Czech Republic and Estonia Tours and Trips

It was a great itinerary. Good optional tours. Only downside is we would like more time in Cesky Kumlov. The 3 cities were amazing. We added on 2 more nights on each end. Totally worth it. We thought Gerwin did a great job leading us. And Tony did a great job driving.

The Itinerary was was excellent, also it wasn’t a fast paced tour we had ample time in each city to enjoy the sights, listen to the history and we had some really great dinners

The trip was excellent. I’ve not travelled with such a large group before so found that tricky at times but our leader Margareta managed the different elements in our Group expertly. Always ensuring everyone was included and informed of what we were doing.

The itinerary allowed for a comprehensive look at a variety of sites across the three countries, not just the capital cities. In the cities, the balance between time spent with the group (city walking tour with local guide) and free time to pursue your own interests was just right. The forward arranging of group meals for the evenings in the bigger places by the tour leader was appreciated as a way of sampling local cuisine - you could opt out if you wanted. The hotels were all of a good or excellent quality, often totally refurbished within an older building, and centrally located. The coaches used were very comfortable for a group of 15, though the tinted glass on the Riga-Vilnius coach made for so-so photography of the outside and made the interior a bit dark. For early morning flights from Vilnius on the last day (taxi to airport at 3:20am) it was 'no breakfast!', even though stated on itinerary, not even a mini box thing (as provided on a previous Explore trip. with similar early departure.. on "Silk Road" in Tashkent). The tour leader Margarita was excellent - knowledgeable, enthusiastic, personable - 10/10!

Well planned and organized. Interesting and scenic stops all along the way. I didn’t think I’d want to visit Auschwitz, but it was handled in a sensitive and reverent way.

This was a very (very) enjoyable vacation. We have a good mix of personalities in the group who got on together and a great guide, Lina, who kept everything rolling. The mix of cycling and Baltic culture was the right balance and the sunny, warm weather, for all but the last day, showcased the 3 x Baltic countries at their glorious best. The trip blended the cycling with city visits (inc three in Lithuania, Kaunas, Klaipeda and Vilnius), beach visit (optional swim), a boat trip, city tours, country sightseeing, supported with interesting history and facts, supplied by Lina. This provided an overview of a 'hidden part' of Europe, that was very enlightening, more so now, due to the Baltic states proximity and relationship with bordering Russia. The hotels were all good standard and the local food ranged from good to delicious. During the days, we had the right amount of stops for coffee, ice cream, comfort breaks etc. Additionally, the local Baltic beer in all three countries is excellent, but be warned, pretty strong too. Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania do have many similarities but are clearly unique. Personally, I came away educated & with a clearer understanding of the the history and politics of the region & I'm grateful for this I highly recommend this trip - it was so good, I may even do it again!