Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The day walk at Munnar was stunning; the houseboat on the backwaters was idyllic as was the Deshadan resort; the Gandhi museum was very moving; the final 2 days on Kovalam beach was delightful.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lucose was an absolute joy: very knowledgeable about the history, culture and politics of the region, very well organised, ready to go the extra mile to ensure we were all contented, always courteous, friendly and helpful. Our driver Santosh and his assistant Venky were likewise extremely helpful at all times and we felt we were in safe hands.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The trip notes supplied all the information needed however I would suggest that there is no need to take a towel with you as all the hotels provided them and those with a pool provided further towels at the poolside.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many inspirational moments that it is hard to select just one. Seeing elephants, making it to the top of the second highest peak in So. India, walking through the colorful markets, visiting a rural school, and meeting amazing fellow travelers.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Santos Kumar was wonderful! He was so knowledgeable, patient, and fun. I can't imagine a better group leader, and would love to take another trip that he leads. Since getting home, I have told everyone I know to go on this trip, and hope that they get Santosh.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be ready for a couple days of challenging hiking! The walks were very fun and rewarding, but for some people, they might be difficult. Also, pack lightly, and bring walking sticks. Light weight long sleeve shirts are recommended.

Most Inspirational Moment

Riding the coastal road through false bay, just stunning!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Bevin consistently went above and beyond to make the holiday a success. A big thanks to Trish and Ende too.

Advice for Potential Travellers

ATMs were plentiful, no need to take cash with you, generally things were of excellent value.

Most Inspirational Moment

The morning walk to see the wildlife at Peryar. The cooking lesson was great fun and the whole group got involved

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lukose was exceptional. What more can I say?

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting to the top of Adam's Peak for sunrise, hiking in the remote Knuckles mountain range, and seeing about 8 blue whales on the optional coastal excursion - definitely a 'must-do' option for anyone travelling in the right season.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ruwan was an excellent leader, full of local knowledge of all aspects of local culture, food, flora and fauna. He kept everything running smoothly at all times, was always available, and always patient even when asked the same questions many times. Also a friendly guy with a sense of humour.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Really varied bird life, so worth taking a small pair of binoculars and a bird book. Take the optional whale watching trip if there in migration season. The first 3 months of the year seem a great time to visit for whales, weather and pilgrimage season up Adam's Peal

Most Inspirational Moment

Coming close to a group of wild Elephants during morning walk in the wildlife reservation.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Santos's is a Very knowledgable guide with good feeling for the group dynamics and lots of stories to tell. All extra wishes were taken care of and always everything arranged a very proficient manner.

Most Inspirational Moment

I particularly enjoyed cycling down the mountains, having expended an enormous amount of energy pedalling up! All of the group were encouraged and motivated along the way. The bikes were strong and sturdy, giving confidence to the riders. I also loved cycling through the villages and 'high fiving' all the lovely, smiling children as we cycled past them.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The group leader was extremely professional, knowledgeable, motivational, charming and all in all, exceptional. He managed to transport a group of 18 from South to North Vietnam, using cycles, minibuses, trains and boats, effortlessly and safely. There were no occasions where anyone felt unsafe and at every hotel none of us had to wait longer than a couple of minutes to be handed our room key. I had no hesitation in voting for him in the Exodus Leader Awards.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I would advise taking your own saddle!

Most Inspirational Moment

It has to be the Path of the Gods, a long, well-defined traverse high on the mountainside, with views down to the little towns on the coast and way out to sea.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lively, motivating, approachable. Very quickly aware of the varying capabilities of the various group members. We very much benefited from his local knowledge.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be aware that many in our group would not have described this holiday as 'leisurely/moderate'. The descent to Amalfi, for example, involves nearly 3000 large, uneven steps, and some short stretches of the Path of the Gods require scrambling over rocks. Older people, even if fit and used to walking, are likely to be slowed down. Also, public transport from the hotel is very limited, reducing options for the free day.

Most Inspirational Moment

A major highlight was exploring the streets and alleyways of Trinidad and enjoying the music and dancing at one of our cocktail stops. I also loved the tour of Havana in the open-topped old American cars. Quite exhilarating.

Thoughts on Group Leader

She was fantastic. Excellent knowledge, friendly and helpful personality and a great sense of humour.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do it soon.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many moments from seeing how the Northern tribes live in traditional houses, their dependence on their animals and many on their rice crop; to the busy frantic street scenes crowded with scooters and mopeds in the cities of Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh city. The steet sellers with their wares straddled across their shoulders with everything from baskets and hats, to sweetmeats and the street food scenes are unforgetable.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Binh Bui was amazingly organised. He never let us down once. His timings were amazing, his care and his attention to detail were unsurpassed. If things outside his control happened he just adjusted and surmounted them without fuss. His genuine care and emotional investment in his job is unquestionable.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared to walk and ride bicycles in high temperatures and don't be afraid to say I need a break!