Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

There are so many... Tea plantation and nature reserve walks, Madurai temple visits, houseboat sailing, palaces. Appreciated the more relaxed time in Kovolam. Well worth upgrading to the rooms nearer the sea.

Thoughts on Group Leader

In a word, fantastic. He made sure he welcomed us on our delayed arrival and quickly introduced us to the group. His knowledge (history, culture, nature) is superb and he is only too willing to share it. We had regular talks and shared information on our journeys. Organisation is a huge strength. Hotel check-ins a doddle as he had copied our passports, he was always present to help with food/drink orders and to ensure their prompt arrival. His planning and sense of timing are excellent

Most Inspirational Moment

Houseboat stay - so many kingfishers to see, and the serpent eagles. Walk around Nature reserve and seeing a group of elephants with a baby.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was friendly, knowledgeable, fun, flexible and very well organised. He dealt with all respectfully. One of the best guides.

Most Inspirational Moment

The stays in Munnar and Periyar were the highlights

Thoughts on Group Leader

Vinod had an extensive knowledge of the area we were visiting. He has a lovely sense of humour and was calm and efficient, managing the different needs of our group effectively.

Most Inspirational Moment

I loved it all, trekking in the tea plantations, dawn city walk around the Sri Meenkshi Temple in Maduri watching the locals start their day with milking, painting 'kolams' around their houses and of course the markets! Early morning walk at the Periyar wildlfe sanctuary and seeing elephants, bison and deer on the afternoon boat trip. Eating in the estate house at the rubber planation, the cooking demo and meal with a local family and of course the peaceful houseboat. Lovely to finish in Kova

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was simply amazing-the best. Biju had an in-depth knowledge of the history and culture of the area. He was able to bring so much of the history and culture alive with stories from his own family. He was happy to engage in discussions on any topic. He went out of his was to ensure the whole group were comfortable and happy. We had one man who was unwell before he came and this continued. Biju made sure as far as was possible his needs were met.

Most Inspirational Moment

Our tour guide Biju was excellent and so helpful with my dietary requirement. Our driver Vinod was exceptional too, I'm a nervous passenger and had never experienced roads and traffic like that in India so I was so grateful to have. Competent driver that made me feel safe. I particularly enjoyed the village walks in the morning, learning about local people and their ways of life.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Nothing was too much trouble for Biju. He's incredibly likeable and offered fascinating insights into India and it's people.

Most Inspirational Moment

Every day was inspiring, not least because of the warmth and friendliness of the people we met along the way. I particularly loved the early morning walk in Madurai, seeing the women washing and decorating their doorsteps and getting the chance to feed the cows! Another highlight was the visit to the Mannarasala temple…we were so lucky to see the baby weighing ceremony…that felt very special. And for high octane thrills it had to be the amazing Martial Arts show…an unexpected delight!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Biju was just wonderful as our group leader. He really is in a class of his own…every day he went above and beyond to make sure we got the very best experience. I have never had a guide as good as him…he is a tremendous asset for Exodus. Thanks Biju!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Some of the journeys are long, but the coach was very comfortable…I would recommend plugging yourself into your favourite music and watching everything unfold out of the window…the ever changing landscapes were very rewarding… Also…always carry loo roll!

Most Inspirational Moment

The tea plantation day, walking in the early morning, the tea factory and tea tasting. The early morning boat trip visiting the rope makers, and the other families along the river. My partner and I walked to a local park in Kochi and had a lovely time, sitting under the trees, chatting to a local family.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fantastic in all respects. Vinod made the trip the marvellous experience that it was. So patient and kind, and such a warm personality, he is a delight to talk to. He got to know the individuals in the group amazingly quickly, and showed much care and thoughtfulness, looking out for those in the group who needed support on any particular occasion, and in such a subtle, tactful manner. He was ever present in ensuring our trip ran smoothly and we never saw him switch off for the full fortnight.

Most Inspirational Moment

Periyar: Visit to spice plantation; Unexpected Roman Catholic procession with drums. Generally, the people of Kerala were the highlights. They were so smiley and peaceful. No raised voices. Our guide and the drivers also.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was very helpful and was always available. He would arrange to come to the restaurants at times just to help us out.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many highlights, but I would say Munnar was really lovely visiting the school at Srishti, the trek through the tea plantation and eating with the whole group in the local cafe organised by Biju. The early morning walk through Madurai was lovely and the Martial Arts performance on Day 8 was utterly thrilling!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Biju was outstanding. Simply the best leader I have had on any group tour I have taken. Kind, patient, calm, he went above and beyond, all day every day in a way that was extraordinary. Kerala was a beautiful place to visit, but it was Biju that made this trip truly memorable. He is an extraordinary asset to Exodus. Thank you Biju!

Most Inspirational Moment

Munnar, the mountains and the tea plantations.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The best guide I have ever had on my travels with Exodus. Really caring and enthusiastic. Highly professional and did everything he possibly could to make the trip enjoyable, safe and varied. Helped us with choice of restaurants and choice of food too.