Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting to the top of Dead womans Pass and looking back to where we had lunch. I kept looking down and saying I can't believe I did that.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Rolando was very proud of his country and culture, very knowlegable but did labour the point on occasions. He helped the group to jell and learnt every body's name quickly. He made sure everbody was safe. His greatest asset was his ability to sum people up and give them encouragement in an individual way that worked for that person.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is graded as a 3 I have done a 2 before and this was far tougher than this it should be a 4. Tone up your legs before going.

Most Inspirational Moment

Arriving in Santiago at the Cathedral was brilliant, lots of high spirits against the backdrop of the Cathedral and then later that evening, Pilgrims Mass in the Cathedral, anyone would be taken aback, I have never imagined the atmosphere of so many people together in a church!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was great, a natural, very easy to talk to and he organised the trip really well, even down to making sure we all dealt properly with any blisters on our feet!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

I think you have to keep your fingers crossed that the weather goes your way, a couple of rainy days at the end of the week took the edge off our two days in Santiago.

Most Inspirational Moment

Petra is all they say it is.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very knowledgeable & honest if a little jaded. Excellent English. Could have spent more time with us.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be a good hill walker for Petra, especially if hot. Don't expect sophisticated hotel comforts. Ask your guide to spend longer at each stop.

Most Inspirational Moment

Succeeding in reaching the top of the pass on the last day!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent - personable, informative, excellent English, great cyclist, adapted well to changing conditions and a group of mixed abilities

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go! Don't be misled by very-outdated tales of Albania as lawless and full of criminals . . . it is quite the opposite . . . you will feel very safe everywhere. I would suggest doing what we did - spend a day or two (no more) in Tirana before the trip to get a little oriented, see the capital, learn about Albania and Albanians.

Most Inspirational Moment

There are so many inspirational moments in Jordan, -Visiting the ancient roman city of Jerash was such a treat for the group after which we got on our bikes.... -The cycle to Mount Nebo was a lovely ride, spotting Jerusalem and the dome of the rock was very special. -Visiting the city of Petra was an incredible moment (long one – we spend the whole day walking the ruin city) -Cycling to the dead sea and floating about it was another highlight -Petra by night is probably the highlight of this trip and a must do (although not included you can pay for your ticket 17JD) -Spending the day in Aqaba on the boat was another highlight organised for us by our leader, after which you cycle to Wadi rum and take a camel ride to see the sunset or sunrise (by choice). -Spending the night in the desert camp in Wadi rum (out of this world) with the beautiful and generous Bedouins who are such proud people. The desert of Wadi rum is like out of another planet and the 4x4 drive was so much fun.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group Leader Zuhair was a big highlight for us, the whole group really loved him, he was so funny and very attentive to our needs, cared for us and looked after us like his babies. He has so much knowledge of his country and was full of stories. Zuhair went above and beyond to make the trip comfortable fun, entertaining and educational for all of us. Thank you Zuhair

Advice for Potential Travellers

My advice is to pack properly, this trip is truly a multi activity one, so packing well is essential (Cycling, walking/hiking (in Petra), evening wear for dinner and walking around, swim/beachwear for the Dead sea, Red sea and hotel pools, also a good idea to pack clothes for generally hanging out like in the desert of Wadi Rum). Also, I didn't pack my sleeping bag and I never needed it.

Most Inspirational Moment

When he second in charge leapt down a nearly perpendicular slope to retrieve my daysack which had fallen down and then snagged about fifteen feet below the edge.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I don't think Chouspel could have done a better job. He was constantly helpful and pleasant despite one or two awkward customers and the huge responsibilities lying on his shoulders. Top guy.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take the waterproof trousers.

Most Inspirational Moment

Climbing Vesuvius was unbelievable and Herculaneum was the best preserved Roman ruins I have seen. Much better preserved and less crowded than Pompeii.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Eric Woolley was brilliant at bringing the group together and offering support to those who needed it. He was very friendly and knowledgeable, and because of his efforts the group had a party atmosphere from day one. He was just brilliant

Advice for Potential Travellers

Climbing Vesuvius was tricky but well worth the effort and Herculaneum is a must.

Most Inspirational Moment

Riding along the off the beaten track villages. Waving to the locals and saying "hello" Seeing and hearing the streets being clogged up with scooters, bikes and cars. Also the excitement of crossing the road and dodging the scooters at the same time. The heat and humidity. Eating at the local restaurants guided by our group leader.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Chi was well organised, great sense of humour, plenty of patience in answering everyone questions or concerns. Making sure everyone was safe and well, even when not riding. Always happy to have his picture taken or take a picture for you/ group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared. Do some research and training beforehand. Ride at your own pace to soak up the scenery.

Most Inspirational Moment

shedloads of lycra !

Thoughts on Group Leader

A local guide, very experienced and knowledgeable about the area. Charming and considerate. He looked after us very well.

Most Inspirational Moment

Hard to stay as there was so much to see. Obvioulsy Macchu Picchu was impressive but equally so was seeing Condors in the Colca Canyon , the wildlife on the Ballestas Islands , the ever changing landscapes

Thoughts on Group Leader

Diana was very efficient and worked tirelessly to ensure things ran smoothly. Very helpful and attentive especially when travelling to high altitude points. Always ready to offer advice or helpful hints especially for language translation in different environments i.e. restaurants, hotels , pharmacy , shops etc .

Advice for Potential Travellers

Dont dwell on the early starts and coach days - just enjoy the scenery and the amount of things you will see