Holiday Reviews
We invite every traveller who books a holiday via us to send in a review. Because we don't run the holidays they're completely independent and unedited... remember to read between the lines though, as two people on the same trip can have different views!
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Ecuador and Amazon holiday, independent reviews
 Reviewed 9 Oct 2008 by Nick Gowlett |  |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Our Shaman host at the jungle homestay. He glided around, playfully and skilfully making leaf hats etc. and happily sharing with us his knowledge and Chechan philosophy. A wise man and free spirit in a beautiful place.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
No need for mosquito nets and no need for malaria pills - except for the ultra-precautionary. The 'basic' hotels were good - soap, shampoo and towels provided. Minimal walking with full luggage. Weather cooler than expected - very pleasant. Laundry facilities available so ration clothing but bring camera battery charger! The active add-ons are a must - don't miss out. Learn a few words of Spanish and read a little about Ecuador if time.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes. The Indigenous people seem undemanding and worthy of help/understanding.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Brilliant. Helped very much by our excellent guide.
| Reviewed 28 Jan 2008 by Jennifer Hann | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Hard to narrow it to one, but an example was horseback riding up the mountain in Banos, Ecuador while listening to, and FEELING (!) Volcan Tungurahua rumble back to life. Equally wonderful was interacting with the warm & gentle Ecuadorian people who welcome you with their shy smiles, polite ways and creative art.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
1.Pay attention to the wet and dry seasons, which are the only real differences in seasons;. 2.Realize clean bottled water is available everywhere, as are most essentials, so forget the water purifiers & extra personal items, etc.. 3.Bring useable but worn clothing you leave behind to make room for the wonderfully affordable local art & clothing. 4. Practice a little Spanish so you can interact with the local folks who reward any communication with a quick smile and immediate charm.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely. We mostly used public transportation; ate local food; did a 2 night home stay; cleaned and refilled water bottles; bought food & items from local markets where our guide introduced us to new items; walked on local trails & learned about conservation efforts; and visited and supported several local cooperative art centers.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very high. Great value for the money; emphasis upon real interaction with local people and getting off the beaten path. Thanks!