Reviews

The Trip of a Lifetime

A Synopsis of this amazing trip. . .

After a long drive, a beautiful ferry journey, and a short 2-hour hike on the first day, we hiked every day, 11 days without respite; a daily trek of 8-14 miles climbing a total of 32,000 feet. The stunning views were worth every step; rolling green hills littered with vibrant wildflowers, sometimes dotted with grazing sheep and cows, jagged cliffs and enormous mountain peaks outspreading around us as far as the eye could see. We had the wilderness to ourselves. Besides an occasional shepherd or odd hiker (we saw perhaps 10 hikers in 11 days), the mountains were our private domain.

Most nights we stayed in shepherd’s hut or rustic guest houses, and the living conditions were sometimes trying. The huts had limited electricity, cold water that was delivered directly from the mountain, one toilet, sometimes shower, shared by 17 people, and tight sleeping arrangements on the floor or bunk with separate rooms or buildings for men and women. Getting clean, sorting belongings for daily living, and dealing with basic needs was an ongoing struggle. Without proper sanitation, many of us including me and my husband, contracted food borne illnesses. It was pretty awful and the food was never enjoyable after the days of sickness.

These huts were the shepherd’s family homes and we were invited guests. Besides cooking for us, they still shouldered their unending work, including the herding and milking of their animals which, in awe and wonder, we watched the procession. This was the real deal. Like a step back in time, we experienced a way of life that has endured for centuries.

And here lies the paradox of discomfort: the rough living conditions were the price we paid for the utter joy of hiking in pristine and remote wilderness in almost complete isolation. True authenticity, by definition, cannot be faked. One must take the good with the bad.

The Via Dinarica mega trail is still new and the region has a long way to go in their efforts to develop an infrastructure along the way. We have been blessed to be here in its infancy; it will never be as wild and unique as right now.

Heat among the olive trees

An exploring holiday, not a ‘wow’ one but full of delights. Matera was a long-desired destination, because of Carlo Levi, and spectacular. Sleeping in our massive cave in Hotel Sassi!
Walking endlessly through olive groves brought home to me the privations of former Puglian peasants, but also amazement at the great age and variety of shapes of the trees.
I loved the small towns, their architecture, narrow streets, the ingenuity of the construction of the Trulli.
Hotel Sassi was wonderful, the masseria was beautiful, food good and choice of restaurants gave variety. I liked the multiple starters.

Introducing....Great Wall of China

Fantastic jam packed trip, from trekking up long steep challenging slopes to witnessing the stunning views from the great wall. A journey well worth the undertaking. I was a first timer to trekking, and a single traveller. The trip was well planned and executed. The organisation was second to none, from co-ordinating hot savoury pancakes on the great wall for lunch, to organsing shows and Tai Chi classes everything was done with a smile, a sense of humour and professionalism. A lifetime of memories, a personal achievement and a hunger for more. If you are thinking about it- think NO MORE, just book it – you will not regret it!

Amazing trip

This trip gives you a really good taste of Albania. The country was quite different to how I expected and its an absolutely beautiful place. We packed a lot in, but it didn’t feel as if it was rushed. I would really love to go again!

Concordia & K2

Excellent trek in a magnificent landscape. I rated “very good” only because hotel accommodation was disappointing but hopefully this is being addressed for future trips

Excellent trip

Our guide, Wilmer, was extremely knowledgeable, interesting and helpful. Chef provided excellent food, hotels were comfortable. There were some magical moments such as watching the stars and moon at night and the sunrise in the morning over the mountains. I would recommend the trip although recommend getting to Cusco a couple of days early to acclimatise.

Walking in Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland and doing a walking trip is one of the best ways to see it. This trip gets you well away from the tour coaches that take over the roads of this area and you will see a different side of the country you might not experience even if driving it yourself. The 6 days of walking takes in most of the Kerry Way and the tracks take you through national parks, farmland and along coastal paths. Staying at B&Bs in little towns, this trip gives you a taste of true Irish hospitality.

Wonderful mix of walking and wine.

As the itinerary shows, this a varied week of walks, from some steeper walks through the forest and meadows of the hills with excellent views to calmer river walks. The visit to Treviso was interesting and an excellent opportunity to try tiramisu classico, unlike the tiramisu usually served in the UK, and much better. Plus the Prosecco wine tastings. Not just a tasting, but an education on the various types of Prosecco. The free day allows you to travel to Venice, although we decided to relax with a gentle walk into the centre of Soligo and have a swim in the excellent hotel pool.

A Great Adventure

As described, the itinerary encompasses a tremendous range of activities, venues and experiences which provided insights into the country’s culture, history and heritage. We met many interesting people along the way and had great fun with fellow travellers and guides. As usual with Exodus trips there were many early mornings and some long journeys, but these are necessary for the trip to achieve the stated aims! Hotels were comfortable and all had suitable amenities. Food – and drink – was plentiful and tasty and generally good quality. The route was well planned and enabled us to fully acclimatise before attempting the focal activity for us – the Inca Trail. It also put the trail and Machu Picchu into a broader context so that we appreciated it all even more. Support on the Inca Trail, from our guide and ‘porters’ was exceptional. We had a great time and thoroughly enjoyed (almost) every minute.

Chalet Chocolat - home for a week

A great trip in all aspects! With the stunning scenery all around in every direction, and our very capable guide Sally safely guiding us up and down the sometimes challenging hills on our daily walks around Mont Blanc, days were full and tiring but also fun and energizing.
Our wonderful chalet hosts Zohi and Ben took such wonderful care of us, spoiling us with gourmet meals every evening – and delicious cake after returning from our walks! Really enjoyed the homey feel to the stay as well as the great group of friendly walkers from three continents. Highly recommended.