Most Inspirational Moment
I'm a fairly fussy eater and eat to live rather than live to eat - but I was blown away on this trip with the high standard and variation in local food - especially that served for evening dinner. Several of the meals turned out more like banquets and the table groaned with the number of local dishes on offer. Vegetarians (which I am not), were particularly pleased. Wine and beer was more than adequate and very cheap. The lunch and dinner restaurant owners clearly put in a huge effort to give us their best..............how often does that happen?
The first day visit into Macedonia was an unexpected pleasure; the final day ascent on the 800m climb over 90 mins in the heat was a real challenge after a previous night's clubbing in a local bar complete with glitter ball!
Thoughts on Group Leader
As it was the first trip we had two group leaders (brothers Armand & Unid) - future trips would have one or the other. They were aided by Manny (not sure of spelling), a mountain tour leader in his own right, but his first cycling. All three guys were excellent - always informative and genuinely concerned for our wellbeing and enjoyment of the trip.
Advice for Potential Travellers
This was an April trip - at higher altitudes, it is cold at night, so some warm clothing is essential. An effective windstopper is needed on some descents. Don't go with loads of food/snacks - the local restuarants and cafes where we ate on this trip were first class.
Suggestions
The group were great company - unusually all Brits, aged from late 30s to mid 60s and mixed really well - a great addition to the Exodus cycling catalogue.