Most Inspirational Moment
The most inspirational part of the trip for us was visiting Sarajevo, our knowledge of Bosnian history was not very extensive, we now have a far greater understanding. The culture is interesting, the buildings in the old town are fascinating and it seems a friendly place. The visit to the war tunnel museum is something not to be missed.
There were many things we enjoyed, the lunch with the farmers family was great, the walk by the river to the suspension bridge followed by lunch in a restaurant by the river. Kotor was great and the boat trip back to town enjoyable.
The walk to the gorge was refreshing on the way down and hard work on the way back, but the lunch prepared by the family was eaten "al fresco" on a log on the grass behind their home - a great memory. The waterfalls were also really good and the tour leader got us there before anyone else so we had an uninterrupted view.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Laurence (Lorenc) was great, he welcomed us at the airport and tirelessly dealt with our needs, always answering questions and nothing was too much trouble. He always arranged restaurants at lunch and dinner (our expense) and they were always authentic or in a good location for a viewpoint, the view of Mostar bridge in the evening was particularly good.
He was knowledgeable and helpful, he did extra things at his own expense e.g. sweets or fruit and gave them to All of us. When we did the arranged walks (two) he carried a large rucksack so that at the stops we had tea or coffee and something to eat.
He went what I would call the extra mile, as an example he lives in Sarajevo and it would have been reasonable for him to leave us at the end of the day at our hotel, however he didn't, he arranged the restaurants and went with us on all three nights, returning to his family late in the evening.
His English was excellent and his sense of humour was very very good, he made a big difference to the success of the holiday
Our driver Suleman, was also really good, he didn't speak English but we conversed and he always made sure we were safe and our luggage was on board.
Advice for Potential Travellers
We went in May as we wanted to experience the spring flowers and full waterfalls following the spring / winter rain, we didn't however anticipate torrential rain. It didn't rain all the item but at some point each day (except for the last day in Dubrovnik) it rained, I would recommend that anyone travelling in May/ June takes waterproof jacket and trousers.
The hotels are not of a high standard, the rooms can be small and on some occasions we didn't have a wardrobe. When we did have a wardrobe on some occasions we then didn't have coathangers. Sometimes there are no sink plugs and the towels may be worn and small. Don't expect UK standards and you will be OK, just smile and use it as an experience.
