2 independent reviews for South India tour, Trivandrum to Goa
Reviews for South India tour, Trivandrum to Goa
Michele Darnell-Roberts review 28 Nov 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
There were so many exciting and memorable parts in my vacation, I couldn't possibly choose! However, I will never forget the wonderful Hindu temples with their amazing carvings, the gentle and friendly Indian people, the exhausting but exhilerating overnight train journeys, the fun and 'fellowship' experienced with other group members, our inspirational and supportive guide Bhagi (he was the "kingpin" of the trip, keeping it all together!), the delicious food, especially when eating off banana leaves, and the overall thrill of traveling through new territory and the wonderment that unfolds each day.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
My tips: some ATMs don't always work (not sure why!) so make sure you have enough cash. Being on the move most days means carrying your bags on and off trains, buses or trains, which can be tiring. I suggest taking only what you need. I took too many clothes then realised that most hotels can do laundry within 24 hours (or less), so clothes can be washed, at a low price too. Ironing didn't always happen, but never mind. The biggest tip, however, is to keep a sense of humour!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I feel our vacation will hopefully have shown local people that tourists/travelers from other countries can be polite and friendly, and interested in their culture. I'm not sure how this trip will have reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation...? There is lots of rubbish in India, with a great lack of re-cycling and rubbish bins and subsequent refuse collection. One can only hope that this will change one day. There was a big use of plastic bottles containing water, and we usually had to purchase water so were compelled to buy them. Some hotels could refill our own water bottles, but certainly not all of them. There was really no way this could be avoided.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
South India Revealed was a basic trip, and not surprisingly a couple of the hotels were definately very basic. This was rather a shock, particularly at the beginning of the trip! However, we just got used to it, and made the best of the circumstances. Everything considered, the cost of the trip, and everything that was included, was exceptionally good value. The places we visited were fascinating, and varied. Consequently, we experienced the geographical and cultural diversity of South India. Our guide was wonderful! I would rate this vacation as excellent, and give it 5 stars.Maggie Hetherington review 13 Jan 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Difficult to choose just one, it was all memorable, but I particularly enjoyed the homestay in the backwaters of Kerala. Wonderful host family and a beautiful and relaxing setting. And Hampi has to be one of the most interesting places in India.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
It is not as basic as it sounds. All but two of the hotels were quite luxurious. Having all the travel arrangements done for you makes it stress free. We had a very good guide and the group had loads of positive energy. A great experience for all ages.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, it benefited local people and supported conservation but I can't be sure that we made much difference to the environment.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was all that I expected and more.Holiday Reviews
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