Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Visiting 4 countries (plus driving very close to two more: the Ukraine and Greek borders) and learning about the troubled histories of tribes and empires and religions conquering Eastern Europe over so many centuries and leaving their mark. The variety of places - rural and urban, and of food was excellent.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Barni was excellent: warm, kind and approachable at all times. Each day he was dressed fully in a traditional Hungarian style, and with his twirling moustache and hat, he was a delight to see. He shared fascinating stories of his upbringing in a Hungarian village in Romania. His organisation of the itinerary, transport, restaurants, tour guides, toilet breaks, currency issues and tip kitty were all superb. He ensured we had all necessary information on a "just in time" basis rather than overloading us in advance. He facilitated the option to attend classical music concerts in Budapest and Bucharest, which was great.

Most Inspirational Moment

One of the highlights was how immersive the experience felt. We were the only tour group on the trails, passing locals going about their daily lives—working the rice fields, walking buffalo, or children playing between villages. It felt authentic, peaceful, and incredibly special. The food deserves a special mention, absolutely mouth‑watering! Every meal was a highlight, and the warmth and generosity of the people we met made the experience even more memorable. My most inspiring moment was being welcomed into a local family’s home, where they prepared lunch for us. Despite very limited shared language, we connected through laughter and kindness—it was unforgettable.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Linh, truly made this trip exceptional. He is hands down the best tour leader I’ve ever had on any guided trip. He was 100% committed at all times—constantly looking after us, sharing his home, his culture, and his personal stories of Vietnam. He went above and beyond every single day, and his humour added so much to the group experience. I genuinely can’t imagine exploring this region without him.

Advice for Potential Travellers

bring trekking poles, breathable clothing, and plenty of water—it’s hot and humid!

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the pyramids from the observation area with noone else there because of the timing of the tour was incredible

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was superb genuinely not had a better guide before, Andrew was so good I felt sorry for other groups we saw because they didn't have our guide.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Prepare for the food, Egyptians seemingly are feeders and the portions are akin to USA portion sizes!

Most Inspirational Moment

Table Mountain in the sunshine, Featherbed Nature reserve and lunch, natural wonders and physical geography

Thoughts on Group Leader

I don't think it's an surprise that Alan was a wonderful leader. You can tell he's very knowledgeable about all the parts of the trip. He made excellent suggestions on where we could do more or less, when to venture out and when not to. He made the trip really great and I feel very lucky he got to show us a lovely bit of Croatia!

Most Inspirational Moment

Turning the corner & seeing the Vesuvius crater for the first time! Visiting Ravello which is a gorgeous little village & much quieter than bustling Amalfi!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Veriano had a great sense of humour & shared his knowledge of the local area with us. He built in lots of rest stops, especially when negotiating the many, many, many, many steps! He always ensured that everybody was happy & didn't feel rushed which made it a good experience all around!

Advice for Potential Travellers

The best bit of advice is to train for the thousands of steps that you will walk on, especially 'step down' exercises to lessen the burden on your knees or use poles if you are confident with them. There were 3 walking & 1 sightseeing group at the hotel at the same time as us so be prepared for itinerary changes-we ended up walking 3 back to back 7 mile walks which can be challenging! Come prepared & have a fantastic time!

Most Inspirational Moment

So many incredible moments: enjoying fresh, deep snow, blue skies and sunshine; trekking through woods and feeling on top of the world on the Durrekopf peak and Monte Piano with spectacular views across the Dolomites; the cosiness of the hotel and wellness centre and from a culinary point of view, the Adler breakfasts and the Strudel at the Alp Nemes Hutte were something else!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader Jef was brilliant. He was super organised and his evening briefings were thorough and clear. He was also hugely knowledgeable about the mountains and the nature. He was kind and considerate e.g. in helping with snow shoe and feet issues, but also 100% professional and I felt he had everything fully under control. He was probably one of the best Exodus guides I've been away with.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We did 50km over 4 days on snow shoes and spikes and part of the 12km treks we did involved fairly long ascents. The snow was also pretty deep in places so if you slipped off the track you might end up up to your thigh in fresh snow which was a lot of fun. I'm definitely not unfit but let's put it this way, with the altitude and trekking most of the day I slept really well. I would suggest a bit of uphill training wouldn't go amiss on this trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

Kosanji Temple in Sedota after a day of cycling the Shimanami Kaido cycling route; the Mount Aso hike and area, as well as the hotel there

Thoughts on Group Leader

One of the great highlights of the experience! So kind, sweet, attentive and organized. A remarkable human being!

Advice for Potential Travellers

I am a pretty experienced hiker and cyclist, yet I found one of the hikes a bit challenging and the cycling pace a bit fast, given it was my first ride of the season. However the group was organized flexibly so the slower hikers or bikers were accommodated. Though I'd initially thought that the days separated from our main luggage would be an inconvenience, it turned out to be a blessing, making for easier, lighter traveling.

Most Inspirational Moment

San Gimignano, Cesna winery, Siena Contrada visit, hiking in the countryside

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tommaso was amazing!! He was an exceptional tour guide and I would recommended him over and over again. He made the experience so very enjoyable and special. He was just a pleasure to spend a week getting to know and hang out with.