Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

There were quite a few. I really enjoyed the desert camp and would have loved a second night there. Travelling in the 4x4s was pretty exciting, viewing Oman's grand canyon which was spectacular, having lunch in an ancient village high in the mountains. Nizwa with its fort, Souq and animal auction was interesting. Highlights in Muscat were the Grand Mosque and the sunset cruise in a traditional dhow.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Qais was very enthusiastic and was happy to talk about the Omani culture. He worked really hard to make the trip an enjoyable one.

Advice for Potential Travellers

A very busy week with 1 night in each location, only 2 nights in Nizwa. We only saw one turtle at Ras Al Jinz in December which wasn't the main nesting season. There was a lot of waiting until our group went to the beach. It was very dark so watch your step! Make sure you pack some loose fitting, long sleeved clothes.

Most Inspirational Moment

Varanasi. Like nothing I’ve experienced before …not to be missed. Simply amazing.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The best. He found us places to eat and snack and drink and sit …and knew every best view …and made the trip simply outstanding

Advice for Potential Travellers

Follow your guides advice at all times. Take a deep breath …and enjoy

Most Inspirational Moment

The boat trip to the floating islands on Lake Titicaca was incredible. We visited these people who lived such a simple life on these man-made reed islands with reed huts, fishing and hunting and ensuring their necessities. They held on to their traditions while embracing the modernity of trading on the mainland for other needs such as solar power and other foodstuff as well as ensuring their children had a good education. It was absolutely beautiful learning about their history and seeing how they live.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I can't say enough good things about William without sounding like I'm gushing. We are grateful to have had William as our group leader. He was attentive and kind. He went out of his way to ensure our trip was perfect. My husband and I were having a difficult time with the altitude and we couldn't do the one-day Inca trail hike. It would have been a nightmare. But he waited for us to make the call, and I am positive he would have supported us in whatever decision we made. I imagine had we gone, he would have patiently helped us every step of the way. But we did decide to not do it and William made sure we were well-cared for while he and our tour mate went on the hike. Not only that, but the next day during our trek to Machu Picchu, he went out of his way to make sure we had a special experience and view of the ruins. William also went above and beyond to add experiences that weren't on the itinerary -- stops for delicacies during our road trips, additional stops that he though were important like the salt pools and the circle terraces. He wasn't just going through the motions. Peru is his country and he wanted us to experience it as much as possible.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't overpack. Trust me, you won't need everything on the packing list.

Most Inspirational Moment

The sunset as Gosainkund lake

Thoughts on Group Leader

We were also very lucky to be supported by a great team, getting to know head guide Dorjee, his assistant PG and the porters all being a great pleasure and highlight of the trip. Dorjee in particular deserves great praise for his communication, leading skills, knowledge and making sure we all got as much as possible out the trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting over the Thorong La Pass with no adverse effects, apart from shortage of breath during the ascent. The scenery on the other side, where there were very few trees, but spectacular pinnacles caused by wind erosion.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent! Knowledgeable, friendly, kind. She took particular care of people who were struggling, and made appropriate adjustments, as necessary to ensure that everyone had a positive experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you are mountain fit, and be extra careful about hand sanitation before meals.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many!! The Che Guevara mausoleum was my personal highlight and I found it quite moving. Trinidad was special too, filled with music and colours. And of course staying in the local Casas was a beautiful experience, every host was super friendly and welcoming treating you as if you were part of the family. And I have to mention the ride around Havana on a beautiful classic car on the last day of the trip. What a cool way to end this amazing experience!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our leader Rayselis was fantastic! A true Cuban, so passionate about her country and very informative. She told us so much about every aspect of Cuba, from the history to the Cuban way of life. She was always kind, always smiling and making sure everyone was ok. The best leader you could ask for!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just go with an open mind. Cuba does not offer the luxuries of some other countries but it is extremely safe, locals are very friendly and welcoming. If you can learn a few words of Spanish that will definitely help as in some Casas English can be very limited. Also a power bank is very useful in case of blackouts.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Both were excellent leaders

Most Inspirational Moment

An electical storm in the Drakenburg mountains with giant hailstones

Thoughts on Group Leader

Worked very hard and there were 2 group member injuries that he dealt with very professionally

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for a lot of time spent travelling in the mini=bus but the destinations were all very rewarding.

Most Inspirational Moment

Trying an e-bike for the first time! A lightbulb moment.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ruben and his 2 buddies were the best. Such professionals, but so charming and fun.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Dont worry about the cycling. The trails are easy and quiet. There is a support vehicle most of the time. And get an e-bike if you still arent sure.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were lots of things but the Vietnamese people were lovely. The way they drive for a start. Traffic is manic and chaotic but they are not aggressive and aware of everything around them. Despite the apparent chaos it all worked and whilst I was cycling I never felt nervous or threatened by other road users. Unlike some experiences at home. Whenever we came into contact with locals it was clear the love they have for their families and friends. We saw so many examples of people working tirelessly on the land and sea with a smile and a twinkle. They answered our stream of questions with patience and in turn were inquisitive about where we had come from. They were all proud of their country.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We have been on several Exodus trips and leaders are always good however Loc Phan was exceptional. His anticipation of everyone’s needs was spectacular. He was organised and sensitive with a great sense of humour. The group also had a coach driver, truck driver and mechanic. They were all very good however it was Loc who set the tone and led from the front setting the standard. There is a lot to fit in this trip and days have to keep moving otherwise it is clear that you could get to hotels late however because the team worked so well together we never felt rushed or unable to stop to take a photo.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The trip notes give distances and amount of time spent on a coach and this was pretty accurate. Most days our alarm went off at 5.30 for breakfast at 6ish to set off at 7.00 or not long after. There was very little down time so if that isn’t you then this trip would be a challenge. We were lucky with the weather but did get wet a couple of times so quick drying clothes are helpful. I wore trainers to cycle in but a few in the group had robust sandals with toe protection which I shall be purchasing for my next trip.