Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The summit of Toubkal definitely gives you a top of the world feeling (we were very lucky and had about an hour and a half there).  Once up there it's worth making some time for yourself to pause for a while, after all the excitement of the photo-taking and whiskey-sipping (see below), and just sitting quietly and taking it all in, watching the birds drifting around and feeling the majesty of the mountains. I was inspired by the hard work and dedication I saw around me from the people who made sure we had a great time.  Especially our chef (Lassan) who was always joking around and still managed to make us some fab food, popping his head in the tent for a quick "bon appetit" at every meal.  Just the sight of him had us all grinning and wondering what was going to happen next!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Both guides Mohammed and Yehye looked after us very well throughout the trip, really bringing Morocco to life wih their stories and personal insights into Moroccan traditions (especially at the hammam in Aroumd - thanks Mohammed!).  I had some very honest and fascinating chats with both of them about the political and social realities of their country.  They were patient, kind and genuinely interested in everyone in the group, and keen for us to have the best time.They were also very generous with their nuts!! (and dates and figs - easily beating our Tracker and Go bars for some quality en route snacking)

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take a hip flask for a welcome celebration at the summit (it's a "dry" week!).Take a camelback or similar for at least 2 litres - if you have to keep stopping to open water bottles you might not drink enough of the stuff.  You can buy bottled water everywhere so don't worry about taking purification tablets.  I also took another bottle so I could have 3 litres every day.You don't need a mattress for camping - these were provided and very comfy (a bit like those foam covered sun lounger ones).  Just bring your sleeping bag.   Remember a head torch for those late night comfort breaks.Walking poles are helpful on the descent but not essential if you've got strong knees.  I was fine with one.Stay an extra night in Marrakech at the end - it's all a bit of a culture shock when you get back there from the mountains but after a day you are ready to enjoy it!   

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking in the Atlas mountains. The visit to a local household in the village and the kids we passed who never failed to make us smile. Scenery was incredible.

Thoughts on Group Leader

10 out of 10. He was knowledgeable, experienced and always worked hard to make sure everyone was okay and getting the most out of their trip. Helped members of the group out in countless ways. The minibus driver also needs to be commended, he drove confidently and as safely as he could on roads that were difficult and coped well with other road users.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the Exodus equipment list and try to follow it as best as you can. Don't moan about lack of creature comforts. Appreciate where you are, who you are with, what you do have, and what you are doing.

Most Inspirational Moment

Highlight I would say is Monreale Cathedral, simply awesome inside. We also enjoyed 2 walks around Etna, included in the trip, at different points of South Etna while it puffed away above us. In the old towns it was great to have enough free time to wander around and soak up the atmosphere whilst enjoying the views. The hilltop towns of Ragusa and Erica were particular favourites.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fabio, was a very personable and knowledgable local guide. If you like food he's the man to guide you on local treats and good eateries. Fabios timings can be a little out. Its best to ask specifically "What time will we arrive at....." rather than how long it takes.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I know it says it in the itinerary, but you do need closed shoes for the Etna walk due to the fine lava granuals, and snow whilst we were there. I wore trainers which were fine. If you walk up around one of the cones, a walking pole is useful, but it will be the only time you use it.In most of the towns you aren't guided, but have free time to explore, normally 2 hours, so may be worth reading up on the towns before you go. If not, they are easily navigable and Fabio provided maps for each one anyway.If you are not on the group flight transfer from Taormina there is a good bus service (ETNA Buses) costing 7.50 Euros and takes 90 minutes to Catania airport. The hotel is below Taormina so you'll either have to drag your cases and use cable car or catch a taxi to the bus station which costs 15 Euros. At Monreale the local guide will offer you a 6 euro, 10 minute tour, of the cloisters. We decided to go to the public loo instead (50 cents). However next to the loos is a grill with an open view of the cloisters. So you maybe happy with this option instead!

Most Inspirational Moment

For me, just being surrounded by the sublime landscape of the region.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Jeremy Rabjohns is an excellent group leader who is considerate of all the needs of all individuals and the group alike.At no time did I feel like just another group member,Jeremy really took time to get to know each of us on a one to one level,which enabled us as individuals to get the most from our trip. Personally I was interested in photographing the landscape  and so at times needed to be apart from the group,either in front or behind,I was never inhibited or made to feel a burden.Jeremy has a very good knowledge of the local flora and fauna alike and thus is able to answer most questions in this regard.He is also very knowledgeable of the local history regarding the Moorish peoples who once inhabited these lands,he has even written a book on walks in the area and so is more than qualified to lead.He is also able to speak Spanish and is very helpful to those who wish to shop and order food etc.In general I found Jeremy to be an exceptional leader,and a decent, down to earth,good to honest bloke which these days seems to be the exception rather than the rule.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I personally did not feel that poles are necessary.Ankle length (short) walking boots were fine for me.I used a hydration pack as opposed to bottles which I think is better.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the Treasury at Petra (even for the tenth time), rounding the corner to the Monastery at Petra after the hike up, and watching the sun set and stars emerge round the camp fire in the awe-inspiring Wadi Rum.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Khaled was fantastic - his knowledge of the history and cultures of Jordan seemed endless and his enthusiasm to share his country was infectious.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I was worried about how my relatively low fitness levels would impact my ability to enjoy Petra, but the more strenuous walks/hikes (hundreds of steps or steep uneven paths) aren't too bad and are either taken at the pace most suitable for the group or are optional with plenty of time to do them at your own pace (or not at all if you choose). Hotter temperatures could make the walks more challenging (it was mid-high 20's Celsius when I went), but many are sheltered by canyon walls in parts at least. In short, as long as you are reasonably active, there's no need to worry or go on a big fitness drive before going on this trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

The cycling

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent. Highly organised- so no waiting around . Very safety conscious.  Extreemely caring

Most Inspirational Moment

There are far too many to choose from, from the first proper sighting of everest through the tree-line heading up to Namche Bazaar, the crystal clear Gokyo lakes and the stunning cloud-strewn views from the top of Gokyo Ri, the sheer satisfaction in having reached the top of the demanding and icy Cho La Pass, the final trek towards the edge of the Khumbu icefall and discovering the vast tent city of Base Camp, the unrivalled views of the highest mountains on earth from the top of Kala Patthar....

Thoughts on Group Leader

Jangbu Sherpa displayed tremendous knowledge of the valleys as we ascended higher up, he spent most of the time looking after the slower ones of the group and making sure they made it to the next lodge but he was sometimes reluctant from mingling with our group, we dont bite honestly!Our assistant guide Nima was always chirpy and full of enthusiasm and often led the group during the day's trekking.  Singing and dancing his way up the mountain he also got us out of bed in the morning with cups of tea and was our 'waiter' of an evening in the teahouses. 

Advice for Potential Travellers

This trek is not to be underestimated, its a long haul and you have to be in good fitness and good health to really enjoy it or you will struggle with it.  Dont skimp on the decent gear, particularly warm clothes for the early starts and when the weather turns (as it usually does in the afternoon).  The many days spent at high altitude does have some effect on you, be it a loss of appetite or trouble sleeping and these are to be expected in even the fittest of you, altitude can affect anyone.  The Cho La pass in particular is a definate challenge involving alot of scrambling, fairly exposed sections and the glacial travel which is often uneven and slippery underfoot unless you have full crampons on your boots.  Care is to be taken on this section as its a long day and you can easily lose concentration.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were lots of moments especially in the first few days when i realised I would be fitter once the trip was over, how amazing the scenery was, the food was delicious and I especially enjoyed the preseco!!!  The atmosphere between everyone made the trip even better!  The entire trip was an inspirational moment!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Rudy set such a high standard that i'm wondering if any other group leader will live up to it!  I suppose I should book another trip to find out!  Rudy took care of everyone and went beyond the usual call of duty to attend to everyone's particular needs!  All of us apprieciated the effort he put it to making our trip the best ever!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just book and go with the flow!  You won't regret it!

Most Inspirational Moment

Loved all the walks especially the Walk of the Gods and our trip to Ravello on our free day. Lovely gardens and the lunch was so good at Villa Maria. Hotel staff at 2 Torri so helpful and friendly.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Liz, our group leader was very knowledgeable, helpful and friendly making the holiday a great experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for a few hills, but the views are worth the effort.

Most Inspirational Moment

Every day was inspirational!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Absolutely brilliant!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go on the week in Jordan trip.