Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting over the Thorong La Pass with no adverse effects, apart from shortage of breath during the ascent. The scenery on the other side, where there were very few trees, but spectacular pinnacles caused by wind erosion.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent! Knowledgeable, friendly, kind. She took particular care of people who were struggling, and made appropriate adjustments, as necessary to ensure that everyone had a positive experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you are mountain fit, and be extra careful about hand sanitation before meals.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many!! The Che Guevara mausoleum was my personal highlight and I found it quite moving. Trinidad was special too, filled with music and colours. And of course staying in the local Casas was a beautiful experience, every host was super friendly and welcoming treating you as if you were part of the family. And I have to mention the ride around Havana on a beautiful classic car on the last day of the trip. What a cool way to end this amazing experience!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our leader Rayselis was fantastic! A true Cuban, so passionate about her country and very informative. She told us so much about every aspect of Cuba, from the history to the Cuban way of life. She was always kind, always smiling and making sure everyone was ok. The best leader you could ask for!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just go with an open mind. Cuba does not offer the luxuries of some other countries but it is extremely safe, locals are very friendly and welcoming. If you can learn a few words of Spanish that will definitely help as in some Casas English can be very limited. Also a power bank is very useful in case of blackouts.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Both were excellent leaders

Most Inspirational Moment

An electical storm in the Drakenburg mountains with giant hailstones

Thoughts on Group Leader

Worked very hard and there were 2 group member injuries that he dealt with very professionally

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for a lot of time spent travelling in the mini=bus but the destinations were all very rewarding.

Most Inspirational Moment

Trying an e-bike for the first time! A lightbulb moment.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ruben and his 2 buddies were the best. Such professionals, but so charming and fun.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Dont worry about the cycling. The trails are easy and quiet. There is a support vehicle most of the time. And get an e-bike if you still arent sure.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were lots of things but the Vietnamese people were lovely. The way they drive for a start. Traffic is manic and chaotic but they are not aggressive and aware of everything around them. Despite the apparent chaos it all worked and whilst I was cycling I never felt nervous or threatened by other road users. Unlike some experiences at home. Whenever we came into contact with locals it was clear the love they have for their families and friends. We saw so many examples of people working tirelessly on the land and sea with a smile and a twinkle. They answered our stream of questions with patience and in turn were inquisitive about where we had come from. They were all proud of their country.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We have been on several Exodus trips and leaders are always good however Loc Phan was exceptional. His anticipation of everyone’s needs was spectacular. He was organised and sensitive with a great sense of humour. The group also had a coach driver, truck driver and mechanic. They were all very good however it was Loc who set the tone and led from the front setting the standard. There is a lot to fit in this trip and days have to keep moving otherwise it is clear that you could get to hotels late however because the team worked so well together we never felt rushed or unable to stop to take a photo.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The trip notes give distances and amount of time spent on a coach and this was pretty accurate. Most days our alarm went off at 5.30 for breakfast at 6ish to set off at 7.00 or not long after. There was very little down time so if that isn’t you then this trip would be a challenge. We were lucky with the weather but did get wet a couple of times so quick drying clothes are helpful. I wore trainers to cycle in but a few in the group had robust sandals with toe protection which I shall be purchasing for my next trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were lots of things but the Vietnamese people were lovely. The way they drive for a start. Traffic is manic and chaotic but they are not aggressive and aware of everything around them. Despite the apparent chaos it all worked and whilst I was cycling I never felt nervous or threatened by other road users. Unlike some experiences at home. Whenever we came into contact with locals it was clear the love they have for their families and friends. We saw so many examples of people working tirelessly on the land and sea with a smile and a twinkle. They answered our stream of questions with patience and in turn were inquisitive about where we had come from. They were all proud of their country.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We have been on several Exodus trips and leaders are always good however Loc Phan was exceptional. His anticipation of everyone’s needs was spectacular. He was organised and sensitive with a great sense of humour. The group also had a coach driver, truck driver and mechanic. They were all very good however it was Loc who set the tone and led from the front setting the standard. There is a lot to fit in this trip and days have to keep moving otherwise it is clear that you could get to hotels late however because the team worked so well together we never felt rushed or unable to stop to take a photo.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The trip notes give distances and amount of time spent on a coach and this was pretty accurate. Most days our alarm went off at 5.30 for breakfast at 6ish to set off at 7.00 or not long after. There was very little down time so if that isn’t you then this trip would be a challenge. We were lucky with the weather but did get wet a couple of times so quick drying clothes are helpful. I wore trainers to cycle in but a few in the group had robust sandals with toe protection which I shall be purchasing for my next trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

Machu Picchu, of course. But meeting a native community and having a native style lunch was a wonderful afternoon. The floating islands and meeting the native people who lived there. The rain Forrest was incredible. The boat ride on Lake titcacca was enjoyable.

Thoughts on Group Leader

William was fantastic, went above and beyond. The trip was in advance of my wife’s birthday and William made sure local bands serenaded her at a couple of meals and twice hotels had special desserts awaiting us. We felt such a great bond with our fellow traveler, William and our guest guides.

Most Inspirational Moment

When I realised that Vietnamese scooter drivers are generally patient and competent. Loved Whale Island resort and the 31kms descent from Dalat.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Son Nyugen. Great balance of good-organisation, attention to safety and group enjoyment.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the Trip Notes. They are comprehensive and accurate.

Most Inspirational Moment

When I realised that Vietnamese scooter drivers are generally patient and competent. Loved Whale Island resort and the 31kms descent from Dalat.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Son Nyugen. Great balance of good-organisation, attention to safety and group enjoyment.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the Trip Notes. They are comprehensive and accurate.