Most Inspirational Moment
Aside from finishing the whole trek on the last day after a very long, tiring day with lots of ascent I would have to say just the views! Most days you get a glimpse of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks and the sunrises and sunsets over the mountains are just incredible at the start and end of each day.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Maria was great. He was down to earth, took into account everyone's walking abilities and experience and also had a great sense of humour which we noticed more and more as he got to know us during the trip. Considering he had only done a few trips for Exodus, he seemed extremely knowledgeable and it was as if he had been leading TMB trips for many years.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for long days (7-8 hours) and lots of uphills! Do not underestimate the info in the trip notes! Because you have to re-pack your bag every morning to be loaded onto the van, this can be tricky if your sleeping bag had to go into your kit bag first. If possible I would suggest hiring a sleeping bag as others in my group did - they are warm and of good quality, plus they gat transported outside of your kit bag. Your own sleeping bag does not (despite the trip notes info! Hire a sleeping bag to make packing less stressful in the morning!! Bring Euros for the refuges, for drinks and snacks, as not all of them take cards (most do but internet and wifi is patchy). Bring both a European and UK plug for your devices as there were both types in the van and if all the UK ones are full, you can use the European ones - Even better, bring one converter with 2 or more USB ports and everyone will be your friend! On rest days visit La Contamines for the market - buy some cheese for the evening, then get the bus to Saint Germaine for lunch - it is a lovely town with lots of bars and restaurants. If finances allow, take the cable car from Courmayeur to Pont Helbronner, then buy a ticket (can't buy in advance) to go across to Aiguille du Midi - amazing views of the glaciers and Mont Blanc. As of Aug 24 the complete ride on the two cable cars cost around £80. On the final rest day we went paragliding in Chamonix. Again this is a must do if finances allow and you have a head for heights! Plenty of lovely bars and restaurants in Chamonix too for your last day.