Balkans Tours for Experienced Travelers

This was my first trip to Europe (Greece) and also first going with a tour company. Wasn’t sure if i would like the structure of being scheduled all the time. But I was pleasantly surprised at the seamless experience and our tour manager couldn’t have been better. Amanda was absolutely the best. She was knowledgeable, funny, compassionate and so kind. Had the best time. The experience was the perfect amount of all experiences. If there was anything that would make it better would maybe be a day of free time. I would recommend to anyone wanting to see Greece.

Such a well organised tour, with our tour director Isabel, who was out of this world. She was on top of everything, nothing was a problem and all carried out in a light hearted happy way. Left everyone at ease. Her rapier with Pete the bus driver was very funny at times, with Pete being a very role and humorous guy. Never mind his excellent driving, but his dry wit at times was class. We got to see parts of New Zealand we wouldn’t have if we were driving ourselves and the amount of facts that Isobel told us was mind boggling. All vey professional and so personal as well.

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.

The shades of Ireland tour was fantastic. There wasn’t one place we went to that I wouldn’t do it again; but with that said the Cliffs of Moher were stunning!!!! We got lucky and even got a rainbow while we were up there, you can’t beat that experience!

Favorite experience for me was some free time with my husband to have dinner together on our own and experience some quiet time at a pub (with excellent food). The Cliffs of Moher had to be my favorite touristy spot.

Our wonderful guide Raya Gancheva is the reason I would not only recommend Explore to someone else, but look at booking our next tour with them. We all became close as a group and are still corresponding. The only reason I didn't give the accomodation 5 stars was there was a mix of places including a monestary although it was perfectly fine. The places were alll clean, close to transport systems so can navigate easily back on our own and had laundry faci.ities in the places when needed. The breakfasts were varied but all good. Before we left we had arranged an extra week on our own at the end, so I rebooked the same hotel in Tokyo as I had faith it would be good, and I was not disappointed. The forwarding on of luggage also worked very well.