Reviews

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

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14212 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Reviewed April 2012

JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN

This is an amazing trip that allows you to see a wide range of places and things.

Most Inspirational Moment

I agree with the other reviewer who said this trip has many highlights, but no one "inspirational" moment. My favorite things included: sunset over the ocean in Tsitsikamma, Lesotho (the area where we stayed was beautiful and peaceful), hiking in the Drakensburg Mountains (stunning!), listening to lions calling outside the camp on a sleepless night in Swaziland, seeing the animals in Kruger (from lilac-breasted rollers to wild dogs to elephants), and exploring Cape Town (fascinating!).

Thoughts on Group Leader

Rob was our guide and Sifiso was our driver. It's difficult to separate one's efforts from the other's, as both worked tirelessly to make our trip as comfortable, easy, informative, and enjoyable as possible. Both have an amazing depth of knowledge about the countries visited and the things you're seeing. Don't hesitate to ask questions! You'll be surprised by how much they can tell you about the most random subjects imaginable.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared to spend more money on optional activities than you might anticipate from the list in the trip notes. Few of the optional things are all that expensive individually, but particularly in the game parks, you'll probably want to do several things (both sunset and sunrise drives, for example), so it adds up. A friend of mine always recommends you take half as much clothing and twice as much cash as you think you'll need, and that's probably good advice for this trip.If you can, do the trip from Jo-berg to Cape Town and not in reverse. That way you're ending up in a beautiful, easy place. Doing it in reverse means you're ending at the airport in Jo-berg, after a long day of driving. However you do it, spend some extra time in Cape Town. It's a lovely and fascinating place! And as cheesy as it sounds, the double-decker tour buses are a perfect way to see the town and areas around it.

Reviewed April 2012

MT TOUBKAL WINTER CLIMB

A weeklong trip that somehow manages to squeeze in a bit of everything into the time you are there. From the hustle and bustle of Marrakech to the peace and tranquillity of the high Atlas, this trip packs it all in. A really great trip, definitely one to go on and you don’t have to be that experienced!

Most Inspirational Moment

On the way up to the refuge and the summit of the mountain, you don’t get to see a clear sight of the actual summit. It’s not till you are quite close that you finally get to see the marker above you. However, once you are finally there the view is stunning. The panorama is breath taking, the snow capped flanks of Toubkal give way to the greens and browns of the foot hills and plains that stretch into the distance as far as you can see. What better reward can you ask for after a morning’s mountain climbing?I also found the second day to be just as exciting, as the summit day. We ascended the summit in clear weather with glorious sunshine, which made the views spectacular. However the next day was in stark contrast, plenty of snow had fallen over night and was continuing to fall all day. Visibility was dramatically reduced so we were unable to climb much higher than 3800m, but saying that we still managed to get to near the top of some adjacent peaks. This truly felt like a winter climb as we made steady progress both up and down the mountain in the falling snow. You couldn’t see much, but was a great day out from the refuge with fun being had by all who went on it.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The group leader Hassan was really friendly and fun. He had a great sense of humour that ensured that we had a really good trip. Mohammed the mountain guide was also great, although his English wasn’t as good as Hassan’s he still made sure that we had a good time up the mountain. Both were really good and looked out for our safety, overcoming the changing weather and kit with a calm and professional demeanour. The cook always managed to rustle up fantastic meals that were so welcoming after a day of fun in the snow.

Advice for Potential Travellers

On arrival in Marrakech it is quite warm in the sun, so it’s a good idea to pack a few warm weather clothes. However, for a good deal of the time up the mountain it will be cold, so pack warm clothes too. As advertised the refuge is quite basic, so don’t expect too many mod cons. Whilst there is a fire in the main lounge area it can still get quite cold inside, especially with the lack of internal doors on the ground level, so pack some warm clothes to wear around the refuge itself. I took a down jacket with me that came in handy at various points on the trip. Take a good book, and a pack of cards, that way you can have a peaceful moment to yourself or have a social game of cards with the rest of your group, guides and other residents of the refuge. Definitely don’t forget to take some ear plugs, you will probably need them.When you arrive try to get a bunk bed away from the door and walls and if possible on the lower levels. I had an upper bunk for the first night and got a bit damp from all of the condensation in the room at night. Moisture also means that the floors in the refuge can get quite slippery, so take care, especially when going up and down the stairs. There is also a shower, but be warned, there is not an endless supply of hot water and it can run out, leaving you to have a cold one, and that is really quite bracing! Still, it is possible and well worth it if you want to clean up. There were a couple of plug sockets so you can charge batteries and phones (though you will have to share with everyone else). The refuge can also get quite busy, so despite not seeing may people on the way up to the refuge, it was surprising to see just how many people were staying there. When it is busy it does mean that it’s not always possible to get a seat in the lounge, but there are other places to sit and have copious cups of sweet tea - not always mint!

Reviewed April 2012

THE AMALFI COAST

This was a delightful trip with beautiful coastal walks together with the opportunity to see Pompeii, Vesuvius and Herculaneum. The accommodation was in a friendly family run hotel, with comfortable en-suite rooms and excellent food.

Most Inspirational Moment

At Vesuvius I took the opportunity to join the group in a guided walk right around the circumference of the crater, including to its highest point. As a fairly novice walker, this was more than I would normally have expected to do, and a fantastic experience. It took us away from the usual tourist crowds on a ridge walk around Vesuvius' brim. This was slightly challenging to people who have never done a ridge walk (like myself); our guide advised us on whether he thought each of us would be able to do it, based on our behavior during previous walks on this trip. Although I am not marvelous with heights, I managed to do the walk without too much difficulty, and I am extremely glad to have had the opportunity of a professionally guided walk in such a dramatic location with spectacular views.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was an extremely experienced walker with a great deal of knowledge of the area. As well as leading our daily walks, he was able to offer advice and tips to help make our trip as enjoyable as possible. It was also clear that he was able to rapidly evaluate and respond to each of our capabilities during the walks on this trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This trip does involve quite a bit of walking and while highly enjoyable, I would describe it as walking holiday with sightseeing rather than a sightseeing holiday with a bit of walking. If in doubt it would be worth reading the 'leisurely' and 'moderate' grading in the Exodus Walking & Trekking brochure before deciding on this trip. Even 'leisurely' walks are expected to be 4 to 5 hours during the day. This trip is not really for someone who does not enjoy walking. That said, as a fairly novice walker, I had no problems, but I did take care to be equipped with good quality walking boots and comfortable socks. Also remember your sun-cream! For novice walkers who are happy to 'have a go' I would definitely recommend it.

Reviewed April 2012

GALAPAGOS WILDLIFE CRUISE

A fabulous trip that allows you to experience the varying scenery and wildlife of the different islands to their fullest.

Most Inspirational Moment

Snorkling with the turtles.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sylvia was first class and had a wealth of knowledge about the Islands which she was always keen to share. She made sure to tell us about the history, geology and wildlife of each island and was extremely informative.We were also very well looked after in Quito; airport transfers were reliable and efficient and the guide in Quito (Stefan) provided us with maps and suggestions for places to visit during the free day.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure that you don't take any denominations larger than $20 notes as you will not be able to spend them in Ecuador.Pack light - there is virtually no storage space in the cabins.Photographers - you get very close to the wildlife and I nearly didn't take my 70-200mm lens on this trip as I suspected that I would not use it much. However, I actually used this lens more than any other so I would strongly recommend taking a medium range zoom lens, and this lens is vital if you are interested in bird photography. There was snorkling offered at least once, and often twice every day. The Cachalote has wetsuits, fins and masks that you can hire very cheaply. However, if you are of small build and want a wetsuit that fits properly you should consider bringing your own. Most of the time the water was warm enough not to wear a wetsuit but the sun is very strong and I would strongly advise wearing a wetsuit during all of the snorkeling sessions if you burn easily.

Reviewed April 2012

LAND OF THE TIGER

Everything was perfect. Being on your own you are always a bit apprehensive at the start but the leader and the nature of the trip soon allayed these fears.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many but I will identify three; first seeing such a variety of wildlife including the tigers, second the Exodus sponsored school at Bandhavgarh and third the Taj Mahal.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Probably the best leader I have experienced in my many years of travelling. He was always there when you wanted him without being "in your face", he was always cheerful, well organised and most importantly he was knowledgeable - the best.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you are thinking of visiting India don't think any further book the Land of the Tiger with Exodus.

Reviewed April 2012

THE AMALFI COAST

The walking was varied with great views every day and the hotel owners were determined to put pounds on us with their delicious food. My calf muscles were groaning after the steps to Amalfi but otherwise the walking was reasonably easy.

Most Inspirational Moment

The walking with views. Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Friendly thoughtful person, well organised.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Walk up and down a lot of steps before you go.

Reviewed March 2012

THE AMALFI COAST

This was my first Exodus experience and if you’re worried about what to expect, don’t be. Busy lives mean that most of us just don’t have the time to plan every day of our holiday. Well, thank you Exodus for taking away that pressure. I didn’t have to think…I had time to enjoy, knowing that the planning was taken care of, in our case, by our guide Christine. And taken care of so well, thank you Christine!I felt like I was looked after, thoroughly enjoyed being part of a group and would recommend the scenery of Southern Italy. Thank you Exodus, be seeing you again! P.S. Our hotel was fab: from the food (& drink!) to the rooms and also the excellent staff.

Reviewed March 2012

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER

What can I say?! The most amazing trip, far exceeding the expectations that I had held for a lifetime! Each experience seemed to surpass the last , and I hold the memory in my head each day since returning home.

Most Inspirational Moment

Zodiac cruising on a sublime cloudless day, encircling aquamarine icebergs, quietly observing a leopard seal casually lounging on an icefloe. The intense colours, the stark white of the ice and snow contrasting with the deepest blue ocean. The sound of penguin chatter and raucous calls, the soft patter of penguin feet while I sat very still on the beach, listening, absorbing and watching the astonishingly beautiful scene before me. Humpback whales breaching and the whoosh of the sea as they played out the spectacle. Hourglass dolphins accompanying the ship as we approached Cape Horn. Listening to the group leader, Shane, reading a short poem about the wandering albatross and lost sailors as we approached land at Tierra del Fuego.. Sitting with like minded people, conversing about our adventure. The feel of the ship under my feet as I stood at the bow, looking, watching and looking...

Thoughts on Group Leader

Brilliant! Shane was professional, informative, kindly and always concerned for our safety, well being and enjoyment!! Cannot speak too highly of him. Inspirational.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read up on Antarctica before you go, it will enhance your awareness of what to look for. Take more memory cards than you think you'll need. Sea sickness pills are provided and are effective( although we were very lucky - no Drake shake!). Take your time when on shore, stay still and the penguins will come to you. Take time to look, look and look... there is nowhere else on earth like this....you wont see anywhere like it and it deserves to be experienced fully. The ship is warm, you dont need outdoor gear inside! High factor suncream and moisturiser is necessary- the weather can be snowy, dry , windy, cold, sunny - protect your skin. Forget about your phone- no signal after the Beagle Channel. Its good to be able to email but dont get hung up on it- you can do that at home. And perhaps when taking photos- just put your camera aside sometimes and look around you...

Reviewed March 2012

CYCLING CUBA

I throughly enjoyed the trip, the company, the country, the history, the locals and the food and I am a VEGETARIAN!!! The local people went that extra mile to ensure that I did not have omelettes every meal. I would say htink very seriously about the time of year that you cycle as it did get very hot for me… also try and get a few weeks in the saddle before you go so as the cycling is not too ardous and you can enjoy the early starts from breakfast :-0)

Most Inspirational Moment

The fact that all cubans are cuban, the people pull together...

Thoughts on Group Leader

An absolute gem!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Cycle before you go, don't pack too many items, take a lot of sun screen, take an attachment to fit on your bike to carry items such as camera. Take protein bars if you are a veggie.

Reviewed March 2012

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING: DOBBIACO

Great skiing, great guide, great group and loads of food!

Most Inspirational Moment

Skiing on the last day with the gang with fab snow and no fear of the downhill!

Thoughts on Group Leader

David was a great coach and leader. Very relaxed and chatty. Always giving you tips on your posture as he whizzed up and down the group. He got the group to bond, he adjusted his teaching for the less confident and the experienced, and had a knack for getting us to the bus stop 20 seconds before the bus arrived (did he like the bus company so much that he bought it?!)

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do the exercises you get sent - much less pain in the first few days! Go for the fish options at the hotel - veggie options aren't the best.

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