Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Costa Rica is the type of place you can get caught up looking at it just through a camera lens... there's so much to see, do and capture but I urge anyone to stop for a moment or two along the way, pause, listen to the birds/ monkeys, feel the sun on your face, the water wash over your feet at the sea.   Stop and look up as you hike through the different areas.  Listen and watch the children at the school visit, laugh at yourself as you try to make a Tortilla!  Then you will take back more than pictures but memories of moments.  I was inspired by the whole country; it's want to improve living standards and create bright futures for its children through education, conservation and hard work by many.     

Thoughts on Group Leader

So what makes a good group leader a great group leader? I'm a Head of Human Resources so I'm often asked this question in my working environment but for a holiday is it different? Some of the common factors are; management and communication to different personalities (I felt included but was coerced when needed, I fear water but I ended up kayaking!!), organisation (you don't want to miss a thing in Costa Rica), safety (we did have a Tsunami happen while we were away!) BUT.... what more do we want as consumers?  How about this list;  ·    Extremely knowledgeable – our leader knew and lived Costa Rica, being a local guide he added his personal experiences along the way, his bird and general wildlife and plant life knowledge was very impressive   ·    Patient – with different age ranges, strong personalities, no doubt repetitive and certainly endless questions he coped always in appropriate and calm manner   ·    Passion – he cared that we all experienced Costa Rica, he cared that we saw but also felt the essence of Costa Rica    ·     Hard Work – How about the non glamorous heavy lifting of our luggage, changing a tyre on a busy roadside with the other key man “our bus driver” and a jack that didn’t want to make life easy....     ·    Excellent English – I was very impressed and embarrassed I hadn’t brushed up on my Spanish.  I would have loved to been able to communicate more with the local people  Diego Vazquez, our guide, made a difference, not just good but a great guide!!! Thank you.

Advice for Potential Travellers

 A couple of things:   1.  Do take some warm clothing for the mountains; it really does get cold...    2.  Do all the hikes you can, they really are wonderful, I have a weak knee and a knee brace was helpful but a couple of poles for the downwards would have helped    3.     Experience all that you can, even if you're scared... I did the Zip Line and Tarzan swing... but I am an adventurous type...   4.     Take a good camera and a quick to use small compact one, sometimes when hiking you have to ask yourself which is better?  5.  Have a laugh; get to know your fellow travellers, even if its 3 or 4 am at Heathrow airport!   6.  Learn some basic Spanish, you’ll feel a lot better and its appreciated

Suggestions

Thank you for another great trip Exodus!! 

Most Inspirational Moment

There was so much that was fantastic....the sheer beauty and enormousness (don’t know if that is a real word) of it all, unspoilt by humans, but the most inspiring moment was watching an iceberg calve, and then because its’ centre of gravity had changed, virtually turn over.......and I think I was the only one sitting there watching it!   And yes, Paul, I do have photographic evidence!!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Kirsten was professional, and made the best of the weather conditions.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Travelling to Ushuaia is very long and tedious, especially if you are on the early flight from Gatwick to Madrid (8 hour wait at Madrid), and even if you have been checked straight through to Ushuaia, you need to collect your baggage, even if you have the domestic flight from the international terminal (very confusing....nearly left my luggage at BA airport). 3 days travelling on board without setting foot on land, can seem a long time, but there are presentations given by various members of the expedition staff that give you an insight to the Antarctic region, its wildlife, and history. You can also go on deck if weather permits, or up to the bridge viewing platforms to pass the time of day and take pictures of the birdlife, or icebergs on your journey south.Once you make your first zodiac trip though, everything previously is forgotten, and take Paul’s advice....don’t have your viewfinder surgically implanted to your eye, make sure you take stock of where you are, and enjoy every moment of it.We were lucky with the weather, and only missed 1 landing, but be prepared that if the weather is bad, you will not be able to go ashore or do the zodiac cruises, and be prepared for some ‘iffy’ moments on the zodiacs if the sea is a bit rough.  It was my first time on zodiacs, and now feels that I could cope with anything. It didn’t happen to me, but remember the Aerolineas  Argentinas weight restrictions for hand-luggage; 5kg.  If you can put your camera equipment in a backpack and have it on your back, they don’t seem to mind.  Also, leave room in your case/bag for the Quark Parka.  I wore the inner fleece for flying and packed the outer shell, but still fairly cumbersome.

Suggestions

Just book it!!  You’ll not regret it.  This was my first polar trip, but certainly not my last!!

Most Inspirational Moment

All of our group getting to the top of the mountain.  Also how fast the porters (carrying heavy loads and often wearing trainers) raced ahead of everyone and had camp set up before we arrived

Thoughts on Group Leader

Brilliant - he (Florence) made everyone very comfortable, ensured we all ate enough, gave us medication/ advice when we suffered from altitude sickness and kept everyone motivated.  He gave us all the information we needed for each day and, along with his team, Florence made this a very memorable trip.  We wouldn't have made it without him! 

Advice for Potential Travellers

Research the route you want to do - we did the Lemosho route which is one of the longest and most scenic.  I'd definitely recommend thsi route - it also gives you the best chance to acclimatise and reach the summit.  Oh, and take Diamox with you!  We didn't take any with us but thankfully our guide had lots!

Suggestions

Highly recommended!

Most Inspirational Moment

Either getting to Base Camp in clear conditions and enjoying a great view of the area; or being taken by surprise by the stunning scenery at Tengboche, with the amazing and unexpected views of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam.  The flight into Lukla from Katahmandu was inspiring, giving great views of the full expanse of the eastern Himalayas.We were unable to get to the top of Kala Pattar due to the strong winds that day, but the view of the Everest summit from halfway up was still spectacular.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lhakpa Tensing was an excellent trek leader.  Our group was of mixed ages and abilities, but he ensured that there was a reasonable pace set throughout, both on the ascent and descent.  One older member of our group went downhill a little slower than the rest of us and Lhakpa ensured that either he or Ratna (assistant guide) stayed with this chap on his way down.  Lhakpa also pulled out all the stops to get us back to Kathmandu in time for our flights home, when we experienced 2 days of weather enforced delays in Lukla at the end of the trek.  He did brilliantly in arranging a flight out when the backlog of stranded trekkers was piling up, and other trekkers (either in other groups or independent) were paying for expensive helicopter flights!He also brought us to meet his dad at Namche Bazar - the last surviving sherpa from the 1953 Hillary expedition.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We managed to avoid stomach bugs and altitude sickness through the trek, but would still recommend taking the pre-pro-biotics with you, diarrhoea pills, diamox and anything else that gives you comfort that you will be covered should anything arise.  Anti-bacterial hand gels are also of great benefit for meal times.Bring plenty of memory cards and batteries for the camera as you will take photos all day long - at least 4GB probably.A decenty sleeping bag is also essential, as it can get particularly cold higher up (below -10 at Gorak Shep).  In winter it will be cold throughout the Khumbu Valley.Good footwear (strong, waterproof) is also essential.  Boots are definitely better than shows/trainers.  I used Meindl Softline Ultra GTX and these were perfect.

Suggestions

Getting to Base Camp is achievable for anyone with reasonable fitness, due to the way that the trek leader managed our trek.  A couple left the trek early after the climb up to Namche, but this was probably due to a mixture of altitude sickness (and taking diamox too late for it to be any benefit) and a possibly underlying condition.It is the trip of a lifetime in surroundings and an enviroment that will inspire you.  I can't recommend this trek highly enough.

Most Inspirational Moment

During our stay in Vietnam, each day brought something new, and we had so many varied and wonderful experiences that it's very hard to chose one thing over another. Crossing the road in Hanoi, The countryside and beach in Hoi An, or the simplicity of life in the Mekong delta, but if pressed, then I would have to say that the highlight for me was kayaking around Halong Bay. Just paddling around this beautiful bay with its limestone peaks was absolutely stunning. The visit to the War Remnants Museum was sobering, but seeing the extent of the atrocities inflicted on this nation really made their positive attitude and friendly nature even more endearing.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Upon our arrival at Hanoi airport, our guide Thang was there to greet us and was with us from morning to night, always on-hand when needed, and ensured that all of our trips and transport went like clockwork. It was rare to actually need to ask for advice or assistance, as Thang seemed to sense what we might need at any point of our trip. He was always polite and professional, but gelled very well with our group without being intrusive. His stories about Vietnamese history, culture and life enabled us to gain a good insight into this country and people. Every day he 'went the extra mile' to ensure we had a great time, and he looked after us admirably. Thang is an absolute star!

Advice for Potential Travellers

I'm sure I won't be the last person to mention this, but, with the availability of tee shirts, and contrary to other reports that I've read, underwear etc., along with the ease of arranging laundry, and the provision of towels at all hotels. PACK LIGHTLY. You might need to barter to get the prices down (the Vietnamese love this), but you'll bag yourself a bargain, help the local economy, and save yourself worrying about packing. (My 10.7Kg proved far too much!)

Suggestions

Absolutely wonderful trip - I'll recommend this to all of my friends

Most Inspirational Moment

The entire country and the vast biological diversity is inspirational! Over 30% of the land is devoted to wildlife reserves. Throughout the boat rides in Tortuguero and the many walks through a range of habitats we saw lots of mammals, reptiles, insects and over 100 species of birds. The trees and shrubs are also incredible, especially in the rain- and cloud-forests. Moments like seeing the quetzels in Savegre and scarlet macaws flying free by the Pacific were special; however, I have an especially soft spot for humming birds. Costa Rica has 57 species which you can see at several places. Typical of the country is stopping for coffee on the Pan American highway at 11,000 feet and finding that the cafe has sugar feeders outside the windows buzzing with humming bird activity.  

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our guide Jeff was outstanding - not only was he very efficient and good with people but he also had an incredible range of knowledge on flora, fauna, and geology. One day, for example, he would be telling us, in excellent English, about the life cycle of the banana plant and next day he would be describing how Costa Rica has been shaped by volcanic activity. He was very passionate about ecology and proud that Costa Rica is aiming to be the first carbon-neutral country in the world. Jeff was very good at arranging some very interesting additional optional outings. He was ably supported by the driver Francisco who drove very well, while at the same time somehow being an excellent animal spotter!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for a range of climates. Remember that when it says it is the dry season that is a relative term! We had periods of torrential rainfall in Tortuguero, lighter rainfall in the cloud forests, hot and humid weather on the Pacific coast, and then fairly cold weather in the mountains. Meals are not particularly cheap. To cater for optional outings, extra meals, tips and incidental costs you should budget on about 500 USD per person. ATMs are available at many of the stops.

Suggestions

The trip covers a large area of the country from the Caribbean coast in the north-east, down to Golfito in the south-west near the Panama border. However, Costa Rica is a small country and none of the journeys were particularly arduous. The trip was very well organised with good activities. There are plenty of early mornings but these are well worth it, and tend to be compensated by early nights!

Most Inspirational Moment

For me the highlights were staying on a junk in Halong Bay, cycling to the beach at Cua Dai, the train ride on the Reunification Express and visiting the Mekong Delta, although all of it was fascinating.  The Vietnamese people were very friendly despite their horrific past.  Also the food was wonderful and varied from a seafood lunch on board a junk to a DIY barbecue, not forgetting the elephant fish and pineapple spring rolls in the Mekong Delta and a couple of upmarket restaurants in Hoi An and Saigon.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The group leader, Thang, was very efficient and helpful. Any problems, such as dietary restrictions, were dealt with smoothly.  If we needed a taxi he would speak to the driver and ensure they had the correct instructions.  He also gave us a lot of insight into the Vietnamese way of life with anecdotes about his own life, family and work.  His knowledge of the history and politics of Vietnam was encyclopaedic and I don’t think there was a single question he was unable to answer.  As well as this he joined in with the group socially although at times he must have been exhausted.  At our request he organised a cooking lesson in Hoi An, which had not been on the original agenda.  One of the group was presented with a surprise cake on his birthday, which Thang had also organised with the restaurant.  I don’t think he could have done more to have made the trip a success. His knowledge and good humour made him the perfect team leader.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I also agree that it should be mentioned on the trip notes that there were laundry services available at least twice during the trip.  It was also unnecessary to take a towel as these were supplied by the hotels, even towels to take to the pool / beach.  Pack light – you may need a thin waterproof for the north depending on which time of year you are going, and lightweight clothing for the south.  Do make sure you have plenty of space to take back souvenirs. and haggle for them – this is part of the Vietnamese way of life.  You will need plenty of mosquito repellent especially when you travel to the south and the Mekong Delta.

Suggestions

Go as soon as possible in order to see a way of life that will disappear fast once tourism takes hold.

Most Inspirational Moment

It would have been difficult to identify a single highlight - it was all brilliant from the Taj through to driving through the villages. However, we saw a tiger (twice) and not just a fleeting glimpse but a full 45 minutes showing many aspects of his behaviour.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Arvin was etremely organised and efficient - a credit to his Country

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared to hit the ground running and keep running till you get on the plane home.

Most Inspirational Moment

All the walks.  Especially the start of the Walk of the Gods with the mist on the terraces.  Even the rain on the two days we walked down to Amalfi were so atmospheric.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Suzi was great.  She was considerate, encouraging and safey conscious on the walks and went out of her way to ensure we got the most out of our week.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Beware of the hotel's charges. They tried to charge us E4 for taking a teapot of hot water to the room every evening and for drinks which we did not have.On the night when dinner is not included go to the only other decent restaurant in the village. Turn left, going away from the village centre, at the supermarket and it is just round the corner on the left. Food is better than hotel and cheaper.  Service was good and lots on local people use it.Supermarket next door is good.  Fabulous local green olives and white wine at E5.  If you ask hotel will serve you same wine for E12 which is better option than their 'all you can drink' wine for E10!

Suggestions

This trip needs to be 10/11 days so that you can have, at the very least,  a full day in Pompei and a full day in Naples as well as all the other excursions available in the summer months.  Ravello is also worth at least 3 - 4 hrs.  When there go to Villa Cipriani and follow the map they give you to make the most of your visit.  Allow at least an hour.  The view from the end of the path is breath taking.  Mid February was a good time to go. Apart from 2 days of rain we had calm, bright cool days and the roads and sites were still quite busy.  It must be awful in the summer because of the crowds.

Most Inspirational Moment

The husky ride was a great experieance but seeing the Northern lights was quite breathtaking.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The group leader, Hanna, was both very well organised and personable.  She made everyone feel most welcome and capable even with the more difficult activities.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring a sense of fun and you won't be disappointed.

Suggestions

Despite the low temperatures and the fact that it snowed none stop for two days, we never felt cold - even though we were outside for most of the day.