I’ve wanted to visit Japan for many years, and this more than lived up to expectations. There were times that I felt overwhelmed (Tokyo), and times that I was walking in the woods. A nice mix of free time and structured tours.

Mary MacGregor Ancient & Modern Japan

This action-packed cultural trip ticked every box imaginable for me. We saw incredible wildlife including leopards, water buffaloes and caimans on game drives in Yala National Park. We got the chance to taste the famous tea in lush tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya and find out more about the process from leaf to cup. The group also got to see fire-dancing performances in Kandy one evening, which gave us a real insight into the country’s fascinating customs and traditions. The hotels on this trip are also incredible – we were lucky enough to have unobstructed views of Sigiriya Rock from Hotel Sigiriya and breathtaking sunset views overlooking the lush islands in Giritale. The last hotel, Hotel Cinnamon Red, also had a brilliant affinity pool – taking in the skyscrappers of Colombo! For the adventurous, this itinerary doesn’t disappoint either as you can go on whitewater rafting excursions, rural cycling trips and whale watching (in season). Visits to colourful temples, fresh fruit markets and the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home were other cultural pitstops that gave you a real flavour of what the country was like. Once I arrived home, I wanted to do it all over again. It was an incredible trip with a great group of people that I’ll treasure forever.

Kristen Whitla Discover Sri Lanka

Spent a great week walking in Sierra de Aitana. The walks were challenging but well worth the effort. The views from the summits were spectacular. Jose was a great guide and as he was local he was so knowledgeable about the area and passionate about his country. He made us lovely sandwiches for lunch and we also had pasta one day. Jose’s mother made little cotton lunch bags for us to use for the week – a nice touch. The accommodation was more than I expected – clean, good breakfasts and a lovely 3 course meal with wine in the evening. The drinks are very reasonably priced. There was a room set aside for Exodus and coffee, tea, milk and biscuits were provided. Raquel and Pepe who ran the hostel were a joy! Jose’s dog Bobi joined us on our last 2 walks. So friendly and well behaved. It was also nice to meet Sara.

Susan Houston Sierra de Aitana Trek

Another superb Exodus adventure. An excellent and varied walk program. The Hotel Torrecerredo was of a very high standard with delicious meals provided each day. The owners Jim & Pilar were brilliant hosts too. Special mention also to Adolfo-brilliant character! We had a small group of 8 and we all got on really well right from the start.

Ian Lochhead Walking the Picos de Europa

Why is Carla’s Douro Valley tour so uniquely magical? Because she grew up here and still lives in the region, therefore she knows the nature trails, the roads, and the hidden gems like the back of her hand. Plus the itinerary is educational AND a lot of fun!

Hope Smith Portugal: Walking & Wine – Premium Adventure

Another excellent holiday that could have been a real slog in the wet and windy weather but was turned around by the great Exodus support team. The overall planning of the trip was first-rate and its execution outstanding. The beautiful countryside, wonderful scenery and fascinating history was bought to life during our cycling adventure. Great hotels, restaurants and coffee shops ensured we stayed fit and healthy despite often being very damp and windswept!

Dr David Frank Burrows Porto to Lisbon Atlantic Ride