Frances Kidd review 29 Jul 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Snorkelling with sea lions and penguins.
2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Fantastic - go for as long as you can.
3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Not really.
4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fantastic. Great crew and guide. Wildlife unbelievable.
David Weller review 31 Jul 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The opportunity to see close-up the most wonderful selection of animals and birds.
2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be aware that a "family" vacation doesn't necessarily make any concessions to the fact children are present. The Naturalist's talks were way over their heads, the food wasn't always child appropriate, and we were not able to book a family room in the pre-trip hotel. Thankfully the hotel itself on arrival soon showed that it can be done - easily! Read the dossier carefully which is well-put together and contains all kinds of very useful information. Be aware that there is considerable pressure to tip and to tip well, despite being told that tipping is a "personal choice". We were told about tipping a total of four times and by contrast, we were given just one Emergency Practice talk.
3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes in that it provides employment. Yes in that measures are in place to minimise the impact on the environment.
4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Despite some serious concerns, overall we were very grateful for the well organised opportunity to see the natural beauty. We sincerely hope our constructive criticisms will be acted upon.
Read the operator's response here:
We appreciate the comments in this regard. We are working with our Naturalist guides to tailor their lectures when children are present. Thank you for your comments, and we are working toward improving upon this. The point raised in regard to tipping is always a thorny issue. It is a personal choice, and if there was pressure applied beyond what one would consider normal, we apologize, and are reviewing.
