Reviews

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

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14440 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Reviewed January 2013

FINNISH WINTER ADVENTURE - FAMILY HOLIDAY

We went to Finland to experience a white Christmas and try winter sports and activities as a family. We found ourselves in an amazing Winter Wonderland and came away with some amazing experiences. Every day brought a new challenge and superb memories for us all.

Most Inspirational Moment

Every day was packed full of great activities which we will never forget. Our first daylight experience of Finland was the Husky Sled experience. The scenery was breathtakingly beautiful, the dogs amazing and friendly and capped off with hot drinks in a Teepee. This activity blew us away right at the beginning of our holiday.

Thoughts on Group Leader

All the leaders at Basecamp Oulanka were superb, accommodating, helpful and friendly. The family group leader Tessa was brilliant with all the children. She managed to support the whole group through new activities while educating us in Finnish traditions. Tessa was always smiling! Our boys loved making an Igloo with her.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This trip was an excellent introduction to winter activities. This holiday was varied, fun-packed and energetic. Our boys (aged 6 and 8) really enjoyed trying new activities and are keen to have another winter holiday!The food was good, and although there were times when we were not keen on the main option - there was plenty of bread and salad, and the kitchen was keen to accommodate and no-one ever went hungry.Basecamp Oulanka was well stocked with equipment and clothing which was accessible throughout. With temperatures reaching minus 29C we were grateful of the quality clothing available. Take swimming costumes to make use of the sauna and the hot tub - a great way to relax before supper!

Reviewed January 2013

ATLAS PANORAMA

A well named and well described trip. Lovely combination of time in Marrakesh and time in the mountains. This simple holiday was unlifting and rejuventing.

Most Inspirational Moment

The gently relaxed state induced by walking in the sun high-up in the Atlas.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent, a credit to the company, ensured all the groups needs were met with care and consideration; shared his lifelong knowledge of the area in a very accessable way and added greatly to our enjoyment, whislt keeping a good pace up.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This was January so be prepared for coldnights and going to bed early to keep warm, whilst needing a sun hat during the day!

Reviewed January 2013

WALKING IN NORTH CYPRUS

This is a short trip which packs a lot in, but there is plenty of time to relax. The watchword is choice – there are plenty of options every day. Keep walking or hitch a ride? Relax by the pool or take another trip? The walking itself is not particularly demanding… but in almost 40 degree heat, we worked hard to earn the magnificent views! Even 3 months after returning, my memories are rich with blue and green.

Most Inspirational Moment

I don't know if it is inspirational as such, but amidst the beautiful scenery and exceptionally varied history, the thing which struck me the most was the modern history, particularly the no-man's-land visible in Famagusta. It's a shame that such a beautiful country is tinged with division and sadness, with the ongoing political and diplomatic struggles trapping the local people in the middle. Struggles and change throughout history are evident across the island, showcased by the visits to the castles, mosques, abbeys, monasteries and both ancient and modern ruins, in which the influence of Roman, Crusader, Arab and Turk can be seen. Not to mention the British...The natural landscape of the Karpaz is a fantastic contrast.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Roz was friendly, knowledgeable and very funny. I hadn't realised from reading previous reviews that she was British and so I was doubly impressed by her spoken Turkish language skills! She was able to advise on just about everything, including suggesting places to eat and drink and even passing on a list of North Cyprus-related literature for anyone interested in learning a bit more.With her at the head and a great group of fellow travellers, I spent a hearty proportion of every day laughing.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Say "yes" to everything! Say yes to the optional day trip to Famagusta, say yes to the evening dinner cruise, say yes to the chance to swim in the sea, say yes to the delicious barbecue...However, in amongst saying "yes" to everything... Consider packing a snack or two (ensuring it is not something that melts) in case the lunch food is not to your taste (it's freshly-prepared local food and I thought it was delicious!). Also, be prepared for a scratch or two on the leg on the forest walk. I loved the walk but some of the shrubs are hardy and unforgiving!The only definite thing which should be remembered? If flying with Pegasus from Stansted via Istanbul to Ercan, take food onto the plane for your journey!

Reviewed January 2013

SPICE TRAILS OF KERALA

Fantastic, Fabulous and Fun! This trip was the perfect combination of adventure, new experiences, brilliant walks and serious chilling on the backwaters!

Most Inspirational Moment

So many it's hard to decide. Each day I would wake up knowing I would be experience something new and that's a very cool feeling! The laughter and chat around the campfire. Finally reaching the top of the second highest peak, didn't think I would make it, but a lot of encouragement I did it. Was a good feeling! As soon as Ajthi brought the chocolate out, we knew we would be climbing uphill. Watching the group play cricket with local kids.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ajthi was fantastic, he really made the trip for everyone. He had boundless energy and enthusiasm. His knowledge was incredible making this not only a fun trip but absolutely fascinating. I'll never look at tea and spices in the same way!

Advice for Potential Travellers

You will not be disappointed. go for the penthouse suite (top tent), as Lady Laura can vouch for it:-) Always have some small change for public loos and tips. Take your own loo roll

Reviewed January 2013

A TASTE OF CUBA

An excellent trip giving a full flavour of this diverse and beautiful island. We experienced Cuba at a turning point in it’s social and politcal history.

Most Inspirational Moment

So many memorable moments but the vibrancy of the Cuban music which emanates from every corner of the island has to be a big plus.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader Mirta, was inspriational and certainly made the trip very special. She gave us great insight into the life of everyday Cuban people.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go prepared for long travel days and a packed itinerary, but the many interesting stops make this wonderful tour well worth experiencing.

Reviewed January 2013

A TASTE OF CUBA

A brilliant itinerary, which covers many highlights of this fascinating country. If you’re short on time but want an authentic experience of Cuba, this trip ticks all the boxes.

Most Inspirational Moment

Our visit to Che Guevara's mausoleum and memorial site was definitely one of my favourite moments of the trip. The Cubans are rightly proud of their history and heritage, even those who aren't 'culture vultures' will find this place really interesting.I also enjoyed our day trip to Vinales, which is very different to the east of the island (lots of photo opp's of the lush landscape!) and included a surprise boat ride inside one of the caves - wish I'd had an umbrella (only joking) because you get soaked!! Certainly one of my highlights though. And of course Havana....everything you hope the city will be like and more. Our walking tour of the 'old city' was excellent, you get a real feel for a place far more when you're on foot than from taking snaps from a bus window.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader Mirta (which I've probably spelt wrong, sorry) was great at story telling and gave our group a real insight into what life is currently like for working Cubans, including her views on how tourism has impacted on (and will continue to change) the country. I found her (and our very jovial bus driver Thomas) to be friendly, laid-back, and knowledgable; they also dealt with our myriad 'photo stop' requests (and some random weather issues during long journeys!) with patience and good humour.

Advice for Potential Travellers

As detailed in the Exodus trip notes, you don't go to Cuba for the cuisine!! Although some places were well-catered and quite forward-thinking in their approach to creative menus, they are few and far between. Also bear in mind that a wide selection of foods are simply unavailable, even to resident Cubans, through no fault of their own. I have to say though that as the only vegetarian in my group (there were around 18 of us), I found the places we stayed over in (and stopped en-route at) to be very accomodating and easy-going towards everyone's food requests. In all honesty, I survived quite happily on fried rice with black beans, cheese sandwiches and cocktails for most of the week!! The fried rice/black bean combo is a staple dish in the Cuban diet, it's cheap and tasty - so you can easily save more of your spending money for shopping/partying :)

Reviewed January 2013

ANTARCTICA, FALKLANDS & SOUTH GEORGIA

The trip was wonderfully organised, good mix of landings and zodiac excurions. On the sea days, it was hard to be bored in between yoga sessions, penguin lectures and the entertainment. Visiting Antarctica, The Falklands and South georgia was a humbling experience… Rolling mountains, hearing the roar of avalanche, watching whales swim past the boat, watching elephant seals inspect you as you walk past them – you have the opportunity to be right there, visiting and co-existing with penguins and seals rather than observing them from afar…

Most Inspirational Moment

Hiking to a high point in South Georgia and watching this sea of king penguins intertwined with a sea of king penguin chicks was incredible!! So beautiful and such an incredible moment that you are finally here living this trip! Also, seeing a humpback whale emerge from under the boat and seeng its whole body just underneath the surface of the water was the most beautiful experience...

Thoughts on Group Leader

Woody is incredible - very knowledgable, charismatic and has an infectious enthusiasm for everything which just makes it even more exciting!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Whilst it's not the cheapest of trips (it took me years of saving!) - if seeing colder climates, whales, penguins...etc. is your thing - this trip is a must and it is well worth the wait! The beauty of colder climates never ceases to amaze me - especially the colours. Dont think the peninsular is just whte, you will be amazed at the colours you see...Good camera is obviously a must! For the ocean diamond, you need a european two round pin plug. Quark give you a thick waterproof/fleece lined jacket for the zodiac excursions/landings - you don´t need to bring your own equivilant!!! Camera batteries/video camera batteries - buy spare ones - cant emphasise this enough. The cold zaps the battery's life and nothing worse than your camera dying when a penguin chick comes over to inspect your ruksack! Spare batteries - keep them somewhere warm to get the maximum out of them!!! Dry bags for inside the rucksack are a must (spray from zodiacs) and also waterproof covers for cameras - whilst its summer in that side of the world, it's still Antarctica and you can literally get 4 seasons in one day.

Reviewed January 2013

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING: DOBBIACO

A fantastic week combining fabulous scenery, a warm and welcoming hotel and a well-led introduction to cross country skiing.

Most Inspirational Moment

Sitting outside in the January sun with a hot chocolate, a wonderful view of the Dolomites and the company of a great group of people.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Andy was an excellent leader. He coped well with a group having a wide range of abilities, providing the right levels of encouragement and support to everyone. His friendliness and sense of humour helped to make the week a success as a social experience as well as a cross country skiing experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you take some ibuprofen for the inevitable aches and pains you will experience on a cross country skiing holiday. They are very expensive in Italy as one of our party found to her cost!

Reviewed January 2013

CYCLE NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA AND PANAMA

My fourth Exodus cycling holiday and it was by far the best. Well organised, great people, great locations, good choices of restaurants, fantastic scenery – volcanoes, rain forests, lakes and carribean islands – and the weather was more than kind to us! All three countries were different and special in their own way but Costa Rica was by far the highlight!

Most Inspirational Moment

Too many to choose from....The trip to the top of the Masaya volcano and seeing inside the crater (thankfully the wind was blowing away from us so we didn't get engulfed by the smelly gases).The 2 hour river rafting trip where we saw everything from iguanas, crocodiles, snakes, monkeys and all kinds of exotic birds.Cycling from the most beautiful resort of Mystica through the rain forests, along Lake Arenal seeing Monkeys in the trees at the side of the road and a Coati strolling around in front of us without a care in the world.Having a beer in the hot springs (everyone else had the best pina colada's apparently!). Our guide spotting a very well camouflaged sloth in a tree...and there after a few more sloths spotted!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Kevin was excellent. He was faced with a few challenges throughout the trip, in particular and issue with a boat trip and the Nicaragua/Costa Rica border crossing, which he dealt with as well as he could do - sheer tenacity and a very dry sense of humour seemed to serve him well! He was very conscientious, regularly checking how everyone was and if they were having a good time. His knowledge of all the areas was fantastic and he talked us through our routes, showing us detailed maps every day we cycled. The whole team was extremely helpful, good humoured and very organised.

Advice for Potential Travellers

There are two or three opportunities to do laundry, the main one being in La Fortuna where you stay for two days. The laundry service is quick and cheap. Make sure you get some hill training in, you can be extremely fit but still struggle if you aren't bike fit (spinning classes help if you haven't got any big hills near you). Take plenty of insect repellent...they are everywhere!Finally, the only downside to this trip was the border crossing between Nicaragua and Costa Rica. It took us 7 hours. The group were all very patient and Kevin managed everyone's expectations very well. We all soon forgot about this little blip the following day when we floated down the river for two hours spotting wildlife!

Reviewed January 2013

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER

Wonderful trip. Well worth the effort despite some stressful moments in the beginning. Antarctica is a very special place. Cannot be compared to any other travel experience. So glad I went. Would have given 5 stars but for my experiences prior to and at the beginning of the trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

The Penguins. Waking up after a night in the snow to see a Penguin looking at me. Seeing a Whales head surface near our Zodiac. The sheer pristine beauty of the place. The "blue icebergs" and the stillness. Nature at its purest and most unspoilt. The wonderful staff. The professional photographers and the interesting lectures. The memory stick of the trip, including photos was a great momento.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Kim Christie. I did not know she was on the trip until a few days into the trip despite exchanging emails prior to the trip. Could have done with her help in Ushuaia (see "Anything you want to add").

Advice for Potential Travellers

Wish I'd taken a hat with ear flaps and an inbetween coat. Sometimes my triple goose down parka was a bit too warm (it can get quite warm in the sun when worn together with the waterproof outer gear) and my thin jacket (for the BA sun) was not warm enough for Ushuaia. The thin inner finger gloves are very useful when taking photos. Thermals are a must. Layers of thin polo necks best. Tee shirt OK in ship but need warm coat for deck. No special shoes/boots required. Rent wellington boots, waterproof jacket and trousers on ship. Travel light. Take lots of film and extra batteries.Worst airport (BA to Ushuaia) experience I've ever had (and I've done a lot of travelling). Long queues. Very few of the staff speak English. Chaos. So nearly missed flight. Met quite a few other people who had a similar experience. Get to the airport early. Coming back was better. Nice little airport at Ushuaia.

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