Most Inspirational Moment
This is impossible because there was something every day that trumped the day before. The National Park (we saw a tiger 30' away and wild elephants...the young bull charging the bus was great (no we don't refer to Safi!). The ride through the national park and arrival at Wild Haven (could have stayed for several months there!). Guruvayor and the temple. The boat trip through the backwaters! In all of this was the joy of being welcomed so warmly by everyone we came across.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Safi was fantastic. Really good leadership skills, great english (made us laugh alot) he was intersting to talk to and really well informed. The trip was smoother than smooth (all that constant ringing ahead while cycling). Safi rode the front but constantly checked that the group were OK). Mention here to for Shebu (the best support driver in the sub continent and a nicer person would be difficult to meet). And last but not least Vipin who rode the rear (except for an attempt at the record for cycling Ooty!).
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don't bother with water bottles as the endless supply of water was faultless. Take a travel washing line.