Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The Tigress and her cubs walking across the road in front of the jeep was exceptional but every Tiger sighting was inspirational.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Hemal was a good leader, and helped us in so many ways. Nothing was too much trouble for him and he worked hard to make sure we were all comfortable and happy in our surroundings. He even managed to supply a birthday cake for me at dinner on my birthday and had the others in the group each sign the back of one of a set of coasters as a present (a wonderful memory of our trip and a complete surprise)

Advice for Potential Travellers

All of the parks are very dusty, do take something to cover your nose and mouth while doing the game drives. Also Bandhavgarh in particular has a very red dust which stains so don't wear anything white or light coloured as the stain doesn't come out easily (have had to throw a few things away)

Most Inspirational Moment

Our tour leader, he was an expert in Greek History, the island of Evia, Athens - in fact pretty much everything.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Brilliant - see above comment, also, he visited the locally bakery twice a day and carried 12 pastries up the mountain every day for our first stop, also provided pastries for everyone after our evening meal.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The walking is not difficult.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many such moments. Such as the walk from Valdemossa to an amazing viewpoint where we took in the stunning panoramic views of the coast and the mountains. Almost everyday provided tremendous scope for memorable photographs of the colours, textures and shapes of the varied terrain.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Eduard was terrific. He was knowledgeable, attentive, personable, and well organized. His leadership was a major contributor to our overall rating of excellent. Eduard's regular accounts of the island's history and culture were informative and entertaining; so much so, that the idea of becoming a charcoal burner has its attractions!

Advice for Potential Travellers

The stay at Lluc Monastery provided a distinct contrast with the excellent time spent in Puerto Soller and the coastal walks.The collection of historic buildings at Lluc amidst tranquil mountains was a good base for the second part of the week. Travellers should be aware that at the monastery Wifi is available, at a price but is extremely unreliable. In addition, be aware that the use of a hairdryer and TV controller each require a 20 Euro deposit.

Most Inspirational Moment

The dizzying experience of standing on the heights of Vesuvius with views of Naples and beyond in one direction, and the dark volcanic crater on the other. That magical moment on the Walk of the Gods when sea and sky merge in the palest of blues and are indistinguishable. Arriving at the Lemon Shack on the same walk - nothing has ever tasted so good as that glass of juice.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Severio is an inspirational guide. He worked tirelessly to make sure we all had a great holiday, giving encouragement and building confidence where needed. He was attentive to individual needs as well as key to establishing a sense of group. He is clearly totally at home in the Amalfi region, and has a depth of professional knowledge which he imparts with humour and passion, whether discussing the merits of various brands of Limoncello, recounting Greek legends or giving the background on local communities. He has detailed knowledge of the walks, and our safety and range of ability were always his main consideration. Above all, he is a kind and engaging person. The warmth with which he was greeted wherever we went was a real indication of the esteem in which he is held.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Definitely bring walking poles as you will need them on the steep ascents and descents - one or two, whichever you're comfortable with. Be prepared to find the terrain more difficult than you might have experienced on a previous Exodus holiday of the same grading. Obviously the fitter you are the better, but the after effects of multiple steps may still surprise you - and it's hard to see how one can totally prepare beforehand in view of the extreme ups and downs of the Amalfi area. However don't give up - you'll receive lots of encouragement from your guide and the rest of the group, and the sense of achievement on reaching the end of the week after completing all the walks is worth it all.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing a sloth in the wild at breakfast on our first full day of the trip, the beautiful pacific coast at Drake Bay, the food at Savegre and seeing a quetzal at 6.00am, especially when they are so rare!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Antonio was very knowledgeable, as was Eric the driver - their eyesight meant they spotted the wildlife which was made all the more special when viewed through the scope.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take the BA direct flight and avoid the USA, but you will have to stay for an extra night - opt to stay at Country Inn and Suites rather than the Presidente Hotel if you do do this, as it's nearer the airport and has a pool - it's not worth it for the first night. On the hikes, be prepared to stop every few steps to see the birds and wildlife - it takes about an hour to walk 1/2 a mile. Take a sink plug, you don't need a hair dryer, plenty of T-shirts - it's very humid, make sure you have plenty of insect repellent and sun screen. You don't need the local currency - everywhere takes US dollars. Be prepared for long rides on the minibus, with early morning starts - it's worth it.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the Roman columns still in situ on Mount Ochi.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Thanos is very enthusiastic, seems to know everybody and runs the trip very efficiently.

Most Inspirational Moment

The most fascinating experience was visiting a local fish market and watching the morning catch come in with all the local hoteliers and restaurants and individuals bartering and buying. I shouldn't think this has changed for centuries!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent leader. Friendly, knowledgeable and able to deal efficiently with every eventuality.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We were concerned about "Delhi Belly" but sensible precautions of hand washing, use of gel and avoiding ice,salads and drinking bottled water kept us all well. We felt very safe in Southern India and only came across friendly people. I cannot believe that with this varied tour wouldn't have highlights for everyone.

Most Inspirational Moment

The time spent on the Houseboat.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The leader was fantastic, giving lots of information stopping the bus to show us sights of interest and finding places to eat.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Come and see the south, it is amazing!

Most Inspirational Moment

Snow shoe trip to wonderful frozen waterfall

Thoughts on Group Leader

No one leader. Ski guides organised us with no fuss

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go on this trip for relaxing cross country skiing

Most Inspirational Moment

The three days camping in the Okavanga Delta was an amazing memorable experience. Being amongst the wildlife and under a blanket of stars made this trip one to remember. From tracking Lions to watching Hippos from a canoe was just a small part of this adventure.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our leader Andrew made everything run smoothly and enhanced our holiday experience 100% with his passion and drive. A great group also made this a trip to remember.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I cannot recommend this enough. Although a lot of travelling is involved, this is necessary to cover so much in two weeks, finishing at the amazing Victoria falls.