Reviews

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

Here at Exodus we thrive on feedback from our customers. It’s the only way we can ensure our trips continue to be the best they can be. So, for the real tales, twists and turns of the trip you’re interested in, look no further than the reviews from our previous travellers.

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14505 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Gordon Edwards

Reviewed March 2018

Colours of Rajasthan

An excellent trip, very well organised, the guide was fabulous. Some long days and coach rides which make it tiring but saying that we would never have seen as much as we did on our own. Not enough free time to do your own thing, and the free time that was available was not long enough. The hotels were of a very good standard and the guide took us to some excellent restaurants. My wife & I didn’t enjoy the buffet meals as it doesn’t give you alot of choice and can be expensive if you don’t eat much, we wanted to experience the food as well as the culture and a buffet didn’t give you that option, we mentioned this to the guide and buffet meals didn’t happen again. The local guides were very informative and made visiting the temples and forts more interesting. The trip is described as leisurely but there were two days with very steep walking and every day was very busy not leisurely at all. We both very much enjoyed our trip and have some wonderful memories and photographs to treasure.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were a few as it was such a great trip. Dawn at the Taj Mahal - spectacular Seeing a tiger in the wild - very emotional Taking part in Holi Festival - alot of fun

Thoughts on Group Leader

Gaj was very knowledgable, funny, accomodating, thoughtful and gave us great tips on how to deal with certain situations which were invaluable when out and about.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take cash, it is easy to change at the hotels, ATM's are not very reliable. Plenty of hand sanatiser and tissues (most toilets out and about don't have toilet paper) Crackers - in case of a bad tummy

Barry Cooper

Reviewed March 2018

Discover (Natural) Costa Rica

This is an excellent tour which visits several National Parks and Reserves in Costa Rica. There is a great emphasis on wildlife and if this is not your interest, do not book this tour.
There are opportunities to see the very varied birdlife in Costa Rica and often you have to go no further than the Hotel bird feeders to see some of the most spectacular species.
There are opportunities for walking in the National Parks and a good pair of walking boots would be recommended. The two nights spent at Manuel Antonio makes for a pleasant beach break in this busy programme.

Most Inspirational Moment

This is a question which I find impossible to answer since an Exodus tour is comprised of many unforgettable experiences. The varied wildlife of Costa Rica is the reason for the visit and we were very lucky to see the spectacular Resplendant Quetzal. This bird is rare and an early morning expedition proved to be successful. Comments from other guides indicated how lucky we had been when they said that it was the best display of the year and others had spent over two hours at the same location the previous day and seen nothing. From the restaurant in Monteverde we had superb views of the Motmot and visits from the Capuchin monkeys. In Savegre the manager has several bird feeders in his garden and you are actively encouraged to just go there and sit quietly and you will see a range of birds from woodpeckers to humming birds.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Hector Castillos was an excellent leader with an encyclopedic knowledge of the natural history of his Country. He was always keen to lead additional walks and his one aim was that the Group should not lose an opportunity to experience all the Natural History that Costa Rica could provide

Advice for Potential Travellers

Spend as little time as possible in the Capital San Jose as except for the National Theatre there is little to see in this somewhat run down City. If you are not interested in Natural History do not book this tour. I have an interest obviously but at the end of two weeks I felt that I had seen enough birds to satisfy me for some time to come. I linked the tour with Discover Colombia and I can recommend this if the dates are compatible. The tours are very different, Discover Colombia being Cultural and Historical whereas Discover Costa Rica is natural history based resulting in a four week holiday of contrasts.

Jenny B

Reviewed March 2018

Excellent first trip

This was my first trip of this kind – I usually go on holiday with friends or family. Due to thick fog, torrential downpours and landslides, the itinerary was changed a bit, to make the most of the good weather. Severio kept us informed and entertained and we had plenty to do. It was a fun, well-organised week with a lovely group of people.

Most Inspirational Moment

The most inspirational moment... probably arriving on top of the slightly foggy Mont Tre Calli -as someone who had never done any hiking, it was a bit challenging, but worth it. Or, towards the end of the week, looking out over the peaceful hilltops and villages and across the blue-turquoise sea in the sunshine.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Severio was fun, but serious and had lots of interesting stories. He was keen to make sure we saw as much of the area as we could despite the weather. He was clear on arrangements (firm with timings etc) but was also friendly and approachable and got to know the group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do take walking poles, as the trip notes advise. I was one of the younger people in my group and didn't have a knee injury, but still found the one pole that I borrowed useful for getting up Mont Tre Calli - it would have been vital to use the poles if the weather had been hotter!

Kevin Frazer

Reviewed March 2018

In search of a good cup of tea

Myself and my wife (Chris) are both keen cyclists and were keen to have a bit of an adventure. This ride looked like the perfect first trip for us as it meet a number of our requirements. It needed to have enough miles to satisfy my cycling needs but not too difficult for Chris. It had to be somewhere a bit different and it had to go from A to B. Also since retiring 4 years ago I have been blogging about the best cafes/tea shops to go to on a cycle ride and this would give me the chance to blog about tea rooms in the capital of tea.

The trip surpassed my expectations as we cycled through a variety of landscapes, learned about temples and tea plants whilst I was able to update my blog with news of the tea shop culture. A day to day review with photos is on my blog http://www.cake-crusader.co.uk/special-rides-and-trips.html

The second week could have done with a few more miles cycling as there were a couple of rather short days. Although the overnight ride on the houseboat maybe a highlight for some I found it a bit dull (after many trips on the Norfolk broads) and would have rather spent it on the bike.

I was particularly impressed with the organisation of the team once throughout the trip making the whole experienced very relaxing.

Most Inspirational Moment

I just loved cycling in a completely unfamiliar environment but I was blown away by how friendly the Indian people were. So much waving and friendly chatting it was such a welcoming country. As the number one self appointed tea room reviewer in the whole of Norfolk I also loved going to the roadside tea shops in search of a great cup of tea, although I didn't really find one.

Thoughts on Group Leader

As we arrived at Chennai airport we were not sure what to expect but we were warmly welcomed by Shaker, our tour leader, and from that point until we flew home we didn't have to worry about a thing as all our needs were taken care. I don't think we could have been looked after any better by Shaker and his team and I was really impressed with their friendliness and organisation. I couldn't speak highly enough of them.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It was very hot when we went so we probably overpacked 'warm' clothes. Also the trip notes advised not to wear lycra and keep shoulders covered although in practice there was no such restriction and most of the party were in lycra shorts and cycle tops. As the support bus is never far away you can keep you cycling stuff (suncream, money, snacks etc) on the bus so just need a pocket for your phone or camera when riding. Don't be afraid to try the different foods on offer. Most of the road surfaces were as good or better than in Norfolk with the exception of one day when it was more of a hard track along the river but nothing to worry about.

Vanessa White

Reviewed March 2018

Tropical India

My first time in India and Tropical India was an ideal place to start. Some of my fellow travellers who started in the north confirmed this. I was told Kerala and Tamil Nadu is greener, slower and softer than the big cities of the north. I was a solo traveller and the group couldn’t have been more friendly and inclusive.
Well paced trip ,busy but not exhausting.
All in all a well organised and wonderful experience, I shall certainly be travelling with Exodus again.

Most Inspirational Moment

The overnight on the boat in the Kerala backwaters was as delightful as I hoped and definitely a highlight. The crew were lovely and gave us a great experience. All the food on the trip was delicious. I like my curries spicey but not hot and that is what I got. The restaurants always ask how you liked your curry and gave you what you wanted. We had quite a lot of buffet meals which were good value and provided lots of choice. The rickshaw ride through Madurai was great fun. Really everything was inspirational !

Thoughts on Group Leader

Manoj was totally committed to giving us the best possible experience he could. He joined us for all meals and ensured that the service we received in restaurants and hotels was efficient and met our needs. He looked after us very well and was very caring. All our group remained happy and healthy with only minor ailments, but I am sure that if the need had arisen he would have made sure prompt and good treatment were provided.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do as much as you can and take advantage of all the optional trips. Take some clothes with you that you are happy to leave behind. I am sure the chambers maids appreciate this as part of their tip! This will also make room in your case for presents. Kovalam is a shoper's paradise! Lots of small craft shops, many family run, all with their own different traditional designs. I also bought a beautiful Kashmir rug in Madurai which I have shipped home. The 4hr trek through the tea plantation is tougher than the tour notes suggest, lots of steep inclines and descents. Our group's age range was early 50s to early 70s and we all did it, thanks to Manoj support and encouragement. Its well worth doing it, but I was very glad I took a stick to provide extra stability.

Susie Marchant

Reviewed March 2018

Not Relaxing but Packs a Lot in!

A very busy schedule which can leave you exhausted at times but is essential due to the length and geographical constraints of this stunningly beautiful and varied country.

The Atacama was amazing with its unspoiled panoramas of deep blue lagoons set against snow-capped volcanos with vicunas grazing undisturbed, and the elegant movements of the flamingos as they seem to do a dance as they fish at the Chaxa lagoons, unperturbed by onlookers.

There is so much wildlife to observe and nowhere ever seems crowded.
The varieties of tree species and fauna are fascinating too

The National Parks are really well maintained and unspoilt.

The weather in Patagonia can be quite wet and windy so be prepared but when the clouds part to reveal the granite towers of Torres de Paine it will take your breath away

Most Inspirational Moment

For me the Atacama had so many aspects to it - from the full moon rising at sunset next to the snowy peak of the Lincancabur volcano set ablaze with colours of the setting sun, to the extraordinary sight of the steamy Tatio geysers in the freezing cold of sunrise, followed by a dip in the thermal springs to complete the experience The silent beauty of the salt lagoons - stunning!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Gaynor was outstanding - really organised but very calm. Her knowledge and passion for her country seemed limitless so I think we all came away with a greater appreciation of life in Chile. Gaynor was warm and compassionate, always with a smile - and had a laugh I shall never forget! Her timing was good so we managed to fit in a couple of extra walks. She really enhanced the enjoyment of the trip and was always willing to answer our many questions. A lovely person.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Would recommend taking a direct flight to Santiago Buy Pesos for your trip in the UK - don't bother with USD they are a nuisance to change and the rate is not good. Zodiac trip can be paid in local currency or on credit card Take waterproof walking shoes and poles if you like them for inclines like the Osorno Volcano walk. trainers are not adequate. Patagonia can be very wet and slippery under foot I took a travel kettle as I like to make hot drinks in the room - no hotel offers kettle in room.

VASILIKI NTAVLOUROU

Reviewed March 2018

An amazing trip with the best guiding team ever!

This was by far the best cycling holiday I have ever been to. Amazing places and views!
A challenging cycling route for someone with a minor cycling experience like myself. But I made it, thanks to the support and encouragement of this amazing team: Roberto, Paul, Alvaro, Jose, Ronaldo! Names and personalities we will never forget! Thank you for helping me add beautiful images and feelings, in my life’s “memory box”, but most of all, thank you for keeping us SAFE and happy! It was more than obvious that you were there for us to ENJOY our trip, see, feel and taste the beauty of the most amazing part of the world. Feeling fit and healthy, looking forward to our next adventure!
Thank you!

Most Inspirational Moment

RESCUING A SLOTH ON THE WAY TO LA FORTUNA!

Anon Anon

Reviewed March 2018

Natural highlights of Costa Rica.

This was a fabulous trip, giving you a slice of Costa Rica. There is a lot of driving between locations, ( at times 4-5 hours) some of the roads were still unmade, so can be very bumpy. The weather was extremely hot in places, but in Monteverde quite windy and therefore something warm to wear is a necessity. We saw so many beautiful birds and reptiles,on our boat trips and our guide had a wealth of knowledge of fowl and fauna. Beautiful kingfishers,herons, lizards,turtles,crocodiles to name but a few. The boat trips made it for me,but the visit to the Hot Springs was fun and a great way of getting to know your group! The suspension bridges were a lot lower than I thought they would be and it was far too short. If you are not afraid of heights and speed, go for the Zip Wire. I would recommend taking a waterproof jacket, walking boots or shoes, and mosquito repellent!

Most Inspirational Moment

I loved the boat trip at Cano Negro; the boat was open at the front and you could stand and view both sides of the river for the local wildlife. We all had fun trying to spot the elusive sloths,but great time had by all.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He had an incredible knowledge of all the flowers and wild life, and could spot creatures from a great distance; very impressive.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take a weather proof jacket,walking boots or shoes, mosquito repellent and buckle up!

Jennifer Anderson

Reviewed March 2018

Discover Costa Rica

The title “Discover Costa Rica” puts it in a nutshell. We explored from coast to coast and many of the forests in between. On our trip over 125 different birds were identified including nesting Quetzals, many mammals, reptiles and even an eye lash viper. The flowers and butterflies in the many gardens of the lodges were a joy. There is an emphasis on being aware of and on contributing to the conservation of the natural resources which was appreciated.

Most Inspirational Moment

Coming from a snow bound country, the colour and sounds of Costa Rica were an ongoing delight.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Antonio, our local Costa Rican guide was excellent - his knowledge of the inhabitants and the vegetation of the many forests we visited was very extensive. He unfailingly answered our many questions, and if he didn't know the whole answer he researched it and gave us the relevant information later. He often stopped the bus along the way so we might experience a roadside market, take a photo or view cocoa trees up close etc.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Anyone who is tall will find the pitch of the seats in the small bus rather short. There are only 2 places in the bus where tall people can comfortably fit their long legs! Everyone on our tour thoughtfully respected this and left the seat by the side door for my husband who at over 2 metres has long legs.

Alison Donnelly

Reviewed March 2018

Walking the amalfi coast

Wonderful way to walk and see the highlights of the amalfi coast. The guide, Enrico enthusiastically took us on the walks and always had a plan b or c if the weather disappointed us. Take walking poles if you have sore knees as lots of steps and be prepared to walk up 400metres as well as down lots of steps. Hotel a great place to come back to for a well earned hot shower, a drink and diner .