Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Visiting the old cities of Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius

Thoughts on Group Leader

Vaida was an outstanding group leader, totally dedicated to her role, and very caring with the children. She went well beyond what we expected for a guide. Tadas, our driver was also excellent, and very reliable, in his own quiet way - following behind the bikes in his van if anyone needed help, and getting the bikes ready each morning.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The trip works well for families (we were the first Exodus family trip), but best for older, rather than younger teenagers, who can find cycling each day a bit repetitive, and don't always have the stamina. Weather can be quite variable - just like the UK - so plan for sun, cloud and rain. Hire bikes were fine - newish hybrid bikes with standard brakes and 24 speeds, quite heavy but reliable and ideal for the cycling conditions.

Most Inspirational Moment

CAMPING IN THE WILD AND THE STARS AT NIGHT

Thoughts on Group Leader

A TRUE PROFESSIONAL . SHE MADE THE TRIP AND WAS A REAL TRAVELLER WITH LOTS OF STORIES AND ADVICE WHEN IT WAS NEEDED

Advice for Potential Travellers

BE PREPARED FOR LOTS OF RIVER CROSSINGS IF IT HAS BEEN RAINING, SOME WITH A ROPE!

Most Inspirational Moment

The most inspirational part of the trip was of course The Great Wall itself - what an amazing site, and so fabulous to trek on the non touristy bits too - really feeling like we were seeing the real China.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our guide Kevin was just superb, so knowledgeable and nothing was too much trouble. I feel we learnt so much about Chinas history which was so interesting. I was concerned about the food as I am vegetarian but Kevin always made sure there were vegetarian options available and explained what I could and couldn't eat. I was also the slowest ofthe group but was never made to feel that was a problem and he was very supportive at all times, especially on the difficult climbs!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Amazing and incredible and my advice for potential travellers is just go and experience it!

Most Inspirational Moment

Standing inside the Glacier on our "day off," At last those long forgotten Geography lessons clicked into place. A bit late for my O levels though methinks. Stupendous

Thoughts on Group Leader

As above he was really brilliant, couldn't fault him.

Advice for Potential Travellers

You are walking up to 900m uphill almost every day. This like a top Lakeland fell from the Lakeside in five days out of six. Make sure you are fit enough to enjoy the breathtaking (no pun intended) panoramic Vistas that will enchant you.

Most Inspirational Moment

Going up the chair lift on the isle of Capri to see the views from the top. The visit to Pompeii was amazing and the walk with the gods had breathtaking views.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Eduardo was excellent, he made the holiday wonderful. He organised everything really well and catered for everyone's needs. I was able to completely unwind and relax as he took care of everything. We managed to see so much which we would have not been able to do on our own. He took us to see the most amazing views, this will certainly be a holiday to remember.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for lots of walking, but so worth it when you get there.

Most Inspirational Moment

The little villages were lovely to cycle through such as Villafrance and Palas De Rei. The 9km climb up to the village of O'Cebreiro was a nice challenge for fit or moderately fit people.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Javier was our group leader with Jose as the driver. Both individuals are extremely nice and considerate. They were always happy to chat and remained pilot and friendly throughout the trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We stayed in villages or very small towns so no need to pack anything too dressy for night time wear in the restaurants or pubs !!!

Most Inspirational Moment

Just being in Mostar

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was very good and a very interesting person because of his knowledge and first hand experience of the area and of the conflict.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go at a cooler time.

Most Inspirational Moment

There are so many..... Climbing the limestone pinnacles in Grand Tsingy National Park, hearing the Indri calling to each other on our morning walk in Andasibe, walking along the pure white sea shore in Ifaty, the peace and tranquillity of the Maki gorge (it really is like paradise) and being just metres away from the cheeky ring-tailed lemurs

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sol was simply amazing. He was our guide, our teacher, our interpreter, our ecologist, our naturalist, our motivator (ahead of long journeys and early starts), our doctor (to a couple of poorly group members), but most importantly our friend. Sol calmly and quietly just gets things done but gives his time and support freely to ensure the total satisfaction of the group. Despite a few challenges that were thrown at him along the way (primarily the Air Madagascar strike) he just smiled and did whatever was necessary to keep the group happy and the itinerary on track.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Despite the fact that the trip is described as "moderate", be prepared for a really intensive and often tiring two week adventure. But rest assured, it's really worth it!! Most days start at (or before) sunrise and there are many days when you don't reach your destination until after sunset but that's based on the curious Madagascar combination of a) fabulous things to see and do during the days, b) terrible roads and slow journeys, and c) short days during the winter season. This is not a "holiday" in terms of rest and relaxation. In fact, there were only a couple of very short periods when we had "free time", but it is a full-on and magnificent introduction to the sights, sounds and experiences of this wonderful island. Booking a few extra days on a beach to end the trip might not be a bad plan....

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the top of Maglic Mountain felt like a real achievement but the most moving part of the trip was seeing the evidence of the recent Balkan war and hearing some personal stories from the leaders. They brought the conflict alive in a way that is not achievable by films or the written word.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Eldar was very calm and capable and he coped with every situation. He was exceptionally good at managing people and had a fun dry sense of humour. His knowledge about the history of the country added a rich dimension to the trip. Benjamin - the assistant guide was full of energy and good humour but when necessary he was supportive and patient. Both guides were very safety conscious. I have been on many group trips and they have been amongst the best leaders that I have encountered.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Day 3 is a long arduous hike - much more strenous than the other days. If you have any doubts about your ability have a rest day. Note that there is quite a lot of time spent on the bus travelling to and from the start and end of the walks and between the various overnight stops

Most Inspirational Moment

Edwardo! Every day had it's highs. Loved Pompeii and Vesuvius all in one day. Really brought history alive.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Edwardo really does know every one locally. Looked after us beyond the call on duty. Like we were his family.