Reviews

Your Words – We tell it like it is! Holiday Reviews by previous Exodus travellers

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14330 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Susan Drake

Reviewed August 2014

Uzbekistan uncovered

This trip has an excellent itinerary – an absolutely perfect mix of guided sight-seeing, individual time to explore & little extras, like the camel ride and lake-side swim. (Again, this was just the right amount of time as we met other groups who had two nights at the yurt camp & we felt that the timing for us was perfect after after the desert castles).

Most Inspirational Moment

With so many amazing sights, it is hard to pick one. I loved Khiva, probably because it was so compact and the first glimpse of the city really took my breath away. There so many beautiful buildings and sights and the Uzbek people offer a warm welcome wherever you go. I loved the fact that there were more Uzbek tourists at all the key sites than foreigners and we ended up starring in many of the locals' photos as a 'holiday oddity' for them.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Dilshod is an extremely knowledgeable and patient guide. He is able to answer any question and is extremely thoughtful, asking discreetly after health and able to make allowances as required. Not only did he book taxis for individuals to see whatever they desired in free moments, but he also put them into the taxi and helped to negotiate the fare.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We travelled at the start of August. It is hot (35-42 degrees) but the advantage of this is that it is 'off-season' so the sites are not crowded. If you can take the heat, it is a good time to go. Drink lots of water and wear long sleeves - cover up! You will quickly get used to dealing with the stacks of notes - but never as adept at flicking through them to add up as the locals! Some of the journeys are sometimes long because the roads surfaces are not always good, but the infrastructure is gradually improving and it is just one aspect of the trip.

eric winstone

Reviewed August 2014

tour du Mont Blanc

This trip lived up to all the expectations. The weather was mixed with heavy rain and sleet and three days of sunshine. Two things make a trip like this successful, the leader and the way in which the group gel together and interact. Both of these ingredients were very much in evidence and this made the trip an even better experience. The trekking was at the right pace and there was good support of each other throughout the 8 days. the accommodation and food were excellent.

Most Inspirational Moment

by far the most inspirational moments of the trip were the magnificent alpine views of glaciers and soaring peaks. the snow level was very low and this added to the majestic landscape we saw. Also the fact that there were many other groups and individuals along the route and the friendships made were excellent.

Thoughts on Group Leader

First class. She had done her homework on the group and planned her day around supporting each individuals needs - quite difficult on a trip like this. She was informative about local issues and confident and clear with her directions and instructions. She also had a sense of humour!

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is a tough walk and dont underestimate the fact that you will be walking over 70 miles with 6500m of ascent over 6 days. Travel as light as possible - about 9k max.

Chris Knaack

Reviewed August 2014

Cycling Cuba

Definitely going back to Cuba.

Most Inspirational Moment

The experience of immersive tourism. This trip was completely unlike going to a tourists-only beach resort. On several occasions (Caleta Buena, Bayamo, Gibara), we ate, drank, and could chat and dance with vacationing and partying Cubans. Our group leader also created many opportunities for us to meet ordinary Cubans, by having us stop at their houses for coffee, dine at family-run restaurants, etc ...

Thoughts on Group Leader

I found out via Google that our leader Freddy Camara has been nominated for "best Exodus guide worldwide", and I can see why. His love of Cuba is apparent, as is his desire to communicate it to the members of the group. He made looking after 18 people's needs all at once look easy.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you absolutely must do this trip in the July-August timeframe, be aware that the heat and humidity make this more of a 4 out of 9, rather than the rating of 3 posted on the Exodus website. Even Freddy said of doing this trip in summer "this is crazy". Unless you are already an avid cyclist, put in the hours in the saddle before the trip. Someone in our group suggested 100km per week for several weeks prior to departure. This sounds about right. Buy a camel pack, rehydration salts, even a gel seat.

Sheena Small

Reviewed August 2014

Fabulous in every aspect

John and Graham run this trip as a well oiled machine. Everything is well set up on the camping side and they establish an efficient schedule for everything from breakfast to luch making to second breakfast and first lunch. John paces the walking exceptionally well making sure no one peaks too early but that everyone knows they are on a walking holiday and not out for a stroll. All these aspects go to make a fabulous and hassle free holiday with a good work out, fabulous scenery and delicious meals.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being pushed to take on the Tricot challenge and developing an understanding of the challenges and dangers faced by the many mountaineers who climb in this region as we looked at the spectacular beauty of the mountains.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Both John and Graham conducted themselves in a thoroughly professional manner but carried out their roles with humour and enthusiasm that demonstrated a passion for what they do. No request was too much for Graham, including the request for 2 bottles of Limoncello for his bar, and John demonstrated an amazing breadth of mountain knowledge on every subject from identifying conifers to the early ascent of many of the mountains, delivered in manageable bits that kept it all interesting and did not overwhelm.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The weather in the evening was cooler than I expected so I would take a few more warmer clothes than you might expect. Also - take the umbrella recommended on the trip notes. It comes in really useful walking in the rain in the mountains, keeping you a lot cooler than your waterproofs. I know you will be sceptical reading this advice about a trekking holiday - we all were as well when John suggested it!

Kathy Janzan

Reviewed August 2014

Trails of Vietnam

If you want to get a real taste for Vietnam, it’s cities, countryside, culture and people, this is the trip for you! A full on experience, with many modes of transport travelling from North to South of the country, this trip did what it said on the tin and more!! Absolutely amazing, loved every minute!

Most Inspirational Moment

Of course, the obvious highlights are the spectacular scenery of Halong Bay, Mai Chau and the Mekong Delta. My abiding memory will be cycling through the villages, along canals and rivers and the friendliness of the local people. The lunar festival at Hoi An with the coloured candle lanterns floating down the river, was another stand out memory and romantic covered bridges and having a beautiful silk jacket made in 24 hours! Cruising Halong Bay and witnessing a magical sunset with limestone giants in shadow......

Thoughts on Group Leader

Khoa, was amazing- knowledgable, well organised, kind and considerate. He was obviously so proud of his country and wanted us all to have the best experience....which he managed extremely well.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take a small 'running' rucksack for the cycling and trekking for those essentials and camel bag.

Alia Darweish

Reviewed August 2014

A wonderful trip - not a holiday!

A great trip if you are fit. TMB is a tough challenge for those who are not in the best possible shape, regardless of age, in which case, go for a shorter version and stay in the hotels. Camping in Europe is rarely the most luxurious option, but adds to group camaraderie and spirit of this option of seeing all the Mont Blanc massif has to offer.

Most Inspirational Moment

When the rain came, the storm rolled in and the group pulled together - friendships were built, hot chocolate and cakes consumed in large quantities, and ultimately we were rewarded with wonderful views and a great sense of achievement coming to the final miles of the trip. All worth the mud and endless wardrobe changes at the top of the cols...

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our leader was measured and thoughtful - he adapted our route to keep us safe in all weathers, and respected the fact that a lot of us were pretty fit and liked to stretch out a bit. One of our group had to drop out due to injury on the first rest day - he did his best to make sure her needs were taken care of, but mindful that he had a job to do keeping the rest of the group on track for the tour, and safe in the mountains.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you are not fit enough, are a smoker, do not do the complete tour. It’s just that simple. Check the average age group on the trip you are thinking of and consider if that’s the right group for your own fitness level. Some 60 plus year olds are fitter than a lot of 30 year olds, evident on the tour as we went around. Some aren’t, as was the case on our trip. Be honest with yourself and you will enjoy your holiday a lot more. There are shorter versions where highlights can be enjoyed, hotels and chalet options may suit those less disposed to sleeping under canvas for two weeks. Communal bathroom facilities are not to my taste, but that’s European camping and there are ways to cope - like getting up earlier to avoid the masses. The spa at Pre St Didier is fabulous for a lovely chance to get really clean! Boots, not shoes. Trekking poles are great for down hills, even just one for a bit of support. Good waterproofs and a set of thermals for cold nights. A decent sleeping bag and thermarest. Antiseptic wipes and alcohol gel an absolute must. Flip flops for showers. A change of shoes for evenings in camp.

Moira Kent

Reviewed August 2014

Carpathian culture and wildlife

A lovely holiday in beautiful countryside.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the brown bears.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Thomas was extremely knowledgeable about Romania and anxious to help us understand the Carpathian history. He was also aware of the needs of the group and allowed us some flexibility where he could regarding walking speed as there were differences in the group. He had many local contacts which enhanced my enjoyment as I love meeting local people. My only slight criticism is the amount of time that he spent on his phone.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for rain and, when it does rain, oh boy does it rain! The bird watching was mind numbingly boring so, if you don't like bird watching, take a book! There were enough of us that didn't want to do the bird watching to go back to the hotel but it wasn't allowed..... The trip notes are extremely accurate and you do need a certain level of fitness to access the walking.

Sally Green

Reviewed August 2014

Wildlife and Wilderness in Botswana

This trip exceeded our expectations – go if you can! We loved Botswana – its friendly people and its amazing wildlife. We saw elephants, hippo, many different antelopes, giraffes, buffalo, hyena, jackal, lions and even a leopard in a tree with its kill. We got closer to the wild animals than we had anticipated, which felt a real privilege. The birdlife was wonderful too. Do take the optional flight over the Okavango Delta – well worth it. We were lucky enough to see 4 rhinos from the air. Also, don’t miss the Chobe River cruise.

Most Inspirational Moment

We have some wonderful memories, not only of the wild animals, but also the stars at night, the sunsets, and good fun around the camp fires. I really enjoyed the wild camping, despite not being an enthusiastic camper - the tents and equipment made it all very comfortable. Mellow's cooking was excellent - including for those on special diets. The Victoria Falls are stunning. Note that white water rafting on the Zambezi is not for the faint-hearted!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Wynand, was knowledgeable, helpful and organised everything very well. Our local guide, Stanley, was excellent - passionate and knowledgeable about his country, its geology, vegetation and wildlife. He went the extra mile to give us a great experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

My advice to other travellers would be: go, you won't regret it! We went in July/August, the dry season, so lots of sand. Wet wipes useful, as is hand gel. Cold at night and early morning - do take warm clothes, hat, gloves, for those early morning game drives on open-sided truck (great for viewing). I found a pair of waterproof sandals useful for swims in the delta, and for bush shower. Pair of binoculars each essential. You can buy snacks for journeys when you get there, don't bother packing any. And you can get Botswana currency when you arrive at Maun.

Richard Lonsdale

Reviewed August 2014

Walking the Amalfi Coast July 2014

Very enjoyable week with great walking and spectacular views, a lot of steps, some free time to explore and bathe, very good food and a friendly family run hotel in a relative quiet and fresh location.

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking the whole of the Vesuvius crater rim with Stefano, the local guide. This was highly impressive as the rim is quite steep and narrow in places with the crater far below and with steam issuing forth out in places. Stefano proved to be very informative as he explained the different types of lava and eruptions between the various Italian volcanos, and pointed out the monitoring equipment, the last eruption having taken place here in 1944.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Liz, our guide, was very friendly and helpful. She shared her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm with us and kept us safe.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I found a walking pole essential, especially for the many long descents. I took my own but the hotel has a supply for those who have not taken one. Other "must haves" are sun cream, a sun hat, plenty of water (available to buy at the hotel) and a waterproof. Take plenty of coins in your money when visiting the café at Pompeii as they were very short of change.

Stephen Low

Reviewed August 2014

Incredible views, great food and wonderful memories!

This was an incredible trip which exceeded my expectations! The National Parks on the itinerary were all places I’d wanted to visit for a long, long time but actually visiting them was much more impressive than I had imagined. Often this was due to the scale of these natural wonders which you just can’t get a sense of in photographs or it was due to the varying colours of the rocks such as in Zion or the Grand Canyon which made the views all the more enjoyable. Unfortunately when we visited Yosemite there were forest fires nearby and the smoke spoiled some of the views but luckily the park itself remained open! Yes there are some long drives but the varying landscapes, regular stops for photos or snacks, WiFi, good conversation and a wide range of music available on the tour leader’s iPhone all made them pass fairly quickly. It’s a fairly busy itinerary but I did feel it provided enough time in each place to really get a ‘feel’ for them! The vast majority of restaurants I ate in were terrific (be prepared for large potions), the standard of hotels was very high and it was a great group of people to be on holiday with!

Most Inspirational Moment

It's difficult to choose as there were many but sunrise at the Grand Canyon was very unique as you could watch the many ridges in the canyon gradually catch the light until the whole view was illuminated and then take an early morning hike!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lana did a terrific job - she was always full of energy and happy to answer questions! She strived to make sure we all had a great experience whilst on the trip and organised everything very well!

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you can, spend a day or two in San Francisco prior to the trip starting and if you plan on visiting Alcatraz be sure to book tickets as far in advance as you can. I'd also recommend hiring a bike and cycling over the Golden Gate bridge. Some days on the trip we started fairly early in the morning so be prepared for those.

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