Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Deir el Medina (the workers' tombs) and Haibu temple. We did these as an alternative to Valley of the Queens because the tomb of Nefertari was closed. Much quieter than the major sites, and still vibrant colours. They are well worth seeing.

Thoughts on Group Leader

As mentioned before, the tour leader always seemed in a hurry to get through the visits. Some of his explanations were rather perfunctory, and I sometimes felt he would rather have been somewhere else. I appreciate that he was fasting for Ramadan and needed breaks for prayers and to eat at sunset, which we were happy to accommodate.

Advice for Potential Travellers

ATMs are readily available, but if you draw a large amount at one time you are likely to get it in 200 pound notes that are quite difficult to get change from - that was certainly my experience with the ATM at the first hotel. You need 10s and 5s for toilet stops. Pack essentials in your day bag for the train journey, as the luggage is stored above the top bunk making it awkward to get at.

Most Inspirational Moment

So many on this trip. I loved the sounds especially in the morning of the howler monkeys and the cacophony of bird song. I also loved the zip wiring : flying through and over the tree tops: 14 zip wires in all.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was Adriana Costa and was very organised and had a vast knowledge of the wildlife of Costa Rica. She was a lot of fun. Our driver Randall should also get a mention : his driving was exceptional and bus always immaculate, and always accommodating. They were a great team together.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Our trip was in March… take some sort of waterproof jacket, waterproof walking shoes (boots not needed) A jumper for the Cloud Forest as the temperature drops but otherwise a mixture of shorts: long trousers and tee shirts. A few items to change into for the evening. Plenty of insect repellent (containing 50%deet) didn’t need Colones as everywhere we visited accepted dollars and in most places prices were written in US $. I would recommend taking binoculars for spotting all the amazing wildlife and a torch for the nighttime walk.

Most Inspirational Moment

Karnak

Thoughts on Group Leader

Generally alright but always in a rush to shorten trips. In Cairo to return to the hotel by 16:00h so he could go home and the rest of the time to finish early because of Ramadan

Advice for Potential Travellers

Avoid peak times

Thoughts on Group Leader

Knowledgeable local guide giving a variety of walks.

Most Inspirational Moment

Atacama Desert

Thoughts on Group Leader

Absolutely Fab!!!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do this trip

Most Inspirational Moment

The second hike along the coastal path was a very enjoyable walk with constant panoramic views of the beautiful island. The final day we took an alternate view due to weather, and were able to do a wet and challenging but highly enjoyable hike to eagles nest. The amount of passion fruit desserts I enjoyed afterward were an added bonus.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Bruno was a wonderful and enthusiastic group leader. He told us all about the island and some stories from his travels. He was very helpful in preparing us with the information for our hikes, communicating when things might need to be altered, and was a great aid when some members needed a bit more help on some of the trickier trails.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The swim in the volcano pools was an unexpected treat. We were lucky as well since the weather turned the day after we went so they were closed down. Definitely take advantage when you can be sure of it.

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking the crater rim of Vesuvius with a local expert was very interesting. Seeing the scale of Pompeii, again with a local expert guide. The Path of the Gods had great views. Eating a gelato in Amalfi in the sunshine mid-week was in marked contrast to after the first walk when the waves were crashing on the beach. Watching the hotel chef making various pizzas, and then eating as much as I could manage.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Severio obviously enjoys his job, and reordered the schedule to make the most of the varying weather. Living locally meant he knew the area very well. I would certainly recommend him as a guide.

Advice for Potential Travellers

There are indeed a lot of steps (mostly down), although generally in good condition. For someone who lives in a flat part of the UK, the first few days were hard going at times, We were very well fed every evening, and the local house wine was very good value. The boat trip from Amalfi to Capri on the free day was fun, and included a bit of sightseeing of the Capri coastline on arrival. Even in March the buses between Capri and Anacapri were busy, so getting around took a lot of time. The Path of the Gods ends in Positano and we were lucky that the return boat ride had just started. Any earlier and it would have been a return by bus.

Most Inspirational Moment

Husky dog sledding

Thoughts on Group Leader

Timo was excellent. He really knew the wilderness environment and was in touch with it. A calm soul who really enhanced the whole experience and was very helpful.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you want an introduction to many winter activities, this is the holiday for you. The fact that all specialist clothing and equipment is provided is a real bonus. Basecamp Oulanka is very comfortable and they feed you extremely well, you certainly won't go hungry.

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking through Petra and surrounding hills on a warm spring day, followed by a day of cycling on a very quiet road descending from Petra to Aqaba on the Red Sea coast.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Both ourgroup leader and cycle guide who worked very well together, focused on ensuring we had a safe and enjoyable trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the trip notes carefully and make sure you are cycle fit for your trip.