Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Historical visits, being part of a small group, learning about Malta from our guides.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Stephania was always warm, enthusiastic and fun, but also professional. Ian had fantastic historical knowledge, gave lots of interesting and entertaining information and answered questions very fully. They complemented each other very well. They were both very considerate of the group's needs, especially of one member who had some mobility issues. We especially enjoyed being introduced to local foods and eateries.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were a few but I think meeting Sandra, the owner of Podere Il Casale (day 6) and hearing how she ended up with a dilapidated farm in the early '90s and built it to a successful ethical and sustainable business with her family that we find today. She was a brilliant character who had the whole group laughing throughout our tour at her stories. Aside from the jokes, it was probably the most thought provoking in terms of how we source our food and the lifestyles we lead. Also, special mention for the lunch her team prepared, all sourced from her farm, including the meats, cheeses, oils and wines (of course)!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ambra was excellent, she got the measure of our group quickly, where our interests were and tailored her insights and guidance through the trip to keep us engaged and curious for more. At times, we tended to chat over meals probably for longer than the itinerary schedule allowed, just enjoying the food and ambiance but Ambra managed our time so we had those moments to relax and not rush through the whole trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

There is a fair amount of walking up stone steps and around hilly medieval towns. A good level of mobility and stamina is required on some days, particularly when we visit Siena and Volterra. Sensible, comfortable shoes for walking around are essential. I travelled in early May and the weather wasn't ideal, we had a couple of very rainy days and in the Tuscan hills it could be chilly. When it was sunny, it was glorious but I'd recommend travelling with an umbrella in case of showers and some warmer layers for departures earlier in the season (Jan-May).

Most Inspirational Moment

Trip to the brand new GEM (Grand Egyptian museum), the best museum I have ever visited. Trip to the Pyramid at Saqqara where we were the only group. The tomb of Ramesses V and VI in the Valley of the Kings, the Felucca boat ride and sitting on the top deck of our Nile cruise watching the world pass by.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We were very lucky to have our Guide Muhammed S who was outstanding. Personally, Muhammed made the trip for me. He was not only exceptionally knowledgable about Egyptian history and culture but was also caring, proactive, organised , funny, respectful, generous and interesting.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is the trip for you if you are interested in Egyptian history and culture. It is carefully curated and packed with trips and activities. While there are opportunities to relax at the hotels and on the cruise boat, I recommend booking a few days in Hurghada or Sharm if you also need a 'holiday' (I stayed in Hurghada for 4 days before the trip started which was perfect and also organised as an extra by Exodus).

Most Inspirational Moment

Exploring Tallinn (walking) and Helsinki city tours including the fort (public transport)

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent language skills

Most Inspirational Moment

The national parks were great, particularly Krka with its shady walks and wildlife - both were incredible. All the old towns were amazing. I particularly enjoyed seeing Diocletian's Palace = found that very interesting - and liked the town of Split (plus the very nice hotel there - the nightingale singing in the trees was a bonus for several of us!). Really enjoyed visiting the family with their herb garden. Finally arriving at Dubrovnik was a lovely way to end the trip = I'd heard so much about it and it lived up my expectations. And I enjoyed my half-day on Lokrum island too. I loved the sun and blue sea! I was struck with how clean everywhere was.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Vanja was a great organiser and, also, lots of fun. She is a genuinely caring person. I felt safe with her in charge. I felt safe generally throughout the trip - that everything would go well - but, also, I have a food intolerance and, while looking after the whole group, she always made sure I had something nice to eat while dining with everyone. Vanja clearly loves Croatia and she inspired us with her enthusiasm. We laughed a great deal during the trip. I have been on several small group tours in the past, which I have enjoyed - but I feel that Vanja is an exceptional leader. She was like an incredibly well-organised friend.

Most Inspirational Moment

Going through the Italian country side and really seeing the country. We stayed at two different Masserias. These were amazing.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Leo is a fantastic athlete. An inspiration.

Most Inspirational Moment

The most inspiring moment for me was the home-stay visit at Xom Chien village. It's a very tranquil stay, you are right in the beautiful country side and rice fields, and are welcomed and hosted by the very friendly community in this village. The locals are very generous and friendly and are excited to welcome you to their home. This homestay being right near the start of the trip is a very good bit of trip planning as it allows you to slow down, take in the scenery and the culture and really unwind and start your holiday in a refreshed mind state.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Toan was an amazing guide! He was fun, friendly, funny and knew just about everything there was to know about his country! He provided such a deep knowledge on the history and culture of the areas we passed through and also helped us to learn some of the local language to help us communicate with the locals better. Just a really great guide to spend your 2 weeks with!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Depending on what time of the year you travel, bring fewer/lighter clothes than you're planning, it's hotter than I expected! Also bring some thin but warm layers for the overnight train. I personally didn't get very cold, but some of my fellow travelers were quite cold through the night.

Most Inspirational Moment

The last day hike to Monte Prado Views all the way up, and all around

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara was outstanding; a machine of a guide! Including everyone, encouraging all hikers to do their best. Her pride and knowledge of the area is obvious. Very involved with all meals. Great sense of humour. Would go back in a minute. A wonderfully kind human A gem for Exodus

Advice for Potential Travellers

Remember to read notes with hike elevation; as stated, bring layers for summit. Fell in love with the local “ Farro” grains, brought some back home

Most Inspirational Moment

Tallinn old town. Walks in national parks, Suomelinna (sp?) Island tour.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was excellent, diligent, knowledgeable and nothing too much trouble

Most Inspirational Moment

Hard to say as there were so many. The stunning Cares Gorge, walking with the river far below and the peaks way above us. The amazing views from the Collado de Pandebano, after hiking up through the woods. The spring flowers every day. The treat of seeing Chamois on our final day on the route following the old mining track. Two of the hikes made use of tracks that had been built for the hydroelectric dam and previous mining works, and I loved that we, as tourists could now use those tracks, no longer needed for industry, to see such stunning scenery. Our guide, Alfonso.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was an excellent leader on the hikes themselves and was always aware of the weather conditions and any changes that needed to be made. He was alert if someone needed encouragement or assistance. He carried the backpack of one of the party during a steep, slippery descent. He was also quick to resolve any issues with our accommodation and food (though I had no issues at all with those). He made the whole experience fun, whilst always being professional and inspiring confidence. His English was excellent.