Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The dog sledding - it was lovely to be introduced to all the dogs the day before (when we met the Sami leader, as his wife ran the sledding) - then we got to harness them up and take them to the sleds. We rode with 5 in each dog team, and 2 of us on each sled, taking it in turns to drive and sit. After, we helped check the dogs over, feed them and settle them for the night. The other big highlight was the trip to the wilderness cabin and overnight stay - magical.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He worked incredibly hard throughout. He dealt with a small but quite mixed group in terms of ability very effectively and called in back up when required (such as a back marker when we were learning to forest-ski). He was enthusiastic and friendly but well organised. He was very patient with those of us who were struggling - he supported those who just needed confidence but didn't push too hard. I think most of us were trying things out of our comfort zone but it felt safe and positive.

Most Inspirational Moment

Our highlight was the Kerala house boats, they were fabulous especially watching the sunrise in the morning as we sailed along the backwaters.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our guide, who we understand was not the usual leader, was a poor communicator, disorganised and a thoroughly disappointing ride leader. On previous Exodus trips the leader has set up a WhatsApp group and used it to keep us informed of departure times and other key information. Our leader asked us to set the group up and rarely used it, most communication was by Chinese whispers. He was also a poor time keeper, we left late in the mornings, rode through the hottest part of the day and didn’t get to lunch until 3:00pm. On rides his pace was erratic, he would stop pedalling when on the phone. He also led us down the wrong side of the road, cut corners and failed to give clear signals of his intentions. Again we raised these issues with Exodus, they have assured us that these issues will be addressed with additional training so that Exodus usual standards are maintained on future trips.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Lycra cycle shorts are acceptable apart from visiting the temples/churches. Use insect repellent on the houseboats overnight as the ensuite had slats and no mesh to keep the mosquitos out.

Most Inspirational Moment

The cycle trip, the wildlife, the whitewater rafting

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sujan Weerakoon was one of the best guides I have come across. He was very knowledgeable, his organisation was spot on and he had a good sense of humour. He ate with us every evening and went out of his way to ensure we could eat as a group if we wanted to.

Most Inspirational Moment

So many highlights, Lion’s rock in Sigiriya was just sensational, the elephants on the first safari wandering next to the jeeps, cycling along canals to a local house for an amazing lunch cooked by the family who were so welcoming.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our guide Mr Bujan was outstanding. He was very informative and passionate, incredibly well organised and went out of his way to ensure we had the best trip possible despite the disruption caused by the cyclone at the end of November. He changed the order of events to allow us to travel on the only section of the rail trip that was running again and made sure we arrived early enough to avoid the rows. Every day he briefed us on what was coming up and made sure we always knew where to be and when and how long a stop/activity would last. He then followed up with a Whatsapp reminder.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Expect some early starts and some long days Take binoculars to see the wildlife. Optional trips must be paid in cash so worth working out how much you might need for this as it does add up. If you want an active extension to the trip instead of the Maldives consider the 8 night Cycle the Coast of Kerela. The flight from Columbo to Kochi takes only 1hour 10 mins

Most Inspirational Moment

So many to choose from! Seeing Blyde River Canyon & the Three Rondavels, Bourke's Luck Potholes and God's Window with a clear sky. Of course, the game drives in the Kruger seeing all the wildlife and amazing birdlife and the surprisingly amazing and authentically African style lunch inside the park

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sammy was next level amazing! He was so well-informed, attentive, caring and took so much of his personal time to be with us. His knowledge of plants and birdlife is extremely broad and he took such good care of our group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The drives can be long so be prepared for that. Bring sun protection and drink plenty of water in the hotter months because it can get hot during the game drives. Walking does occur on this trip during the Panorama route exploration. It isn't technical but you need to be able to walk if you want to experience these sites properly. The boat cruise on Blyde River is shared with others not in the Exodus group but this is quite fun.

Most Inspirational Moment

Rianforest and wildlife in cluding orangutans Mangrove kayaking in Langkawi Mallaca at night Chinese new year

Thoughts on Group Leader

Beverly - knowled about wildlife and excellent wildlife spotter. Kenn and enthusiatis James - created quite an impression by greeting us at KL airport by our first nameds.

Most Inspirational Moment

Antigua was a gem. Visits to Mayan sites and early morning sunrise. Festival of the planting of the seeds. The colourful markets, climbing the volcano, San Juan La Laguna was wonderful. The thermal baths.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very personable and knowledgeable. Gave you lots of information and more! Excellent tour leader.

Most Inspirational Moment

Snowshoeing. Hike through gorge to mountain hut. Walk to Bran. Bear sanctuary and trip to Brasov.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He took great care of everyone in the group. He was proactive with imparting knowledge about his country. He was incredibly well organised and had a good sense of humour. He paid particular attention to our health and safety when we were walking on ice and snow.

Most Inspirational Moment

Real highlights were the crew and the tour leader. The people of Sri Lanka were wonderfully friendly. The views and countryside were breathtaking. The safari, the elephants and the tea plantations were my best bits

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very knowledgeable. Very organised. Could answer any question. A lovely guy and a fantastic representative of his country

Most Inspirational Moment

Basilica cistern and Topkapi Palace, and walking around the streets where locals were eating out and trying the food

Thoughts on Group Leader

I could not fault her, she was excellent in every way.