 Pining for Snowy Peaks? - Mar 2010Enjoy a variety of winter activities with Exodus from snow-shoeing in the Pyrenees to the ultimate Everest trek from £819 per person
Book now for last minute, active snow getaways before the season ends
Has the Winter Olympics left you pining for snow-covered peaks? Why not have your own ski adventure with the UK’s leading adventure tour operator, Exodus. With trips including cross-country skiing in Norway, summiting five small peaks in the Everest region and snowshoeing in the Pyrenees, you can get your thrills in a place far more exciting than your living room.
Here are some of the best, last minute winter itineraries from Exodus:
Best foot forward – try snowshoeing in the French and Spanish Pyrenees, from just £819 per person including flights and most meals, departing 28 March 2010
Swap your skis for snowshoes with this eight day ‘Pyrenees Winter Walk and Snowshoe’ adventure into the deep and unbroken snow of the French and Spanish Pyrenees. Exodus have been running this itinerary for 12 years and it remains just as popular. Based around the charming spa town of Luchon, walkers will have plenty of valleys and ridges to explore and the scenery is stunning. The itinerary consists of five days of walking and after each fulfilling, but tiring day, guests can retire to La Feniere, a cosy mountain lodge with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Cancel the curling class and go ‘Cross-country skiing in Rondablikk’ in the beautiful surroundings of Norway’s Rondane National Park, from £1,099 per person including flights and most meals, departing 28 March 2010.
The south east town of Rondablikk offers over 120km of wilderness ski-tracks, suited to both beginner and immediate level. Over 8 days, take in the pristine trails, enjoy lunch around a roaring open fire and try your hand at ice fishing, snowshoeing or dog sledding before retiring to relax in alpine splendour. An expert leader (instructor) is on hand to guide travellers across the fantastic frozen lakes and snow-covered meadows.
‘High Passes of Everest’ – Are you ready for the challenge of this ultimate 24-Day Everest trek? This trip departs 19 March 2010, from £1,999 per person including flights and most meals.
The only way is up for those wanting to experience the gold medal of mountain trekking - Everest. This trip is over 24 days allowing for acclimatisation in the capital of Kathmandu before ascending from the famous Khumba Valley – home of the Sherpas. Travellers can enjoy the panoramic splendour afforded by three high passes and five summits including Nangkartshang Peak, Kongma La, and Kala Pattar, which offers the classic view of Everest’s south face. Visit wondrous Gokyo Valley surrounded by stunning glacial lakes before returning to Lukla via the high pass of Renzo La and the Thame Valley.
Alternatively, why not experience an Everest trip with a touch of luxury? For those that want the comfort of luxury lodges with en suite facilities but the adventure and adrenaline of trekking in the Everest region, try Exodus’ ‘Everest in Luxury’ trip from £2,399 including flights and most meals for 15 days. The traditionally-built lodges are beautifully situated amid pretty Sherpa villages and all offer magnificent views. Other highlights of the trip include visits to the famous monastery at Thyangboche and the Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar, as well as exploring temples, palaces and bazaars in the Kathmandu Valley.
Press Release Winter Itineraries. Explosive Treks in 2010 with Exodus - Feb 2010Trek Ecuador's volcanic backbone, the peaks amidst the rainforest of New Zealand or the misty mountains of Uganda with Exodus and enjoy a trip if a lifetime
Choose from 12 different volcanic adventures with Exodus in 2010 from just £1,039
02 February 2010: From active peaks still spewing hot lava, to flora and fauna covered rocky islands, volcano sites around the world offer a diversity of experiences for all travellers. Leading adventure travel operator Exodus has twelve volcanic trips in 2010 so there's never been a better time to ditch your traditional walking holiday in favour of a trip that promises to sweep you off your feet. With destinations as close as Iceland or as exotic as central Guatemala, there is an itinerary and location to meet every trekker's needs. Here are a few from Exodus' explosive portfolio of volcanic trips:
The Avenue of the Volcanoes trip in Ecuador is 16 days from £2,099 including flights. Next departure date: 17 April 2010
One of the most challenging trips in Exodus' volcanic portfolio, the Avenue of the Volcanoes trip takes travellers through Ecuador's volcanic backbone. The trip combines climbing the world's second highest active volcano, Cotopaxi, with some extraordinary cultural highlights like visiting the Otavalo Indian Market. The most daring hikers can choose to improve their ice-skills on Cayambe Volcano's glaciers, while others can enjoy admiring the wildlife in the surrounding National Park.
Explore the Sicilian Volcanoes on an eight-day trip from £1,039 including flights.
Next departure date: 9 May 2010
Discover the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Sicily with this week-long trip with Exodus. The holiday begins with a tour around the seven Aeolian islands of the UNESCO World heritage site and ends with a hike up to Mt. Etna, which at 3350m remains the highest active volcano in Europe. Offering a mix of interesting walks, optional challenging treks, black sandy beaches, fantastic food and a day trip to Catania, this is a truly original trekking excursion in the undiscovered heart of Sicily.
Follow in Darwin's footsteps with Exodus' unique Galapagos trek.
For those who like the idea of trekking through the volcanic regions of the world but prefer to do it at a more leisurely pace, try Exodus' volcanic trip to Isabela, the largest island in the Galapagos. Isabela is the only place in the entire archipelago where extended trekking is possible and Exodus is one of the few operators allowed to take travellers there. The area is home to a huge amount of interesting species and endemic wildlife and boasts five major volcanoes. Exodus tour the recently active Volcan Chico in the Sierra Negra as well as host shorter hikes on several other islands. Featuring incredible wildlife and geology - Isabela is home to one of the last remaining habitats of the giant Galapagos Tortoise - this Galapagos volcano trip is 17 days from £2,949 including flights.
Discover New Zealand with this 23-day trekking trip from £4,199 including flights.
Next departure date: 6 November 2010
Ideal for all adrenalin junkies, this trip takes you through the volcanic peaks of New Zealand and includes activities to keep even the most active and intrepid traveller occupied. Highlights include kayaking with fur seals, hiking along glaciers, trekking through dense rainforest and scaling the best volcanic peaks in the region. The country is majestic but down to earth, otherworldly yet reassuringly familiar; you can even enjoy fish and chips on the beach after the trek.
Press Release Explosive Treks. Exodus Gets Top Marks for Customer Service - Feb 2010Pioneering tour operator, Exodus, is rated 'exceptional' by Investors in Customers (IIC) 2010 forecast positive with 17% year on year growth in January for Exodus
10 February 2010: Exodus, leading UK adventure tour operator, has been awarded the maximum score of three-stars by service standard experts, Investors in Customers (IIC). The award is testament to Exodus' internal customer investment and innovation and they are delighted to have won the award.
The first travel company to be audited by the IIC, this accolade joins a series of recent successes for the pioneering tour operator including Highly Commended for Tour Operator of the Year by both the British Travel Awards and Wanderlust Magazine.
'Over the last 18 months we've put increasing focus the customer at Exodus', says Managing Director since 2007, Pete Burrell. 'We've restructured and improved at every stage, contact point and process to offer an exceptional product that offers our customers life changing experiences for great value.'
Exodus provides holidays for 30,000 passengers per year and the award from the IIC is a fantastic achievement for the tour operator. Exodus' strategy over the last 36 years has been to focus on their existing customer base; ensuring customers remain loyal and book again with Exodus for their next adventure. Exodus has 2,000 customers who have taken more than 10 holidays with the company and with Exodus' loyalty programme, those repeat customers get 5% and 10% discount on their trips, depending on how many trips they have previously travelled on.
More people are choosing an adventure holiday in 2010 and having just reported a 17% increase in sales year on year in January 2010, this year is set to remain strong for Exodus. Investment in their customers has been key to their strategy so this new award represents a great success for the company.
Now operating over 400 itineraries in 90 countries and having introduced 65 new trips in 2010, Exodus' upward growth continues. Always offering their customers new and innovative tours as well as operating the more well-known and popular trips very well, Exodus remains one of the leading adventure tour companies.
IIC was established in 2006 and offers companies the chance to gain the IIC award for customer service excellence. Awards are based on independent research amongst customers, staff and senior management alongside research conducted by IIC staff themselves. The award is based on the following four principles:
• Companies should understand their customers' needs
• They should be meeting those needs
• They should be delighting customers in the service they provide
• They should seek to develop a long term relationship with their customers
Neil Craig, MD at IIC commented:
'Amongst the very select group of 3-star companies, Exodus stand out as having the customer very much at the heart of their business and being the driver for service and process developments within the business. For a company of their size, with thousands of customers, they are remarkably close to their customers. This close relationship is reflected in their 'loyalty' scores which are exceptional.'
Press Release Investor in Custmers report. Reach New Heights and Make a Difference - Jan 2010New adventure report, 'A Passport to Adventure', reveals a 303% rise in interest in an environmentally friendly holidays and a 202% rise in interest in ethical holidays
Travel responsibly with Exodus with special fundraising trips to Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp, Mount Toubkal and the Inca Trail from just £779
11 January 2010: With 2010 now upon us, it's time to lace up your boots and hit the hills but this year, make sure you make a difference. A new report on adventure travel, published by TUI Travel Adventure Companies, demonstrates that 2010 is the year of responsible travel with 303% saying they would be more likely to choose an environmentally friendly holiday and 202% interested in ethical holidays. With an impressive portfolio of more than 400 exciting trips around the world, Exodus is the best option for you in 2010.
Based on a YouGov market research poll of more than 2,000 people and tourist office figures, the adventure report shows a rise in adventure travel with 190% of those surveyed more likely to take an adventure holiday and 145% more likely to take a special interest holiday. Helped by the high profile of celebrity campaigns like Comic Relief, responsible tourism is getting the attention it deserves and trends are set to continue in 2010. Exodus, the UK's leading adventure tour operator, can report positive growth already with almost 10% more passengers booked for 2010 trips compared to 2009. More people are taking walking trips (19% up), cycling trips (20% up). Families are increasingly intrepid with 29% increase in families booking with Exodus in 2010.
In line with these findings, Exodus has created four special departures for 2010 where popular treks including the Inca Trail and Mount Kilimanjaro have been designated special fundraising trips. Whilst all Exodus holidays are designed to benefit the local communities (In 2009, Exodus reported a 100% rise in bookings for their Kilimanjaro climb meaning they gave back £2,000 to the local community), these departures offer a fantastic opportunity to help even more. Exodus will set up a Justgiving sponsorship page for those departing on select trips and add £100 (£50 for Morocco) to the fund. All the money raised will go to the project, so you can travel safe in the knowledge that your trek is directly supporting the local community.
Fundraising departures in 2010 are:
Peru's Inca Trail - 23 June 2010 from £1,999 per person including flights
Raise funds for the school and outreach programme at the Sacred Valley's Rainbow Centre
The most famous trek in the Americas, the Inca Trail offers a unique and unrivalled combination of history and spectacular scenery. Winding its way from the powerful Urubamba River, across mountain passes and through cloud forests, the ancient Inca road passes several ruined fortresses before reaching the lost city of Machu Picchu. During the trip you will spend a day at the Rainbow Centre in the Sacred Valley, an outreach project from children, some of whom have special needs.
Kilimanjaro Climb - Rongai Route - 9 July 2010 from £1,499 per person including flights
Help build smokeless stoves and conserve the environment
Follow in the footsteps of 2009's Comic Relief climbers and raise money for the Exodus Smokeless Stove Project with the same team that took the BBC's celebrities to the top of Africa's highest mountain. The Rongai Route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the north and retains a sense of untouched wilderness, passing through farmland and forest, past Alpine moorland to the beautiful summit cone and offers stunning views throughout the trip. The trip will raise funds for the Smokeless Stove Project which aims to build 140 smokeless stoves and reduce carbon emissions.
Mt Toubkal Climb - 26 September 2010 from £779 per person including flights
- Raise money for local educational and healthcare projects
A perfect 'first time trek', Mount Toubkal stands at 4,167m above sea level and commands superb views of the High Atlas Mountains. The rewarding trek passes through remote villages and terraced fields offering an insight into the life of the hardy Berber people. This trip offers the opportunity to raise money to support the sustainable future of this remote valley community. Although the intentions started with helping the Tijhza School, the Exodus project has now evolved to help the village and the wider community. The project offers support to the Berber children and villagers of Tijhza Village by focusing on essentials that many take for granted, such as health care, education and a sustainable income.
Everest Base Camp - 28 November 2010, £1,549 per person including flights
Help install an eco-cooker and raise funds for the Himalaya Community Support Project
This lodge-based trek follows in the footsteps of the climbing greats. Trekking through Sherpa country past cultivated fields and small villages, the trip takes in the monastery at Thyangboche which is framed by the Ama Dablam and other huge, snowcapped peaks. With time for acclimatisation en route, the goal is Everest Base Camp on the Khumbu Glacier and the opportunity to climb Kala Pattar (5,545m) for a breathtaking view of the highest mountain on earth.
The trip will support the Himalaya Community Support Project, Nepal which includes an orphanage, healthcare projects as well as a tree nursery. The project has also assisted villagers in Ladakh in rebuilding their homes after recent freak flash floods.
Trends from the report also include a rise in interest for more challenging treks in Euro and non-Euro destinations and year on year growth in destinations like Morocco was (showing growth of up 80%) and Egypt and the Middle East (UK visitor numbers are set to double in the next 3 years). 'Once in a lifetime' destinations like Kilimanjaro, the Inca Trail and Angkor Wat were also very popular and Polar Regions demonstrate a 300% growth. Now the largest operator of small-ship polar expeditions, Exodus' new 2010/2011 Polar Expeditions brochure is full of trips to Antarctica, Spitzbergen and the Arctic Circle you are guaranteed never to forget. Travel the Northwest Passage for 20 days, one of the most legendary routes in Arctic lore, from £15,340 including flights (18 days ship-only).
For more details or information about the trips and the projects please visit www.exodus.co.uk/fundraising. These include:
• Himalayan Community Project
• Kenya Masai Community Project
• PAN Parks Project
• India Bandhavgarh Project
• Morocco Tijhza Vilalge Project
• Peru Rainbow Project
• Tanzania Smokeless Stove
• Sri Lanka Project
Press Release A Passport to Adventure.
 Status report on Snow Hill M/V Kapitan Khlebnikov - 17, 19 and 20 Nov 09Status 20 November 2009: We are pleased to confirm that at midnight on 19th November (UK time), the Khlebnikov finally broke free from the ice and into open water. She is now steaming north towards Ushuaia in Argentina, and is due to arrive on the morning on Sunday 22nd November, and all passengers will be flying to Buenos Aires that afternoon. Exodus is helping all clients with their onward flight arrangements back to the UK.
Press Release Update 5, 19th November.
Press Release Update 4, 17th November.
Digital Release. Update 3, 17th November. With links and digital content. Download this status report on Snow Hill M/V Kapitan Khlebnikov (MS Word Document)
Press Release Update 3, 17th November. Without the links
Comments from Simon Calder's Blog: - When is an 'I'm late' excuse acceptable? When you're stuck in an Antarctic ice sheet...
So much travel, so little time – the first “simul-cast” Travel Clinic, available in vision online via the studio webcam as well as in audio, was all very busy. We got the first interview with the people just ashore after an Antarctic adventure on ice, and by all accounts a good time was had by all aboard the icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov even though it was caught up in pack ice for nearly a week. You can find out more about the experience at a special polar evening presented by our interviewee, Paul Goldstein, at the Copthorne Tara on 2 December.
Other news agencies covering the events onboard the M/V Kapitan Khlebnikov 17 Nov. 2009
Lonely Planet | Daily Mail | Metro | Guardian (17/11/09) | Guardian (18/11/09) | USA Today Walks You Talk About with Exodus - Apr 09Short Haul Spring Walks this May
Enjoy spring walks in Andalucía, Italy and Slovenia
Departing 3, 23 and 24 May from just £739
With spring in the air and the Chelsea Flower Show just around the corner, why not discover your own floral wilderness with Exodus where this May, you can go on walks in Andalucía and pick your own blooms for eight days from just £739 including most meals.
Here is a selection of Exodus walks to enjoy this spring:
Stroll through the olive groves of Andalucía, Spain in eight days from £739, departing 3 May 2009.
For leisurely walks across the colourful plains of Andalucia, Spain’s largest province, look no further that this eight day trip with Exodus.
Andalucía is only a few miles from Morocco and is saturated in Moorish culture boasting authentic architecture, food and scenery. With Exodus, stroll across the rugged hills, into the limestone white villages and enjoy the rolling plains of planted sunflowers, wheat and olives. Visit the peaks of Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and explore traditional Ronda.
Visit the historic sites of Mt Vesuvius and Pompeii with walks to remember and a boat trip of the Amalfi coastline. Eight days from £949 including flights departing 23 May 2009.
On this trip, Exodus takes you across the Sorrento Peninsula where you can find the beautiful Amalfi Coast, one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe with its towering cliffs, picturesque coves and delightful towns. Stay in a quaint family-run hotel on the beach of Marina del Cantone and from there, discover the real taste of Italy with pizza in Naples and walk along the winding streets of Sorrento or Positano. This trip is a winning combination of historical sites, leisurely walks and superb Italian food.
Enjoy beautiful walks and sightseeing in Slovenia. Eight days from £999 including flights departing 24 May 2009.
From the tranquil shores of Lake Bled to the rugged coastline of Piran, this relaxed week covers some of the most spectacular scenery in Slovenia. Exodus’ packed itinerary includes cycling around Lake Bled, a local wine tasting session and guided tour through the awe-inspiring Skocjan caves. Exodus provides minibus transportation to take travellers over high mountain passes and surrounding valleys.
For horse lovers, a highlight of the trip is a trip to a WW1 museum where guests can enjoy a professional dressage show by Lippizaner horses. To complete the trip, you can experience the vibrant city of Ljubljana, sipping drinks on the banks of the river.
Download this article (MS Word version) Once-in-a-lifetime Experiences with Exodus Solar Eclipse Trips - Apr 09Watch the longest total solar eclipse to appear in the twenty-first century with Exodus
Special eclipse departures on 11 July 2009, 4 and 7 January 2010 and 15 January 2010 from £1,299 including flights*
China total solar eclipse:
If you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, look no further that this 17-day trip with Exodus where you will be able to catch the total solar eclipse from An Ji, China - the longest total solar eclipse that will occur in the twenty-first century.
For six minutes and 39 seconds, the earth will slip into the moon's shadow and there will not be an eclipse of this length for another century. From just £1,999 including flights and most meals, the total solar eclipse will be the climax of this trip; one that explores China and its imperial past. Highlights of the trip also include the monuments of Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors, the mosques of Xi'an and the canals of Tongli.
This 17 day trip with Exodus departs on 11 July 2009 with prices from £1,999 per person including flights, all scheduled activities and most meals.
Sights and Safari across three countries
A wildlife escape with a difference, this trip with Exodus explores the route from the Great Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha and the Masai Mara across Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda with the opportunity to catch the solar eclipse on day six of the itinerary from the Nakuru National Park in Kenya.
In addition to catching the total solar eclipse, travellers will be able to get close to an incredible variety of birds and wildlife including the endangered white and black rhinos, elusive leopard and in season, a million flamingos. With two days of game viewing included, a safari through Rwanda will offer the chance for you to see endangered Mountain Gorillas.
This 17 day trip with Exodus departs on 4 and 7 January 2010 with prices from £1,899 per person including flights, all scheduled activities and most meals.
A Sight from a Height:
Catching an annual solar eclipse is an experience in itself but climb Mount Kenya first, a challenging trekking peak and the second highest in Africa, and the view will make the experience a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’.
The special eclipse trip departs 10 January 2010 with Exodus for eight days where they have coordinated the climb specifically to coincide with the annular eclipse.
Even for experienced walkers climbing Mount Kenya is no walk in the park but Exodus adds an extra day to the standard itinerary to aid acclimatisation.
This eight day trip with Exodus departs on 10 January 2010 with prices from £1,299 per person including flights, all scheduled activities and most meals.
* Please note: Flights are subject to availability
Download this article (MS Word version) In Peak Condition - Valerie Parkinson's Everest Climb - Mar 09Valerie Parkinson to attempt her dream to scale Mount Everest in support of the Exodus Himalaya Social and Education and Himalaya Environment Projects
Supported by the UK's leading adventure tour operator, Exodus, their own Nepal Base Manager, Valerie Parkinson, is attempting to summit Mount Everest in May 2009 to coincide with her 50th birthday.
Valerie is climbing in aid of the Exodus Himalaya Social and Education and Himalaya Environment Project and has already raised almost £6,000 which will go towards Nava Kiran Orphanage in Kathmandu, the Thulopatel School in Nepal, the Markha Valley Project in Ladakh and the Solar Cooker Project in Nepal.
They Reaching the 29,028 ft summit of Everest is a feat attempted by few and accomplished by fewer, but it has been Valerie's ambition since she realised her passion for climbing verticals. Valerie is not adverse to challenge and in October 2008, became the first British woman to reach the true summit of Manaslu, one of the highest mountains in the world at 26,781ft, without supplementary oxygen. Valerie has visited some of the greatest mountain ranges in the world and has led treks in Ladakh, Nepal, Pakistan and Tibet.
Follow Valerie up the mountain by keeping track online via her blog www.valerieparkinson.vox.com
Or, why not have an Everest experience of your own and see the world from above the clouds, book now with Exodus on their itineraries, which include Everest Base Camp and Mont Blanc Ascent.
About Exodus
With more than 35 years of experience, leading adventure tour operator Exodus now has a huge range of adventure and active holidays to seven continents with places as diverse as Kilimanjaro, Machu Picchu, the Ice Hotel and Antarctica.
Whether it is singles, couples, groups or families, Exodus offers an incredible choice of different trips for all ages.
Operating in 90 countries with over 450 tours, Exodus insists on low impact tourism and increasingly looks to bring benefit to local communities.
Activities on offer include walking, trekking, cycling, mountain biking, rafting, kayaking, caving, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and dogsledding as well as many many more...
Download this article (MS Word version) Follow Billy Connolly in a Journey to the Edge of the World - Feb 2009Icebreakers and Arctic Exploration with Exodus
- From Spitzbergen adventures and Antarctic Circle tours, Exodus has it all kept on ice for you
- Exclusive Voyages departing 14 June, 24 June, 14 July 2009 and 21 July priced from £3,435
- Limited reduced prices for exclusive cruises: up to £300 off
In a new four-part series to be broadcast on ITV1 beginning 19th February 2009, Billy Connolly travels from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland before boarding the expedition ship the Akademik Ioffe and heading up the Northwest Passage inside the Arctic Circle.
Those travelling with Exodus however, will be able to travel much further into the Arctic Circle and really increase their chances of getting up close and personal with Polar Bears by travelling with Exodus on the Vavilov, the sister ship to the Ioffe as used by Billy Connolly. Exodus offers a selection of cruises that are not for ladies that lunch and nor for the faint hearted but they are guaranteed, one-in-a-lifetime experiences. Exodus are bold enough to take whole charters which enables the expedition to move more purposefully rather than be slowed down by too many differing interests. Spitsbergen has 24 hours daylight and it is put to good use to maximise the potential rewards of close marine encounters with bears, foxes and walrus. Any photographer, wildlife or wilderness fan would love these and more importantly the expeditions are fun, appeal to all ages and thankfully not the bingo, shuffleboard and two sittings at dinner 'cruise' brigade
They are not cheap but until you have been on an exclusive cruise with Exodus, you haven't lived. For something truly special, take advantage of reduced price exclusive voyages, departing 14 June, 24 June, 14 July and 21 July, led by Exodus' Paul Goldstein an acclaimed photographer or wildlife broadcasters Chris Packman and Jonathan Scott, and be guaranteed an experience with professionals that promises to be worth every penny. Exodus' Paul Goldstein is leading voyages departing on the 14 June 2009 and 21 July while BBC Wildlife broadcaster Chris Packman leads the trip departing 14 July 2009, whilst Jonathan Scott will lead the 24 June departure. Selected departures have up to £300 off.
Save up to £300 on the Spitzbergen Explorer on the Vavilov (24 June and 14 July) and no fuel surcharges
Part of the popular Polar Expeditions brochure is the great exploration of the Svalbard Archipelago and Spitzbergen Island - home to polar bears, walrus, arctic foxes and huge colonies of seabirds. A wildlife photographer's dream, Exodus will take you up close and personal to these animals of the wild from the intimate surroundings of the 100-berth Vavilov. Discreet and easily manoeuvrable around the ice, these ships are perfect for these adventures and has the added advantage that passengers can be in the zodiacs in the water at a few minutes notice - catching a polar and her cubs playing in the ice or perhaps sailing in the same space as a 150 metric ton whale.
Prices:
14 June 2009 - from £3,435
24 June 2009 - from £3,495 - a saving of £300
14 July 2009 - from £3,495 - a saving of £300
21 July 2009 - from £4,035
Snow Hill Island, Antarctica - 14 days at from £6,925 (excluding flights) from the UK to South America. Departs 3 November 2009.
One of the most exciting voyages in the South Seas, Exodus takes you south of the Antarctic Circle and beyond, into waters that remain unexplored by most and exclusive to those who travel with Exodus. This is the ultimate Polar expedition and probably the last time it will be done.
This is a trip starts aboard the Kapitan Khlebnikov, a Russian icebreaker ship that easily manoeuvres around the icebergs of the Weddell Sea. As one of the highlights of the 2009-2010 Polar Expeditions brochure, this is the latest offering of awe-inspiring trips to the Arctic and Antarctic where travellers will follow in the footsteps of the first polar explorers to Snow Hill Island on the Antarctic continent itself. They'll be dropped by helicopter at a vast, newly-discovered Emperor penguin rookery to watch the birds feed, toboggan and rear their young in the world's iciest terrain.
It's not all windswept hardiness though: travellers will find plenty of time to enjoy a drink (with or without cubes of Antarctic ice) aboard the comfortable Khlebnikov.
Exodus' Paul Goldstein will also lead this tour alongside wildlife photographer and broadcaster Jonathan Scott and BBC Planet Earth Editor Andrew Chastney.
Download this article (MS Word version) The Exodus Factor - Feb 2009All the Fun without the Hidden Costs
Eurosavers: Reach new heights in Mont Blanc or enjoy the scenery in Andalucía, Tuscany or the Pyrenees where almost everything is included
Avoid the Eurozone: Bulgaria's Rodopi Mountains or Turkey, Aegean Coast
Hoping to escape this year but put off by the Euro exchange? Exodus, the UK's leading adventure holiday operator offer hassle-free escapes in Europe with flights, transfers, accommodation, all the scheduled activities and most of the meals included. Unlike many operators, Exodus doesn't compromise on quality so you can have the ideal break without breaking the bank.
Alternatively, avoid the Eurozone completely with trips to Eastern Europe or Turkey where you won't need Euros at all. Book in confidence with Exodus who, with protection offered by ATOL and ABTA, have you covered from the moment you depart the UK.
Here are some of the holiday itineraries this year to tempt you:
Stay in Europe but enjoy an inflation-proof break
Stroll through the olive groves of Andalucía, Spain in eight days from £799. Departing 15 and 29 March 2009.
For leisurely walks across the colourful plains of Andalucía, Spain's largest province, look no further that this eight day trip with Exodus.
Andalucía is only a few miles from Morocco and is saturated in Moorish culture boasting authentic architecture, food and scenery. With Exodus, stroll across the rugged hills, into the limestone white villages and enjoy the rolling plains of planted sunflowers, wheat and olives. Visit the peaks of Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and explore traditional Ronda.
Daywalks in the stunning central Pyrenees for eight days from just £799 including flights. Departing 3 May 2009.
One of the most popular Exodus trips, daywalks in the central Pyrenees, has attracted travellers for more than 15 years. Based at the comfortable lodge of La Feniere, you will have excellent access to mountain walking and can enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery. Exodus offers a flexible programme of five daywalks that will explore the summits and ridges of the lower hills, the forays into the high peaks and the natural beauty of the glacial lakes. Highlights of the trip include the historic Hospice de France, the Vallee d'Oueil, meadows of Plateau de Campasure and head of Vallee du Lys.
Push your limits and climb Europe's highest mountain, Mont Blanc, from £1,029. Reach new heights in 15 days departing 20 June 2009.
For those that seek scenery with excitement, add some edge to the holiday with a view and venture on the Tour du Mont Blanc with Exodus - a holiday with an adrenaline rush as well as the beautiful backdrop.
Linking the seven valleys that surround Western Europe's highest mountain, The Tour du Mont Blanc is no ordinary mountain climb. This 15 day route crosses three borders, climbs over six passes, traverses beneath huge glaciers, and meanders through stunning alpine meadows to reach quaint little villages like Les Houches in Chamonix Valley. Here, travellers don't just climb one mountain; they experience all the peaks in The Alps.
Or head out of the Eurozone in Eastern Europe
Brown bears in Bulgaria's Rodopi Mountains for nine days from £839, departing 9 May 2009.
Outside of the Eurozone but still just a stone's throw from the UK, the Rodopi are the most extensive mountain range in Bulgaria - a hauntingly beautiful and mysterious region, where life has changed little over the last few hundred years. The Rodopi are a remote refuge for many exceptionally rare plants, as well as brown bears, wolves, wild cats and prolific bird life. Travelers will walk through a variety of landscapes including ancient coniferous forests where bears lurk and rugged limestone gorges, passing remote, timeless villages.
Eight day action-packed adventure on the waters of the Aegean Coast, Turkey. From £729 per person including flights and all scheduled activities, departing 11 May 2009.
Offering mountain biking, canyoning, sea kayaking, diving, fishing and paragliding in one, this eight day trip with Exodus satisfies any adrenalin junkie.
Enjoy the sheltered bays of the Kalkan and Ucagiz with a gullet activity cruise and combine a relaxing cruise experience with the thrills and spills of a typical Exodus holiday. A week full of contrasts, guests will spend a day exploring the gorges and canyons of the mountains behind Kas and another day swimming along its scenic coastline. Alternatively, spend the free day testing skills paragliding or plunging into the blue, diving at one of the 35 dive sites in the area.
Download this article (MS Word version) In Peak Condition - Feb 2009Valerie Parkinson to attempt her dream to scale Mount Everest in support of the Exodus Himalaya Social and Education and Himalaya Environment Projects
Supported by the UK’s leading adventure tour operator, Exodus, their own Nepal Base Manager, Valerie Parkinson, is attempting to summit Mount Everest in May 2009 to coincide with her 50th birthday.
Valerie is climbing in aid of the Exodus Himalaya Social and Education and Himalaya Environment Projects and hopes to raise over £5,000 which will go towards Nava Kiran Orphanage in Kathmandu, the Thulopatel School in Nepal, the Markha Valley Project in Ladakh and the Solar Cooker Project in Nepal.
Reaching the 29,029 ft summit of Everest is a feat attempted by few and accomplished by fewer, but it has been Valerie’s ambition since she realised her passion for climbing verticals. Valerie is not adverse to challenge and in October 2008, became the first British woman to reach the true summit of Manaslu, one of the highest mountains in the world at 26,781ft, without supplementary oxygen. Valerie has visited some of the greatest mountain ranges in the world and has led treks in Ladakh, Nepal, Pakistan and Tibet.
Follow Valerie up the mountain by keeping track online via her blog
Or, why not have an Everest experience of your own and see the world from above the clouds, book now with Exodus on their itineraries, which include Everest Base Camp and Mont Blanc Ascent.
Download this article (MS Word version) The Big Bike Bash August 22nd – 23rd 2009 - Jan 2009A brand new event celebrating and age old idea.
Mountain biking started off when some friends getting together for a ride then kicking back with a beer and listening to some music. This grew into more and bigger events and these became organised races. Somewhere along that journey some of the original fun was lost. It is the original spirit that the Big Bike Bash aims to recapture. This will be a weekend of camping, riding, eating, drinking and listening to music.
We have had an extremely positive response from the bike industry so can offer amazing prizes like foreign holidays and bikes from our sponsors. There are also many other prizes and these will be given out based on effort and participation rather than simply results. You may not win the event but still win the prize.
There will be XC races for race whippets, there will be lake jumps for jump bunnies, there will be tag-a-long races for parents, there will be children’s challenge for children, there will be something for everyone. It is a great event for regular mountain bikers to bring their partners and families to as there will be stuff for none bikers too and the current ticket sales show there is a good family representation.
As well as the bike competitions and things to take part in there will also be a beer festival showcasing some great local beverages and a live music stage with various bands playing throughout the weekend.
Without wishing to sound pretentious, it all kicks back to the philosophy of the event. We don’t want super-fit people entering the easy categories just so they get a podium. If they want a medal that much, go to a race event (or back to their mummy). We are happy with hard racing and hopefully we will get some but this is riding, not life and death.
To make sure we can maintain the friendly party atmosphere we are limiting the numbers to 500 this year so please buy your tickets early. There will be camping and parking. For full details check out the website: www.BigBikeBash.co.uk
Tickets
Under 12 - 1p
Under 18 - £35
18 and Over - £40
Download this article (MS Word version) Walking & Trekking Brochure Launch - Jan 2009Lace up your boots and explore the world's untouched corners with the brand-new Exodus Walking & Trekking 2009 brochure
Fancy a walk? Exodus has more than 150 for you - all around the world. The UK's leading adventure holiday operator has launched its walking and trekking offering for 2009 with more than 150 journeys to choose from - so whether you're after a gentle stroll in Italy, a lengthy trek through beautiful Eastern European lakes and valleys or a challenging climb on one of the world's highest peaks, you'll find that Exodus has the walk for you.
All-new trips for 2009 include Californian Walking & Wine, a relaxing itinerary exploring the magnificent landscape and wonderful wines of California, including Yosemite, with excellent hotels and lodges along the way. If you love plant life, you'll love the Wild Flowers and Walks in the Bernese Oberland itinerary, which showcases the mountain scenery of one of Switzerland's most spectacular areas. Culture vultures and historians can join the intriguing Cyprus Crusader Castles Walk to explore the rich history, rugged mountains and spectacular coastline of Northern Cyprus and follow parts of the Kyrenia Mountain Trail.
If you're looking to get further into peak condition, you'll want to look east with the new Exodus trip to the region around Annapurna Chitwan and Everest - a combination of action, adventure and wildlife that lets you visit the elephants of the Chitwan National Park and trek through valleys, along rivers and into local villages. Another new addition for 2009 is the eight-day Slovakian Tatras itinerary: a journey across a network of footpaths through the High Tatras - the range separating Slovakia and Poland. The trip also offers the chance to walk along the dramatic Tatranska Magistrala to the Velicky Pieso Lake with its dramatic waterfall.
Whether you fancy strolling along the stunning Turquoise Coast or trekking the Inca Trail, there's a trip for you in the new Exodus 2009 Walking & Trekking brochure. All trips are run by seasoned guides who know the lay of the land - so, no matter how adventurous your trip, you'll always be in a safe pair of hands. And, whether you book alone, with a partner or with a group, you'll meet people from all walks of life and get to make new friends. Do you feel like walking yet? Visit the Exodus website to find out more.
Do it responsibly
Responsible tourism underpins everything at Exodus. It's essential to remember that every destination is someone else's home. Continuing to ensure that communities benefit from tourism, Exodus has launched a new partnership with Plan International. Working in 49 countries across Africa, Asia and the Americas, Plan International supports more than 1.5 million children and their families. To find out how Exodus is directly benefiting the communities it visits, go to the Exodus Podcast page and listen to the newly uploaded responsible tourism podcast.
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Since we started operating overland tours in 1974, our adventurous spirit has kept us on the lookout for fresh itineraries and off-the-beaten-track destinations.
