Galapagos Reviews
Randal Kenyes Galapagos voyage
November 2010
It was all a great success - and thank you for organising it. It wasn't until we got on the plane that we remembered all the questions we should have asked you before booking ! But as it turned out our companions were delightful and we all got on very well. The boat was certainly a cut above the others we saw on our trip - so much more stylish and relaxing to cruise on a yacht, rather than being crammed into a mini cruise ship and feel herded from one small landing spot to another. We also very much enjoyed Randal's company - a deft sprinkling of Darwin and convservation which complemented our guide's excellent expeditions. Quite an extraordinary place to visit.
Randal Kenyes Galapagos Voyage and Ecuadorian Amazon
November 2010
Matthew the Banker jumped into the sea with the rest of us and as we all looked down to spot cormorants, sea lions, penguins we all heard...orca, orca, orca. Needless to say we all noted that he was mad and that he had seen a large sea lion, Veronica (their guide) said he was probably mistaken; just at that moment about 100m away an Orca arcs out of the ocean. Veronica’s face was hilarious and Matthew was vindicated. We quickly retreated to the boat where we found Veronica already on board!
Back in the water we met up with a huge sunfish (also known as Mola Mola) without exaggeration around 3-4m diameter and then rather selfishly I spotted a further 11, yes 11 not of the same huge nature but 2-3m in diameter and I swam with them for a fleeting 30 seconds, truly awe inspiring. Also had a great moment the day before with 10 turtles.
The wildlife was abundant and spending time with Randal was great, we discovered he's our neighbour and shares a keen interest in all things architectural in Islington. He added a gravitas to the trip that would have been sorely missed without him. The other people on the boat were more than a good bunch and we got on splendidly...shame we can't do it all over again.
As for the Amazon, what it lacked in animals it more than made up for in community, family and fun. Jose was a great guide, passionate about the jungle and very chilled out...and most importantly clearly had an excellent relationship with the tribe which made the experience all the better. I was concerned the Amazon trip would be outshone by the Galapagos, I was wrong, both experiences were good for the brain and body and the people we met and spent time with really made for a memorable time away.