It was very interesting to travel in two such diverse countries, so close geographically and so different culturally, linguistically and historically.  Stand-out moments were staying in Sintra and at the Quinta de la Rosa in Portugal and the Berber tents at Merzouga, the camel ride up the dunes for the sunrise and the gardens and meals at the beautiful La Roseraie in Ouirgane.

The relaxing Pandaw cruise at the end of some big bustling cities. Up to the usual standard with food, drinks, staff and on shore excursions. Love it!

I thought the tour was great. Well organized, very well escorted. It was nice to relax and not have to worry about anything. Tips and gratuities being taken care of was very helpful. Having guides well versed in knowledge of their countries and history. The size of the group and the people in the group were great.  I loved the group dinners and food.

I enjoyed the variety of experiences offered, and how these built upon one another to create an understanding of Japanese culture, past and present. I hadn’t done a walking tour previously and, even with some pre-trip training, was a little concerned about my level of walking daily fitness, but I was comfortable with the walks.

What was best? There are many things I could highlight. Great travel companions, excellent guides, good food, lovely welcoming Iranian people everywhere, excellent shopping, beautiful gardens … but what will stay with me the longest is how much I learned of the fascinating history and of past and present culture, including poetry, religion and politics.

We loved the tour. We knew we could rely on the organisers and didn’t have to worry about a thing. The depth of planning was evident. Eastern Europe was fascinating and the tour gave us a very sounds overview of this part of the world. It was lovely to be in the countryside but also great to experience the towns and villages. A good balance! We gained a degree of insight into a whole lot of places which were previously just names on a map. Now a year later, our memories are still vivid.

A very good look at different regions and town, I felt the history. There was a balance between walking days and sightseeing days and between city walks, historic attractions and free time. Every walk was interesting; some challenging but each had a purpose or target destination. We enjoyed the location of the hotels. Always in close proximity to the main attractions and always clean with helpful staff. Once again, Val and I enjoyed the trouble free experience of travelling with Calder & Lawson Tours.

This was a journey (Alaska) that took in such amazing experiences. To feel the awe and beauty, the splendour and majesty of towering snow-capped mountains; the serenity of clam waters and tranquil fiords; the rugged power of glaciers calving. To learn the lifestyle of the early Athabascan Indians; to view wildlife at close quarters and, at a mature age, to kayak in pristine waters. My memory book overflows.

The walking, the opportunity to stay in traditional accommodation, the excellent tour leader and guide and of course the food. The Japan trip just really reinforced for us why Calder & Lawson are so good to travel with. Thank you Calder & Lawson team!