticipated and simply jumped into taxis (also v cheap) if it poured. Personally I was not troubled at all by mosquitos though my husband would disagree! We were fascinated by our visit to Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum, almost a pilgrimage for some Vietnamese and perhaps evidence of the influence of Communism, even today. This is not on the tour but well worth a visit.We found the laundry services at the hotels quite expensive, plus some things stretched and others shrunk........you have been warned!

Suggestions

Just go!! We had been planning and looking forward to this trip for a long time and it did not disappoint in any way.

Reviewed July 2011

VIETNAM ADVENTURE

An outstanding trip

Most Inspirational Moment

Everything.............the trip was so diverse, couldn't mention one thing that we didn't like. This trip has something for everyone.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tom was fantastic and such good company too. There wasn't anything he wouldn't do for us. He went far beyond the expectations of your normal travel rep.

Advice for Potential Travellers

don't take too many clothes, or pack lightweight clothes. Plenty of places to buy more and there are two places to do laundry, one in Hoi an the other in Nha Trang. You don't really need Dollars, we took some and if you do take any exchange it to Dong as soon as you arrive in the airport in Hanoi ATM's everywhere so as long as you have a visa/debit you can use that but remember all the charges.....you can draw out normally 2,000,000 dong a time........about £60 ish plus your bank charges, their bank charges and the exchange rate but its still a handy option. If you are on the group flight and go via Malaysia get some local currency or Dollars for drinks and food.Take Malaria tablets, Deet 50 or 100 spray and long sleeved shirt and long trousers for the mekong delta as there are loads of mosquitos oh and a sleeping bag liner although the lodge is very good quality.(the only dodgy accommodation on this trip is the sleeper train although you aren't in it overnight, the journey is about 10 hours and you are in a 4 berth sleeper)a fantastic trip, well planned with no hassel........the guides are fantastic.....only negative, vietnam is poorer than thailand and tourism is in its infancy, near some of the hotels and sights there are the usual postcard, fruit sellers shirt sellers etc....they can be quite pushy but just be polite and patient and walk past them and they won't cause you any issues you will love it....enjoy

Suggestions

Go for it........we had a great group which helps as everyone got on really well. What can i say....fantasic guide, fantastic company and a fantastic trip

Reviewed July 2011

VIETNAM ADVENTURE

Although this trip is full on we enjoyed every moment.

Most Inspirational Moment

The highlights of the holiday were sea kayaking and swimming in Ha Long Bay; snorkelling off Nha Trang and visiting the orphanage there; climbing the 150 steps up the Marble Mountain and seeing the caves used as a hospital by the Vietcong during the American Vietnam War in the 1960’s; cycling to the beach at Cua Dai; shopping in Hoi An; riding on the reunification express and culminating in the Mekong Delta homestay where our hosts made us very welcome.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Although the travelling group of 15 people ranged in age from 24 to 65 we very quickly bonded, and a good time was had by all, thanks to Tom our marvellous guide who gave us just enough information to make everything interesting and created opportunities for excitement and fun too. The evening on board the boat in Ha Long Bay was a great ice breaker.

Advice for Potential Travellers

When we told our friends and family we were going to Vietnam the general response was “What do you want to go there for?” We had heard that Vietnam has beautiful scenery, that it is not yet very commercialised, the food is enjoyable, and that there is some interesting history and culture. We found plenty of history and culture and delicious food, but also enjoyed the shopping, the variety of activities provided and the friendliness of the Vietnamese people. They are very poor, but seem very happy. The traffic is insane – imagine China’s bicycles replaced by mopeds! Red traffic lights are there to be ignored and the mopeds use the pavements as much as the roads... Building is going on everywhere and the country is just beginning to become more commercialised.

Suggestions

Thanks Exodus for a truly great time!

Reviewed April 2011

VIETNAM ADVENTURE

I had an excellent time. It was what I had hoped and more.

Most Inspirational Moment

I loved looking at peoples houses, seeing real Vietnamese life.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Trong was excellent. Very humourous and knowledgeable.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do take a rain jacket if travelling in March. We had rain in every place we went. Our tour guide did buy us all ponchos, twice! You can get your washing done about half way through, which is really handy.

Suggestions

Before I went on the trip, I was very keen to go for a motorbike ride through Ho Chi Minh City. Once I got there, no way! Manic isn't the word! It's scarey enough crossing the road on foot.I went with my friend who had been to Vietnam three years ago. She could not believe how many more tourists there were now. If you want to see real Vietnamese life, I would go sooner rather than later. There is already a KFC in Ho Chi Minh City. It's a trip full of variety. You see an awful lot. I would thoroughly recommend it. I would like to go back to Vietnam.

Reviewed March 2011

VIETNAM ADVENTURE

To be honest, I had never previously considered a visit to Indochina, but I was outvoted. Having agreed that Vietnam was to be our next destination to visit, we did lots of research comparing the itineraries of many tour operators before finally deciding on Exodus. The trip that they offered certainly ticked all of the boxes, and appeared to be good value for money. I had only one concern, and that was food, but during this action-packed trip, my fears were unfounded, as the Vietnamese food proved to be wonderful, and I was never disappointed with any of the restaurants that were suggested by our guide – Even when dining independently from our group/guide the food was found to be excellent. Vietnam really has it all – relaxing beaches, bustling cities, beautiful countryside, and the people are just amazing, so welcoming and friendly. If this 16 day trip is typical of Exodus tours, then I’m sure we’ll be back for more.

Most Inspirational Moment

During our stay in Vietnam, each day brought something new, and we had so many varied and wonderful experiences that it's very hard to chose one thing over another. Crossing the road in Hanoi, The countryside and beach in Hoi An, or the simplicity of life in the Mekong delta, but if pressed, then I would have to say that the highlight for me was kayaking around Halong Bay. Just paddling around this beautiful bay with its limestone peaks was absolutely stunning. The visit to the War Remnants Museum was sobering, but seeing the extent of the atrocities inflicted on this nation really made their positive attitude and friendly nature even more endearing.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Upon our arrival at Hanoi airport, our guide Thang was there to greet us and was with us from morning to night, always on-hand when needed, and ensured that all of our trips and transport went like clockwork. It was rare to actually need to ask for advice or assistance, as Thang seemed to sense what we might need at any point of our trip. He was always polite and professional, but gelled very well with our group without being intrusive. His stories about Vietnamese history, culture and life enabled us to gain a good insight into this country and people. Every day he 'went the extra mile' to ensure we had a great time, and he looked after us admirably. Thang is an absolute star!

Advice for Potential Travellers

I'm sure I won't be the last person to mention this, but, with the availability of tee shirts, and contrary to other reports that I've read, underwear etc., along with the ease of arranging laundry, and the provision of towels at all hotels. PACK LIGHTLY. You might need to barter to get the prices down (the Vietnamese love this), but you'll bag yourself a bargain, help the local economy, and save yourself worrying about packing. (My 10.7Kg proved far too much!)

Suggestions

Absolutely wonderful trip - I'll recommend this to all of my friends

Reviewed March 2011

VIETNAM ADVENTURE

I had yearned to go to Vietnam for years and the Exodus holiday did not disappoint. It was a whistle stop tour from north to south. The whole trip was very well planned and organised and our tour leader, Thang, was the model of efficiency and tact. From the bustle of Hanoi to the relative calm of Halong Bay, the pretty town of Hue on the Perfume River, Hoi An with its many tailors, Nha Trang, fast developing as a coastal resort, Saigon’s markets and mopeds and the backwaters of the Mekong Delta, there were so many diverse aspects that we couldn’t possibly have seen if we had travelled under our own steam. It is the first time that we have travelled with Exodus but I would recommend this trip to anyone interested in seeing as much as possible of the country and people in two weeks.

Most Inspirational Moment

For me the highlights were staying on a junk in Halong Bay, cycling to the beach at Cua Dai, the train ride on the Reunification Express and visiting the Mekong Delta, although all of it was fascinating. The Vietnamese people were very friendly despite their horrific past. Also the food was wonderful and varied from a seafood lunch on board a junk to a DIY barbecue, not forgetting the elephant fish and pineapple spring rolls in the Mekong Delta and a couple of upmarket restaurants in Hoi An and Saigon.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The group leader, Thang, was very efficient and helpful. Any problems, such as dietary restrictions, were dealt with smoothly. If we needed a taxi he would speak to the driver and ensure they had the correct instructions. He also gave us a lot of insight into the Vietnamese way of life with anecdotes about his own life, family and work. His knowledge of the history and politics of Vietnam was encyclopaedic and I don’t think there was a single question he was unable to answer. As well as this he joined in with the group socially although at times he must have been exhausted. At our request he organised a cooking lesson in Hoi An, which had not been on the original agenda. One of the group was presented with a surprise cake on his birthday, which Thang had also organised with the restaurant. I don’t think he could have done more to have made the trip a success. His knowledge and good humour made him the perfect team leader.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I also agree that it should be mentioned on the trip notes that there were laundry services available at least twice during the trip. It was also unnecessary to take a towel as these were supplied by the hotels, even towels to take to the pool / beach. Pack light – you may need a thin waterproof for the north depending on which time of year you are going, and lightweight clothing for the south. Do make sure you have plenty of space to take back souvenirs. and haggle for them – this is part of the Vietnamese way of life. You will need plenty of mosquito repellent especially when you travel to the south and the Mekong Delta.

Suggestions

Go as soon as possible in order to see a way of life that will disappear fast once tourism takes hold.

Reviewed March 2011

VIETNAM ADVENTURE

Would not have been the same holiday without Thang, our guide. Nothing was too much trouble and he was diplomacy itself. An inspiration who presented his country magnificently.

Most Inspirational Moment

The history of the American war and how it gave a balanced view rather than the one sided view we got when it was in progress.The resilience of the Vietnamese people and how nice a race they are

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fantastic, a little gem.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Dont take too many clothes.

Suggestions

Ref the above comment the availability of laundry services sourced by Thang meant it was easy to keep your dirty washing to a minimum. It would help if this was made clear in the trip notes.Would recommend Exodus to anybody, the organisation and attention to detail was unsurpassed.

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