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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Nepal Panorama, independent reviews
 Reviewed 9 Dec 2007 by Shaun Ward |  |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Reaching Annapurna Base Camp.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't be hassled by porters at the airport on arrival they just rip you off for tips. I was surprised and disappointed that the company rep that met us at the airport was a part of this and advised us to tip quite heavily. Obviously, in hind sight, a scam that they are running to fleece money out of well meaning travellers.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The holiday did benefit locals in so much that the guides, sherpas and porters were local but I do wonder how much of the cost of the holiday actually went into the Nepal economy!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was a fabulous experience that I would recommend to anyone to go and see not only the amazing mountains but the culture of the country.
Read the operator's response here:
Unfortunately, there has been a significant increase in the number of unauthorised porters who wait at the airport in Kathmandu and demand tips from travellers who have just arrived in Nepal. They have also begun to threaten genuine travel company representatives if they try to intervene on behalf of their clients. This is something that we, along with other companies operating in the area are treating extremely seriously; and we have lodged a formal complaint with the airport authorities concerning this issue. We have also added further information to our country dossier for Nepal to state that it is not necessary for our travellers to make any payments such as this when they arrive at Kathmandu airport.
| Reviewed 19 Apr 2009 by Julie O'Beirne | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
This is such a hard question because there were so many memorable and exiting parts to this trip. On a personal level climbing Sigiriya was amazing. I am not good with heights but with the encouragement of our tour guide and fellow travellers I conquered my fears!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
A basic level of fitness is required for the hiking and cycling. Although you can go at your own pace the heat makes it quite demanding. Well worth it though!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, there is plenty of opportunity to eat at local restaurants and buy souvenirs produced by the local population.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
10 out of 10! This holiday is an amazing experience. If you want to see all the usual tourist sights plus immerse yourself in the culture and hike through wonderful coutryside then this is the holiday for you. The hotels are clean and most have a pool where you can cool off after the long days activity. The Sri Lankan people are welcoming and friendly. It is truly the "Land of smiles".