Most Inspirational Moment
In Armenia, the food and wine was amazing and tasted as food should. Each day we stopped for lunch at a small out of the way restaurant in a picturesque location and were experted dined to wonderful fresh salads, BBQ trout or meat along with freshly cooked lavash (flatbread). In Georgia, taking the cable car in Tbilisi just before sunset up to the fort and then having a beer in a small café overlooking the city all lit up.
Thoughts on Group Leader
All three group leaders were amazing. In Armenia, we had Rafik whose command of English was outstanding. As was his ability to impart in-depth knowledge about his beloved country. In Georgia, we had Nino who was equally good at imparting knowledge about her country and its numerous churches along with their saints. Then in Azerbaijan, Rizwan. We only had him for a short time, two days but he also excelled in his knowledge delivery.
Advice for Potential Travellers
For ladies, do take dresses and skirts. In Armenia and Georgia in late September/early October, it was warm, in the late 20C or early 30C with beautiful warm sunny days. I realise that most Exodus travellers wear trousers, but if you like wearing summer frocks, this would be your opportunity. You may be concerned about the churches but as long as your dress/skirt is at least below the knee you will be fine. For quite a few churches in Georgia, ladies without skirts had to don one from a basket at the church door! In fact this statement goes for all nine of the former Soviet republics, where you can wear exactly the same clothes as the UK. I made a big mistake when travelling to the Stans, as I thought ladies would have to cover up, long sleeves, long dresses but it’s not true. Also do think about taking sandals both for ladies and men. Some of the men on the trip were very envious that I had my walking sandals as they mentioned they wished they had brought theirs. If you want some presents, look out for the lovely pale blue moonstone jewellery. You can find these both in Armenia and Georgia. They make lovely presents. Also when visiting Signagi in Georgia, do venture up the main street and over the top, through an arch towards the city walls where there are a couple of shops selling cotton rugs (very similar to kilims) in beautiful colours and designs and ever so cheap. I bought two, one 4’ x 2 1/2’ for £5 and the other 3’ x 2’ for £3. I wish I’d bought more as they make great bedside rugs. Do seriously consider the Azerbaijan extension, which although being very expensive for what turned out to be only two full days touring, was certainly extremely worthwhile as it did complete the story between the three countries.