Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Petra was simply magical and wins hands down! I particularly liked that this tour gives you 2 full days there. I didn't rush to see everything on day 1 and took the time to explore a little off the main trails and meet the local bedouin. I also loved Um Qais as it was in full spring bloom (I've never seen so may thistles outside of Scotland) Jerash is also incredible, wish I had longer to enjoy it!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Issa was a a responsible team leader, his knowledge of Jordanian history and culture was very good. He had a difficult task as we were a large group with differing interests. Issa very much focused on the history and the sights and was conscious of ensuring we saw everything on the itinerary. He was very helpful with all my queries and helped with my transfer at the end of my trip so this isn't a criticism but I did observe Issa struggled with all the organisational demands because there was so little downtime for him to organise himself.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you can, arrive a day early, as the flight gets in after midnight and the tour starts the next morning. Research the places on the itinerary before you travel - its information overload on the tour and there is a lot of history and no time to sit and read your guidebook. The weather in Jordan varies from one part of the country to another so bring a warm sweater/fleece. There are several walks over uneven/rocky terrain so do bring a pair of hiking boots or walking shoes with proper grips. If you're a light sleeper bring earplugs as a number of our hotels were noisy Oh and do bring a universal plug for the bath tubs as most of the hotels had a bath but no plug!

Most Inspirational Moment

To me the Vietnamese people were a wonder. Industrious, friendly, enthusiastic! They have overcome many obstacles over the past 50 years or so and are moving forward rapidly! The country is incredibly beautiful and lush and a pleasure to cycle through.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Long was and excellent leader for the group. A font of information about his country! Very knowledgeable about agriculture, industry, history, cuisine and just about any other topic we raised. His organizational skills were great and he looked after all of the details and requests made of him! And a great sense of humour too! Bravo all in!

Advice for Potential Travellers

A few long stretches on the bus but nicely broken up and still a great way to see the country. Don't get sun burned! Be prepared for the heat. But don't be hesitant to book! Great food, great people.

Most Inspirational Moment

The trek up to Kala Patthar with amazing views of Everest and more

Most Inspirational Moment

I don't have just one. I loved everything, but especially the incredibly well preserved antiquities, including from Greek and Roman times.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Salvo was exceptional. Very hard working, making sure we all finished with a strong sense of appreciation of his Island and a desire to return. He was calm, able to adapt to unpredictable changes in weather which involved changes to itinerary. He created the perfect balance between bringing us to places and leaving us free to explore.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Get fit before you leave! It is a magnificent journey with fabulous, full days, which demand some level of fitness. Pack layers covering yourself from warm, to hot to rain.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were two things that inspired me; first the beautiful panoramic views of terraced vineyards in the Douro Valley and second; learning a great deal more about the history and culture of this area and Portugal overall.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Nuno was a wonderful guide and was capably assisted by Ricardo. He was very knowledgeable about the area and was incredibly helpful in choosing meals and wines. He kept us interested and informed and his knowledge of each of our locations meant no disappointments at all. Both Nuno and Ricardo were personable and very helpful. Great guys!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do it! It's fun, it's educational and you'll probably meet interesting people on the trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

No one thing. The overall experience of the mountains, the group and our guide made the whole package an inspirational experience - that sounds a bit over the top but it is how it was on this trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Exceptional and brilliant. Sara Bull is undoubtedly the best guide I have met. Her huge experience of and passion for mountains, adventure, the local area and people together with her enthusiastic sharing of these with the group added considerably to what was provided by the natural environment of the Garfagnana region, and the team at Braccicorti. She made time for everybody and did far more for us than could or should be reasonably expected of any group leader. Her assistant, Elvis the dog, was also a star. Whilst on the hill she adjusted things to cater for the needs of both the group as a whole and individuals at the same time. When faced with decisions forced by changing weather conditions she was decisive but also took time to explain her decisions. Knowing that Sara was guiding would be a significant factor in deciding on the next trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Our group was great and everybody was more than capable of completing the walks but do look carefully at the trip notes about distances and terrain.

Most Inspirational Moment

Watching the eruptions from the top of Stromboli and running down Mount Etna through the knee-deep ash.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Frederica was well-organised, flexible, fun, patient and caring.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Please consider your fitness level before undertaking. You don't need to be super fit, but everyone will enjoy it more if you're able to walk up hills at a reasonable pace.

Most Inspirational Moment

Tiscali

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent

Most Inspirational Moment

The walk from Ravello to Amalfi. I loved the variety of the walk, walking through the lemon groves and the nature park.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Knowledgeable and helpful.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for lots of stairs and downhill segments.

Most Inspirational Moment

I liked San Gimignano the best of all the towns we visited.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Liz Proctor was an exceptional leader: she really went out of her way to do everything possible to help everyone who needed it. Safety was a top priority and she was genuinely concerned for everyone's wellbeing.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I am not used to walking on rough paths and was unable to train properly ahead of time. I managed but struggled. If you have health issues, do the training beforehand as suggested on the website to get in proper shape.