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January 31, 2008

La Mirage was more wonderful than I'd remembered it. On my other trips we only spent a night....that's what happens when you travel with Michele.  This time having 2 nights, we were able to enjoy the place and take
advantage of the spa. I'm not as well traveled as some, but it's the most beautiful and special place I've ever been.  

[Names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 

January 08, 2008

Judy, 

Thank you for organizing my trip to La Mirage.  My boyfriend and I had the most wonderful experience!  The service was impeccable and the views and ambience were unbelievable.  I especially loved all of the fireplaces and flowers.  We took advantage of every activity and spa treatment that was offered - our favorite being the shamon ritual and horseback ride through the countryside.  The food and wine was also fantastic.  I cannot say more positive things about La Mirage; I'm already planning a group trip back next year.  La Mirage is such an amazing and special place - and I have spread the message to everyone at Travel + Leisure.  

Thank you!  

Courtney     [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 

 
[Response from LARC:] 

HI COURTNEY,

YOU HAVE CERTAINLY MADE MY DAY! I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU ARE ALREADY BACK THOUGH, BOY TIME FLIES. THAT IS MY FAVORITE TREATMENT AS WELL, I DON'T THINK THAT OFFER THAT ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD! THANKS FOR ALL THE P.R! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU BOTH, 

JUDY
 

January 07, 2008

Hi Judy: We returned yesterday from Florida where we spent a few days recovering from our vacation!  

We had a wonderful time and want you to know how happy we were with everything, especially the guides and meets and greets at airports, train, hotel, etc. Everyone was there on time and were extremely professional and competent.  

We also checked out of the Doubletree one night early, so we could return to the US. We were tired and ready to come home, plus New Year's Day things were closed. We did like the J.W. Marriott on the beach as a better choice for location in Lima. There was shopping and it was a very upscale neighborhood.  

We are still telling our friends about Inka Terra. The suite was fabulous and we thank you so much for that wonderful experience. The Royal Palm, La Mirage and El Pueblo were all special in different ways. The staff at La Mirage were extraordinary, friendly, helpful and the Chef was superb! The dinners were all memorable!  

We were OK at Liberador until we went to the Monasterio. Definitely heads above Liberador and we would highly recommend it to our friends.  

All in all, it was great. My husband doesn't know how much it cost, but he is raving that he has never had better treatment anywhere in the world! And whatever it cost, it was worth it!!!  

love and hugs  

Faye M.     [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 

 January 07, 2008

hi judy happy healthy new year just to say a very big thank you we had a great time your arrangements were tops and made everything easy and fun hope all is well with you and a great year ahead keep us in mind if something of [interest] comes your way/love and regards 

chester and barbara    [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 
 

[Response from LARC:] 

HI BARBARA & CHESTER, 

THANKS FOR LETTING ME KNOW ALL WENT WELL, I AM SO PLEASED! HAPPY NEW YEAR
TO YOU TOO. HUGS, 

JUDY  

November 28, 2007

Well if I could make you smile as much as YOU have made me SMILE brighter then maybe ever before.. I am a GLOW in the Galapagos and for Debra it was bliss I ADORE YOU GUYS I have to work immediately on march The Party of 8 are wanting to change some of the schedule to include a zip line day in the cloud forest instead of the roller coaster and to check the prices of to offer the same suite 602/604 with the kids (3) zander/and his 2 sisters) with Marianne / 2nd suite is (I guess I may have to call if ok because I am very swamped is that OK for y'all.)  

XOXO  

Really it was a very enlightening Big SKY Country and such sweet gentle people I cannot maybe ever be able to thank you ladies and your team of angels enough I have really to write a proper letter of thanks to send for the walls of fame- to tell how I had the three year old in me awakened to allow the youth to "grow your brain" as [Seth's] email is.  Anything is possible if you try.  

With Love, 

Renate     [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 

 
LARC's Response: 

WONDERFUL!  

TAKE YOUR TIME WITH MARCH, ONCE YOU HAVE GOTTEN BACK TO REALITY, WE WILL
WORK THAT OUT TO PERFECTION! THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS THAT YOU HAD A
GREAT TRIP. HUGS, 

JUDY & DONNA  

September 12, 2007

[regarding the Galapagos aboard the M.S. Cachalote]

Judy: 

Just a note, because I never followed up. It was wonderful beyond compare. Unbelievable. The best trip ever. We can't say enough good things. ONLY sorrow was that there was only allowed to be a total of 1 hour of kayaking the whole trip. Aside from that (and breaking my camera on day three) I am still, Daniel is still, beside ourselves. Thank you for bearing with us/me through the long process. I'd do it again in a heartbeat!  

Warmly,  

Jennifer J.   [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 
 

July 30, 2007

We have just returned from a most perfect trip to the Galapagos, aboard the M/V Beluga, 20-27 July 2007, on a photo tour with Arthur Morris.  The naturalist guide, Juan Manuel Salcedo, contributed so much to the success of the trip that we would like to specifically acknowledge this wonderful young man.  

Juan’s natural history knowledge is extensive, with a depth usually only achieved after decades of experience. He knows the islands as well as his own backyard. Not only is he familiar with the major animal species, but has a solid scientific grasp of plants, insects, marine and aquatic invertebrates, geology, history, and current management issues. He has excellent command of idiomatic English, and communicates effectively.  

His leadership skills were tested on this particular trip, as you are aware. From the initial injury incident on Española until the eventual resumption of our itinerary, Juan was extraordinarily patient and attentive to the passenger and to the rest of us. He exhibited an unusual degree of maturity for his age and we always felt that the situation was being handled well, given the resources available aboard the Beluga.  

On several occasions Juan was very helpful to us. One of our personal snorkeling masks leaked and he offered to locate a mask that fit better. It made all the difference in our enjoyment of the snorkeling experience. A leg of Steve’s camera tripod broke and Juan and the crew repaired it so well that no further repairs will be needed. When we dropped off the injured passenger in Puerto Villamil, her companions had accidentally packed Steve’s only pair of hiking shoes. Juan spent more than 2 hours in town locating the wayward shoes, not returning to the ship until he found them. We deeply appreciated his persistence since they were the only shoes that Steve, who has foot problems, can wear.  

We always felt well prepared for the daily activities due to Juan’s extensive briefings. He timed our landings and departures so perfectly that we actually managed to stay on schedule, no small feat when herding a group of photographers!  

In our opinion Juan Salcedo is a tremendous asset to Enchanted Expeditions and easily ranks among the best guides in the Galápagos. We will gladly recommend him to anyone considering a trip to Galápagos.  

Stephen and George-Ann     [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 

June 11, 2007

Hi Judy, 

Well, I've finally got myself back together after our fantastic trip. I can't possibly thank you enough for making such terrific arrangements for us. It was a special treat to actually meet you in Lima for dinner.  Everything went as planned- which is rarely the case when traveling in remote areas. The people at Chasquitour were wonderful. They even prepared a local foods picnic for lunch one day-instead of sitting in a tourist restaurant. The transfer men knew our faces after the first meeting and it was great to see them at every airport and train station ready to take our luggage. Machu Picchu is every bit as spectacular as you expect, but it is even better! We even had a sunny day. The Galapagos Islands were a wildlife enthusiast's dream. You just can't imagine how up close and personal you get with the animals. We were very impressed with the service on our boat The Eric. Every person knew his job and did it with amazing efficiency.  The food was abundant and delicious. Once again, thank you for making our 40th anniversary such a special celebration.  

Shelly and Les     [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 

May 29, 2007

You hit a grand-slam home-run, Judy , when you put us in the Hampton Inn in Guayaquil and the Doubletree El Pardo Hotel in Lima, and when you assigned us Victor Riera and Carman ?? as our cultivated and experienced guides in those two cities. I am a gold level Hilton card member, and we have never stayed at Hamptons or Doubletrees of such excellent quality in the U.S., and fairly priced in the bargain. Our guides spoke excellent English, and conveyed us in clean vehicles, and their commentaries were informative and fun. We recommend everything you arranged with enthusiasm. Guayaquil is a more interesting town than we anticipated, at least equal, we suspect, to Quito. Both hotels have perfect locations. We visited jewelry and alpaca/vicuna stores in Lima with Carman and made several excellent purchases. Thanks and cheers.  

H. P. B.    [Name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

May 09, 2007

Judy, 

So much fun meeting you in Lima! Thanks for coming to the airport to greet us.  Also, thanks for putting together a spectacular trip for us.  The air travel and accommodations were just exactly what I had envisioned. From
your first word over the telephone, I knew that I had found the right person to help me plan this vacation to Ecuador and Peru. Your vast knowledge of the countries and your contacts certainly made it easy for us!  

Next on the list? Galapagos?  Puno and Manu’?  Calafate?  The options are endless and I will be in touch with you when the bank account and vacation time replenishes.  (As a matter of fact, I will be in touch with you way
before then!)  I want to see everything there is to see in Latin America.  You will be just the one to help me do that! If I get the chance to refer anyone else to you, I will do handstands and shout cheers on your behalf. 

Please stay in touch and help me retain that Latin magic!  

Muchos Abrazos,  

Michael    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

March 21, 2007

I am happy to provide this report to you on our trip to Ecuador that was planned using the services of LARC. When we began planning our trip we knew that we wanted some advantages of a tour but also wanted an individualized travel plan. We worked with LARC tour agent, Judy Martin, who helpfully and pleasantly helped us to craft a travel plan that was perfect for us. 

Essentially, we designed 4 mini-trips within our overall tour of Ecuador using Quito as our base. Judy arranged lodging, guides and side trips for us, including transfers to and from airports and hotels, when necessary. 

First, we arrived in Quito for a few days where my daughter, Leah, is working as a teacher at El Colegio San Francisco de Quito. We stayed at the Mansion del Angel, which had a lovely rooftop cafe. 

Next, we then headed to the Southern Highlands to the beautiful colonial city of Cuenca. We stayed in the Crespo Hotel, which we loved. From there we took three main side trips: Ingapirca (Inca ruins), Cajas National Park, and the lovely villages and markets of Gualaceo and Chordeleg. 

After four fabulous days in Cuenca we flew back to Quito. We stayed at La Rabida Hotel, a quiet and clean place with a very helpful staff. While we loved Mansion Del Angel and Crespo for their ambiance, La Rabida felt "like home." 

Next; when we headed to the Oriente very near the border of Peru for a trip to the Amazon Jungle and Kapawi Eco-Lodge and Reserve. This was an amazing trip! After 4 or 5 awesome days we headed back to Quito. 

We took a day trip to Cotopaxi, the world's highest active volcano, and to the incredible hot springs of Papallacta. Back on Quito and La Rabida, we did several things on our own such as visit Quito's Old Town, the Golden Church, Cafe Mosaica high above the city for a cocktail at dusk, the Guaysamin Museum, and visited the markets and street venders. 

Lastly, we headed north, stopping at Calderon and other small villages arriving at our final destination of La Mirage, a gorgeous place with gardens, birds, extraordinary cuisine, and an amazing spa. We also visited the leather town of Cotacachi and the grand market town of Otavala. 

It was definitely a whirlwind 3 weeks but the plan was perfect for us to be able to see most of the country, stay in a variety of great hotels, have expert guides and efficient transfers, and be able to "tour" Ecuador just the way we wanted to. The tour guides were very professional and knowledgeable and fun to be with. Thank you Judy for your patience, humor, and perseverance in working with us to create the perfect South American vacation! You are the best - we felt like you truly took a personal interest in making our trip exactly how we wanted it to be. And it turned out BETTER than we expected as a result of all our planning together. Without a doubt, we will certainly use your services again. Thanks so much! 

Gera     [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

February 21, 2007

Dear Judy,

We have been home from Boca Raton, where we had a stop-over with friends and helped Stanley's sister, Judy, celebrate her 95th birthday on Feb. 3, since February 8. Our trip was a great, thrilling, satisfying experience, thanks, in no small part to you. We now realize how important the travel agent is--we used only one in the past- but your recommendations were the best! We are lucky that we took a chance on your website and that your recommendations turned out to be the source of immense pleasure.  

La Colina was just right for us. We had the best suite, I believe, in the hotel, on the fifth, top floor in the corner, as we had requested, with a magnificent view of Quito. We were up at about six or seven every morning and I took wonderful shots of the view under different atmospheric conditions to serve as a basis for painting. The hotel, itself, and our suite were really tastefully appointed in the style that reflected a lot of Quito. Although we did not intend to spend $1800.00 on an apartment, this suite was really much better for us, because it relieved us of having to concern ourselves with safety or any repairs we might have to make, like a stuffed sink or an electric bulb that needed to be replaced. 

We enjoyed the neighborhood and found the cleaner around the corner as good as, if not better than the ones we use here. The Supermaxi next to the Swiss Hotel was really super. We enjoyed the wonderful Japanese restaurant at the hotel and the three guitarists who came to entertain us at the delicious buffet Christmas eve. My three years of high school Spanish served us in good stead, and we established friendly relationships everywhere we went, albeit with limited, broken grammar. Great fun. The staff at la Colina was really very accommodating and quite friendly.  

Ditto the hotel in Cuenca, quite, quite charming, although we would have preferred a room overlooking the garden, which we had requested before we paid our bill on Nov. 2. I'm glad our room faced the inner lobby and not the street.  

And we can't find the words to adequately describe how pampered we felt at La Mirage! Unfortunately, I had a 24 hour seven day terrible cough, so could not use the pool or have a massage. We loved those peacocks, the service, the food and the extraordinary beauty of the grounds. The new year's eve celebration was extraordinary in its creativity. Regards were sent to you by one of the owners, not sure whether it was the taller of the two, and 
unfortunately, I don't remember his name.  

We have never seen such color as we saw at the market in Otavalo. Blew our minds away as did the culture and color of everywhere we went.  

Unfortunately, we had to cancel the Machu Picchu part of our trip. Upon our return to Quito from La Mirage we consulted a physician at the American administered hospital about my cough, and Stanley was advised not to go to Cuzco where he would run the risk of a heart attack because he has a leaky heart valve. Instead, we went to Lima and Trujillo.( My money belt was stolen from our room at the Posada del Inca Olivar. Fortunately, I had removed my credit card holder when we went to dinner, and there was no money in it, nor my passport; only my eyeglasses and all the keys to our luggage.)  Even the latitude at Quito affected Stanley's breathing and energy.  

All in all, it was a most wonderful trip. I loved speaking whatever little Spanish I knew, and we enjoyed Quito immensely, especially La Carolina park, where we went on several Sundays to spend the afternoon watching families and lovers enjoy the foot paddle boats in the lagoon. (I held a boa constrictor at the reptile house and we also went to the botanic gardens) We did not get to see all that we wanted to in the old town. There was a riot on one of the days protesting the corruption of the legislature. We had planned to go on the first sunny day; that turned out to be the Monday before, and all of the museums there were closed. You had better believe we tried the best places in town to have our lunch, which was the main meal of the day. A wonderful fish soup at the Hilton Colon for five bucks! Where can you get that anywhere!  

Anyway, the time went quickly, and I, if not Stanley because of the altitude, would go back, yesterday, if I only could . We came home with the most beautiful colored scarves and alpaca ones, too, very cheaply bought, at the market in El Ejido park on Saturday, among other things, to give as gifts, and it was hard for me to part with anything. Also found a truly beautiful old necklace of silver filigree, in a shop opposite the Swiss Hotel, with a peacock suspended from it to remind me of La Mirage, with matching earrings.  

We were not in Ecuador long enough. No one can imagine the impact our trip, which included the Galapagos, and the cultural history in the churches and museums, had on us. I took over 1,200 digital pictures and am busy editing a second set to show to friends. Even though the best are for viewing I would not delete anything from the entire set. I plan to make a picture book for my two and a half year old grandson with some of the pictures, like the one of the peacock with tail fully open, peering in the dining room window where we were having breakfast at the Mirage!  

Please feel free to use this email in your advertising.  

Thanks to you, again.

Bernice and Stanley    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]
 

LARC's Response:  

HI BERNICE,  

GOOD TO HEAR FROM YOU! I WAS A BIT UPSET TO HEAR ABOUT THE PROBLEM YOU EXPERIENCED IN LIMA, BUT WE DID NOT HANDLE THAT PORTION OF YOUR TRIP. IN ANY CASE, I AM GLAD ALL AND ALL, EVERYTHING WAS FINE AND AM HAPPY YOU ENJOYED BEST THE PORTION OF THE TRIP THAT I ARRANGED FOR YOU. BEST RGDS, 

JUDY 

February 12, 2007

Hi Judy,

Thanks for helping make this the best vacation both I and Andrew have ever taken. Every single arrangement was right on the money--no delays, no missed connections, no surprises. Everything went like clockwork, and for
that we are grateful to you and your agents.

We had wonderful times in Patagonia, Guayaquil and the Galapagos. In fact you might say we left our hearts in So. America!!

All the Best,

Ron    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

January 19, 2007

Our trip was fantastic. Every place we stayed was great and the guides were wonderful. We even sat next to Kevin Bacon, his wife Kyra Sedgewick and their kids at dinner at La Mirage. You really put together a 
memorable adventure.  

Lisa B.    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

December 31, 2006

Ecuador  

Here is another report from our vacation. I hope it's helpful and not too annoying.  

The flight to Guayaquil was easy and the airline was just fine. Even though it's six hours we thought of it as just a little longer than LA, so very doable. The Hilton Colon in Guayaquil is fine and our guide was great, took us to a nice restaurant etc. but Guayaquil is not a city worth hanging out in. I had heard nightmare stories about the flights to Galapagos but we found them, very efficient and easy.  

One note. We were never told of a $100 per person Galapagos entry tax. With six of us that's a lot of cash off the top so travelers should be warned. We were met by Rafael, our guide, who is very knowledgeable, calm, and serious. Strong accent, but we got used to it.  

We took a short bus ride to the harbor and took a dingy to the Sea Cloud. Our hearts sank when we saw the accommodations. Four rooms of the same size. 2 in front, 2 in back by the engine. Tiny cramped rooms with bunk beds, I had remembered pictures of the Rachel and remembered that it had 2 rooms with double beds and 2 rooms with bunks. In any event the Sea Cloud was just too small for even six of us and I can't imagine if we had brought 8.  

One suggestion, bring AS LITTLE LUGGAGE AS POSSIBLE. There is no storage space for bags etc. And don't come if sleeping with your wife or lover is an important part of your vacation. The crew seemed nice enough but we realized that there were 6 of them! Captain, first mate, engineer, cook, crewman and guide. So there were not enough beds for them. This meant that at any time of day or night we would find them sleeping on couches or on deck. This offered very little privacy and no chance to escape. Even the bow deck of the boat was not equipped with cushions for hanging out.  

The distances between the Islands are sometimes 6 or 8 hours so the plan was to sail, under motor, at night. But this made it impossible to sleep. Motoring in a sailboat is way more nauseating than sailing because of fumes etc. And sailboats can only motor at half the speed of a motor yacht and are much less stable. The girls all got sea sick and opted for sleeping on deck. We gave them the patch and told the captain that we would no longer be sailing at night.  

The bottom line is if you are not going to sail, don't take a sailboat. There are beautiful, fast, spacious motor yachts that get you between the islands in half the time.  

Now a few word about the Galapagos. AMAZING, INCREDIBLE, AWESOME, MIND BLOWING. We had some of the most memorable experiences of our lives. Encounters with animals unlike any other in the world. Everyone should go, but as Rafael put it, "the Galapagos is not an easy vacation" Up every day early to hike or snorkel, lunch and then back at it in the afternoon, but every outing was better than the last, and the memories will last forever. We tried to think of family members and friends that would have enjoyed the trip and they were few and far between. You have to be ready for boats and a lot of activity, but if you have the energy it's so worth it and very safe. The animals are very friendly because they are not threatened by humans. Even the SHARKS are friendly! We were very happy to have the Satellite phone as it enabled us to make calls as our plans changed. It worked very well considering that we were in the middle of the ocean in the middle of nowhere. We stayed in a cute hotel in town called Solymar. Brand new and inexpensive, but clean and comfortable and the owner, Renato, will do anything for you.  

So bottom line get a good boat, or stay on land and do day trips (although you will miss some amazing Islands) Get a good guide, because they know the secret places and how to avoid the crowds. Pack light and bring a good camera with an underwater housing if you can.  

We found the trip to Quito pretty easy but the landing in the Andes can be a bit bumpy. The drive to La Mirage really drives home the notion that you are in another world. La Mirage is a beautiful place. In a small town that specializes in leather goods. It has nice gardens and every room is different. Charming, cozy with fireplaces and hot water bottles in the foot of your bed at night. The food is fine, not great. The spa is OK. They try hard but they weren't the best treatments we ever had. Unfortunately the pool is indoor and the exercise equipment hasn't worked since the 80's.  

We went for a beautiful walk up into the mountains and found a little Indian village. The Indians are tiny. Barely 4 feet tall. But very friendly. It's great to explore Otavalo, the Indian market. They have beautiful handcrafts, rugs, scads, etc. for dirt cheep.  

Our guide Miguel was very knowledgeable about the area and took us to some out of the way villages. Guinea pig is the local delicacy but we passed on that one. The mountains are spectacular and we lucked out with the weather but either way tacking on an Andes visit to a Galapagos trip is definitely worth it.  

KB 12/31/06      [Name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

December 06, 2006

The Peru leg of the trip was outstanding. The Peru agents did a super job--deluxe personal service. While I know the Sanctuary Lodge and the Hiram Bingham train ride were obscenely expensive, we didn't regret it a bit. It really was a special experience and worth the money. They provided excellent food, lodging and service. I know you've seen Machu Picchu so know how great it is. Since it is the rainy season, we were concerned about the weather, but we actually had sun at Machu Picchu. Well, that is my report, Cindi. Thanks so much for your help with this--everything turned out better than expected.

Janet    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

November 13, 2006

Donna, 

I just returned from Ecuador and want to thank you for your suggestions and planning.  The trip was fabulous! Everything went smoothly and the hotels were perfect.  I will certainly contact you again for future trips and will recommend you to others.  

With much appreciation, 

Tina    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

September 28, 2006

Galapagos trip had a great boat (Aida Maria). The guide was an excellent naturalist.

Dan    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

September 13, 2006

Judy, 

My husband, daughter and I would like to thank you for helping us to plan our trip to Ecuador.  The trip was truly memorable.  Everything went as planned, and we are safely home again, feeling we were privileged to see so much and such a variety of areas in Ecuador.  It was always wonderful to see Miguel waiting for us at the airport and hotel.  He was a great help and did a good job of coordinating everything.  The guide whom he arranged for us, Ricard Espinosa, was a delight.  La Mirage was a real treat, as you promised, and a lovely way to end our two weeks in Ecuador.  Our only regret is that Kevin Bacon didn't chose to come over Labor Day instead of Christmas!  (Miguel told us you are planning a trip for him.) 

Many, many thanks for your expert advice and suggestions.  We will call next time we plan a trip to South America, and we will, of course, recommend you to any friends, who express an interest.  I hope you have had a nice summer yourself!  

With thanks and best wishes, 

Martha M.    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

Judy's Response: 

THANKS MARTHA, 

YOU MADE MY DAY!  THANKS SO MUCH FOR TAKING THE TIME TO LET ME KNOW HOW YOU LIKED YOUR TRIP, IT REALLY MEANS SO MUCH TO US TO HEAR FROM OUR PASSENGERS.  

KIND RGDS, JUDY 

September 11, 2006

Donna - we had the BEST TIME EVER!  

The jungle was fun and Kapawi was quite nice and the Galapagos were just amazing. 

We couldn’t believe how nice the Evolution was and chock full of interesting people: A Member of British Parliament, Joan Didion’s Assistant, and Crazy-rich International Financier...It was too much fun. The guides were great and we snorkled almost everyday. We were going to go to Banos for a couple of days, but because of the volcano we went to the Hacienda San Augustin de Callo instead for 2 nights. It was terrific and Cotopaxi stunning (although I nearly died climbing up it - there’s no oxygen there.)  

Now I’m broke and must go back to work. Very sad. See attached happier time.  

-Sandy K. (& Brian F.)    [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

August 01, 2006

We loved Ecuador and the Galapagos!!!  The land trip was just right and the guide, Henry Richard Espinosa, was terrific. We had a medical emergency and he helped us get through it wonderfully.  We really like Cochasqui better than Ingapirca because it's the real thing, not just some restoration.  Cochasqui is completely intact as the ancient people built it.  The Evolution is an excellent boat with a really nice crew, good food, and just the right number of passengers.

All in all, we'll certainly recommend this trip. 

Gladys M.   [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

July 14, 2006

Dear Janie, 

The trip was fabulous!  The Beluga was great and all the crew members were outstanding. The food delicious, all the crew members went out of their way to make us comfortable, and I must say, a group of photographers is a high maintenance group. They lugged our equipment safely in and out of the dinghy, had meals and snacks waiting for us. It was super. Our guide, Juan, was the best. He was so knowledgeable, and there wasn't a question he couldn't answer.  He was flexible, allowing us to do pretty much what we needed to, to get our photographs, within the limits of the Nat'l Park rules. 

We had a once-in-a-lifetime experience and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Metropolitan Touring was also great. The people we were in contact with went out of their way, giving us their phone numbers to contact them with any difficulties. They made the transition so much easier, being in a foreign country. They arranged for private transportation, and an individualized tour on two separate occasions, once in Quito and again in Guayaquil. A great experience. 

We also went to Sacha Lodge. Our guide, Miles McMullen was a bird expert and did a great job. We also had a native guide who was very adept at sighting birds and all kinds of wildlife. Every day was filled to the brim with adventure. Pirhanna (sp? ) [Piranha] fishing, jungle hikes, hikes to the top of the canopy, even a night hike to seek out tarantulas, bugs, and frogs. Wow. Will try to send you some images. We sure have a lot to go through and edit! Hope to meet you someday. Maybe an African tour??? 

David    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

July 14, 2006

Judy,

Paul, Eduar and I had a great time and saw a lot! The Cartuja was lovely and well located. The trip down to Cuenca was spectacular, and our guide Hugo was excellent. Please pass along our thanks to Miguel, and thank you for your help.

George    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

LARC responded: The Crespo and the Abraspungo are lovely too.  Crespo is better located than the 5 Star option in Cuenca.

June 28, 2006

Dom: Thanks for contacting us!  

First of all, what is your new venture: "diveadvice.com"? (I don't seem to get a web sit when I go to that address?)   

Second, Bob and I had a great time on the trip.  

Our time at La Mirage was terrific, and all of the plans went off without a hitch and as advertised. The Heils and we went horseback riding and took advantage of the spa facilities one afternoon. The food was good.  

La Cartuja had received all of our reservations accurately and were accommodating as usual.  

The diving was fantastic (this is our second trip to Galapagos): We were thrilled with a significant whale shark encounter on our first day at Wolf. She was a BIG girl. Unfortunately we had only one other whale shark sighting on scuba (a juvenile) and one sighting at the surface. That was my biggest disappointment but out of everyone's control, of course.  

However, the other shark activity was truly remarkable. During 8 full days at Wolf and Darwin, we had significant numbers of hammerhead sharks on every dive. In addition, at Wolf, the Galapagos sharks were everywhere, and we had encounters with black tips, white tip reef sharks, and silky sharks (too many in that case!) We literally dropped in looking at sharks from the first moment.  

Dolphin, turtles, schooling fish, and sea lions were all abundant depending on where we were. The water was warmer than I expected in the northern islands at this time of year; the southern/central islands were a mixed bag. Roca Redondo was freezing, with poor visibility and limited life. That was probably the worst diving, and I know it can be outrageous depending on currents and other conditions. Cousins Rock was awesome as always.  

Bob and I were very happy with the Sky Dancer's Captain Rafael, naturalist Jaime (who had been one of our naturalist/dive masters on the Lammer Law in 2002) and dive master Kike. Service overall was good. The food was fine, particularly the lunch and snacks. The housekeeping service in our room was excellent.  

Dom, thanks for all your help. As we said before, your detailed planning on our behalf was a significant relief for us. Again, we wish you the best, and please let us know about your new position.  

Kind regards.  

Jacqueline    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

June 28, 2006

Judy Judy Judy !!  Thought you might like to see this very positive feedback from Skip's clients who loved all your arrangements. 

Thanks, Dom

----------------

Dom, 

Well we had a most delightful time in Ecuador, thanks!!!!! I particularly wanted to thank you for all of your help in arranging our plans for the week prior to the Galapagos travels. I copied the notes you sent in reply to my various questions about hiking, etc & reviewed them on the trip to help us figure out where to go (you supplied enough details about hiking in Banos that our guide asked if he could join us . . .I got a map from travel shops in Banos which helped us determine various paths to take for our hike up to view the volcano there ... )   

We adored our guide!!  He was pleased to join us on the rafting trip . . . his 1st rafting trip!!  By the way, the raft trip was quite fun (& the folks leading the trip were both professional & heaps of fun!!!!!) We made two more hiking trips in the Andes (to the Refugio at Cotopaxi & then to Imbabura near Cusin's Hacienda . . with a guide from the area). After feeling rather good about having a fine mainland stay, we were actually swept away (i.e. all was so very easy) and arrived without any work on our part, in the Galapagos on board the Sky Dancer. What a great crew (all of them) . . .so very friendly, hospitable, with such caring attitudes . . . a wonderful place to be for 2 weeks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Loved the boat . . . all was made so very easy in all ways for us.  Oh my gosh, just a fairy tale!!!!  

The diving was quite fun; the surges and bit of current made it adventurous!!  Schools and schools of hammerheads . . . again unbelievable!!!!  Saw everything underwater possible . . . no complaints in this department!!  The only issue was that Skip couldn't get his itinerary approved; consequently, we had to forgo many of the intended land trips. I think that I would have preferred to take more land trips, although I was quite satisfied with the panga rides (we saw such wonderful things from the zodiac!!!!)   

Thanks for being right there for us . . . Are you still in this line of business??  If so, please let me know what trips you might organize as we would love to go to Indonesia as well as to Truk & Palau.  Arrange any trips in Australia??? 

We would love to stay in touch!! 

Thanks again!!!!! 

Joan & Marsh     [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

June 27, 2006

Judy,

Dave here. Just wanted to thank you for all your help with our Ecuador trip. Every part was truly wonderful. We loved the Cachalote and the Galapagos. Our guide was amazing and fun. That said, if we could do it all over again, we probably would not go back to Sani Lodge (which had been totally our choice). They didn't have a lot to do during the afternoons, no electricity in the rooms, and they were a four hour boat ride from Coca (other lodges aren't so far). We heard much better things from other travelers about Sacha lodge. Also, La Mirage was over the top fun, but we probably would only stay there one night, as those four course meals take a long time and it was expensive.

Thanks again,

- Dave    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

ps do you handle Bolivia?  I'd love to go there some day.

June 12, 2006

Hi, Judy and Miguel and Mike,

We made it home late last night. Thank you again for all your excellent work in organizing the trip for my students and others. Everybody learned so much and had a great time. For the evaluations they completed for the university, your logistical support and the travel and food and accommodations and guiding were all rated extremely highly.

One of the days in the rainforest we all went to 2 parrot licks downriver in Yasuni NP, then went to the home of one of the indigenous guides (Donaldo, in the community of Pilchi), where we interacted with his family and met the village schoolteacher and saw the school, infirmary, common building, etc.; and then took a 3 hour hike back to Sacha. This was a nice change from the regular Sacha guided tour sites, and the students especially liked the more strenuous hiking and seeing so many parrots.

Miguel: Jose was an excellent guide at Sacha Lodge. He was quite good at Otavalo and the highlands. And he was only moderately good for the old town Quito tour; I don't think old churches and art work are really his thing as much as birds. Also, I think he rushed things quite a bit to be done in time for the football game between Ecuador and Poland (which many in our group were also excited to watch).

Judy: special thanks to you for finding the San Jose. We had a very good experience on it. The free-lance guide they retained--Efrain Zambrano, a class III naturalist from the highlands of Santa Cruz--was terrific. And unlike other great guides from the past, he didn't proposition the women all the time, which saved me some headaches. I was really glad to see much more of Isabela Island than I had in the past (paddling in the mangroves at Bahia Elizabeth and seeing beautiful hawksbill turtles and large groups of spotted eagle rays was especially memorable), as well as Floreana Island, which was new to me. We experienced very rough seas on the south coast of Isabela all the way over to Floreana, and again from Floreana over to Espanola--which we were told was quite unusual for this time of year.

The San Jose fit the bill for us very well. But just so you know for the future, I'll offer a few comparisons with Ecoventura boats. SJ: except for guide Efrain and bartender/meal server Jefferson (both from Galapagos), all 9 other crew were from Guayaquil and spoke Spanish only; and only a few of our group were fluent in Spanish, so our group didn't interact with the entire crew as much as on Ecoventura voyages. SJ: the cabins were more spacious but less fancy in terms of woodwork, fittings. The food was equally good, but the dining room wasn't as formal on the SJ. And the SJ did not have chairs/benches to sit on up near the bridge for us to look for whales, dolphins, etc.--only the backwards-facing recliner lounges up on the sun deck.

So, all in all, a great trip, and I am very appreciative to you all for your terrific work in setting everything up.

Cheers, Tom    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

 

June 02, 2006

Hi Judy, 

We are back from Galapagos, it was a great trip. Got to see all the animals on my list. Happy to be home to eat good tasting food and drink the water.  I met another one of your clients.  Nancy from Las Vegas. 

Thank you, 

Paula    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

May 22, 2006

Donna

Just wanted to sent a note to tell you thanks for all your help with the Galapagos / Ecuador trip. We all had an incredible time. Everyone involved with helping us was very kind. Our driver, Ernesto, was especially awesome and we all enjoyed him very much. 

Thanks again from all of us

Wendy Y.   [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

May 18, 2006

Hi Judy, 

as I promised you, here is my feedback on the trip to Ecuador. Sorry about the delay. It is amazing how much stuff piles up when you are away. Overall it was great. I think Ecuador deserves much better publicity than it gets in the US. The countryside is spectacular, the people are nice, and the variety is amazing for such a small country. Miguel's people did an excellent job. I would highly recommend them to others considering visiting Ecuador.

Some specifics. The hotels you recommended were uniformly good. La Mirage was probably the best hotel we have ever been in. The service was flawless and the food outstanding. It was one of the highlights of our visit. Mansion del Angel was just about perfect to visit Quito. We liked it much better than the Hilton or Marriott. The rooms were better, and the location was just about perfect to walk to restaurants in the new town. 

I am glad you recommended the train ride. I thought it was going to be a tourist trap, but it turned out to be great. There were lots of local tourists, and it was quite an adventure. The hotel Abraspungo in Riobamba was adequate, but just that. It was not in the class of all the other ones, and its location outside of town meant we couldn't see anything else. I would recommend a different one in the future.

Sachatamia was fine, but two days there was too much. Once you go for a long hike in the forest, and spend several hours looking at hummingbirds, there is nothing else to do. I would recommend just one night there. We were pretty bored the second day. 

Kapawi was amazing. We thoroughly enjoyed that visit. The only negative is that I wish we had known about the potential delays getting there and back during the rainy season. We had to spend a night in Shell (actually Puyo) because the weather in Kapawi closed the airport. The lodge operators did their best to keep us entertained during the delay, but there was really not much to do. It was touch and go getting back, also because of the weather, and it took all day to get back to Quito. These kinds of delays are inevitable given the conditions, but it would have been nice to know ahead of time instead of being surprised. Luckily, our connections after Kapawi were reasonably flexible, but it could really be a major problem if you made airline reservations, or other plans that couldn't accommodate a day or two of delays.

We booked our own trip to the Galapagos, but I would recommend Lindblad Expeditions to anybody going to the Galapagos. They did an excellent job. They were not cheap, but worth what we paid for the trip.

Thanks again for all your help. We are thinking about going to Argentina next year.  Do you handle travel in that country?

Frank   [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]
 

LARC's Response: 

HI FRANK,

THANKS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO LET US KNOW ALL THESE THINGS BELIEVE ME WE WILL PUT YOUR COMMENTS TO GOOD USE TOWARDS FUTURE TRIP PLANNING FOR OTHER PEOPLE. 

SORRY ABOUT THE TRANSPORTATION PROBLEM AT KAPAWI. IT HAS BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE WE HAD A PROBLEM LIKE THAT, SO IT DIDN'T OCCUR TO ME TO LET YOU KNOW ABOUT IT. ON THE BRIGHT SIDE, YOU ARE GETTING 150.00 BACK! PLEASE GIVE ME YOUR ADDRESS AND I WILL FORWARD YOUR REFUND CHECK.

WE REPRESENT MANSION DEL ANGEL & LA MIRAGE, THANKS FOR THE GOOD COMMENTS, BUT ABRASUUNGO IS A HOTEL THAT COMES WITH THE TRAIN PACKAGE TO CUENCA AND WE DON'T HAVE ANY CONTROL OVER IT, ALTHOUGH I AM LETTING MIGUEL KNOW THIS. 

THANKS FOR THE TIP ON MINDO, I GUESS IF YOU ARE NOT A BIRDWATCHER, ONE NIGHT IS ENOUGH - POINT WELL TAKEN.

AS FOR GALAPAGOS, WE DO THAT TOO AND GALAPAGOS IS INDEED, EXPENSIVE!

FINALLY, YES WE DO ARGENTINA!!!!! WE WOULD BE VERY HAPPY TO PUT A TRIP TOGETHER FOR YOU THERE, JUST LET ME KNOW WHEN YOU WOULD LIKE A QUOTE. SAY HELLO TO PEGGY FOR ME & HUGS, 

JUDY

May 10, 2006

Thanks for your help. The tour in Quito worked out well. The Rachel was special - 8 of us with our own boat with crew and naturalist.  Definitely the way to go. Unfortunately, Ellen broke her wrist on Santa Fe [Island] on our last full day, but she still raves about the trip.  My daughter, who states that she's anything but a nature girl absolutely loved it.

Hope all is well.  

Ira H. S.     [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

May 02, 2006

Dear Judy,

First off, the trip went according to plan perfectly - there were no glitches whatsoever. We were met at the airport or train station at each new stop, by a person who was completely knowledgeable about what we would be doing and when and how, and who ushered us to transportation and guide, and on our way in jig time. The guides were all really good, and very helpful. Thank you very much. The drivers were also quite good, and as you know some of those roads are very challenging to drive.  

There are some observations I'd like to make in hopes they will help you in the future.  

Our trip to Paracas, Ballestos Islands, Ica, and the Nazca lines was without guide, but with two drivers. We were told that the law required two drivers if the drive was to be more than four hours - which the return from Ica to Lima certainly was.  However, the drive from Aeraquipa to Chivay was also more that 4 hours (close to 6 as I recall) and we had a driver and a guide, but not two drivers. It is a small point as there was very little need for a guide in Paracas; the Ballestos boat had an English speaking operator and the Nazca pilots spoke English. The drivers themselves were very personable and helpful taking us to a museum in Paracas and the Paracas National Reserve, neither of which require much explanation. And then, while we waited for the 11:30 flight, they took us to another museum in Ica, which also had English language placards by a good number of the exhibits and to the Oasis in Ica.  

For some reason, the vans we had in Lima and Cuzco were large vans - 15 passenger or so.  Nothing wrong with that, it just seemed a shame to be driving and parking such an oversized vehicle.  

We had some problem with altitude in Machu Picchu and Cuzco, which meant that we were not up to seeing or doing all there was to do.  As you may recall we had intended to spend half of December, all of January and February, and the first week of March at our Condo in Colorado which is at 9800 feet and would have acclimated us, but I took sick and had to return to Washington. So we were not acclimated and the Diamox does not solve all altitude problems.  Jan had caught a bug on the ship that escalated itself into what the Doctor (who our Cuzco contact, Americo, quickly found for us in Cuzco) likened to "walking pneumonia".  So Jan was completely "winded" in the first visit to Machu Picchu, and I made a separate second trip that ended up winding me too. By the time we got to Aeraquipa we were on the mend, and Lake Titicaca did not pose any significant problems.  

The soaring Condors in the Colca Canyon showed themselves just a little after we got there, and then, the guide told us to go to another spot, even though the crowds had gathered about 100 yards from there.  (We are not sure but believe that when the guide disappeared for a moment that she was running down to the bottom of the canyon to let the Condors out of their cages!  Could that be !?!)  Anyway, we had the perfect spot to watch the Condors soar and do their tricks.  A real thrill!  

One thing that, as you may recall, we struggled with in the planning was the schedules of boats and planes at Lake Titicaca.  As far as we could tell when we got there, there are a goodly number of boats that do take tourists out onto the Lake, none of which seemed to be on a schedule but were simply available for charter.  The one we took had no other passengers, and the boatmen would have been willing to bring us back earlier the next day in time to catch the afternoon flight to Lima rather than in the afternoon for the following morning flight.  (They did have a little engine problem a couple of times on the way to Taquille Island, but all went well crossing the Lake to Suasi.) Suasi was a wonderful attractive, peaceful and restful end to our full time trip.  But still we would have liked to have gotten back from Suasi to Lima without the extra night in Puno.  What we did was in accordance with the final plans, but in retrospect we think it would have been possible to schedule it the way you had originally laid out. The extra night and half day in Lima would have been nice.  The next time you schedule anyone to Suasi, you might want to press this issue a little more. My impression is that people you deal with in Lima or Puno tend to go back to the same people they have worked with before, and that in the process they do not search as hard as they might for a better plan. Incidentally, we met the Puno boss, who did not speak English, but we asked through the guide if he had been involved in the planning of our trip.  He may not have understood us, or we may have misunderstood him, but he said he had not had anything to do with the planning.  This is not to complain, because we did everything according to your well thought out plan - this is to suggest that you might be able to do even better for others in the future, if you get your Peru (Lima or Puno) contact to press a little harder.  

We had a great time, guides were wonderful, hotels fine and very convenient, three of them, Oro de Leon in Lima, Suasi and Aeraquipa, extra special nice.  

Many thanks for all your help, and best regards  

Jan and Ed T.      [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

March 20, 2006

Hi Judy and Miguel, 

Thank you very very much for your hard work and dedication to my clients.  It means the world to me that you were there to assist with them during this crazy weekend.  

Thanks so much, Sharon   [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

February 28, 2006

Dear Judy,

Just a quick note to say that everything went very well. We had an amazing trip...  The people from Turisvision were especially nice and reliable.  The Swissotel made up for some issues on the first night by upgrading us on the
last night we returned.  Thanks for your help.  Best to you... 

Jan S. K.    [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]