Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Visiting Angor Wat - far more extensive and varied than I'd been expecting, made all the more memorable by seeing it over two days, one by bike which was a superb way to get a true feel for the place and its atmosphere.

Thoughts on Group Leader

A fine ambassador for his country, Sokkim transmitted a graceful serenity which made us all feel at ease with him, sure in the knowledge of his ability to calmly overcome any challenges and provide us with whatever information or help we needed in a measured and warm manner. True to his principles, he was ever keen to ensure we got the most from our time in Cambodia, as well as striving for the best for his compatriots and homeland.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Cambodia may not be the first country to spring to mind for a visit in the region, but the variety of experiences there and warm welcome certainly make it a recommendation. Angkor Wat alone justifies going, but there is so much more to warrant spending more time there.

Most Inspirational Moment

I enjoyed all aspects of the tour but the most inspirational was the time spent in Madurai. We had a agreat visit to the temple and the palace. It was noisy and crowded and so exciting. I had a wonderful cycle rickshaw ride through the market streets, visited local restaurant and meet some street traders and other people who gave me insight into life in Madurai. It was so vibrant, so alive, so exciting and it had a very memorable impact on me.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Charles, was wonderful. He has a deep understanding of the society and culture of the area. I was deeply impressed by his organisation of our time, his support and kindness to all members of the group, for example soothing worries about food and ensuring that everyone was able to access the sort of diet they wanted. He was so lively and engaged with us with great good humour and excitement about his homeland. He loves his part of India and was able to give us a great introduction to the different religions, caste groups and general diversity. He is also kind to his own people showing us how to manage tipping and show respect in their terms.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I would say go soon and try to make sure you have Charles as group leader. He makes it all so exciting and interesting.

Most Inspirational Moment

The husky sledding was the definite highlight! -39C but sooooooooooo much fun dashing through the national park. Unforgettable

Thoughts on Group Leader

Martii and Juka were just fabulous - they really understood the wilderness, the potential risks and how to avert any accidents. They taught us some great skills and kept us safe, warm, well fed throughout the week with a smile on their faces at all times. Thanks for a great week BaseCamp team

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the top of the highest hill (1900m) and getting a big cheer!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Suresh was passionate about his country and sharing it's highlights. He did this with great knowledge and humour but most importantly he took time out to make everyone feel they were personally welcome and that they were happy with their daily experience

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go as soon as possible!

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the summit of Adam's Peak in time for sunrise. It was a really tough climb. Seeing wild elephants in the game park.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sujan was fantastic. We could not have had a better leader. He was knowledgeable, organised, honest and fun. He wanted us to love his country and went far beyond what was expected to guarantee we had a memorable trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It was very hot and humid in January, but can still rain. Take a light rain coat. Binoculars are useful on safari. Most hotels had pools. I wish I'd taken flip flops! There is time to shop in Kandy and in Galle, but not much more.

Most Inspirational Moment

They were many highlights to this trip, such as kayaking in Hoi An (optional activity), getting a suit made in less than 24h in Hoi An, cycling between the rice fields, meeting lovely and friendly Vietnamese people, feeling like Poh in Kung Fu Panda when climbing up Marble Mountain...

Thoughts on Group Leader

Kien was passionate about his work. He tried very much to teach us about his culture but sadly the group was not interested at all by learning about the Vietnamese culture and history. The activities were planned smoothly but he tried too much to adjust things to this group lacking motivation by proposing later starts for activities thinking people would prefer sleeping in the mornings.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do not take this trip if you really expect an active holiday. This package is great for sightseeing and discovering Vietnamese food and culture but it is not as active as mentioned in the description. Most days there is nothing to do after 4pm. And lot's of time is spent traveling by bus. But it is a great holiday if you just want to relax. ***** I traveled end of march/beginning of April and I'd recommend taking a warm polar sweater for the north part of Vietnam, a light jacket against the wind and long walking trousers. It was actually quite cold. But then you'll need shorts and t-shirts for the central/south parts of Vietnam. ***** You absolutely need to bring a third bag with you: your suitcase, a backpack (for the days) and a light bag to put in clothes for 1-2 days trips. Your suitcase will stay at the hotel while you go to the homestays and it is essential to have a smaller bag to carry your stuff in. ****** For the money, don't bother with US dollars => it is extremely annoying to have people asking to find a bank to exchange their US dollars because they didn't withdraw dongs. The money in Vietnam is dongs and even though they can take US dollars in some places, it is much easier to use dongs. You'll find ATMs everywhere (usually in front of the hotel you'll find one). ****** Don't worry about finding mineral water bottles, you'll always get a free one at the hotel every night, and you can really buy some everywhere, even in the middle of the jungle. ******

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the bears and wolves in the sanctuary and Dracula's castle at Bran - but I also loved the walking and snow shoeing - and in fact everything!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Thomas was OK as a group leader but if I have any criticism at all about the holiday, it was that he didn't always seem very engaged with or interested in the group - and on occasion we could have done with more information about the activity. He was very well-informed about local history however.

Advice for Potential Travellers

No. Just go. You will love it!

Most Inspirational Moment

The dedication of the guides to helping us all achieve our goal particularly during those moments when the terrain was difficult and during summit night when everyone found the going tough.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Abraham did an amazing job organising a large group of people which encompassed numerous porters, guides and ourselves as clients. Although much of his work was behind the scenes when coordinating the porters he was always observed speaking with them to ensure everything worked smoothly. His manner with both clients and porters was inspirational.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being in the high Himalaya's is inspirational, every moment.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sukhman, our team leader made all the difference: he is kind to a fault; respectful, happy, and has every facet of a great leader. Sukhman's team were brilliant to; Kagei has summited Everest six times, Lakbar and Cammi did everything with a smile. It's a privilege to be with such great people and I hope Exodus and future trekking parties appreciate as much. It's these guys that make it possible and fun.

Advice for Potential Travellers

What you won't find on a packing list that's useful: Wet-wipes (work it out); fresh coffee, playing cards, chocolate, a water bottle that can double up as a hot water bottle at night. Most important of all ..... a sense of humour.

Most Inspirational Moment

The temples in Angkor and the surrounding area.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Phuong was warm and welcoming, always ready to help and go the extra mile. Our guide in Cambodia who we only had for a brief time was also excellent.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Think carefully about whether you need to take Malaria tablets. In January when I went it was possible to manage without them. Just go well prepared with insect repellent. Pack enough layers too as it was cool for the first half of the trip.