Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

On day three of the trek we were up at 5:15 and drinking an early morning cup of black tea, we were pleased to see clear skies after the previous nights thick mist. The whole group walked to a low knoll near the camp site to watch the sunrise and see the view of the high Himalaya. As the sun rose the horizon lit up. To the north Kanchenjunga rose high above the cloud, as the sun hit the mountain it lit up and glowed. To the west in the far distance there were three mountains that looked close together, the first of these to catch the sun was Everest closely followed by Makalu and then Lhotse. We were standing at a height of approximately 3500 meters, a reasonable height if you were in the Alps, I was stunned by the thought that these summits were 5 kilometers higher than us; awesome a sunrise I will never forget.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our guide/group leader Sonam was fantastic, nothing was to much trouble, his organisational skills were excellent and he made everything work like clockwork. He had a great sense of humour and I shall always remember his infectious laugh that brought a smile to everyone’s face. He showed huge respect to the local people and customs and was an excellent ambassador for his country and your company If I were to rate him on a scale of 1 to 10 I would have to say, in the words of the bass player in the film Spinal Tap, he goes up to 11. A great guy and an excellent guide/leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

My main bit of advice to potential travelers would be, don’t be put off by the long days travelling. The end result is definitely worth it. Be prepared for any weather conditions you can think of because chances are you will get it. There were a few changes to our itinerary that Exodus informed us of before we left. One of these was the 1100 meter climb to reach the top of the ridge. Don't be put off, take it easy drink plenty of water and enjoy the journey.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing Galipoli and gaining a greater understanding of the battles fought there. Generally getting a sense of the ancient history of this part of the world Experiencing the power of nature at Cappadocia.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ali was excellent! He’s knowledgeable, organized, personable and has a brilliant sense of humour. He’s also wonderful at managing a diverse group - although we regularly told him we were his best group ever.

Advice for Potential Travellers

To understand the pace and how that, more than anything else will be challenging. I would also suggest that walking poles could be offered as a suggestion in the trip notes for anyone who may need than. This is relevant for only a few days.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing Varanasi in all it's intensity ; driving through rural Bihar and seeing all village life on the road, the paranama of Everest on a mountain flight ; the energy of Kathmandu, great end to the trip

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mayank was outstanding : incredable knowledge, good communicator, ever helpful, always going the 'extra mile' to solve problems, and good company at meal times with an easy, natural manner.

Advice for Potential Travellers

India is an assault on your senses - come with an open mind and flexible attitude, it will grip you like no other country. Nepal is more chilled, nice contrast to India but people and mountains will want you to return.

Most Inspirational Moment

Biking in the countryside.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very organized and factual.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Keep your valuables with you. Do not trust the safe deposit boxes.

Most Inspirational Moment

Uyuni was wonderful. It isn't all salt pan. In fact we only spent one day on salt pan. That was what made it so wonderful. We went to see the salt and saw so much extra interesting stuff. Thoroughly enjoyed the company and support of the drivers and local tour guide. Treated exceptionally and all told had an unforgettable time there. Sand, Salt, Rocks, Grass land, Lagoons, Wildlife (including rabbits with long tails but forgot their name), Flamingoes (lots) and LLamas/Alpacas/Vicuna.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Marco was trying very hard. He speaks very good English.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be ready to go slowly in Altiplano. Its high and less oxygen. You can experience a lethargy, but I don't remember any of our group having altitude sickness. But this isn't a walking holiday so relaxed is ok. I remember some of the group getting sun burnt so cover up and use sun screen. There is lots of opportunity for photography so keep equipped with all cards and batteries.

Most Inspirational Moment

The early morning boat trip around Tortuguero, such a beautiful place.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Eduardo was absolutely fantastic. His English put native English speakers to shame. He made sure we all knew what we were doing, what to wear and what time to meet and were well fed at all times, and was very patient with us all asking him the same thing a million times over! He was very knowledgeable and a brilliant guide.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't leave home without insect repellent, layers of clothes, comfy walking shoes, closed toe sandals, weather proof coat, binoculars, camera. You can pay for everything in US Dollars, try to take small notes where possible. You will struggle with anything bigger than $50. Be prepared for 2-4 hours on the road at a time and 2 hours on boat safaris each time.

Most Inspirational Moment

1) Cycling through the villages where local people would great us as we went by. 2) Cycling up the Hai Van Pass 3) Snorkelling of the coast of Whale island 4) Exploring Halong Bay by kayak 5) Spending time with incredible group of people

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the fantastic cliffs and beaches on the Atlantic coast, with huge waves and dozens of surfers. Another great ride.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony and Ludmilla are cut out for the job. They were friendly and helpful, with lots of good advice and always hitting the right note. Top marks.

Advice for Potential Travellers

You need to be reasonably fit for this tour, with preferably some experience of cycling off-road, but no need to be a Lycra merchant.

Most Inspirational Moment

The main reason for going on the trip was for the few days in the Salar de Uyuni. That didn't disappoint, I would have loved another couple of days in that area of Bolivia at a slower pace to take in all the wonderful sites and take loads more photographs. The cable car trip in La Paz was a surprise highlight, flying low over the city and looking into peoples gardens.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Marco was a great leader. Helpful and informative and always cheerful. If any problems occurred (eg.vehicle breakdown) he had a solution to hand and on we went. He was ably assisted by all the drivers we had during the two weeks as well the local guides.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This trip has something for everyone. Masses of history, good hotels, great food, wonderful scenery, friendly locals and of course the superb salt plains plus a few hundred dinosaur footprints. Go and enjoy.

Most Inspirational Moment

Probably as for most other people completing the days cycle to Nuwara Eliya felt a great achievement.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Suresh was a fantastic trip leader, well organised, patient, funny and always willing to go the extra mile for people. The rest of the team working with him also deserve a mention - they were always professional, hard working and happy to help with anything. I was really impressed with them all.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It is with making the effort to get fit for this trip. I did spinning classes 3 or 4 times a week for 6 or 7 weeks before I went and that made a huge difference to my overall enjoyment of the trip as I was able to keep up with ththe cycling. And don’t think you will lose weight on this trip. Despite the cycling the food is fabulous and never ending...