Reviews

Your Words – We tell it like it is! Holiday Reviews by previous Exodus travellers

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14469 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Louise Staniforth

Reviewed April 2017

3 countries by bike in 2 weeks - do it!

This isn’t just a cycling trip. There’s so much more to this than you think… yeah, there’s lots of cycling, but there are so many other activities too that it feels like an adventure holiday. The scenery changes dramatically over the various days, from arid land, to amazing beaches, rainforests, cloud forests, remote villages, downtime, uptime! I loved cycling through tropical rain. 3 countries in approx. 2 weeks is an awesome trip – our leader Roberto said that it’s like having 3 moments in time. Nicaragua is the past. Costa Rica is the present and Panama is the future. You’ll know exactly what he means as the days progress. A great saying for 3 great places. He also said Pura Vida which I will now adopt!

Most Inspirational Moment

There are so many moments where you just go 'wow'. I won't go into a lengthy description of the awe inspiring moments as it may spoil it for your own 'wow factor' . But the lava in the volcano was mesmerising; cycling in the backdrops of volcanoes makes you smile non-stop; casually seeing a crocodile and other wildlife as you raft on by was brilliant; sharing conversations at a local school, a bus stop and even whilst being overtaken by a 4 year old girl running up the hill (I was on my bike!) are moments I'll never forget; swimming in the sea as the sun comes up; having my 'guardian angel domestiques' (the bf and Antony and Paul - the mechanics) placing their hand on my back and literally pushing me up the tough hills - I can never thank these guys enough, they are amazing. ...... but mostly, it's the feeling of having pedalled yourself many miles through 3 amazing countries with people that you were thrown together with and shared random experiences with, that you'll never forget.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ah Roberto. What an amazing leader... The passion that Roberto showed both on and off the bike was unbelievable. I don't know where he gets his energy from! Super fit on the bike! I was often up early and would see Roberto working away. Then giving briefings for the day, then cycling back and fore taking photos, making awesome videos that he would then share on fb, plus then giving us cultural information whilst on the van. It was like having our own personal documentary maker and he was brilliant. Awesome knowledge on all 3 countries and a way with people than is a engaging, personal and professional. I can still hear his 'one, two' advice when going up the hills and this is what keeps you going. There are so many things that go on behind the scenes when you have 14+ people to organise and the way he made it seem so easy goes to show how good he is. Oh, and he has some great cycling tops too! He's funny and makes you feel at ease. If I do another trip, I would actually head to Costa Rica just to have him as my leader! Pura vida. The rest of the team were great too. Ronald the driver works super hard and drives so safely and professionally, Paul and Antony, the mechanics were a godsend. Paul is a funny guy, an amazing cyclist and really helped me on tough hills and long flats. Antony - what can I say? This guy is a machine! I called him Terminator 2 as was always looking out for me and pushing me up hills. The strength is has is phenomenal. He made the cycling so much better for me and made my experience better. Thanks guys!!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Learn a bit of Spanish. There are opportunities where you least expect it, to meet locals and exchange a few words. It's a great feeling. Great to take some stuff for the school that you visit. We missed/forgot this and were gutted. Get some hill training in! Read the trip notes, but don't micromanage... the best days for me were the surprises of things I had forgotten and the leaders will change the schedule to make the experience better, or if the roads are busy, to make it safer. We did a white water rafting trip on our day off in Fortuna. Was brilliant but if you want a rest... this isn't it! I left my trainers there, one of the guys was going to give them to charity, so don't throw stuff away if you no longer want it.

Eleanor Freckleton

Reviewed April 2017

Petra & Wadi Rum by bike

The holiday was action packed from start to finish and I was taken aback by the variety of sights that we saw during the trip. Whilst the first two cycles were a bit disappointing, the remaining cycles were much more interesting and challenging. In particular, I really enjoyed our longest cycling day through the desert – our group spread out on this day so for large parts of it I was in my “own world” riding through the spectacular desert scenery.

Most Inspirational Moment

It is hard to mention only one thing, instead I would highlight my top three: - Exploring Petra. Not just our first (breathtaking) sight of the Treasury, but also walking up the steps to the Monastery and then finding a small cafe with a wonderful view for refreshments at the very top. - The long cycle ride through the desert. There may have been a lot of ups and downs this day, but it was exhilarating to cycle through such beautiful scenery. - The boat trip on the Red Sea, with opportunities for swimming and snorkelling.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Zuhair was a knowledgeable local guide.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I spent a lot more money than expected on this trip, largely due to the weakening of the exchange rate (I was able to withdraw extra money money quite easily in country). I also chose to partake in most of the optional extras, and I am glad I did as they were all very enjoyable - the boat trip on the Red Sea, the morning camel ride in the desert (so tranquil), and the Turkish bath and massage in Petra. I would recommend that you take hiking shoes (or trainers as a minimum) for the afternoon walk on the second full day in Petra to the Place of High Sacrifice - it was rough going at times. Also, pool shoes would be handy for the trip to the Dead Sea as it was quite uncomfortable walking over the salt deposits to get into the water.

Mike Segal

Reviewed April 2017

A great trip to see tigers in the wild

Three tiger reserves, 15 game drives in total. We saw about 15 tigers of different ages and sexes, lots of very good clear and long sightings.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being charged by a huge male tiger who clearly wasn't pleased at our attentions. He really wanted to scare us off!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Hemal was very good in all respects, all the organisation and logistics went perfectly and he was very clear in his briefings and explanations.

Advice for Potential Travellers

1.This is not a trip for people who suffer from a bad back. The jeep rides are very rough and bumpy, especially when the drivers hurry to get to spots where they think the tigers may be. 2. Patience is essential. We spent very many hours seeing nothing, but the rewards of a good sighting are worth the wait. In some parks you may see nothing at all, in others you may have several good sightings in a day.

Robert Pratt

Reviewed April 2017

Cycling through Cuba and it's history

A fantastic holiday for those keen to experience the delights of this vibrant and happy country. The cycling is tough, lots of hills and a strong headwind much of the time, not to mention the potholes and exhaust fumes! But in the saddle you get to see the real Cuba, off the beaten track, the smiling Cuban faces, the simple Cuban homes and the wonderful Cuban music – all in warm weather and clear skies. We did however not expect the fantastic history lesson that we received from our leader, who left no stone unturned in his explanations of the events prior to, during and post the Revolution of the 1950s. By the end of the holiday we had all gained a much better understanding of the Cuban way of life and we found ourselves being intrigued as to what the future might hold for this amazing country.

Most Inspirational Moment

Understanding the Revolution in great detail was inspirational, but seeing inside the simple homes of a doctor and a university professor and seeing how a 'ration shop' worked, made a big impact on me.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader Carlos was excellent and could have done no more to make this holiday truly memorable. So close were we that there were 'wet eyes' as we said our goodbyes to fly back to London

Advice for Potential Travellers

This holiday really suits keen road cyclists. Many sections of the route involved long straight roads against the prevailing wind in very hot sun! There was very little 'off-road', which for me personally (as a mountain biker) was a bit disappointing. Many of the roads were busy and Cuba has plenty of very inefficient diesel lorries and buses belching out black fumes.

Dawn Greetham

Reviewed April 2017

Japan Ancient and Modern

Starting in Kyoto and then going into the countryside. Down to Hiroshima and then on to Tokyo.

Most Inspirational Moment

Too many to mention. Japanese baths were lovely. The bullet train was quite an experience.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was really good. He has so much to organise but makes it all look effortless.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Pack warm clothing. The snow monkies are actually in the snow!

Angela Horton

Reviewed April 2017

Wonderful Introduction to Japan

An excellent trip that enabled us to experience a wide variety of regions from the old capital of Kyoto to the smaller towns and villages in the Japanese mountains and finishing with the hustle and bustle of vibrant Tokyo. The travelling was very comfortable in clean, punctual trains and there weren’t any ridiculously early morning starts. The Japanese people were friendly and extremely polite and it was great to learn about their culture and traditions. A great itinerary with a good balance between organised activities and free time to explore alone.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many moments: Our first sight of Mount Fuji as we approached in on the train and the various perspectives of Mont Fuji from the Hakone region. The sight of Matsumoto Castle gloriously lit at night and the excellent tour of Matsumoto Castle by a knowledgeable volunteer guide in the day. Seeing the cherry blossom in Toko's Park and understanding the significance to the thousands of Japanese people having their picnics under the trees during the day and night. Fushimi inari-taisha shrine. Our day trip to Hiroshima. Walking along the sunlit path through the trees to see the 'Snow Monkeys' bathing in the hot springs. Bathing in the outdoor onsen in Yudanaka. The Hokusai Museum in Obuse.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We had a young Japanese group leader called Misa. She gave us a daily briefing of each day's activities and ensured that our travel arrangements ran smoothly by giving us timings, meeting places and train platforms. She was very helpful with the dietary requirements of the vegetarians and those with food allergies and always made sure that everyone in the group had suitable food. Misa was particularly good at giving us detailed information about the attractions we viewed and the Japanese culture for example how to wash at the shrines before praying and how to pray. She also made sure that we followed Japanese culture by being very quiet on the trains. It was clear that Misa was very proud of her country and was keen for us to get as much out of the trip as we could. I was also impressed with the way she made sure that any litter was taken with us or place in the trash cans. Misa went beyond her line of duty when she escorted us to the Hakone area on what was our free day in Tokyo. Having her with us make the trip far easier and more interesting than if we'd gone alone.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the trips notes, which are very accurate, carefully and think about your own limitations. You are travelling on public transport and whilst you have a seat on the longer journeys you often have to stand on the short journeys on very crowded trains. There is a certain amount of walking and climbing steps etc and if like us you love walking great but if you never walk you could find it tiring. Do try the onsens particularly the outdoor one in Yudanaka, this might be your only ever chance to do so. You do sleep on the floor and eat sitting on the floor in the Ryokans which was great and we felt immersed in the culture but some people with bad backs etc could find it problematic. If you are a vegetarian be prepared that you will not be eating the same amount of fruit and vegetables that you are used to and check carefully about the broth the noodles are cooked in. The fruit in Japan is extremely expensive in all the regions we visited. We shopped in the large supermarkets and apples were £1.50 each as were oranges. Bananas were 80p each. When we were served fruit as part of our breakfast we had a quarter of an orange.

Rachel Nockels

Reviewed April 2017

Hidden Treasures of Jordan

A fast paced tour of an amazing country. Every day brought a new revelation that was better than the last.

Most Inspirational Moment

Visit Petra, the site is huge and around every corner there is something amazing to see. Petra at night was fabulous and so different from seeing the site in the day time. Watching the stars at Wadi Rum was a magical experience.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Issa was fabulous. He was so passionate about his country and could not do enough for us, to ensure we saw the best and enjoyed ourselves.

Advice for Potential Travellers

There are a lot of steps ( 857 each way to fhe Monastery), so take lots of water

Jessica Seath

Reviewed April 2017

Everest base camp trek

Absolutely loved this trip. The hardest thing I’ve done in my life, don’t be fooled into thinking it’ll be anything less than that! But absolutely worth every moment! Amazing views, amazing country. Met great people, some of whom will be friends for years to come I am sure. The guides were fantastic and the whole thing was organised brilliantly. Clear skies and views of Mount Everest made this trip!

Most Inspirational Moment

Watching the sun rise over Everest, shortly followed by a snow avalanche!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very good! Passang went above and beyond for us all!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Stock up on loo roll - it gets more expensive the further up you go! And don't skimp on the sleeping bag, you NEED a really good quality one.

Peter Gomes

Reviewed April 2017

The best of Vietnam in two weeks.

Great way to see Vietnam from Ho Chi Min City in the South all the (long) way to Hanoi in the North. The cycling allows you the opportunity to see lots yet at a pace where you take it all in – and stop to take a photo or take in the view whenever you feel like. A terrific selection of big cities (Ho Chi Min and Hanoi), smaller towns (Dalat, Hoi Van & Hue) , off shore activity (Snorkelling trip from Whale Island , Sea kayaking in Halong Bay), riding on the flat (mostly) but with some uphill (Hai Van pass) and down (30km from Dalat). Throw in great company with fellow travels of all ages and from all over the world, good food and the occasional drink – what more can you ask. Highly recommended.

Most Inspirational Moment

Dining with a local family in Hue with dinner followed by Linh our guide playing guitar and the family's three year old granddaughter singing along with gusto. Closely followed by Dalat, Hue, the Hai Van pass climb (and descent) and naturally the splendid Halong Bay.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Linh was enthusiastic, well organised, frank and informative, amusing in his presentations, honest about the good and bad of his country, and a very good cyclist to boot. Backed by a strong and enthusiastic support crew in Tam, Tan and Ho. All four were excellent.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Lot of time on the bus between venues and rides (it is a long country) so bring reading material. ATMs are plentiful so no issues obtaining cash. Bring lots of sun cream and I'd recommend a supply of re-hydration sachets. If you forget there are pharmacies in all the towns/cities en route.

Amanda Brass

Reviewed April 2017

Kilimanjaro Climb- Lemosho Route

The whole trip has been incredible, very well organised and everything has been thought off. The climb was amazing, beautiful scenery and wonderful people. Easily the hardest physical challenge of our lives to date but also the most enjoyable and rewarding. The crew were first class and we will never forget this wonderful experience for the rest of our lives. A real privilege and a life changer.

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching Stella Point was incredible as we were getting to the stage where we were so physically tired that we were doubting whether we could make it, our wonderful guides gave us the support, encouragement, positivity and inspiration to get us to the top, allowing us to adopt the mind over matter approach and they were with us all the way. I can honestly say the crew have had a huge impact on us as people and they have inspired us as much as the climb of beautiful Kilimanjaro itself.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I will be writing to Exodus separately from this review with a glowing and detailed letter of praise for the crew as I feel Justine was outstanding in his role as our group leader. He was thoroughly deserving of the award that he won and I would go further to say if there are any other awards in the world of mountain guiding on a national or international level I would not hesitate to nominate him. It was a real privilege to have met him and to have been guided up Kilimanjaro by him and as my family were on the trip with us I would like to say we felt so secure, safe and had complete trust and confidence in him. He was positive, encouraging, sensitive, thoughtful, very kind and was very well organised and thought of everything. To top this all off a great smile, personality and a brilliant sense of humour- a very inspirational man! I would also like to point out that the entire team were first class. The other guides were also outstanding, I would like to point out that Mussa was a wonderful guide, also incredibly positive and supportive with also a lovely personality/sense of humour. We had complete trust in Mussa and he was so helpful and kind to us, again I will be writing to you to explain in detail. He would make an excellent tour leader too. James aka King James was a fantastic guide who was very knowledgable, kind, helpful and again encouraging and supportive and kept giving us boosts of positivity. We were never rushed along,even though we were walking a slower pace to some of our fellow climbers. Again we had 100% trust in James and he would also make a brilliant lead guide. It was an absolute pleasure to have 2 female guides, Anjela and Lucia who were both a pleasure to walk with. Again, both very supportive, kind and could not do enough for you. Both very smart and strong ladies who we had our trust in. We feel so lucky to have had this team of 38 looking after us so well and we have so much praise and admiration for all the porters, cook etc. I cannot fault any of them, they were all brilliant. I will be mentioning a few of them in my letter.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I would say if you are thinking about doing this challenge, just book it! You will not regret it and I doubt you would find any other trip where you are looked after so well, I read that they 'have your backs' before we went on our trip and I can honestly say it is true. Go for it.

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