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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14254 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Susan Howard

Reviewed May 2025

Mostly Fabulous

I have given this tour a 4* rating because the basic structure of the tour was so good.
Matera, Alberobello and Ostuni were all outstanding. The towns have been restored and are fascinating and atmospheric as well as beautiful (especially at night). The hotel accommodation, which was in the centre of town in all three locations, was quirky, interesting, and well-appointed. We were disappointed with the Eos hotel in Lecce, however. It was a let-down and a rather sad end after what until then had been a fabulous trip with amazing accommodation elsewhere. It’s situated on a ring road, a 20 minute walk from the gate into the old town with little in the way of bars, restaurants or atmosphere nearby. It was a budget hotel with pared-down facilities and a disappointing and very basic breakfast. For example, by 8.00 am on the first morning there was limited choice because once foods had been consumed they were not always replaced. The staff were less helpful than in the other hotels. Lecce itself was very impressive with some amazing architecture. However, we were there over a bank holiday and it was consequently very busy. It would be nice to go back when it was quieter. The local guide in Lecce was not as good as the one in Matera, not least because her English was limited.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many it's difficult to choose! But an unexpected highlight was a visit to the Museo Archeologico Faggiano in Lecce. Not on the itinerary, but a fascinating introduction to the history of Lecce - a chance discovery of Roman ruins under a house when undertaking sewerage works.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Unfortunately our original group leader became suddenly unavailable just as the trip was about to start. This was managed reasonably well by the tour company on the ground. However, we were not given an adequate explanation of what happened, though it was inferred that the tour leader had suddenly decided against doing the tour. The stand-in leader arrived on the afternoon of the second day. Unfortunately he had not taken an Exodus tour before and his knowledge of the itinerary was limited and he sometimes had to resort to reading from Wikipedia to relay information about places and events. His English was poor and this lead to a number of misunderstandings between him and the group, for example regarding costs and timings. The combination of these factors meant that we had a less than optimal experience and certainly were not as well-informed about the history and locality as we have been on other Exodus trips. On the plus side he worked very hard on our behalf and was approachable and accommodating.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Avoid Italian Bank Holidays! And take note of what so many reviewers have said about the need for sturdy footwear, particularly in Matera where the steps can be slippery as well as steep and numerous. The recent change in status from 'Easy' to 'Easy to Moderate' accurately now reflects the level of fitness required to comfortably manage and get the most out of the trip.

Kim Martin

Reviewed May 2025

Cycling in Japan

Excellent trip
Bike routes , transfers on trains , guides, excellent

Most Inspirational Moment

The cherry blossoms and bamboo forest

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent He went out of his way to teach us about Japan

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring protective eye wear It can be cold in April . Layers

Kristen Whitla

Reviewed May 2025

A real glimpse into everyday India

I honestly can’t recommend this trip enough. From start to finish, it was full of unforgettable moments and thoughtful touches. We travelled through Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, and everything was so well organised – it was the perfect introduction to India. One of my favourite memories was being greeted with flower wreaths at a Jaipur flower market—it felt so personal and welcoming. The visit to the Taj Mahal was obviously a highlight, but there were so many other surprises too. Staying at Suroth Mahal, a 600 year old heritage hotel, was something special. After a short cooking demonstration, they even put on a traditional Indian wrestling match in the courtyard, which none of us were expecting! We also had an optional stop at Chand Baori stepwell—recognised it from the Batman film, The Dark Knight! It also wasn’t just bus journeys – we were on camel carts, cycle rickshaws, and it was in these moments you really got to see the chaotic but beautiful pace of life in India. The food was another major highlight for me. I went in expecting curry and naan, but it was so much more varied and regional than I thought. The evening cooking demonstration in Jaipur was a real treat too—we learned how to make things like masala chai, lentil pakoras and korwan aloo, and it gave me a whole new appreciation for the flavours and how fresh everything is. We even got to try some street food chai and sweet jalebi!

Most Inspirational Moment

One of the most inspiring moments of the trip was seeing the Taj Mahal at sunrise. I’d braced myself for big crowds, but it was surprisingly calm and quiet. The early light gave the marble this soft, warm glow, and there was plenty of space to just take it all in. The temperatures were already warming up but still pleasant, and the whole place felt really peaceful — not what I expected at all. I’d seen so many photos before going, but nothing really prepares you for being there in person. It was one of those rare travel moments that felt completely unhurried.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our leader, Mayank, was exceptional — knowledgeable, funny, and genuinely passionate about sharing India’s history and culture. The itinerary was perfectly paced: the chaos of Old Delhi, the serenity of the Taj Mahal at sunrise, the grandeur of the Amber Fort in Jaipur. Each place had a story, and Mayank brought it all to life. Even on the bus journeys, he chatted about history, religion, politics and the local way of life to give us further insight into the country's fascinating culture.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you're thinking about doing this trip—do it! A couple of tips from someone who's just come back: pack light and bring comfy shoes because you’re on the go quite a bit, and some streets and markets are pretty uneven. Oh, and carry a bit of hand sanitiser and maybe a few snacks for the longer bus rides. Dark coloured temple socks were also a big help when walking around the temples barefoot in the heat. My favourite mosquito repellent is "Incognito", it really works in keeping the bites at bay. Other than that - come with an open mind and try everything!

Jim Patti

Reviewed May 2025

The guide makes all the difference!

Such a worthwhile trip, including because of our fantastic guide Valerie Parkinson. Valerie’s knowledge and passion for the region and its people is palpable and she is also an engaging person with interesting stories about her own exploits over the years. Yes the hiking is not easy, the creature comforts are lacking and the food is (though better than expected) simple and repetitive; however, it is all part of the amazing experience of trekking to EBC. If you think you have the stamina, fitness and willingness to poop in a hole, then do this trek! And do it with Valerie if you can as having a native English-speaking guide who understands your own cultural context is so much better than a local guide.

Most Inspirational Moment

Sleeping at EBC and walking on the foot of the Khumbu ice fall.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fabulous!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take diamox with you just in case! Also be sure to use lots of sunscreen.

Kenneth Crutchfield

Reviewed April 2025

Phenomenal personal experience in the hills of Andalucia

Everything about the week was exceptional and memorable. The hikes were different every day and highlighted the special and significant features of the area. Our group leader, Miquel/Mike, was an endless source of information on the human and natural history, and the flora and fauna, making a point to include what the group was interested in. Our group bonded well right from the first day, as we tackled a rainy hike and then the ensuing mud the next day. Mike was constantly aware of and concerned for everyone’s safety and adapted the speed of the walk to accommodate all of us. His pleasant demeanor, sense of humor, punctuality, and attention to detail made the week a pleasure for all. We could not have asked for a better leader!

Most Inspirational Moment

The hike up the mountains into the National Park was a highlight not only for the magnificent views, but also the challenge of working together to manoeuvre through the muddy and slippery landscape.

Thoughts on Group Leader

For all the reasons mentioned above, our group as a whole appreciated everything that Mike brought to the week as an exceptional leader.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring your appetite! The meals served at Cortijo Rosario were delicious, varied, and more than plentiful! The staff made every effort to cater to individual dietary needs. The Cortijo is very comfortable, and the rustic vibe fits the country setting perfectly. It is advised to note the packing list included in the trip notes; sturdy hiking boots and good rain gear are a must.

Mandy Alepin

Reviewed April 2025

Fantastic scenic walks!

Our trip leaders Francisco and Rafael were amazing, they genuinely wanted the best experience for us. For me, however, some of the food was not so great… Maybe it was just the time of year that there wasn’t much produce available. Ham and cheese sandwiches every day… And I don’t eat processed ham. Some of the restaurants weren’t so great either. So my only real complaint is the quality of the food… The first night in Monchique dinner was almost inedible with the only a choice of three items and one being tofu which was quickly ruled out, lol. I found it very disappointing as I’ve heard from others that Portugal has such great food… One night I ordered the local prawns and they were these tiny teeny little shrimp that I couldn’t even peel and very mushy… I wish there would’ve been an option that I did not have to go to the wine tasting because it was very late before we got to dinner… I would’ve liked to have just gone off on my own and had dinner a little earlier instead of it 9 o’clock at night and getting in so late and having to get up early the next morning. It didn’t help that that dinner that night was not very good, steak very tough and being overcooked was not even edible….and by then the rest of the food was cold… I try not to think of the food because everything else was incredible except that food is a really big thing for me.

Most Inspirational Moment

The wildflowers were amazing! Loved the olive oil factory and ceramics shop!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Overall fantastic… they went out of their way to arrange a later transfer to Faro for some of us which really made a difference ! But could use a little help with the food… Having the same processed cheese sandwich every day was rough, lol… could’ve used more fresh food or even some better cheese, meats and more fresh fruits and vegetables.

Reply from Exodus

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback. We are really pleased to hear you enjoyed the stunning walks and that Francisco and Rafael made such a positive impression.

We are sorry to hear, however, that the food did not live up to your expectations. While we typically receive very positive feedback on the meals included on this trip, as you will see in several other reviews, we absolutely appreciate that food preferences are personal, and we understand how much of an impact this can have on your overall experience.

The guides aim to introduce the group to authentic local cuisine by eating at family-run and regional restaurants, which is usually a highlight for many, but we know this does not always hit the mark for everyone. Your specific comments about the quality, variety, and timing of meals have been shared with our local team so they can review the restaurant selections and look at improving variety, especially for those with dietary preferences.

Thanks again for your honest review. We are glad to know that, despite the food issues, the rest of the trip left a positive impression, and we hope we will have the chance to welcome you on another adventure in the future.
– The Exodus Travels Team

Dean Harman

Reviewed April 2025

A fabulous trip made better by an outstanding leader!

I joined this itinerary in April 2025 and was utterly blown away by the locations visited. Matera was stunning, Lecce’s winding streets were beautiful with gems hidden round every corner, We stayed in a traditional Trulli house which was a personal highlight for me!

Most Inspirational Moment

Climbing the winding steps and visiting the cave houses in Matera, looking out over the edge of the hillside to see lush green and a beautiful river, flowing with the back drop of a rugged Matera behind it.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ioana was amazing. Caring, showed compassion for group members when they were finding anything confusing or stressful. She was obviously very passionate about the places visited and shared that with us. She made recommendations for meals really easy, and helped other clients book tables if needed. Above and beyond!

Advice for Potential Travellers

A good pair of boots/shoes to climb the steep and sometimes slippery Matera Staircases! Bring a light fleece, its sometimes very windy even in the sun!

Chenbei Chang

Reviewed April 2025

wonderful trip

There are many beautiful temples and shrines along the way, each with its own character and all are surrounded by gardens or woods. The cherry blossom (still plenty even though not at its peak season) and other flowers decorate the buildings and make the already scenic landscape stand out more. People are polite, things are organized, trains are always on schedule, hotels are clean and nice, and food is delicious. Really enjoyed the trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Duke is a wonderful leader who is knowledgeable, considerate, and helpful for each of us. He printed out the background pages for the temples and shrines, asked us what experiences we wanted to have, what food we would like to eat, and what gifts we intended to buy. He took into account of our individual needs and planned stops and trips to make sure that we got what we wanted. He was consistently patient with us, even as we wandered around slowly in the crowd from time to time. He introduced several extra activities, which were all great and memorable. He also helped plan our post-group travels. I am really happy with everything he did.

Joshua Brown

Reviewed April 2025

Excellent and informative

Thanks again for another excellent trip. Yet again the guides are the local knowledge and the key to all the knowledge. They went out of their way to show us places that you would never find on your own , explained local customs and took us to local restaurants.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing nesting birds on the edge of a cliff...this was amazing

Thoughts on Group Leader

Francisco Simoes

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go with an open mind, be fit and enjoy yourself.

Valerie Crutchfield

Reviewed April 2025

Walking in Andalucia

Our group had an amazing week walking the hills and countryside of Andalucia. Our group leader, Mike (Miquel), was an endless source of information on the history, geography, archeology anthropology, and the flora and fauna of the area. Every walk was different and Mike highlighted this and added the details to bring this beautiful landscape to life! Our group bonded so well over these common interests, thanks also to Mike for recognizing and catering to our individual strengths and limitations.

Most Inspirational Moment

Our most challenging walk, due to very muddy conditions, in the high hills of the National Park, was also the most inspiring due to not only the incredible vistas but also the highlights along the way, such as the wildflowers, bird sightings, and a picnic amongst the ruins of old buildings.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mike was an exceptional group leader! His knowledge, positivity, helpfulness, organization, punctuality, sense of humour, and boundless energy made the week so enjoyable. Mike’s perceptiveness of individual needs and behaviours became very evident in how he managed group behaviour to everyone’s benefit. His demeanour made everyone feel welcome. Thank you Mike for an unforgettable experience!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring your appetite! The food at the Cortijo Rosario was always delicious and very plentiful! Special dietary needs were consistently addressed. Pay attention to probable weather situations when choosing footwear and clothing.

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