Your Words – We tell it like it is! Holiday Reviews by previous Exodus travellers
Here at Exodus we thrive on feedback from our customers. It’s the only way we can ensure our trips continue to be the best they can be. So, for the real tales, twists and turns of the trip you’re interested in, look no further than the reviews from our previous travellers.
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14440 Reviews
4.7 out of
5
Reviews
John Dingley
Reviewed March 2018
Great trip, great guides, read the trip notes carefully
I loved the trip – some magical moments and great rides – great company, wonderful food, superb team….Everybody else’s reviews i totally aree with, it was wonderful. But not enough reviews on here tell the full story, so here as some things to be aware of
Too long spent in the bus transferring from place to place – that was a real downer. The transfer to some hotels took hours, and when we arrived their didnt seem any reason why that location was chosen, especially in the early part of the trip in the south. The days are really full-on, dont expect any time for site seeing and lazing around. Very early starts every day.
A couple of days had rides that were almost boring – long main roads just nocking out the KM’s. I think exodus could plan these a little better. I’d have preferred more backroads, even if that meant lower quality hotels at the end of it.
Most Inspirational Moment
The downhill descent from Dalat was great fun and lifted the whole group. The cocktail party on the overnight train helped pass the time. But the kids running out to try and get a hi5 or a simple hello really made it.... and oh yes, helping a lady upright her overladen moped that had gone off the side of the road was a moment i'll never forget.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Happy Buddha was probably the hardest working guide we have had. His attention to detail was faultless - checking into hotels - and out - was a breeze because he booked rooms ahead and arranged all of the passport copies - and that can gain you 30 mins a day so priceless on such a hectic trip.
Advice for Potential Travellers
the coach to Ha Long bay and back was 4 hours each way, which is a bit of a drag. We learned afterwards that there was a seaplane that cost $175, took 45 mins. We really wished that we'd pre-booked that for a flight back to Hanoi - it would have been unforgettable !
Also, you wont need half as many clothes as you think. Dont overpack, lots of opportunities for very cheap laundry. However, take a washing line so that you can dry stuff that youve hand washed.
Robert Parker
Reviewed March 2018
WUC021418
What a fantastic experience. From beginning to end we cannot fault this brilliant trip, so well organised with a wonderful enthusiastic guide, Jorge and a brilliant driver Alejandro. We took advantage of opting for the direct flight on BA which meant an extra night at the beginning and and end of the trip, all organised by Exodus with pickup and drop-off and extra nights at the wonderful hotel in San Jose, Hotel Presidente. The wildlife had me glued to my binoculars, the knowledge imparted by Jorge and his ability to spot the furthest bird and animal never ceased to amaze us all plus the interesting information he gave us about his beloved Costa Rica.
Most Inspirational Moment
It is difficult to pick a moment as they kept coming with every new location. The varied itinerary meant that we constantly had the wooh moments. Various types of rainforest the difference between the Caribbean coast and the Pacific coast. The wonderful lodges set in mind blowing settings.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jorge was so enthusiastic and his pride and love for his country ran through every moment of the trip. He organised everything so efficiently and ended up as a friend. From every aspect he made sure we got to locations before the crowds and he made sure we used the best restaurants he knew. his knowledge of the fauna and wildlife was exemplary,theanks to him we saw at least 150 species of birds and he often had extra little treats up his sleeve.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Get the direct flight from BA and enjoy the extra days in San Jose, so much to see and do and that extra day at the end allowed us to wind down and take time to reflect on everything we had done and seen plus pick up momentos from the local artisan market.
Judy Bennet
Reviewed March 2018
Costa Rica - Pura Vida
This was a fantastic introduction to Costa Rica, which packed in so much in the space of two short weeks. The itinerary took in both coasts and led us from the steamy heat to the cool of the cloud forest, enabling us to see a huge range of birds and some interesting animals during a range of walks both during the day and at night. Views everywhere are stunning and the Costa Rican people an absolute delight. We stayed two nights in each place we visited, which meant that we weren’t constantly on the move and could have a full day exploring each location. The travel days were also not too onerous, with time on the road 3-5 hours at a time (with pleant of breaks).
All of the accommodation was good, some more basic than others but all of a good standard. All the rooms were large with plenty of space. The food on this trip was fantastic; quite a few meals were included and were delicious. The food generally in Costa Rica is amazing – even if you order a humble burger it will taste lovely and will generally be made from high quality meat!
Some walks/trips were included and some were optional. These were all explained well and if you fancied time to chill out, you could opt out of one or more of these. I missed a jungle walk at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge but when you see the setting for the swimming pool you will see why!
If you want a trip to really whet your appetite to see more, this is it. All in all this was a great trip, not in the least because of our tour guide, Jorge. If you get him you know you are in safe hands. Pura Vida!
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing a sloth moving around - they don't move that much, but when they do they can really go. Swimming in the Pacific at Manuel Antonio before the crowds arrived - warm! Who knew! Seeing crocodiles and alligators at Tortuguero. Ziplining above the forest at Monteverde. And so many more...
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jorge made the trip. Pure and simple. He was inspirational, enthusiastic, funny, passionate and a great storyteller. I thought he judged our group very well and I get the feeling that he tweaks his tours to fit with the people he is guiding to great success. He said enough (but not too much) and led a few walks earlier in the morning to beat the crowds. It takes a lot to get me up for a 5.30am start but his enthusiasm got to me and I did every one. His knowledge of birds is encyclopaedic and he was very patient. Getting up early to Quetzal spot was an experience and we saw not one but two thanks to him. He shared his love for his country and it definitely rubbed off.
Alejandro was a great driver, with a great sense of fun and who kept the bus spotless.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take a poncho. You can get away with light walking shoes rather than boots as long as they are waterproof. some walking sandals were also invaluable. I would definitely get some local currency for incidentals (coffee, beer etc). Dollars are widely accepted but your change will be in colones and the rate is not good everywhere. Get a card loaded with Stirling which which will allow you to pay in local currency (widely available now). Easy to use your card in many places.Take a hat and gloves if you go looking for Quetzals in Savegre.
DO get a direct flight to San Jose. We stayed an extra day either end in order to do so and therefore avoided the terrible experience of having to travel via the USA. It was also great to have the extra day both sides. San Jose is a lovely laid back city to spend some time in. Go on the free walking tour which starts outside the National Theatre at 10am. We had a four-hour tour on the first day with Amal which really helped us to get our bearings (you don't have to have that long, we were just keen).
DO go to the bar to the left of the entrance to the Presidente Hotel (bar 303). It is a local's bar where the beer is cheap (especially on Tuesdays and Thursdays) and the welcome is wide.
Finally, remember that you are going to lovely places which also attract other tourists. If you are looking for a tour which is remote and where you won't have to rub shoulders with other people this is not for you. We did have to share some hotels with other tour groups but this did not impact on the experience and was managed very well, resulting in the fact that it never felt crowded or detracted from the experience.
DENISE STEWART
Reviewed March 2018
Atlas Panorama
A very good trip with a guide who looked after us well. The staff were polite and courteous and the food was prepared to a good standard. Up in the mountains this is not a trip for the faint-hearted or people with health issues. It is tough but rewarding. Extremely cold at night be prepared to wear thermals to bed as well as using a sleeping bag. The term ‘Walks’ for me was unrealistic I prefer the term ‘Treks’ as there are no made up paths or cobbles not even in the village. The village women are kindly and made us feel welcome. Best treated as a camping holiday. We felt we had been given the privilege to witness a way of life completely different to our own and one that will probably vanish within the next 20/30 years, so we are eternally grateful for this experience.
Most Inspirational Moment
Going into the Haman with the local women for a scrub down and massage. I've never experienced anything quite like it.
Thoughts on Group Leader
A real investment to the company. A man with a great personality and very helpful. He takes his responsibilities very seriously.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be fit. Be healthy. Be prepared to overcome obstacles.
Lynne Davison
Reviewed March 2018
Discover Sri Lanka
My overall experience of the holiday was fantastic and I was most impressed with Exodus as a company and will certainly be using them again. All members of the group of 16 were included in all activities and no-one was left out. It is a great way for singles to go on holiday and be assured of good company.
Most Inspirational Moment
We were lucky on both safaris to see many elephants, two leopards, birds and many other animals.
Loved having the opportunity to have lunch in many different situations such as with farmers, locals and tsunami victims.
Really enjoyed the cultural show , in the front row!
Loved the variety of transport, coach, jeep, tractor, cycles and ferry.
Cycling through villages was a great experience as well.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader, Nalica was exceptional. he had a wide knowledge of facts, was very caring and professional at all times and was always smiling. He was a joy.
Having tickets bought for us, restaurants booked and tips given took all the stress away.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Great variety of activities, be prepared for some early starts, warm clothing is require on a couple of occasions when on higher ground.
R Kirke
Reviewed March 2018
Perfect winter trip for February half term.
A beautiful location in the middle of the Finnish wilderness. Lots of activity in the outdoors. Healthy food with unexpectedly excellent vegetarian options.
Great staff. Seeing the northern lights twice was a huge bonus.
The family and adventure groups who were at base camp that week were some of the nicest people we have met.
Most Inspirational Moment
Dog sledding through the most amazing forests in the wilderness.
Beautiful pink sunsets.
The hazy mists on the lake at sunset.
And of course, seeing the northern lights swirling in the skies.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Solja was lovely and always at hand to help and advice. She was very patient.
The other leader Anna was also brilliant even though our interaction was not as much.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The quality of equipment is top class and the Arctic boots and mittens are fab. Your own baselayers are a must.
I would recommend snow/ ski goggles as the sun Was strong on the horizon and dog sledding can make your face very cold. Do consider a balaclava for children and if you want to go snowmobiling. A few hand warmers in my mittens while dog sledding kept thumbs warm.
The prices on the exodus trip notes for the optional activities were very different to the base camp prices.
The optional all day dog sledding was the most expensive at 270 euros per person.
Snowmobiling was around 89 Euro’s and don’t forget to bring your driving licence.
Andrew and Anne Bowden
Reviewed March 2018
Highlands of Sri Lanka
Good walking and sight seeing and experience of Sri Lanka. Adequate/good hotels.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing the leopard in Yala national park.
Staying in tea plantation bungalow.
Walk to Ella Rock and Little Adams Peak.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Sujan- very knowledgeable, friendly, calm and experienced.
Could pronounce place names slower please and clearer and talk about only one day at a time to avoid confusion.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take socks for hot temple courtyards, ear plugs for occasional noisy air conditioning. Beware of hot spicy food, including salad and soup, test everything before you eat. But the curried meat is often mild, the heat is in the sauce.
Joan Desrosiers
Reviewed March 2018
Trekking New Zealand
This was an excellent trip to genuinely experience a great variety of tracks in NZ. We were able to tick off 4 of 9 of the Great Walks. Two of them, Tongariro Northern Circuit & Abel Tasman, we had a longer closer look at. Those & the Siberia Valley at Mt Aspiring NP will be enduring memories. So many activities everyday with very little down time. A fair amount of time spent in the van getting from place to place but unavoidable. Flights from Wellington to Nelson by a small Cessna, helicopter ride into the Siberia Valley & numerous water taxis helped conserve our time. All in all a great trip!
Most Inspirational Moment
Many but probably completing tracks when absolutely exhausted or perilously returning down tracks in pelting rain & realizing I could conquer that fear.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We actually had 3 on this trip. All were good & had so very different personalities/styles.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don’t take a lot of clothes as there are opportunities to wash them a few times along the way. They are dead serious about the weight limit on the flight from Wellington to Nelson. Take a break from the internet because wifi coverage is spotty & poor. The hotel in Queenstown is your best opportunity to download a few pics. Go with an open mind & try to complete the entire itinerary even if the weather is not the best.
Joan Desrosiers
Reviewed March 2018
Trekking New Zealand
This was an excellent trip to genuinely experience a great variety of tracks in NZ. We were able to tick off 4 of 9 of the Great Walks. Two of them, Tongariro Northern Circuit & Abel Tasman, we had a longer closer look at. Those & the Siberia Valley at Mt Aspiring NP will be enduring memories. So many activities everyday with very little down time. A fair amount of time spent in the van getting from place to place but unavoidable. Flights from Wellington to Nelson by a small Cessna, helicopter ride into the Siberia Valley & numerous water taxis helped conserve our time. All in all a great trip!
Most Inspirational Moment
Many but probably completing tracks when absolutely exhausted or perilously returning down tracks in pelting rain & realizing I could conquer that fear.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We actually had 3 on this trip. All were good & had so very different personalities/styles.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don’t take a lot of clothes as there are opportunities to wash them a few times along the way. They are dead serious about the weight limit on the flight from Wellington to Nelson. Take a break from the internet because wifi coverage is spotty & poor. The hotel in Queenstown is your best opportunity to download a few pics. Go with an open mind & try to complete the entire itinerary even if the weather is not the best.
Morag Leaver
Reviewed March 2018
Snowshoeing in the Dolomites
A great week. Challenging at times, but so worth it to experience raw nature and incredible scenery and views.
Most Inspirational Moment
Reaching the summit of Monte Piana and thinking about the 14 000 soldiers lives that the mountain had claimed during World War 1 due to the fighting between the Italian and Austro-Hungarian armies and the inhospitable conditions.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader, Sara Bull, was truly exceptional and inspirational especially when I was struggling with some of the uphill sections. She showed me how to reduce my pace to a quarter of what I thought I should be doing and this set me in good stead for the remaining walks.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Kronzplatz offers long wide pistes for exhilarating downhill skiing on the free day. Take the short train journey from Villabassa to Perca Ried (3 stops) where you will find on the station platform a ski rental shop (19 euros for one day rental of skis, boots and poles and you can leave your walking boots in the shop), a ski pass ticket office (55 euros for a one day pass) and the cable car to take you up the mountain.
