If you would like a hard copy of our Explore South America Booklet, please send us an Email Request.
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We have received some great responses over the last few years.

Read below to see what some of our clients are saying:


CLIENTS : FERREIRA/DIPENAAR/ GOUWS 2019 (VIP)

COMMENT CLIENTS TO AGENT:

Good afternoon Shelley,

Your operators/travel partners/guides in South America where absolutely superb,.Guides very knowledgeable, helpful and willing to be there at all times. Really ten out of ten and the hotels all excellent. So maybe the Japanese operators will be able to give us the best advice?

Just to sum up our trip to South America, the Alvear in Buenos Aires always lovely and show excellent, much less people than usual and a good show. The glacier Perito Moreno near El Calafate is beautiful and the hotel good.Explora one of my ultimate hotels, built in 1993 but still looking very contemporary and beautifully minimalistic against the stunning background of majestic mountains with excellent guides for wonderful walks. Food was delicious and interesting talks every evening. Could stay there for a very long time.Loveley swimming pool with hot tubs at a lake.

The Andes crossing, three boats and four busses well worth it, very beautiful. Bariloche can be missed but a lovely hotel with again walks, canoeing etcetera and beautiful scenery. It is quite far from the city centre ,25 km but the better for it as it is in the countryside far from any other developments.

Both the hotels at the Igauzu Falls where super, the Belmondo,colonial and reminds one of the Victoria Falls hotel and the Awasi Lodge again contemporary with clean interiors and excellent food and villas. Lovely and well worth the expense. It is essential to the see the Falls from Brazil and Argentina as both have very different views and the Falls are magnificent From the Belmond you can walk to the falls and it is very convenient as one can go and look when the park is empty, early morning and late afternoon but the guides at Awasi also took us on wonderful walks to see the Falls early mornings before the crowds arrive and late afternoon when everybody starts going home.

So really one of my best holidays ever with spectacular nature experiences, good food, excellent accommodation and guides that where top notch. So thanks a million for arranging everything everybody was most impressed with the itinerary and accommodation.

Kind regards,

Micky.

TRAVEL AGENT – KATIA 2019 (SECOND CLIENT)

Hi Martin

She was very happy with everything and did not even mention the "mishap with the weather " in Macchu Picchu.

She is still very tired (so for future we know a 72 year old cannot do an itinerary this long). LOL.

Her luggage went missing on arrival in SA - so we sorted that out.

She said the trip was amazing but she had not realized how very expensive things are in South America. She says she is now Broke !!!

Thanks for all your help and hope to have more clients wanting to do South America. You certainly know what you are doing!!!:-)

Kind regards

Katia Aideena travel and tours

TRAVEL AGENT- NATALIE 2019

Hello martin,

Sorry I haven’t had a chance to mail you..

... I got a call from Mr Krengel on Tuesday. I have done his bookings for 4 years and only liaised directly with him on one occasion during all that time, so it was quite something for him to call! He had to tell me personally how exceptional the trip was! The food, the experiences, the hotels ... and especially The Belmond hotels – they absolutely blew whim away. In his words ..”now that’s the way to travel!!” . He really had the trip of a lifetime!

Your choices and organisation of this trip was absolutely flawless, as was the delivery of services by your suppliers. This is the recipe of excellence! Very well done to all concerned!

Thank you so much for all your efforts, you have really outdone any supplier I have dealt with in 24 years in this industry!

Best regards

Natalie Wood

Travel Consultant


TRAVEL AGENT – KATIA 2018

Hi Martin

I just called her now. They had a fabulous time. All worked well. They loved that Belmondo hotel - she says best hotel she has stayed in.

The ground handlers were superb and very helpful even going as far as doing the online check in for their flight in Buenos aires and delivery the boarding cards to the hotel.

She sounded very happy and relaxed and said she would love to do South america again and I suggested she do Peru and Chile with LED tours for the next time. ;-)

Thanks for all your help - lets hope this Dick requests comes to fruition.

Katia

Aideena travel and tours


MR & MRS BAM – FAMILY

Hi Martin

As said to Terry our trip was beyond expectations and was perfectly planned and organised. It was AWESOME!!! Both the oldies and the young ones loved every minute of it. The people were amazing and Condor could not have done more for us. The Inca trail and the arrangements around it , including the passport saga, were so well handled. Peter had the most wonderful 70th Birthday and happily made the trail with ease. The guide Saul was so good to all three of them, as was my personal guide Juan to me.

All I can say it was BEYOND….. BEYOND and we will be happy at anytime to chat to any of your prospective clients.

If you would like to get some specific feedback we would be happy to have a really good chat to you on the phone and maybe we can set a time to do this. Just say when would suit you.

I am in process of sorting out my photos which will probably take about a month. We will then give a presentation here either later this year or early next year.

Once I have the photos processed I will downsize them and I will send you some. Meanwhile here is one from the Amazon!

We look forward to chatting to you in person and cannot wait to go back to south America……. With LED and Condor!

Regards

Faith and Peter Bam


TRAVEL AGENT FOR FAMILY BAM – TERRY 2018

Hi Martin

As discussed with you telephonically the Bam family has never had a holiday like the one you have just arranged for them in Peru. They absolutely loved the tour operator Condor (hope I’m spelling it correctly) . They said every guide was outstanding , however made special mention of a lady guide in Lima and the guide who did the Inca trail with them. They felt the information your agent gave them about not eating anything before they did the Nazcar Lines flight was great advise. They loved, loved the Amazon, from the accommodation to the outstanding tours and guides. Mr Bam could not stop talking about the excellent food they had on the hike. He said it was the best food they had anywhere on their trip and what was so amazing , the chef on the hike , from nothing produced a birthday cake with icing and wording wishing him a happy birthday. It blew him away ,he was just so grateful. Mrs Bam had the front seat confirmed on the vistadome train through the Sacred Valley. She said by far this was the best seat , the views were amazing. Belmond Sanctuary lodge they would highly recommend . And of course the highlight was making the Sun Gate together for his 70th birthday , just amazing. They thought the lake would then be a bit of a let down , but wow were they surprised. The train they said to Like Titicaca was beyond awesome , good day to relax and just enjoy the luxury. Loved the hotel you confirmed on the lake. All in all , just an amazing , amazing once in a lifetime trip but I need you to please pass on my and their HUGE THANKS to your tour operator for making it all possible.

Martin , you an absolute star, phew having you around sure makes my life as a Travel Agent so easy – THANKS

Till we chat again, be well , stay safe, much love

Terry

TRAVEL AGENT ; MICHELLE FOR “SMITH FAMILY ) 2018

Hi Martin

Yes he says he had an wonderful holiday and it all went like clockwork. He said that some of the guides were exceptional but he would write me an email so that I could pass it on to you.

With Best Regards – Michelle


TRAVEL AGENT – ERICA FOR CLIENTS “DU TOIT “

HI Martin

I just got back from him now they had an amazing time and they could not stop singing your praise!!

Thank you for a very well planned and stunning executed holiday

Would not go to anyone else ever!!

Regards

Erica


TRAVEL AGENT – SHELLEY FOR HERNDERSON MR & MRS

Hi Martin

I have chatted to Mrs Henderson so far. They had an outstanding time. They loved the Singular hotel in Santiago as well as the Matetic which she said was superb. They enjoyed the tour of Santiago and their guide on the trip was lovely. They really enjoyed the country and the people . (She is a dog lover and said even the stray dogs are fat which made her happy ) She raved about everything

Please thank your agents and thanks to you for finding the right hotels. It was perfect it seems

Kind regards

Shirley


MEXICO – CLIENT “CARINE” 2018

Dear Martin

I apologise for only writing now, time just ran away with me and it was only now when I emailed Terry about something else, that I remembered.

I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed my four days in Mexico City. I can kick myself that I did not cut off some time in the USA and then combined it with another destination in Mexico.

The hotel was wonderful, staff and people in general are friendly. The Aztec civilization , the pyramids, church of Guadulupe/pilgrims and Taxco were my highlights. I was there before the big celebration of the night of the dead, so all over one could see people preparing for the feast, skulls wherever you look. I did not manage to get into two churches Taxco and Puebla due to the earthquakes, but that did not deter from the overall experience

The tour operator and guides, driver were great. I asked after the first day to switch my guide, the old man could barely speak English, and Laura complied and I appreciated the attitude in which they catered for my needs.

I will hopefully return one day, but in the meantime am promoting your country to anyone who cares to listen

Feliz navidad!

Carine Puckrin


CLIENT 2017 – PENTZ X 2

Hi Shelley, Martin

A quick note of thanks to say what a fantastic holiday we had. It was certainly one of our best.

Condor in Peru were outstanding.

As with all things……..

My one transfer didn’t materialise

The Nazca lines were incredible, but we just felt that pilot flew too close to them which shortened the viewing time quite considerably. It was very evident that they are pilots and not tour operators!

Other than that, perfect and we will recommend you to friends

Thanks

Tim & Desi

CLIENT MR & MRS VAN ZYL – 2017

Jenny

Words cannot describe this wonderful holiday,ons of our best holidays ever.

Thank you so much for your perfect arrangements.

CONDOR Travel was excellent and very helpful.

Our accommodation both in Cusco and the town at the foot of Macu Picchu was great,luxury hotels with delicious food.

The hike itself was the best experience,Elvis our guide was the best, and the food was really good.

We would have like to stay another day or two!

Definitely going back to do the Inca Trail next time

Thank you so much,all your effort is much appreciated.

Kind regards

Hetsie van Zyl and also from Paul.


TRAVEL AGENT – CATHY FOR PROFF. HAMBIDGE (COLOMBIA 2017 )

Hi there

Thank you so much for all the hard work on meeting the needs of Prof Joan Hambidge. She can only sing your praises and loved every day in Colombia and will carry her memories gathered with her for a long time to come. Camilo your services have gone beyond the call of duty, so thank you for all the extra effort.

You will be hearing from us again when she does her next South American Adventure!!

Kind regards, Cathy

TRAVEL AGENT & CLIENT - INDIA 2016 - CLIENT: MRS NATES

She loved every minute of it except the heat!!

From Mrs Nates

JIt is actually absolutely amazing! The Oberoi is one of the most stunning places I stayed in with a view of the Taj Mahal - amazing! You must do this trip once.

CLIENT - CHILE 2015 - PROFESSOR JOAN HAMBIDGE

Best trip ever, I can now say that I have been to Chile!

For the new volume of poetry ... I love the energy captured!

jh

CLIENT - INDIA 2015 - BEN & TESSA DE COCK (5TH TRIP)

Dear Elke

To start at the bottom: The Marine Plaza did you proud. We had a beautiful room facing the sea in a most comfortable environment. Thank you for arranging it as well as our reception at the Imperial where we were able to move straight into our room on arrival. Asha must be able to pull a lot of powerful strings!

The trip was absolutely delightful and stimulating, opening up a new world to us. Gwalior was a joy, but even more so was Orchha (our favourite town at present) and Mandu (a wonderful discovery). All the arrangements went like clockwork, giving us the chance to enjoy that part of the world to the full.

Must be one of the most stimulating visits we have ever had to India. Would love to talk!

Warm Regards

Ben

TRAVEL AGENT - BRAZIL 2015 - CLIENT: FINLAYSON

Hi Martin,

I checked with the passenger on Monday and she replied to say it was good and she had an awesome experience.

Thanking you for your assistance with this booking, much appreciated …..will definitely keep you in mind for future bookings.

Kind regards.

CLIENT & AGENTS - ARGENTINA 2015 - MRS KUNSTLER

Hi Martin,

I just wanted to let you see some of Denise Kunstler’s feedback so far… she’s having a wonderful time.

Thank you very much for arranging a fantastic itinerary for her.

Best Regards, Teresa

Thanks so much - probably one of my senior moments!

4 bus rides, 3 boat trips and 10 hours later I am in Puerto Varas. It was an incredible way to get here and something I would put on a bucket list. Loved it.

Everything has been unbelievable in service and organization - my thanks to you and your contacts here. They are really nice people.

Denise

CLIENTS - PERU 2015 - MR & MRS MEYER

Hi Martin

We are back home after a fabulous holiday!! We only got home on Sunday afternoon as the flight from Cusco on Friday was cancelled, so all our connecting flights had to be rebooked. That was the only real hiccup and for that we are grateful.

Thank you so much for planning such a perfect time. We were lucky to see so much over the two weeks (I was especially excited to see a sloth in the jungle!) and all the destinations were real highlights. Everything was great: the food, the people, all the tours, the hotels (especially the Inkaterra upgrades - such a treat!! :) ) For me, the best was knowing it was all taken care of and I could just relax knowing the bus/hotel/tour was all ready and waiting for us.

Of course the cherry on the top was the Inca Trail. It was tough but very enjoyable. We were both lucky that the altitude had no ill effects, other than feeling out of breath on the climb on Day 2. We only had two other people in our group so we had a lovely 4 days getting to know them and the guide really well and we could learn a lot, spend time at all the ruins and ask lots of questions. It rained for half the time (which we were well prepared for) but we were lucky that Machu Picchu was on show for us on Wednesday and we got lovely views from the sun gate and as we walked closer and during the tour (see the photo attached). What an amazing special place!

We are so sad it's over, especially as we have been planning it for so long and now all of a sudden we were back to work today. Hopefully South America is a place we can explore more sometime in the nearish future!

I have a package for you for the socks from Marlene. Let me know when it would be a convenient time to drop it off with you.

Muchas gracias!

Have a lovely week.

Kind regards

Karen and Jeremy

CLIENT & TRAVEL AGENT - ECUADOR 2015 - CLIENT : MR HANSEN

Dear Martin

Please see the brief feedback I got—thanks so much for the assistance and bookings

Lynn,

Thanks for the note.

The honeymoon was sensational. Silver Seas was epic. Amazon just stunning. Thanks so much for organising such a wonderful honeymoon. Jess loved it.

Lynn Fraser - Topwin Tours

CLIENTS - INDIA 2014 - MRS NADINE BRINK

Hallo Elke, we are back home safe and sound, we had a lovely trip and was very well looked after by everyone during our stay in India. We really enjoyed our driver Mr Singh, what a kind person !

We enjoyed all the hotels (especially the Leela's!) but the place in Ranakpur was not good, it was very noisy (nothing to absorb sound) and no garden or outside area to sit and relax. We had dinner in the hotel next door , cant remember the name but it is a Heritage hotel which was very nice with beautiful garden.

I am going to make a photobook (hundreds of photos!) and hope to see you soon ( in the new year) to show it to you .

Thank you very much for your input in our trip, we really enjoyed it and found Rjastan fascinating.

Kind regards

Nadine

TRAVEL AGETN & CLIENT - PERU 2014 - CLIENT : REBELOS X 2

Hi Martin

The Rebelos have returned home and had the most amazing trip and wish to thank you for your all you help.

Thanks again for organizing the travel - it was a memorable trip for us.

A BIG thank you from me also - I will certainly approach you as and when I receive further requests.

With best wishes

Peter

CLIENT - PERU 2014 - MR HP NETH

Hello Martin,

Yeah, we had a wonderful time in Peru, it was all and more than we expected.

The memories are plentiful and the Inca Trail was fantastic (with the exemption of the ablution blocks in camp 2 & 3) The hiking was not as tough as we had expected and the scenery was just magnificent!

The Inkaterra Hotel was by far the best choice, we should have stayed another night there. We did not meet the Strubel’s.

The punctuality of the drivers and all tour operators was incredible, one of the best experiences we have had for many years.

The tour guides were very informative and always a pleasure to talk too.

The choice of Hotels was very good.

Arequipa is beautiful Town, great architecture with nice restaurants and shops.

Colca Canyon and Puno are worthwhile to see, Titicaca lake and the floating islands are special.

The Bus ride from Puno to Cusco was worthwhile, the various stops on the way with the explanation of the tour guide was great.

There is so much to do and see in and around Cusco that we could have spent easily another day.

We like to thank you for arranging such a wonderful trip!!!

With best regards

Hans-Peter & Colleen

CLIENT & TRAVEL AGENT - MEXICO 2014 - PILGRIMAGE REVEREND C. SLATTER

Der Martin,

Rev Christopher Slaters had a good time. He wrote:

Dear Judy,

It was indeed a memorable experience. Everything went very well. Thank you so much for the professional arrangements. I am enjoying a few days of rest before I return to parish work.

Best wishes,

Christopher

I am sure when he has recovered from his journey and caught up with his work, he will get bac kto me with his ideas regarding a pilgrimage to Mexico.

Please thank your agents for looking after him so well.

God Bless

Judy

VALLEY VIEW TRAVEL

CLIENT USA - SOUTH AFRICA 2014 - WENDY KOUT (SHORT VERSION)

SOUTH AFRICA NOTES

Martin is the most lovely person and consummate professional who could possibly greet you after an almost 30 hour travel day. He stayed with us through check in to assure we were okay.

CAPE TOWN - The One and Only deserves its name. Great location, casual elegance, enormous rooms (316 had a spectacular view of Table Mountain), generous and delicious breakfast buffet, fun lobby bar, hotel shuttle (that took us to and fro Table Mountain cable car) and Chris Noone, the best concierge on any continent.

Remember what I said about Martin. Well, ditto for Penny (Guide). Lovely, learned passionate about South Africa, she provided guide tours of exactly what we were interested in and made suggestions for other explorations as well.

For Jewish travellers, like me, the Jewish Museum and adjacent Orthodox Temple with guided tour were worth seeing.

Driving through the Muslim Bo-punk neighbourhood is a colourful must!

The drive to the winelands with Penny was a total delight. Loved the vista, wine tasting and tour at Ernie Els Winery. A perfect introduction to this next part of our journey. Enjoyed another spectacular vista at lunch on the patio at Graff.

Penny suggested if we wanted to take the time, to take the longer drive to Grootbos via the coastal route via False Bay… and we are so glad we did! It was an opportunity to see more of the beautiful country and many animal sightings along the way. Penny took us to Betty’s Bay were we enjoyed seeing the penguin colony. We stopped in Hermanus for delicious gelato and whale watching. We also spotted baboons, mongoose, wild horses in a marsh and helped rescue a tortoise who was trying to cross the busy road.

Grootbos... a wonderful spot to relax and be. Spectacular view, terrific lodging and food. We relaxed and read on our private plunge pool patio with birds singing. Our highlight was the Flora Safari jeep tour with Jo. We learned and laughed and have a better appreciation of the inter-connectedness of nature. This was a perfect spot for us, but I think urban animals may be a bit restless there. We had a very early a.m. shuttle back to Cape Town International... then flew to...


TRAVEL AGENT - BRAZIL 2014 - SUE ELPHINSTONE

WITH CLIENTS COMMENTS

Hello there Martin,

Thank-you for the call a brief while ago.

Herewith below is the mail I received from Vanessa Boyes earlier today.

Thank-you very much for all your wonderful assistance with this booking.

I hope to be in touch again soon.

Sue

CLIENT: VANESSA BOYES
Hi Sue,

Just to let you know, we are back and had a fabulous trip.

Everything was great. The weather was super and so were the hotels. Marcelo, our tour operator really helped us with restaurants, sightseeing etc. It would've been a bit complicated without him.

Thanks again for all your help.
Many thanks,
Vanessa

CLIENT - INDIA 2014 - LIZ DUNSTAN

Hi Elke

I feel terrible that I have not contacted you ! With all these holidays in between, things have just been complicated. Every time I have a gap, its after hours or weekends. I will call you this week. I am still on a high from India, I loved it so much. I have just said to my husband how I can’t wait to go back !

My husband loved it just as much. He was not involved with all the planning, so he was not sure what he was in for.....but loved it. So great that we felt the same about it, as I can understand how it would just not be everyone’s cup of tea !

Looking forward to chatting !!

Kind regards

Liz

TRAVEL AGENT - CLIENT TO ANNA 2014 (SHORT VERSION)

Monica Amoils

Dear Anna

I hope you and your family are well and the new year has been treating you well.
I'm sorry it has taken me so long to give you feedback but the beginning of this year has been somewhat hectic.
Our trip was amazing and we all enjoyed it tremendously.

The hotel Das Cataratas is a dream place to stay and the time I chose over Xmas was perfect as the park was relatively quiet And that made the day trips so much more pleasant.
Please convey to Martin my sincere thanks and appreciation. My advice is that if you stay on the brazilian side it is worth paying the guide to take you onto the argentinian side and show it to you. Also if you land on the argentinian side and need to go across that is also worth the employment of the guide and transfer. To visit the brazilian side if you are staying there it is simply a matter of arranging at the hotel, you don't need a guide.
Warm regards
Monica

India - Client's Comment on recent trip 2013;

Client: Mr & Mrs Ben de Kock

Dear Elke

Just to say thank you for your sterling help with our latest trip which turned out to be a sheer delight, ending with a heart-warming lunch with Frank and Asha. With every visit we discover new jewels in the Indian crown - the stunning Jain temples at Mount Abu, the famous Karla cave temple south of Mumbai. But I think the best for Tessa were the four days we spent with Karin and her husband, Jadu. I also delighted in seeing them, but will always hanker after that wonderful landscape in which the Trident hotel in Udaipur is located.

I couldn't resist the temptation while in a pharmacy in Mumbai to get you two tubes of your favourite Ayurvedic toothpaste - it is not a present, simply to say we were thinking about you!

Next year we're looking at Iran despite Tessa's misgivings. I would so love to get to Persepolis and see that wonderful staircase of supplicants!

Warmest regards
Ben de Kock

India - Client's Comment on recent trip 2013;

Client: Jillian Payne

Dear Elke

I'm sending you a few pictures of hotels in India by way of feedback.

We enjoyed the Marine Plaza, friendly staff, good position. Rooms a bit bland and brown but I think that is the case with millions of hotels all over the world.

The public rooms were all enormous and ornate, silver plated carved furniture etc but rather lifeless with no one in them. The roof top is spectacular with wonderful views of the lake, lovely gazebos and pretty Indian umbrellas. The restaurant on the rooftop somehow fell a bit short as the doors do not open up to the terrace which would have been so nice. It felt a bit closed in.

The staff were very friendly and attentive. The main problem with the Chunda Palace is its position. A bit far from the lake and a rather scruffy approach getting there.

We were only at the Rambanka Hotel (Jodhpur) for a short time but we found it very bland. The room was in a good position on the ground floor facing a lovely big garden, but the room itself was completely bland with no colour or adornment of any kind. Not a single picture and everything in navy blue and brown. So un-Indian which is a shame. To me India is all about colour and being exotic. The staff were not that friendly and all in all it was un-memorable. There was a very nice man in the tiny hotel bookshop who I struck up a conversation with and he even invited us over to meet his wife, sadly there was no time.

The Diggi Palace in Jaipur we enjoyed a lot because it is an authentic Haveli hotel run by the same family for ages. It has a very big leafy garden and we loved sitting under the trees, a welcome oasis for having a beer after a hard morning sightseeing. The building is huge and rambling with lots of interesting painted courtyards and flower strewn terraces.

The bedroom was big and quite plain and un-decorated but charming. We met the owner while walking in the gardens who was very friendly to us . The staff were all charming too.

Of course the Imperial in New Delhi needs no description. Too fabulous for words.

All in all we had very good guides, particularly in Mr Singh in Udaipur and Mr Singh in Jodhpur. And our driver from Rajastan Tours Mr Kaka (I think that's his nickname, I think his real name is also mr Singh! ) who we had all the way from Udaipur to Agra was fantastic. Always there when we needed him, a very skillful driver. On occasions when we had no guide he took over that role and he speaks very good English.

This was certainly the most memorable holiday of my life. I was bowled over by India, by the energy and the colour, the people, the sights and sounds and not to mention the shopping. For a material girl like me I was in paradise.

Lots of love
Jillian

SOUTH AMERICA - VIP CLIENT 2013

TRAVEL AGENT: LOUISE TRAVEL SOLUTIONS

Dear Martin,

We are back this morning from one of the best travel experiences we have ever had.
Thank you for guiding us to such a special series of places and for your excellent organization.
I can give you an extensive list of all the enjoyable experiences we had but let me just touch on some of the highlights:
  • Starting at the beginning, the Iguazu falls and especially Das Cataratas hotel were spectacular notes to get the whole trip started. Das Cataratas is so beautiful and the catering was outstanding. The falls and surroundings were magic. We also went to the bird park and enjoyed that very much too.

  • It was my birthday when we woke up on the first morning in Santiago, and Emma had arranged a cake for me which was wheeled into our room at the Grand Hyatt at seven o clock that morning, candles and all! They remembered and did a second round for us at dinner that evening. Emma, who is very fussy about these things, says the steak lunch we had in the nearby shopping centre was one of the three best of her life.

  • The various boat and bus connections for the trip over the Andes were an adventure that we will always remember. Unbelievable scenery in and around Puerto Varas and from the Cumbres Hotel. We met several interesting people along the way and had some wonderful conversations.

  • But the knockout came at the Llao Llao. We were dazzled already by its location and setting, and then they very charmingly up-graded us to a suite in the outstanding new wing. We were like kids. Squealing at all the luxury and high style. Gaping at the views from every window and revelling in the whole experience of such a magnificent establishment and national monument.

  • We then joined our friends in Buenos Aires at the distinguished Alvear Palace and for a few days moved around in the sweaty heat and heavy humidity on several guided tours. We particularly enjoyed the Recoleta Cemetery. We were taken to each of the five major neighbourhoods of BA and given the history, and background. Then the highlight was the tango show which we enjoyed so much that we bought the DVD.

  • Our time in Bariloche and at the Peuma Hue which our other agent had chosen were less enjoyable. Not much to do for four days on an estancia and the place, despite accolades in TripAdvisor was not well organized.

  • El Calefate was much more enjoyable. We stayed at Los Sauces which was excellent all round and even walked right past the president Christina Kirchner who owns the resort, while she was out for a walk one evening and has a house on the property, without knowing that it was her until one of the staff informed us. The town of El Calefate is a more enjoyable experience and the climax was our visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier. Vast and unbelievably blue.

  • Then to Ushuaia were we stayed at Los Cauquenes a nice newish hotel right on the Beagle Channel. We the said good-bye to our friends who set off to Antartica, and we went on to Puerto Natales

  • More highlights! The Remota Hotel is the kind of place we would never have chosen, but its people and most inspiring green vision worked very well for us. And the Torres del Paine! With all the lupins along the road and a picnic arranged by the hotel in the park while we were looking, gob-smacked, at the spectacular mountains and waterfalls.

  • And then of course the Skorpios III. For three wonderful days in a comfortable double-bed cabin, a grand New Year�s Eve party and top-class food at every mealtime. We were at a table with eight other people and enjoyed the company so much that we have become friends!

  • Emma says Puerto Natale has a special place in her heart because the people are so down to earth and un-pretentious but sincere. On our final evening while we were booked into the Cost Australis, which also was a pleasant surprise we visited and had dinner at The Singular. This was recommended by one of the guests on the boat and we were totally dazzled by this erstwhile meat-packing plant that has been converted into a spectacular modern architectural gem. We celebrated with the final and probably the best meal of this already outstanding trip. A shoulder of Patagonian lamb just for the two of us, roasted to perfection and presented with a honey-based dressing that can bring tears to your eyes!

  • And the last day again at the Alvear. At each destination we were met and picked up on time, with an English speaking guide, all luggage taken care of, shepherded into hotels and air terminals in and out of fourteen flights. Not a single hitch anywhere.

Thank you Martin for the good documentation before we left, and for the care you took in pulling this together so well.

And finally our best wishes for the New Year.
Best Regards,
Johann

SOUTH AMERICA - TRAVEL AGENT 2013

TRAVEL AGENT: ANNE TRAVEL SOLUTIONS
CLIENT : REDELINGHUYS


Hi Martin - compliments of the season to you.

Just thought I should reply to your email as Louise is still curently on leave and will only be back in office on Monday. However, in her absence am monitoring and checking her emails just in case and could not help myself reading the feed back from you and MR R. Louise will be very pleased to hear that all went well on both side.

If I could also just take the liberty of telling you that she was very impressed and happy to hear from you on the updating of arrangements as her clients trip progressed. Very professional - you do not find that kind of service today.

I hope that I too will one day in the near future, have the pleasure of having you arrange a wonderful trip for me and my clients - not sure who but hopefully I too will find clients who are not afraid to spend their money on special travels.

Kind regards
Anne for Louise

SOUTH AMERICA - TRAVEL AGENT 2013

TRAVEL AGENT: CATHY (SUREGILTEDGE TRAVEL)
CLIENT : MEYER


Hi Martin,

Have gone through the itinerary and vouchers and all looks great.

Thank you so much for all the additional detail and your expert knowledge !

Kind regards,
Cathy

SOUTH AMERICA - TRAVEL AGENT 2013

TRAVEL AGENT: LOUISE TRAVEL SOLUTIONS
CLIENT : REDELINGHUYS


Hi it has been such a pleasure to deal with you and a special thank you - if i went through the *run of the mill* tour operators i would get a junior who has probably never been on an aeroplane let alone have any knowledge of South America

regards
louise

SOUTH AMERICA - CLIENT TO TRAVEL AGENT 2013

TRAVEL AGENT: JULIE

Hi Martin

A very happy client .. see below

Many thanks
Enjoy the public holiday tomorrow :)

CLIENT : OXFORD PRESS INCENTIVE 2013

Hi Julie,

Please send my thanks to Martin � the professionalism and servicing provided by Nueve group on the Peru side were exceptional!

Regards
Arthur Bell

SOUTH AMERICA - CLIENT TO TRAVEL AGENT 2013

TRAVEL AGENT: SURIA
CLIENT : OXFORD PRESS INCENTIVE 2013


Hi Suria

I believe the group had a really fantastic time. All arrangements went according to plan.

Thank you for all the planning and assistance in making this a memorable trip for our Exec.

All best wishes
Greshna

SOUTH AMERICA - TRAVEL AGENT 2013

TRAVEL AGENT: JANE

Hi there

I trust you are well. We heard from Mr Greenway and they had a fabulous time. Loved the hotels/tours etc. No complaints at all. Loved all of it and can�t wait to go back .

Thank you so much for all your effort and recommendations on hotels and tours.

Jane Van Der Merwe
XL Michelles Travel

SOUTH AMERICA - CLIENTS 2013

MR & MRS HOST ( 3 TRIP VIA NADINE GEORGE HWT)

Hi Martin

We would like to take this opportunity, firstly to say thank you and secondly to congratulate you on your ability to arrange the trip from SA.

As you are aware this was our 3rd trip to S.America Plus/minus 50 flights across the width and breadth of S.America, never once were your agents late,unpleasant, always happy and knowledgeable.HIGH LIGHTS of all the trips Easter Island, Machu Pichu, Chilean Atacama desert, Eshuaia, EL Galafata and its Glaciers, Rio and its beaches, Peru, its people and the history including Lake Titicaca and hundreds more. Thanking you and you team

Kind regards
Roland & Faye Host

SOUTH AMERICA - TRAVEL AGENT 2013

TRAVEL AGENT: ANNA DELLO RUSSO - SURE GULLIVERS 2013
FAMILY AMOILS


Received

As usual so professional and your suggestions most welcoming.

Thank you Martin!

SOUTH AMERICA - TRAVEL AGENT 2013

Hi Martin

You are truly the one and only to book with to S America :)

I have passed in for onto Bridget and see what she says

Thanks !!!!
Yvonne

SOUTH AMERICA 2012 DECEMBER - MR & MR KOOVERJEE X 3 SMIT - PERU

Hi Martin

All the best for 2013.

My clients had the best time ever and can only say good things about the supplier you use in South America.

Many thanks for the excellent service .

Regards
Janet Scott
VIP Travel Consultant

SOUTH AFRICA 2012 DECEMBER - FAMILY WYSS

Dear Martin

Thanks for your note below.

Yes, we had a great time in South Africa again and enjoyed the Peninsula Tours led by Alec Stevenson very much. Everything worked well and we spent a great day on this tour. Please send him also our regards.

All the best for 2013 and kind regards,
Hans

SOUTH AMERICA 2012 OCTOBER - MR & MR SMIT - BRAZIL & ARGENTINA

Hi Martin

Trust you are having a wonderful holiday and wishing you a Happy Xmas and the best for 2013!

Just to let you know my Smit gentlemen are safely back and said they had a wonderful trip- very much enjoyed and stated everything was very well organised - no problems.

Thank you very much for all the arrangements speak to you in the new year.

Regards
Emme van der Walt
Travel Specialist
Harvey World Travel

SOUTH AMERICA 2012 OCTOBER - MR & MRS WALSH ARGENTINA/CHILE/PERU - AGENT

Dear Martin

They had a wonderful time and everything went well, just that one incident , but they are over it .

Thanks for your help

Luv Shelley x

SOUTH AMERICA 2012 JULY - MR & MRS VAN DER MERWE - BRASIL & PERU / AGENT

Hi Martin

Herewith a rely form mr Van Der Merwe(unfortunately in Afrikaans!!)

Basically he says everything was great and he had a ball!!!

Tks for all your input and follow up for making this tour so enjoyable

Regards
Sheila

SOUTH AMERICA 2012 JULY - GROUP PILGRIMAGE 32 PAX / AGENT

Dear Martin,

I have started receiving telephone calls from some very happy pilgrims. Some took the trouble to send an email which I am forwarding to you.

Thank you and Leni and all at Ketzaltour for a job well done.

We wish your companies a long and profitable future.

God Bless
Judy
Valley View Travel

SOUTH AMERICA 2012 JULY - FAMILY VAN ROYEN/ AGENT

Hi Martin,

Deon and family had a wonderful time.

He said the Buzios hotel was fine but very basic and not in the best part of town but they went to the other better beaches. Your guy was great that took them to Buzios

Iguassu was super but last 2 days it rained and Sunday when they left,it was the most beautiful day. The hotel staff looked after them and a lady from Angola took them around.

Thanks so much and sorry it was such a difficult booking. I really appreciated your patience.

Kind Regards,
Lynn

SOUTH AMERICA 2012 MAY - MR & MRS MALAN

Hi there to you both, my Galapagos and Machu Picchu operators, this is the skype message I just got from the Malans:

Hello there ,

Neil Malan: Hello there, This trip to Ecuador and Peru has been a highlight in our lives .....everything has gone like clockwork and we have been treated like royalty. Our hotels have and are of the very best and worth every penny......the rooms cabins etc a real showpiece ..all the people and private guides a shear delight we couldn't have done better. We have been amazed at the high standards of the hotels and staff in spite of the abject poverty around us .... Have done us proud and should take at least 60 per cent of the credit. Very well done and thank you.

Today we leave Machu Picche to return to Cusco where the allitude is 12,000 ft above sea level which is almost double the height of Jhbg. So far we have managed just a bit breathless and a slight headache otherwise still able to have wine wine wine how's that for oldies. Machu Picchu is an absolute on your bucket list. It's really an unbelievable experience so much so that when I went through the main gate I just sobbed. It's not for the aged or incapacitated it shoulld really be done when one is young...we are very proud of ourselves as it is more than a challenge. Age does let you down . We spent the first day on the Urban side which the living worshipping craft etc then the other side the agricultural slopes and terraces......many many uneven steps in fact all steps climbing up and down with shear drops on most sides but worth it.

Today after 2 days of climbing we are rather stiff. The Hiram Bingham train was magic again royal treatment...like the Blue Train everything included three course meal a drinks as well.. Just building up your reason to save the pennies and do this before you are 40 it's a must(just read the first sent bit of this letter.. The word before 'have done' was YOU) We are sitting here in Machu Picchu hotel waiting for our train this afternoon having wine of course..is the Pope a Catholic...in the pouring rain under a reeded umbrella next to the pool. We know that this is an expensive tour but would highly recommend to be done tis way. Be back in the real world next week will be in touch. Love Spoilt Malan

Hope this is a high note to end your week on xxxx

Thanks so much and sorry it was such a difficult booking. I really appreciated your patience.

Kind Regards,
Bronwyn Protheroe
B THERE TRAVEL

SOUTH AMERICA 2012 JULY - FAMILY VAN ROYEN/ AGENT

Dear Martin,

They just told me that it was very nice and well organized, especially the Ranch.

Kind regards
Mit freundlichen Gruessen
Astrid Morhart
The Travel Team

SOUTH AMERICA - MR & MRS BONNER ( AGENT) 2012

Hi Martin

I have just come back from leave.

I would like to say THANK YOU sooo much for the professional booking from you and your team abroad

They absolutely loved every minute of the trip. They would like to say a big thank you to Soli who was outstanding with all the travel arrangements.

All went as per scheduled with no problems .

Janet is already made a booking form our office with you Will certainly from our office give you more business

Thank you
Rita

SOUTH AMERICA - MRS KHOBANE X 3 (AGENT) 2011

Hi Martin

The Khobane family loved their trip, and all went well

Thanks again, will certainly give you further bookings

Happy 2012

Thanks Heather

SOUTH AMERICA - GROUP MOLLER X 6 (AGENT) 2011

Good Morning martin,

My clients are back and where very happy with your/our arrangements we did.. Thanks again also from my side for your help.

Thanks for your excellent help.

Kind regards
Kirsten Ammon

SOUTH AMERICA - MR & MRS ANIC 2011 (AGENT)

HI Martin

I called her a few days ago and spoke to the daughter and they said all worked out beautifully and that all the arrangements were lovely. She said we would get together soon and she would show me photos etc but only once they get back from Mauritius.

Thanks for your follow up.

Katia

SOUTH AFRICA - MR & MRS BUTTLER (USA) 2011

They have indeed and in fact are off again already to their home in the Rocky Mountains of Telluride, Colorado for a few days. They had an absolutely fantastic time and again I can�t thank you enough for all of your help. I hope someday I have the pleasure of meeting you in person in your wonderful city. Take care.

Janet

SOUTH AMERICA - MR & MRS PATERSON TO NICKY (AGENT) 2011

Dear Nicky,

Many, many thanks for putting together the wonderful 'world' trip. It was quite amazing, as can be expected, but what was really great was that it was so well organised and everything ran so smoothly.

We probably expected everything to be fine in Australia, New Zealand and Europe. I was concerned about taking Marie to the South American countries because of previous dubious experiences there (not with ladies). However, Chile, Peru and Argentina were unbelievably well organised. We were met at every airport by dynamic tour guides, taken to our hotels, warned about any problems we could encounter, given a strict itinerary (which was always followed very closely) and generally pampered. Excellent service all round. The visits to Machupichu, Cusco and Lake Titicaca were wonderfully well organised. The 10 hour train trip from Cusco to Lake Titicaca is something you cannot miss, incredible service. The highlight of the trip was the Tango evening in Buenos Aires. What an amazing evening!!! When older people are travelling in South America get someone to organise it for you, it works.

SOUTH AMERICA - MR and MRS FAIRWEATHER (VIP) MARCH 2011

Travel Agent : Hi Martin,

I spoke to Mr Fairweather yesterday, and have been wanting to email you. They had a wonderful trip, loved Argentina, and could not fault anything. They say the arrangements were excellent. Thank you for taking such good care of them. The highlight for them was Iberas (very good young guide), and they equally enjoyed the Estancia. The accommodation was good in Buenos Aires, and they said that probably next time they'd opt for a bed and breakfast type of establishment. Probably because they like to interact with the local people, and enjoy talking and learning foreign languages. I'm sure they will return to Argentina one day. Thank you once again. I really appreciate your good service and professionalism.

Regards,
Jenny : The Travel Chain, George

SOUTH AMERICA - MR & MRS STEIN (VIP) FEBRUARY 2011

Travel Agent : Hello Martin

I wish I had one million clients travelling to South America � I would send them all your way . Thank you so much for this wonderful service � you make if easy to keep clients happy � great for repeat business.

Kind regards,
Rhona Ullman
African Spirit / E-Travel

SOUTH AMERICA - MR & MRS STEIN (VIP) FEBRUARY 2011

Travel Agent : Hello Martin

I wish I had one million clients travelling to South America � I would send them all your way . Thank you so much for this wonderful service � you make if easy to keep clients happy � great for repeat business.

Kind regards,
Rhona Ullman
African Spirit / E-Travel

Clients :
Dear Martin

We had a great trip and thank you very much for your efficiency in arranging it. If anything, it was too short and I think that it needs to be at least 10 days in Peru to do justice to the country, even to a limited extent and we hope to visit the country again one day.. My wife will probably also phone you with her thanks and comments.

Regards
Michael

SOUTH AMERICA - MR and MRS STOFBERG (VIP) FEBRUARY 2011

Hi Militza

He only said that it was very beautiful. Their suite at Llao Llao in Bariloche was fantastic, with a great view. The studio room at Iguazu was also good, not quite the same standard as Llao Llao.
Will ask him about the transfers, whether it all worked out. I think both Rita and Cobus enjoyed the excursions, he didn't have time to tell me about any details...
Thanks for arranging it all with the agent

Claudia

SOUTH AMERICA - MR and MRS VANDERLINDE FEBRUARY 2011

Dear Martin,

Just to let you know Louis Vanderlinde phoned yesterday to express his pleasure with the trip you booked. He says they had a wonderful time and everything was great. Hope he phones you.

Regards
Trish Waghorn Independent Consultant
R and M Global Travel

SOUTH AMERICA - MRS LYNCH (VIP) JANUARY 2011

Dear Martin,

Mrs Lynch flying as we speak to Buenos Aires. I know your agents are going to give her a "wow" time, Thank you for your help in sorting out the trip, transfers etc, it is a pleasure dealing with you.

Best regards
Ros

SOUTH AMERICA - MR and MRS DYCE DECEMBER 2010

Hi Martin

All went very well thank you for all your arrangements spot on.
Until next time!

Regards
Jane
KNYSNA TRAVEL

SOUTH AMERICA - TRAVEL AGENT 2010

THANKS MARTIN THE CLIENTS: HOSTS HAD A FANTASTIC HOLIDAY
Kind regards,

Nadine Smal
Harvey World Travel
111 York Street
PO Box 1594
Docex 7
George

SOUTH AMERICA - GOLF GROUP - ARGENTINA 2010

Good Afternoon Martin,
Thanks for the note,
We really enjoyed the trip but the cost to my liver was heavy. The Quilmes Crystal is a great beer. 4 of the courses were very good and Los Penquinos average, although that was where I had my best score. Eduardo was extremely helpful and always good for a laugh, a very nice guy. We also went to a Copa Libatadores football game, a good experience. We thrashed the rugby boys actually, but they want a return match when they come on tour. It would have been nice to see more than just the city but I realize it was a timing constraint. We must stay in touch for when Eduardo visits and get together. Thanks for the organization of the tour and keep well

Kind regards,
Guy

SOUTH AMERICA - CLIENTS ARGENTINA & CHILE 2010

Hi Martin

We did indeed have a great trip. Chile is beautiful! We most enjoyed the Explora resort and Puerto Varas. Buenos Aires is also really nice - we should have stayed there longer! Santiago wasn't as nice but still fine.

We also had some bad luck with our flights back as the flight from Santiago to Buenos Aires was moved three hours later and we had to make another plan because we would have otherwise missed our SAA flight. It was a mission to get us on to another plane earlier that day because we'd booked the flights in SAA so our travel guides there couldn't do the changes. Also think we should have tried Malaysian airlines over SAA. Thanks for all your help!

SOUTH AMERICA - VIP CLIENTS - ARGENTINA - CHILE & PERU 2010

Dear Martin

Thank you for the splendid arrangements. We had a fantastic trip and really had no trouble at all. It all went like clockwork.

The various operators got all the important things correct. The only minor issues were LAN unable to seat us together on the Buenos Aires - Santiago flight and the one guide giving me the wrong information regarding Huayna Picchu walk � so I ended up unable to go.

I will be writing a travel feature story on the Easter Island trip for the Mail & Guardian and will mention your agency. It doesn�t have to be exact, but perhaps you can add and fill in the blanks in this end note for the article with estimated amounts:

EASTER ISLAND
There is a wide range of accommodation available on the island including camp sites and homestays.
A four day trip will cost between _______ (in budget accommodation) up to _______ (in a luxury resort). The flight from Santiago, Chile, is about 5 hours, and the return fare approximately _______.
Meersman�s trip was arranged by local operator LED Tours, who specialise in South America.
Tel: _______E-mail: _______

Thank you for everything.
Regards,
Brent

SOUTH AMERICA - CLIENTS - ARGENTINA & PERU 2009

Hello Martin

I am sorry that I only come back now to give you some input of our trip to Peru but in the meantime we have also been to the Netherlands unexpectedly. The trip was very, very special but gruelling.....the altitude was something to get used to as we went as high as 6000 meters and without chewing coco leaves and drinking coco tea I don't know how we would have managed !!!

Everything was very well organised, the flights, good seats, transfers, train trip, guides as well as all the hotels. The hotels were all very comfortable, clean and the breakfasts good. The only problem we had was that as it it is a prebooked and paid hotel room, one gets the most nosiest rooms available, We had that at Elevage in Buenos Aires, Cusco and in Lima. After bitterly complaining we got quiet rooms. I am writing this only for your information.

I am enclosing a picture of myself and my husband taken in Arequipa, a beautiful colonial town which we enjoyed very much, everywhere we went the weather was beautiful even at Macho Picho. I think this trip will linger on for a long time and I managed to take beautiful pictures. The high lights of our trip were Macho Picho, Colca canyons where we saw 15 condors and the Baracas islands off the coast which was spectacular with all its thousands of birds.

I want to thank you again for putting such a wonderful trip together it was really worthwhile .....

With kind regards
Tania van Nes

SOUTH AMERICA 2008 - CLIENTS ARGENTINA 2008

Dear Martin

Apologies for not getting back to you earlier.
Please accept a VERY BIG THANK YOU for the awesome trip that you organised for us! You were a miracle worker & we thank you from the bottom of our hearts! Everyone we dealt with via you was amazing!!! You changed our experience & made it AWESOME!!!!!Without you we would never have enjoyed Argentina as much as we did!

Thank you for the special soul that you are & for touching our lives with the gift of you.

Kind regards & thanks
Elena & Chris

SOUTH AMERICA 2008 - PERU - AGENT FOR VIP CLIENTS (IRELAND)

AGENT: Thanks Martin.. apparently the Coulter Family are having the most awesome time so really excited to chat to them tomorrow and will give u feedback tks leeann.

CLIENTS: Hi Leeann

Trip was great��..so glad we didn�t cancel the Peru bit as it was outstanding. The only flight drama was the one that started here with the delayed flight�.everything else was pretty smooth. Guayaqil is definitely not a tourist destination. but for the wedding we were there far too long�but the wedding was great. Galapagos trip was fun as we were with all family and the bird and sea life is amazing but we were definitely not high end tourists there either�. The way to do it is definitely on a nice comfy boat�not a two and half star hotel! But we were not organizing that one! So as we left for Peru one of the boys asked if we had organized this part of the trip and was delighted as he realized the accommodation was about to improve! Our overnight in Lima was easy, arrival in Cusco no problem. We managed to offload some bags here and then set off straight away for the Sacred Valley�. I wish we had had the time to stay another night in the Urubamba Villas in Inkaterra as they were fabulous�so comfy and pretty�probably our favourite place. The archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley were so much better than we were expecting as well � really they were outstanding. The children loved all of this and really got into the whole place. The train ride to Machu Picchu is dramatic and then MP itself is just without comparison�we were all completely blown away. The Sanctuary lodge was also excellent� really good restaurant and superb staff. In fact most places we were in the staff were very friendly and helpful. I can�t tell you how great the whole meet and greet thing was and having buses take us everywhere�. No stressing about maps and driving etc! Sao Paulo was better than we expected�our guide for Wednesday tried to make it all interesting but basically we were happy to go to a few shops� and its expensive in Brasil.

The only hotel where we had a problem was the Eco Inn in Cusco�our own problem really but we only took hand luggage up to MP and sent the last two bags back to the hotel with the driver�but we forgot to lock them and unfortunately had a phone and speakers and a belt taken out.

So thanks for all the help �please thank Martin as we really enjoyed it all and would love to go back for more!

SOUTH AMERICA 2008 - MEXICO - AGENT/CLIENTS

Hi Martin

Mrs Webb is still overseas � but thought I would send you the email received today � I am so excited to receive this email as was a bit nervous about this booking as She was so specific as to what she wanted etc.

What a STAR!!! Thanks so much. These were things I didn`t think about until I had time to look at part 2 of the arrangements. I cannot telll you how wonderful Mexico has been. The people are amazing and the tour decisions were SPOT on. I couldn`t have wanted better service. Chat to you when I get back. For now it will only be queries and problems (on a limited email time) but if you hear nothing just know it`s a dream come true Go well
Lyn

Have a great day � and thank you for making my customers holiday so fantastic.

Kind Regards
LYNETTE DAY
RENNIES (PLZ)

SOUTH AMERICA 2008 - CLIENTS

Dear Martin

We had a great trip. Thanks for your organization.
Trust all is well with you.

Best Regards
David Guild

SOUTH AFRICA 2008 - AGENT

Martin & Marcos,

The delegates had only good things to say about your service and your company.
We will have another group to go in 2009 and we will definitely hire your company again.

Best Regards
DEBRA
Plus Travel

SOUTH AMERICA 2008 - VIP CLIENTS - 2 MONTH TRIP!!

Hi Martin

All going well and your Agents in Lima and Cusco, and the accommodation, have all been great. Reserva Amazona was a great experience but the mozzies didn�t like us South Africans!
We had been given various remedies for handling the altitude but the one recommended by most, including the locals, was to rest for two hours on getting there and then not to eat much, drink lots of water, drink coco tea, and lay off meats and vegies for the first day. Ruben your agent was great.
We are still enjoying the magic of Machu Picchu - but more about that later.

Robyn and Shirwell


Hi Martin

Just to let you know that we have found another paradise - the Explora Case Mike Rapu Lodge and the Rapa Nui island itself. The experience will rate up there with the very best of our 11 months of travel.

Regards
Robyn and Shirwell


Hi Martin

We today found another paradise (the first was the Isla Victoria) - we left Santiago City and arrived at the Hotel Casa Real - what a wonderfully beautiful and peaceful place - the setting is idealic and the accommodation and facilities beyond our dreams. We have therefore decided to cancel the balance of our South American trip and stay here! (That is a joke of course!).
We however wanted you to know that we are very happy with LED's selection of the Hotel Casa Real.

With kind regards
Robyn and Shirwell


Dear Martin

Many thanks for your email which we received at the Tunquelen Hotel in Bariloche yesterday. To date we have had a great time with everything falling into place excellently. We have had wonderful sunny weather so far and have found the country very beautiful and the people very friendly - our Spanish is improving by the day! Isla Victoria was a great addition to our itinerary and we didn't want to leave the Lodge.
Tomorrow we cross to Chile and will definitely enjoy a Pisco on our arrival!
Looking forward to hearing from you again.

Robyn and Shirwell

SOUTH AMERICA 2007 - AGENT

Morning

Mr Le Chanteur came in to see me today (to book his next trip to Jordan) and said that they had had a fantastic trip!
They raved about the accommodation etc. and said that the Tour Operators over there were great.
Thanks so much for all your time etc. spent on this booking � it was really a great success!!

Regards
DEBBIE SLATTERY
Travel Supervisor
Rennies Travel East London

2007 - SOUTH AMERICA - AGENT

Thanks Martin got them. You are a superstar.

Regards
AMANDA HARROD ASTRAL TRAVEL

2007 - CLIENTS SOUTH AFRICA & MAURITIUS - SKI 2007 14 PAX

Dear Martin and Marcos,

Good morning to you both,
I wanted to pass on my thanks to both of you for arranging and manging
what was a wonderful trip to Bernadtte and myself.
I was very impressed with your professionalism and courtesy throughout
and I will have no hesitation in recommending you to anyone I know who
wishes to visit South Africa.
I also hope to be able to use your services in the future.
Thanks again and best wishes for the future.

Kind Regards
Barry Minal

2007 - CLIENTS SOUTH AMERICA - SKI 2007 14 PAX

Dear Martin

My adsl line was defective. The trip was great. Everything ran smoothly. Eduardo and his team was very helpful and exellent in all the arrangements. They and yourself did a fantastic job. All the hotels were very good and the consensus was that Argenta is better than Crillon. As we all know the Llao Llao is one of the best hotels in the world , and this was confirmed by our stay.
Thank you again for all you did and your extreme patience with at times very difficult clients, this is greatly appreciated.

Regards
Johann Stegmann

2007 - CLIENTS SOUTH AMERICA

Hi Martin

Great trip thank you .We got back yesterday,Justin met us. The Peru leg was very good thank you and we all thought it was an amazing place.Thanks for your help.

On advice of over crowding on Waynu Picchu we walked up Machu Picchu instead where we maybe saw 20 people in total over 4 hours.A blissful respite from the tourists. Had a picnic on the top and had a glorious view.It was a tough walk but very enjoyable.Even the 13 year old managed it.The mountains are just spectacular around that area and that train from Cusco just amazing.

Will send a photo of Louise and Jonathan at the top of MP when I have downloaded on to the home computer.

Nuevo Mondo were very good and looked after us well. We loved the Pueblo hotel.It really is very special.

Thanks for arrangements,all went so well.

Regards
Diane Schaffer

2007- CLIENTS & FRIENDS SOUTH AMERICA

Hello

Thanks for organizing a wonderful holiday. We had a fabulous time. Ben told you about the dulce de leche (and his bottle that he’s almost finished), so I think our next option is to share a lovely bottle of Argentinian wine with you guys. Non? Let’s organize when that will suit you.

Best, TESSA
Tessa de Kock
De Kock Communications (DKC)

2007- CLIENTS SOUTH AMERICA

Dear Martin,

It was kind of you to phone me to find out how our trip had gone. I should have contacted you before that, but as I mentioned we arrived home to find that two family members had died, one of them the mother of our youngest grandson, a first year student in Pretoria, leaving him parentless. Obviously that left us with a lot of urgent business to attend to.

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip and virtually everything worked according to plan, even if not always exactly on schedule. In Ica, for example, we arrived a little too late for the mid-day Nazca Lines flight, so instead of the city tour, we visited the Tacama wine farm before taking the 3.15 flight, and Huacachina afterwards. Probably a fair exchange! The Ballestas Islands tour on the way back was quite wonderful. In Arequipa, where the plane arrived late, our local guide Omar Gómez did wonders in rushing us to Santa Catalina before it closed, and still fitting in the city tour afterwards. The drive from Arequipa to Puno via the Colca Canyon was full of interest, as were the islands we visited in Lake Titicaca and the train journey to Cusco. We did find the altitude a bit trying, but still managed to enjoy the various activities. Christopher joined us, of course, in Cusco. As Omar had done on the journey from Arequipa to Puno, all the local guides did everything they could to ensure we made the most of our visit, and we had a splendid ten days together.

The Argentinian part of our tour was also very successful, and we found both the Ranch Tour and the Tango Dinner and Show enjoyable and interesting. We were glad to have spent three nights at Iguazu, and to have stayed at the Sheraton. The day we flew in was doubly useless : we were transferred to a later flight which was supposed to arrive at 13.00 (instead of 11.30), but was itself delayed, so we only got to the hotel in the late afternoon; and, as it happened, it had rained all day and continued well into the night. However, the weather got gradually better, and we managed to fit in everything we wanted to do in the next 2½ days. Unfortunately, perhaps, the water level was exceptionally high, so St Martin Island was closed, as was the approach to the Garganta del Diablo overlook. On the other hand the greater volume of water increased the visual impact of the Falls.

We were very happy with the all the accommodations we stayed in, and were delighted with all the meals included in the itinerary, except for the boxed lunch on the way to Puno (there would actually have been enough time for another proper lunch in Chivay, where we had had a wonderful buffet the day before).

And finally, thank you for organising this magnificent tour for us, and taking so personal an interest in its success!

Kind regards,

Mitchell and Ninon Shackleton

2007- CLIENTS SOUTH AMERICA - AGENT

Thanks Martin. Thank you for all your wonderful advice. If it was'nt for you I don't know where this family would have ended up.
Mr Tswale came to see me yesterday about his next trip. He was thrilled with his trip to Argentina. They loved it Martin so thank you for that as well! Its so re-assuring working with someone who has the knowledge & is able to advise on the best options.

All the best with your VIP's

Sue

2007 - CLIENTS SOUTH AMERICA - CLIENTS

Hallo Martin, We apologise for not reporting to you on our trip to Peru sooner. We had so many good intentions to do this within the first week of our return, but we got involved in so many other things. We however visited Martmarie at IndoJet and told her of our wonderfull experience.

The whole tour from beginning to end was extremely well organised wthout any problem. It surpassed all our expectations and fitted in very well with the way we are used to travel---ie doing things on our own and mixing with the local people as far as possible. We do not like organised tours (like Trafalgar etc) and the tour you layed out for us suited this style perfectly. It took out all the hassle of queing for tickets,taxi's and asking around for information in different languages.Now some detail comments:

1)The tour guides went out of thier way to assist and to inform. All of them spoke a very good English, were very knowledgable and keen to share information with us
2)All the guides were extremely helpfull and went out of their way to assist, this is the first time in all our travels that the tour guide took care of flight check ins, train seating resevations, walking us to a restaurant, going with us to the airport,train station bus terminus and even checking afterwards to make sure everything is OK
3)Everybody were on time every time, this include the guides, the taxi's the busses----everybody
4)The hotels were exellent, processed chechin and checkout quickly, the rooms were spotlessly clean, the service was always friendly and outstanding
5)All the documentation was correct and complete, no guessing on times, events, addresses ,contact persons and numbers.We never felt "deserted" because we knew that somebody was on standby to assist
6)The train ride from Cusco to Maccho Piccho and bus ride from Cusco to Puno are both highly recommended. The personell were very helpfull and friendly.

I can go on and on, but I can conclude that this was an exellent itinerary you put together, the hotels and guides were absolutely first class, the service was on time and exellent andt we will recommend your service any time.

We also concluded that the bus ride from Cusco to Puno is a much better option than the train. The bus ride includes a guide and stewardess, both very competent and the sights visited on the way were very interesting. Something that the train does not offers.

Please pass this comments on to all your colleaques and guides in Peru. This was a most enjoyable trip,
CONGRATULATIONS ON A VERY GOOD SERVICE.

Regards
Gawie and Etta Eksteen

2006- CLIENTS SOUTH AMERICA - AGENT

Dear Martin

I spoke to Mrs Reyneke this morning about their whole trip. She has only wonderful en positive words about their whole experience. She never mentioned one negative aspect out of her own.

Please accept their sincere thank you to you and your agents for wonderful arrangements and an unforgettable trip.

Kind regards
Louise Geyser
226 Fremontia Street
Lynnwood Ridge

2006- CLIENTS SOUTH AFRICA

Hi Martin

Good day from a very cold and windy England.

We had a fantastic time in South Africa and I was unable to thank you personally but the 2 tours with Alex were excellent.
He is a delightful man and set our holiday off to a great start. I think I may have given him an incorrect email address for us
When we left maybe if you see him you could mention it to him?

I have recommended your services to all my friends and suggested the travel agents Beaver Travel use you for all their clients in South Africa.

Once again thanks very much for organizing 2 great trips and we hope to see you sometime in South Africa.

Many thanks

Michael
Michael Kingsley-Smith
12 Williams Way - Radlett -Hertfordshire

2006 - CLIENTS SOUTH AMERICA - AGENT & CLIENTS

Hi Martin,

Trust you are well.
See below comments from my clients. Thank you very much for everything.
Angela
Travel Dynamics

Hi there
Thanks very much.
Great trip, and all arrangements handled 100%. Hotel in Buenos Aires and
Puerto Williams absolutely fine. Hotel in Santiago, wouldn't recommend.
Nothing really wrong, but nothing remarkable.
All meet and greets, transfers, flights etc, great. BA city tour very good,
great guide. So, thank you very much.
Now we need to firm up on UK/France for the end of the year!!!
Will speak soon.

Regards
Marc

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