1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?

The trip to San Miguel del Bala.

2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?

Expect the unexpected and go with the flow. if going to the Eco Lodge at Bal Tours, take a head torch, a padlock and crocs. Also be prepared to be bitten very badly by mosquitoes.

3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?

More than some holidays, but I feel that many of my guides were paid little and work hard for their employers who take most of the money. There was a lot of litter around, much of which is dropped by tourists.

Read the operator's response here:

We always stimulate travelers to tip local guides when they are satisfied with the given services according to what they feel is appropriate. It is unfortunately the reality of working as a guide in general worldwide, that they have to earn an important part of their living by tips for maintaining their lives & families. Even the salaries of European tourguides, although relatively much higher in relation to their Latin American collegues, are far not enough for making a good living and not according to the management qualities requested. See also our remarks on this issue on our site under Responsible Travel. In office of the local touroperator you can always inform the employer that you are very satisfied with the services given (this protects their work) and by sending photos, dvds or presents to your guide later when you are home again, you can always express your gratitude for the special moments received.