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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14274 Reviews
4.7 out of
5
Reviews
Celia Watson
Reviewed November 2022
Adventures in Egypt
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Egypt
Most Inspirational Moment
Too many to say. Pyramids, Nile cruise, Tukenkhamun, impressive ancient Egyptian artefacts and temples.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Rania was the best leader we could have had. Very knowledgeable, professional, organised, enthusiastic, fun,etc. Rania ensured we packed in as much as was possible. Her knowledge was impressive. Nothing was too much trouble for her. She worked tirelessly to make sure we got to places on time and before the crowds. Her energy levels were amazing. She made us feel one big family.
Advice for Potential Travellers
It is a more tiring schedule than you think but we’ll worth the travelling and early starts. Maybe do a bit of homework before you come out.
Susie M
Reviewed November 2022
This is a great trip - very colourful!
This was a really well -planned full itinerary with little down time and early starts every morning!
The traffic in Mexico City meant that journeys between locations always took a long time but Berto, our driver was very calm. On the first day you are still recovering from the long day of travel but the visit to the Frida Kahlo House was very worthwhile and the canal boat “dodgems” at Xochimilco was great fun!
It was nice to get out of the City to the site at Teotichuacan the next day – the large pyramids are stunningly impressive but you can no longer climb them.
The best time was in Oaxaca as we spent 4 nights at the same central hotel and we had plenty of opportunity to soak up the festive atmosphere and see plenty of costumes and parades. The food is very good here and, of course, we learned how to make some salsas and mole.
We were lucky enough to spend time at the cemetery with a family where the son was playing the guitar and singing ballads to the dead relatives – very moving and atmospheric.
Monte Alban was my favourite archaeological site, partly because of the stunning views but Palenque was lovely because of its jungle location with the howler monkeys screeching in the background and the fact it was possible to climb the Pyramid of the Cross to have a view across the site.
Unfortunately, we only had less than an hour at Uxmal as we arrived late in the afternoon and our visit to Chichen Itza was quite short as we had to leave for the airport.
We did so many extras and Arturo always ensured we had good places to eat and drink!
Most Inspirational Moment
Difficult to single something out as the trip itinerary was so diverse and enjoyable but my least favourite location was San Cristobal, although I did buy some fabulous hand-painted wooden masks there!
We did a sneaky swim in a small cenote too - the water was crystal clear and a pleasant temperature - so refreshing!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Arturo was absolutely smashing! He always had a smile on his face, was super organised and packed so much into the day. He had a great sense of humour and really gelled with the group. He was really charming and kind too.
We always had so many questions about the history and culture which he was able to answer very knowledgeably.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The trip notes are somewhat misleading on some points:
Currency - really get mostly in Pesos to cover what you will be spending on food and drinks. I only used USD for the tips and the additional boat trip in the canyon. Eating out is relatively expensive and a 15% tip is usually applied. You can use credit cards in the more touristy areas but usually cash is preferred.
Packing - I was led to believe a warm jacket and jumper would be required so I ended up taking some non-essential items. It is generally very warm and humid and balmy in the evenings so no jumpers or jackets required.
I only wore a fleece when we had to leave San Cristobal at 4am. A denim jacket was fine. But DO take a raincoat - we got absolutely drenched in flash floods in Puebla.
Girls - ignore the comments about shorts not being acceptable. They are commonplace both with tourists and locals - and essential when climbing up pyramids! Skirts very impractical.
Melanie Ling
Reviewed November 2022
The Road to Morocco
A 10 day trip to old capital cities of Morocco and scenic drives though the atlas mountains. One thing that is obvious from this trip is that Morocco is a big country. Much time will be spent on the bus, but it is comfortable and the scenery is fantastic and with suitable stops it is a good way to see the country. Marrakesh is a feast for the senses, Fez a warren of ancient alleyways, Ait ben haddou is like stepping back in time. Roman Volubilis was impressive and enjoyably short of other tourists. The riads in Fez and Meknes were particularly stunning and everyone we met was friendly and welcoming.
Most Inspirational Moment
Hearing multiple call to prayers from the riad’s rooftop terrace in Meknes at Sunset. Beautiful. Plus the camaraderie and jollity of the group playing games on the bus. The architecture and amazing tilework of the palaces, madrassas and tombs were breathtaking.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our guide Abdullah was gracious, knowledgable and nothing was too much trouble. He did a great job of looking after us!
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you don’t like hours on a bus then this may not be the tour for you. The scenery and places you visit more than make up for the long drives.. You will eat a lot of tagines! They make them for vegetarians too though. We felt there was not enough time in Marrakesh. It may be worth considering coming a day early or staying a day later as there is lots to see. Don’t worry about getting lost in the souks, the locals will guide you out. There was a lot less in your face hassling than I had expected. People are very respectful. I enjoyed the trip very much!
Graham Jagger
Reviewed November 2022
Mountains and imperial cities of Morocco
So well organised. Abdul lag was the best guide we have had on many adventures with lots if companies over the years. He was so informative empathic and quietly ensuring that the tour went without any blips. A truly master of his profession. Said the driver was so effortless in his control of the coach that we felt that we were on a magic carpet. The accommodation was just right for he ethos of the tour. The long drives were not arduous as the scenery was wonderful. Thank you for putting it together so well.
Most Inspirational Moment
Visiting Berber families.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The best.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don’t be daunted by the long drives Great vistas and take an audible book. Lots of long ones available free on line from your county library!
steve wakely
Reviewed November 2022
cycle kerala and tropical india
This was our first Exodus holiday and overall we had a great time. The cycling was varied, with great scenery and opportunities to get off the beaten track and see the real India. Safi, the tour leader, was good company and very informative and knowledgeable. He also helped us to cope with the intricacies of cycling on the roads in India, supported by our able driver, Franklin. We were hoping for a wonderful experience and overall we had a great time, marred by just 2 aspects: Firstly, the incident which resulted in our group being detained against our will for 5 hours by the wildlife park rangers/ police in Bandipur National Park, Tamil Nadu. This was for a minor infringement (walking just 5 metres off the highway into the forest), whilst being led on a walk to a local farmhouse. Whilst we accept that it is sometimes difficult to combat the apparent corrupt tendencies of certain local officials, who tried to extort money from us for such a minor infringement, the local guide (not Safi, I hasten to add) should really have known better. As a result, the most challenging cycling day, the ride up to Ooty, was rather spoiled: we were not allowed to cycle the bottom half of the ride and only 2 of us eventually climbed the top half, in the midday sun and with no warm up possible. We also missed out on what would have surely been a very interesting home visit. Such things happen! (Oh, and Exodus never actually called us back, after we phoned to explain our predicament; it was left to the local team of Safi and the hotel owner to secure our release from effective custody, with the support of local dignitaries, who travelled up the hillside to help us). The second thing was that the quality of the hotels was rather disappointing: some were shabby and very basic, to say the least, and half of the swimming pools were not fit for purpose eg the infinity pool at Cherai beach, that we were all really looking forward to (especially compared with the much better quality we found in Rajasthan on the second half of our holiday), We were so looking forward to this being the first of many potential cycling holidays with Exodus, but are left wondering if we should perhaps look elsewhere in future, given the quality of the accommodation provided.
Most Inspirational Moment
The very first day cycling: the sounds. smells and sights were just amazing, and unleashed a completely different world of experiences: from the carts pulled by oxen to the religious zealots bathing in the river, to the waving children as we passed by. A truly amazing circular ride that unleashed all the senses! The Keralan backwater experience was pretty amazing too!
Thoughts on Group Leader
As above, Safi was very friendly, helpful and the source of much information about India. He was always happy to answer our many questions and share his experience.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Yes, take necessary medical supplies, like dioralyte, energy tablets and immodium, but don't take too many clothes. We were only slightly cold on one occasion, the early morning ride out of Ooty. Also, you need to be reasonably fit to average 30 miles per day, even when it was flat, because the heat can sap your energy.
John McIntyre
Reviewed November 2022
EBC - An excellent experience
My recent trip to Everest Base Camp was an amazing experience which completely exceeded my expectations. The scenery was breath-taking, the sights & sounds of Nepal were stunning and the company of the group & guidance of out leader all made for an unforgetable trek. Although I knew what to expect from research & reading – seeing 6000, 7000 & finally 8,000m snow capped mountains with my own eyes was something I will always remember.
Most Inspirational Moment
Reaching the summit of Kala Pathar (5,644m) is the highest I have ever been. The sense of achievement at completing the climb and the views it provided across to Everest were a highlight for me.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our leader was Valerie Parkinson, who was simply the best! Val provided huge insight into the history & traditions of the Himalayas as well as sharing her own experiences climbing high altitude peaks such as Manaslu & Everest itself. She was an incredibly calm & reassuring influence on the group and ensured we kept to a sensible pace - despite us wanting to take thousands of photos - without rushing us along. Our evening discussions over dinnner with Val, really enhanced the whole experience.
Advice for Potential Travellers
On our trek (November) - when the sun came out, temperatures reached 25C - so layers including T-shirts & possibly shorts will ensure you do not overheat - particularly when trekking up hill. Similarly, temperatures in the evening are very cold so you need to have plenty of warm clothing. The Lodges do not have any heating other than in the dining area - so be prepared for cold bedrooms. A water bottle of boiling water in the evening can be used as a hot water bottle in bed and then as drinking water the day after. I used AquaTabs to purify drinking water. They worked perfectly, with zero after taste. Some members of the group had issues with cold batteries in electronic purifiers e.g. Steripens. Lobuche & Gorak Shep are very cold - with no running water due to frozen pipes. Be prepared!
Patrick O'Connor
Reviewed November 2022
Mexico Day of Dead Festival started 27 October 2022
Very good trip overall. The local guide was extremely knowledgeable, highly motivated. The hotels were variable good to very good. The bus was somewhat crowded. I managed to find some vegetarian selection at each location. Local people were quite friendly and ready to help, despite my very limited spanish.
Most Inspirational Moment
I enjoyed pyramids at Teotichuacan, especially walking to temples of the Sun and Moon on the Avenue of the Dead. Also Mayan pyramids at Uxmal, Chichen Itza. Wandering the streets of Oaxaca, Campeche, Merida.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The local guide Arturo was extremely knowledgeable and was able to answer most questions in great detail. He was highly motivated, even arranging hotel staff with umbrellas to meet group at the entrance to Hotel Regente in Mexico City during heavy rain, and helping to carry guest bags to the bus. Arturo showed us where there were good restaurants, shops, foreign exchange bureaux. My spanish is quite limited, so Arturo was helpful to translate so that I could find vegetarian selections at the restaurants. The bus driver Alberto was well motivated and able to get group to destination in good time, despite heavy traffic in larger cities like Mexico city, and securing baggage. Good rapport between the local guide and driver. Both were accommodating and ready to assist us travellers.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Try to learn as much spanish as possible, English spoken little outside main tourist areas. Bring sun screen for daytime, and rain gear for nights, still heavy rains in mid-November. Cooler at night in high elevation areas, esp. San Cristobal, Oaxaca, Puebla.
Sheila Charlesworth
Reviewed November 2022
Brilliant Nature
Brilliant guide Well organised trip Good drivers
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing monkey, sloth, iguana, reptiles, birds etc in their natural environment. Wonderful country- shows it’s possible to live in peace with nature and with each other.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Brilliant- so thoughtful, organised, keen eyed, knowledgeable, personable
Advice for Potential Travellers
Nothing beyond the trip notes needed for the tour, but check the flights as some people had worse than others ie those via USA
Marcia Nash
Reviewed November 2022
Close-up views of Himalayas on a leisurely trek
Excellent trip, well organised and executed, very good guides and porters. We felt very well looked after. Lead guide and 3 assistant guides, 6 porters for 11 clients. Great close-up views of Himalayas. Accommodation very basic but actually better than expected. Twin rooms on 7 nights, quad rooms on 3 nights. Very basic ‘bathrooms’. There were always showers available even if the water wasn’t always hot. Washing facilities not always in same building as bedrooms. Hut food much better and more varied than expected (porridge / muesli with hot milk / eggs any style with toast or local bread, tea / coffee). Food very cheap (400-600 NRs), imported bottled / canned drinks comparatively expensive (beer 600-900, soft drinks 300). Expected tips are more than trip notes suggest. Very gentle pace with long lunch stops (1-1.5 hrs) and 1 or 2 drink stops each day. Plenty of toilet opportunities (huts). Lots of long ascents and descents on stone steps but no problem even as someone who totally bust an ACL 8 months earlier! With a high ratio of guides to clients and lots of rest stops, everyone doesn’t have to walk at the same pace.
Most Inspirational Moment
Being surrounded by Himalayas at Annapurna Base Camp
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent. Attentive to our every need and very interesting. Phubar Sherpa gave after-dinner talks about Nepalese culture, history and education. He managed the team of guides and porters very well. Great job.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Bring flip flops to wear in as well as to and from showers. Budget more for tips than trip notes suggest. Tablets are cheapest, lightest and easiest way to purify water. Bring metal water bottle if you want to buy boiling water at huts. Definitely need warm sleeping bag as not all buts provide duvets and it can be very cold at night. Warm hat and gloves for cold early starts as well as sun hat for hot days. Thermals to sleep in double as warm extra layer in evening. Bring toilet paper: it never seems to be provided
Anthea McMahon
Reviewed November 2022
Best guide and best trip
Absolutely fell in love with Peru and its people. The tour was extremely varied, covering so many different aspects for example the food, culture, history and wildlife. Spectacular scenery in addition to the views of Machu Picchu. All of this was enhanced by the enthusiasm, knowledge, professionalism and superb organisational skills of our guide – Holger (Olli). There were some long days on the coach, but it was very comfortable, and we would not have wanted to miss any of the stunning and constantly changing landscapes.
Most Inspirational Moment
The first view from above of Machu Picchu. That said there were many close competitors for this heading e.g., the boat trip to Ballestas Islands, the Pyramid near Nasca and the Floating Islands on Lake Titicaca.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Holger was the best guide we have had, and our other guides have been pretty good. I repeat our comments from the summary -"All of this was enhanced by the enthusiasm, knowledge, professionalism and superb organisational skills of our guide - Holger (Olli)." Nothing was too much for him. His focus was to ensure we enjoyed Peru to the maximum.
