North America Local culture Trips

The trip was as described in the brochure and was an excellent introduction to the food of Mexico and some of the archaeological sites. The guide Yves was extremely knowledgeable and a great story teller. His local knowledge was invaluable in spotting opportunities as they arose, and also in solving any difficulties. We were a group of 15 with a driver and a guide and were originally put in an 18 seater minibus. As some of the driving days were many hours long, we requested a larger and more comfortable bus and this was arranged. As some of the trips turned out to be even longer than planned, due to roadworks and unavoidable detours, this was an essential upgrade. One of the hotels, rated as premium, had, unbeknownst to either Explore or the local tour operator, had moved us to a much more basic accommodation. It was disappointing but Explore dealt with it in a very timely manner by refunding the cost of the two nights. Mistakes do happen but dealing with them is the mark of a good company. The group was mixed with some couples and some singles. I travelled on my own but there was always company for meals if I wanted it.

Great trip in El Salvador. Beautiful country, amazing volcanoes, scenery and archaeological sites. Friendly people. Felt safe. Hotels were good, comfortable. Tasty food. Excellent tour leader. Dio is very knowledgeable, friendly and kind. I enjoyed the sea turtle activity even though we didn’t do anything, just watch. The hike to the volcano was great, early in the morning is best. I would have liked the hotel in Sal Salvador closer to the historical center and also a visit to the Museum of Anthropology at the end of the trip, after the archaeological sites.

Wonderful trip to see the Islands of New England. Tour manager was beyond knowledgeable and helpful in all things. Local guides were all excellent. I especially liked Martha’s Vineyard with the gingerbread cottages. So reminded me of my church camp experiences as a kid at our United Methodist Church Camp in PA. Loved every minute of the trip and enjoying all the food.

Overall, the trip was memorable in a positive way. It was interesting on all levels and everyone could find something to appeal to their interests. As a former Social Studies teacher the trip was especially satisfying. Topics and places I had taught in "words" are now reality to me in a special way. Actually visiting places we read about like Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard was exciting. The trip inclusions coordinated well as was very in the brochure. I think everyone in our group enjoyed the variety of activities. You didn't need to enjoy "history" to enjoy this trip. It was memorable for all. Side note not for print: I was a great fan of President Kennedy and to be able to visit St. Mary's church where he and Jackie were married was very special to me.

This tour exceeded my expectations. I traveled the first week of October and the weather was perfect. We were lucky to catch the end of the annual bison roundup at Custer state park and saw hundreds of bison up close. The scenery at all our stops was breathtaking. The hotels were great and the food was, for the most part, amazing. The timing of our stops worked well for me. Could have used more time in Yellowstone, but, overall, well balanced.

We thoroughly enjoyed the tour. From my perspective, it could have been longer. We have been to Cape Cod before and could have spent more time on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. I was glad the tour included Rhode Island. We had just flown in there before. Our guide was great. She really knew the area. I finally had time just today to print my photos. I still haven’t had time to look at them. Fall is so busy. Maybe God needs to put a few more days in the best time of the year.