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¡Ahora Hablo! Travel Edition

Chasing A Dream In The Galapagos

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Peru Railway Tours

January 14, 2012

Hi Miguel,

My wife, Janet, and I want to let you know how pleased we were with the services your staff provided us during our visit to Ecuador in November.  Your personnel were exemplary, professional, organized and personable.  They made us feel very comfortable and safe. 

The tours and the administrative matters, including vouchers and airline tickets, were seamless.  We experienced no disappointments, no frustrations and no disappointments.  It's a credit to your organization that everything worked out so smoothly.  There is no question that we'd use your services should we return to Peru and will enthusiastically recommend your services if the opportunity presents itself down the road. 

Wishing you much continued success as you move forward. 

Sincerely, Richard  [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]
 

January 13, 2012

Judy, we had a great time and would like to thank you for all the effort you put into making the arrangements.  The guides and tours were great and we were always picked up on time and never had to worry about whether someone had forgotten us.  Earlier I sent you our comment regarding the Bartomle island and a couple of other items you may want to be aware of are as follows:

-The hotel in Cusco (TAYPIKALA) gave us the absolute worst rooms in the house. We were in the basement beside a noisy kitchen in rooms badly needed of re-decorating. Even though it was New Years our booking was well in advance so I think they could have done better.  Overall the rest of the hotel seemed to be more superior and it had a good location.

-On our final day the cab driver taking us to the Quito Airport from the Hotel La Rabida was a bit of a problem.  We gave him a $5 tip which was more than we paid for a cab fare to go all the way to the cable car in the morning and he insisted that $5 wasn't enough.  It was our understanding that the transfer was included.  Of course he conveniently didn't speak English so we gave him an additional $5 to get rid of him.  He seemed to be insisting that he wanted $5 from each of us ($20) but he only got $10 in total.  I think the staff at La Rabida may want to know about this as it was a great hotel and very homey. 

Rest assured, if we decide to do any more Latin American vacations we will be happy to contact you again or provide a reference to others as required. 

Thanks so much.  Enjoy your weekend. 

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

November 09, 2011

Judy-
Sorry for the late reply.

It was AWESOME!!!!  You had the perfect recommendations for us.  We love La Mirage and the area and La Rabida was perfect for us.  A step down from the luxury of La Mirage, but equally as perfect.  Judy and Sergio were very kind and welcoming.  Feels like family.  Haley spent a good amount of time talking to the staff after the Earthquake.  They were quite shaken up.  we thought it was exciting.  Only because no one was hurt and no damage. 

You ROCK.  I gave your info to a bunch of people on the trip.  A couple from Toronto and also one from PA who seemed very interested in more South American travel. 

We are your biggest fans. 

Thanks

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

September 11, 2011

Hello Judy

We returned from our Galapagos / Machu Picchu trip a couple of weeks ago. Here is a huge thank you to you and the Latin American Reservation Center for arranging an absolutely outstanding trip. 

We were delighted with the LARC arrangements throughout -- especially the Mansion del Angel hotel in Quito (at which we stayed 3 times during the trip) -- our stay was absolutely wonderful.  Please relay our thanks to the manager, Lupe, and staff – who made us welcome and superbly comfortable.  The hotel is absolutely beautiful and the service was excellent. 

Tours were outstanding and we had perfect weather through-out (I’m not sure whether that was your doing or not).  All tour arrangements were beyond expectations -- we were met at every stop, our boarding passes, etc. were pre-printed -- we had a private tour bus with driver and guide and the guides were entertaining and informative. 

Please thank David, our tour guide through Quito, for excellent service. 

A special note on the service by Peru Chasquitur – they were flawless and beyond expectations in every way. 

Our guide in Lima, Miguel, was terrific.  We did not have time for much beyond the Gold Museum, but Miguel was entertaining and engaging. 

Our guide through Cusco and Machu Picchu, Clara, deserves special attention. She was absolutely outstanding in every way.  My wife was walking with a cane (we put off her knee surgery for the trip) and Clara went out of her way to assist and allow time for each tour. Knowledgeable and informative would be an understatement – she was just wonderful throughout and handled every detail expertly and a positive disposition.  In short, Clara takes the experience from good to great.  She was outstanding and will be fondly remembered as a highlight of our trip.  Please relay our heartfelt appreciation and thank you to Clara. 

I would be remiss if I did not also mention Edgar, our driver in Peru. He was exceptional – after the first couple of narrow, winding roads up the mountains I knew he was a rare find – always patient, prompt and providing excellent service.  I can’t say enough good things about him – and was I happy when he showed up at 4:30 AM to take us to the Expedition Train – great service! 

On our second day at Machu Picchu, we were guided by Manuel, who hiked Wayna Picchu with us.  We pretty much knew what we wanted to do the second day and had our day planned, so we did not spend as much time with Manuel, but he was an excellent companion and we really appreciated his company and informative dialogue on the hike.  I do want to thank you all (especially Peru Chasquitur) for scheduling our second day at Machu Picchu – which gave us an opportunity to hike a little and revisit some of the sites. 

I think the best example of excellent service by Peru Chasquitur was when we boarded the bus for our trip to the airport in Cusco, the agent (Diego?  I think, but I am not sure) handed us our boarding passes for the flights to Lima and Quito!  This is just one example – the service was always great. 

We had a fantastic trip and wish we had spent more time in Ecuador and Peru. We found so many things we wanted to see and do – we will definitely plan a return trip! 

Again, thank you (LARC) and Peru Chasquitur very much for the terrific tour planning, arrangements and guides.  We were delighted with the service.  I would definitely recommend LARC!

Walt, Susie, Kiff, and Joy   [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

August 08, 2011

Thanks for a wonderful trip.

The hotel La Rabida was super.

Loved the Beluga and would highly recommend to any/all

Our naturalist was exceptional

thanks again for making this all work so well.

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

[LARC Response:] 

HEY PAULA!

IS HE BACK ALREADY? I LOST TRACK OF THE TIME. WELL THAT IS GREAT! I KNEW THEY WOULD LOVE IT, BUT IT IS ALWAYS NICE TO HEAR FROM THEM, THANKS FOR LETTING ME KNOW AND DON'T LOSE MY NUMBER, YOU CAN HAVE LOTS MORE SATISFIED PASSENGERS LIKE HIM BOOKING THROUGH US! :)

ALL THE BEST, JUDY

August 01, 2011

Judy, good afternoon. I've been remiss in not getting back to you after returning to CT. on 07.19.  My wife says you're a miracle worker.  Our trip went flawlessly. All the connections and flights were punctual and Aerogal is a great airline.  We
got snacks and drinks on the 45 min flight from Guayaquil to Quito, and beer and wine was no charge.  Our drivers and guides were courteous, very friendly and especially informative on the sites and sounds of Quito and Imbabura Province.  We actually hired them for a free day in Cotacachi and surrounding areas.  It was $10/hour.  I couldn't believe it.  They also, didn't drive like the local population does.  Thanks God for that.  The locals are wacked out drivers. 

The Beluga and the Galapagos were better than we ever could have imagined. The crew and food were worth the trip on their own, but our naturalist, Juan, had to be the best one in the Galapagos.  We, and and the 14 others on board, truly enjoyed our daily trips onto the islands as well as the snorkeling around the islands and the insight he provided before, during, and after every trip. Now that we've been there, I wish they'd close it down so no other tourists could go. 

Kudos again on the La Mirage and Mansion del Angel.  Our first two nights at the Mansion we were the only guests they had I finally realized.  Didn't matter, they didn't cut back on the staff or service or not open the kitchen as some other hotel might do, we had 4 or 5 people at our beck and call at all times. The bad part is now my wife expects it at all times.  I'm exhausted.  I need a vacation.  La Mirage was just the same.  What a beautiful setting, and the grounds...  it's like going to a botanical garden, and you get to sleep there.  Food and service, 1st class.  When we got home I suggested we should go backpacking for a couple of days.  Diane laughed, looked at me and said, go ahead, I'm calling Judy.  Thanks girl.  Where to next? 

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

[LARC Response:] 

I am still laughing at Diane's last comment!  You go girl!

I have lots and lots of places to send you, I can keep you busy traveling to South America for the next ten years and you still won't have seen it all! Thanks so much for the feedback, that is how we can assure our future clients of the top notch service we strive to provide. 

All the best, Judy

June 08, 2011

Hello Judy, hello Caleb,

I am glad to report that I am back in Germany safe and sound.  Well, actually not glad - I had a really really great time in Galapagos, I loved every minute of it and if it had been up to me, I would have stayed another 3 weeks J J.  

I'd like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to both of you for your help and support.  Especially with the sudden itinerary-change, really great that you helped me there so quickly!  I enjoyed my time in Isabella, you were very right to recommend it, Caleb !  We did the tour to Los Tuneles and had close encounter snorkeling with the penguins, it was great fun J  

The hotels were all great; especially the Aventura was really lovely.  Great to see how well it was all re-done after the blow it took with the Tsunami, really very nice.  Staff there was most helpful and very kind, so I had a great time.  

The diving was also nice. Just one question concerning that: From what I learned the way this works is that basically every operator connects with the other operators on the island and then one of them does the tour to a certain destination that day, correct?  It's just something we'd need to advice our customers of, that's why I'm asking.  Is there any way of knowing in advance who will operate the tour that particular day ?  

It's too bad we didn't get a chance to meet personally. But if you do get by Bremen again make sure you let me know - I'll have a large Becks ready for you ! J  

As for the part in Quito, I absolutely loved the Mansion del Angel!! Really a very nice place, I'll make sure I'll promote it to by best ability J.  The tour was also very nice and informative, got a good impression on Quito and what to recommend for our clients.  

Thanks you very much again!  

Best regards from rainy Germany  

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

April 26, 2011

Judy: 

I just returned from my vacation in Ecuador and ended up being a guest of my friend's old school pal that still lives in Otavalo.  He treated us to a wonderful lunch there as well as insisting we stay as his guest for a spa treatment.  It was wonderful and such a treat.  I took several pictures of the grounds and the dining area which were exquisite.  To say the least, it was a memorable afternoon.  

I must add that I have been to several wonderful spas - the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the Suites of the Gods in Santorini, Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC as well as the Biltmore Spa also in Asheville.  I rank La Mirage the top experience.  

Thank you for the information you sent me. I am writing an article of my experiences while in Ecuador and will definitely include my experience at La Mirage.  

My best to you and continued success.  

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

March 21, 2011

Judy, 

Thanks for your patience in arranging our trip.  This is our last night and we are staying in a fabulous room at Mansion del Angel.  The accommodations at all the hotels have been outstanding.  La Mirage was my wife's favorite.  She loved the country atmosphere and the small towns.  Galapagos was an adventure.  If I can advise another traveler interested in outdoor adventure I would recommend they do a cruise.  The Royal Palm was great.  Puerto Ayora was busy and fun.  Tortuga Bay beach is a must.  The walk to the beach in the sun was tough on the wife.  Enjoyed the Colonial Town area in Quito.  Heading out to a couple of museums.  Give you more when I get stateside.  

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

[LARC Response:]

F.Y.I.  CARL, TSUNAMI WARNING LIFTED FOR GALAPAGOS, NO SUSTAINED DAMAGE-HAVE A GREAT TRIP! 

RGDS, JUDY
 

February 20, 2011

Hi Judy, 

My stays at Mansion del Angel and La Mirage were the best yet.  

I tried the Cofan spa treatment in addition to the Equatorial Energy treatment and, of course, Esthela's purification.  All were fabulous.  

A special menu for Valentine's dinner was the best dining experience that I
have ever had.  

Thank you for all your help.  I told Jorge and Michel that I might come back
next February...  

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

February 17, 2011

Dear Judy, 

A VERY belated message to thank you for planning such a fabulous trip for Phyllis and myself. Has to be one of my best vacations ever.  After being delayed by a day due to the snow storm in St. Louis, it was pretty rushed and crazy Friday and Saturday.  But then the schedule provided a bit of down time here and there.  It was still anything but restful, getting up every day at 6:30 and not eating dinner until 8 pm (that was my only complaint with the schedule - it's too late to start a 4 course meal when you have to rise so early).  But we had a fabulous experience on the boat - I would recommend that one to anyone.  The staff were all so pleasant and helpful, and were lucky enough to connect with a wonderful group of people (mostly English) in our group - we all bonded and it was sad to leave!  But a week is definitely enough, particularly at that pace.  

La Mirage is as beautiful as you had said, and Mansion of the Angels was lovely also.  Again, we didn't have enough time in either place so it was a bit hectic, which is probably why I ended up coming down with a nasty bronchitis the day after I returned home.  We needed more time in both cities, but I needed to get back to class and Phyllis became very homesick.  I am hoping to return to Ecuador in the not too distant future - I loved it!  I had to laugh that all the people we met were going to the jungle, rain forest, etc before and/or after , and we went to a spa!  But I'm not sure Phyllis could have done those things - she found many of the walks too rigorous, although she loved the trip also.  

The guides, the people who transferred us, everyone was wonderful and took good care of us.  The young man who took us on our tour of Quito was very sweet, but he didn't seem to know much about what to see and do outside of the prescribed agenda.  It was a little heavy on churches.  I just have to remember to do more homework before doing something like that so I can be part of planning the tour.  

I wish that you were a travel agent for other areas besides Latin America, but when I'm ready to return, either to Ecuador or elsewhere, I'll be calling you.   Meanwhile I'm passing on your contact info to other people.  

Thanks again, Judy - you are fabulous to work with!  

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

October 05, 2010

Judy, 

We are having a most wonderful time thanks to your amazing organizational skills and knowledge... thank you so very much... no problemos con el presidente and todo los tiempo en Peru was wonderful (except for some food poisoning in the Valley-but will chat with you about that after we return) 

Young Americo was the best.... the very best guide... and our time in Quito wonderful... Casa Aliso as you know is such a treat... all the lodgings have been special in their own ways..  

Just wanted to catch you up on our sincere thanks for a wonderful time.. Off to Galapagos manana..  

Muchos gracias Judy..  

Maureen and Barry [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 
 

[LARC's Response:] 

HI MAUREEN  

DON'T KNOW WHEN YOU WILL GET THIS, BUT SO GLAD ALL IS WELL! PLEASE GIVE ME A SHOUT WHEN YOU GET BACK AND LET ME KNOW HOW EVERYTHING WAS. HUGS, JUDY 
 

July 20, 2010

The highlands of Ecuador were as wonderful as we remembered, and it was nice to spend the time to see things.  The schedule worked great, the two days off at La Mirage was great.  The Hacienda HATO VERDE was wonderful and we really liked the family that operated it.  Cesar, the husband gave our guide some good suggestions for stop that we would like, so we got to a native market where we were the only tourists and we also enjoyed a village bullfight on our way to Crater Lake.  Our time in Banos was great, the clouds cleared the first afternoon and we saw the erupting volcano in all its glory, not threatening just large plumbs of steam from the top and as the sun went down we could see some rivers of lava.  The trip into the canyon and to the Devil's Caldron was very nice to realize we were seeing one of the prime tributaries to the Amazon.  We enjoyed the Otovallo market and happened upon a crazy native celebration in Cotacachi while staying at La Mirage. The rooms, food and spa at La Mirage were wonderful and the grounds are beautiful. 

Margo likes some of the high quality native art, so our guide took us to Olga Fische a shop in Quito which was exceptional not only for the beautiful hand crafted items, but the have a spectacular museum on the second floor of pre-Columbian and other ancient artifacts that are wonderfully displayed, we felt very lucky to have visited.  

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

June 10, 2010

Mike & Miguel, 

We arrived safely back in the US this morning.  I'm catching up on hundred of
accumulated emails, but I just wanted to send a quick note of thanks for all the hard work you both did in putting the trip together.  It was fantastic and the Hampden-Sydney students were thrilled.  Thanks too, Miguel, for all your help and hospitality in Quito.  I can't wait to come back.  

Regards, 

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

May 17, 2010

Hi Judy,

This is just a quick note from Cotacachi.  We are having an *amazing* honeymoon at La Mirage Garden and Spa.  The staff is treating us better than great and we've had fabulous food, great spa treatments, beautiful room and grounds, a gorgeous hike around Lake Cuicocha (Laguna Cuicocha), daily chocolate covered strawberries (and-or other honeymoon treats) complementary of the staff, a fun day in Otavalo market and generally great time.  Weather has been perfect, too.  

If GSC is half this great, we'll be very happy!  

Thanks for everything!  

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

April 29, 2010

Hi Judy - 

Well, us girls had a ball!!  She's decided she'll only travel First Class for the rest of her life!!  Was mad about La Mirage which, as always, was a dream!  The altitude got to her at Inga Pirca - no surprise - but she did well in Quito.  Young David was most pleasant and Miguel took us to lunch, on arrival, at Rincon la Ronda - lovely place and such a nice thing to do! Mansion is most elegant, but I would hope they do something far more agreeable with their little "Bistro".  I know it's just tiny and informal, but the food comes from outside and not at a good standard.  Low season at the moment - we were practically alone there and the stay was really lovely - No complaints, so please don't think I am unhappy!!  Many thanks for setting everything up - it was just a lovely part of the trip - at the end - AND - all flights on time or EARLY!! What a treat that was!!  

Cheers, 

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

April 05, 2010

Hi Judy!  

...so here's the update.  La Mirage was lovely (not sure if we were upgraded, but the room was beautiful regardless), albeit not an easy lodge to locate.  Driving in Ecuador was a breeze, finding things like the Mirage, not so easy, but we made it just fine.  

As to the Red Mangrove...it is a perfectly fine middle-of-the-road hotel group.   I'm not one who likes being on a schedule, so that aspect of it was a nuisance for me, but the trips were well organized, the guides were nice, the food was fresh...it was well done, just not luxe.  The "cabins" on Floreana were very basic...and hot (no A/C and no electricity after midnight, so not even able to have a fan). The hotel in Isabela was perfectly placed on a lovely beach.  We were upgraded to a suite (upon my request because our assigned room was not nice) at Aventura Lodge and that was well worth it.  I would encourage your guests to book the ocean front suites for the trip. Worth the extra few hundred dollars to guarantee the best rooms.  Basically, my feedback is that is a perfect way to see lots of stuff in the Galapagos, be completely directed to do things at specific times, stay in a clean environment d not think.  

Personally, my preference would be (and I might just return and do this) to stay at the Safari Camp (I am SO, SO happy we changed and booked a night there at the end...it was beautiful) and book a private scuba trip for 2-3 days max and relax at the safari camp at the beginning and end.  My favorite part about the entire trip really was being in the water and the tent.  

Thanks again for all your help and I promise to reach back out to you next time I head down that way.

All the best, 

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

April 03, 2010

Judy,

I absolutely agree with Miguel not to send it an expensive way.  There is no rush, so cheap is the way to go.  

BTW, we all really enjoyed the trip you arranged for us.  The rooms at the Hacienda Hato Verde were wonderful as well as the meal Maria prepared.  We all talked about her quinoa soup for the rest of the trip!  The MDA was great- (rooms and breakfasts) and the side trips to Quilitoa Lake, Otavalo, Mitad de Mundo and the Old City were fun too.  Richard was a excellent tour guide, really add some depth (culture and history) to his presentations that was very educational.  The folks at MDA suggested some very nice local restaurants.  

Only complaint would be that we wish Cesar had said something about taking the north road back from Lake Quilitoa to the PA Hwy.  Rye and Greg talked with him about the best way to go up and he suggested thru Latacunga, Pujili, and Zumbahua which was fine.  Then, they said they didn't want to come back the same way and wanted to make a "loop" back and Cesar looked a little funny.  I think he knew it would be a long way thru Sigchos and Toacazo but didn't say anything.  I think we drove 10 miles for every one that took us in the right direction due to all the switchbacks in the mountains!  Took us about twice as long (4 vs 2 hours) and we had to skip Cotopaxi on the way back to get to the MDA at a reasonable hour.  Minor problem though, the rest was super!  

Thanks again for all your help, 

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

March 07, 2010

Hi Judy, 

Back from Ecuador and Galapagos, and just wanted to say thank you for your help.  

The accommodations were excellent (Galapagos Safari Inn), and the tour guides and excursions were also great! What a wonderful trip.  

Thanks for all you did to make it possible. I would be happy to recommend LARC and your services to anyone who asks.  

Best, 

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

March 04, 2010

Judy ... Returned from Ecuador on Sat. night.  Both the Mansion and Mirage were outstanding.  Thanks for your help.  

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

February 25, 2010

Judy, I cannot begin to tell you what a wonderful experience Kimi and I
enjoyed. Everyone was so nice and the accommodations were way above my
expectations. We have made an agreement that we will return to La Mirage every year. The hotel in Quito is also beautiful and the staff is fantastic, but the spa was the cream of the crop. Thanks for all your help.   I need to write a note to Clemencia and Euphemia and also go to Trip Advisor
and write a review.   

What a wonderful way to spend a week or even two.  

Thanks again,
Peggy  [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]
 

[LARC's Response:] 

BLESS YOU PEGGY!  YOU MADE MY DAY!  I AM COPYING CLEMENCIA AND EUFEMIA, THEY WILL BE THRILLED TO KNOW THEIR EFFORTS HAVE NOT GONE UNAPPRECIATED!  WE WILL VERY MUCH APPRECIATE YOUR SPREADING THE WORD!  MY VERY BEST RGDS, JUDY 
 

January 16, 2010

Dear Sr. Espinosa, 

My husband and I had a very wonderful visit to your country of Ecuador a few weeks ago.  Mansion del Angel is an elegant and most comfortable hotel. You and your staff were so kind to take care of us making recommendations and assuring us of an enjoyable and safe trip. 

We are hoping to return sometime and just wanted to thank you for your part in forming our favorable impression of Ecuador and its people.

Happy New Year to you.

Sincerely,

Angela and Brian  
[Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

August 28, 2009

Judy, just received my computer back.  I had to send it in for repair.  Therefore, I have not been able to email you.  The trip was fabulous from start to finish.  It could not have been more perfect!!!  Thank you.  La Mirage was posh and I loved Cotacachi.  The town was charming and the leather shops were a big hit with the group.  The setting in the Andes was intoxicating. While I was there, I wondered how everyone would adjust to the tent camp.  From pure luxury to a tent?  Hmmmm.  But, I must tell you that the tent camp was a HUGE HIT.  You MUST experience it.  I have not slept that well in years.  The tents were magnificent, the owners were very pleasant and bent over backwards to make our time there very special. The food was gourmet.  I am soooooo happy that we did not spend our time cruising around on a boat.  You were very correct, as always!  Staying on land ended up being a much better bet. I would give the highest possible marks to the Safari Tent Camp and would suggest that other clients would probably love it every bit as much as we did.  It was even better than anticipated. / Casa Aliso was charming and the staff very accommodating.  The beds were a little HARD and the rooms a little HOT and stuffy, but overall it was a good in-between stop.  Want to talk with you by phone to give you more info.  Still trying to get caught up at work. Just wanted to get something to you now to say THANK YOU and tell you just how fabulous it all was.!  xxxx

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

August 18, 2009

Getting ready to leave for The Galapagos in the a.m. OMG, everything has worked like magic so far La Mirage . . . the BEST yet. The transport services . . . the BEST yet. Casa Aliso . . . a CHARM. Everything working out great. THANK YOU for the bottle of wine and the birthday wishes! What a perfect evening, thanks to you!! The only missing was YOU! / The group is getting along great. I wish you were on FACEBOOK so that you could see the photos that I just posted there. WHAT will it take me to get you on there? Joe and Steve are nice . . .a little different than us, but it's working out just great. Can't wait to give you the little tiny details when we return.  

Hugs and kisses! (Oh, have you tasted that lavender cake at La Mirage?) 

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

May 22, 2009

We recently stayed at the Mansion del Angel and would like to thank the management and employees for making our stay very memorable.  We arrived very late at night in the rain and was anxious to get some sleep.  Your rooms are very beautifully laid out and make the visitors feel very special.  

We left very early for our tour to Chimborazo and your employee made us tea and toast to send us on our way. We had to leave for the airport to head home at 3:45am and your employee again made us tea and toast to send us home.  This added touch made us very happy and we will recommend your establishment to any of our friends visiting Quito.  

We have also passed on good words to our tour company, Adventure Life, about your accommodating us.  

Thank you for a pleasant stay in Quito.  

Alice & Edwin   [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 
Room 302 

May 04, 2009

Dear Judy, 

We just returned from our South America trip.  It was fabulous, and I want to thank-you for your arrangements of our Cotacacchi, Ecuador leg of the trip.  From the moment we arrived, it was first class.  We loved the Mansion del Angels and were sad we only had one night there.  However, our stay at La Mirage was fabulous.  We were upgraded, and the room we had was just unbelievable.  We took advantage of all the spa opportunities and just luxuriated in the beautiful gardens.  The food was wonderful too.  We also appreciated our drivers.  We met the hotel owner, and were very happy to sing your praises.  Thank-you Judy for your impeccable arrangements.  

Sincerely, 

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

[LARC Response]: 

HI KATIE,

AND THANK YOU FOR SAYING SO.  IT IS ALWAYS NICE TO KNOW WE ARE DOING OUR JOB
RIGHT!  PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHEN YOU ARE GOING TO PERU OR ANYWHERE ELSE IN
SOUTH AMERICA, WE LOVE BOOKING POSITIVE PEOPLE LIKE YOU!

April 02, 2009

Hola Judy, 

How ironic to get your email now....Mrs. Papantonio just phoned me.  She raved about this trip and said it was one of the very best they've ever taken.  They really enjoyed the accommodations at Royal Palm (also, they were the only ones on the yacht excursions and the captain went out of his way to show them things most people don't usually see); La Mirage (including the spa and two chocolate massages for the girls!); their driver/guide was great; the Galapagos islands and animals; and the Otavalo Market which was an eye-opener for their daughter about life outside the U.S.  

I could almost see her smiling through the phone as she was talking about the trip!  Please thank everyone for their excellence.  

Best, 

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

[LARC's Response]: 

I AM SO THRILLED TO HEAR THAT!  

THANKS FOR LETTING ME KNOW, AND NOW I KNOW YOU WILL HAVE THE CONFIDENCE TO
USE LARC FOR ALL YOUR SOUTH AMERICA BOOKINGS.  

IT WILL ALSO HELP SO MUCH FOR YOU TO SEE IT YOURSELF, SO I CAN'T WAIT UNTIL YOU GO AND HAVE THE EXPERIENCE, IT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE.  

THANKS KAREN & HUGS, JUDY 

March 13, 2009

[Forwarded by David:]

Hi David, 

Back from a fabulous trip to the Galapagos and the Amazon and just wanted to thank you so much for arranging the Amazon portion for us.  It was wonderful!  Quite the adventure.  Hamadryade Lodge was great and we were the only guests!  Sebastian is a nice guy.  He kept mentioning someone by the name of Judy - assume she works with you?  I will send you some pics when I get them loaded onto a photo gallery this weekend.  We did a 5 hour hike thru Sacha Reserve with Pepe who also runs the butterfly farm on the property.  Amazing the things he can spot.  The next day we did a full day white water rafting trip which was also fun but quite the adventure getting to the river.  Had a 30 minute hike down over rocks and lots of mud!  Finally got to sit poolside for a bit before we had to leave on Wed. L 

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

[Response by David:]

Good news!! Muchas Gracias for the nice report.  Judy is a friend at LARC - Latin American Reservations Center - who reps Hamadryade among many other properties.  I book quite a few things with her & have for years.  She is also the one who told me about Hamadryade - nice to have another place to promote.  Ecuador has so much other than Galapagos.  

November 06, 2008

Judy, 

If heaven is anything like La Mirage I will be one happy camper!  What a gorgeous property with every amenity imaginable, a tremendous staff headed up by Clemencia who is the most lovely person, an A+ spa, gourmet food with fabulous presentation (Hugo is a tremendous chef) and some of the most gorgeous grounds I have seen.  From the moment we arrived and were greeted with warm hand towels and champagne, to the hot water bottles placed under our duvets each evening no stone was left unturned to make our stay the most comfortable possible.  Michel, the former owner of the hacienda, is such a loverly man.  One afternoon we went horseback riding and he helped make this possible at the last moment!  Happily, I had spa reservations when we returned from the ride and when I had completed my massage I left "walking on air."  

I can't imagine anyone leaving La Mirage without total euphoria!  It was a pleasure working with you.

Regards,
Debbie   [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

[PS:] We all had such a tremondous time and I want to thank you for the bottle of Malbec we enjoyed, with your compliments! In fact, it was so good we ordered more and more!!  What a kind gesture.  Muchas gracias para todos!!  

[LARC's Response:] 

HI DEBORAH, 

MY ONLY REGRET WAS THAT WE WERE WITHOUT INTERNET FOR FORTY-EIGHT HOURS AND I DIDN'T SEE THIS WONDERFUL UPLIFTING MESSAGE SOONER! IT IS ALWAYS SO GRATIFYING THAT OUR BEST EFFORTS DO NOT GO UNNOTICED, AND I THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAISE. YOU MADE MY DAY! LET US KNOW WHEN YOU WOULD LIKE TO GO FOR ANOTHER VISIT IN THE FUTURE. WARMEST PERSONAL REGARDS-IT WAS A PLEASURE WORKING WITH YOU AS WELL! 

JUDY

October 03, 2008

We just returned from our trip in Ecuador/Quito, we absolutely loved Mansion Del Angel and were fortunate enough to have the suite on the 3rd floor!!  Thanks!  Do you guys work on trips other than South America or do you just focus there???  

Thanks again, Rick E.   [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.] 

 
[LARC's response:]

HI MR. E.,  

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO? WE DO SPECIALIZE IN SOUTH AMERICA BECAUSE THAT IS
OUR AREA OF EXPERTISE, BUT LET US KNOW AND WE WILL TRY TO HELP YOU NEXT TIME
AS WELL. RGDS, 

JUDY / DONNA  

April 02, 2008

Hi Judy

We are back from a fabulous trip. I wanted to thank you so much for all of your help. We had a wonderful time at La Mirage. I can recommend the Volcanic Mud Massage Treatment at the spa although it was a rather naked experience! We are both so happy that we ventured into the mountains. One of the things we enjoyed the most was wandering around the food and vegetable market in Otavallo. We were tired of crafts by then and found the market really exciting. I am sure we were safe. 

The funny thing was on the plan ride home they were showing a film called "Proof of Life" with Meg Ryan and Russell Crowe, well...... it was filmed in the Otavallo area and Old Quito. It is all about a kidnapping, glad I saw it on the way home!!!!   

Anyway, thank you so much. We would love to go back to South America again and will keep you in mind to help us with our plans. 

Kind Regards, 

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

February 21, 2008

Dear Dom 

Thank you for your welcome home message. We arrived late last night after a long journey home. All the flights worked out very well with only a couple of delays due to bad weather in Dallas which did not upset anything and we were able to catch our connecting flights without a problem. The luggage stayed with us all along until we rechecked it in at Johannesburg for Cape Town where one bag went missing (welcome to South Africa!!!!) 

We really liked the Nautilus Explorer but found the dive deck rather cramped and having to climb in and out of the skiffs was a problem at times when the seas were a bit rough. We did not see as many mantas as we had hoped and Roca Partida was very disappointing with only a couple of sightings of sharks. We heard that they had found a lot of nets when they returned after the down season. So very sad. 

Ecuador and the Sky Dancer far exceeded our expectations!! We were met at the airport on time and found the Mansion Del Angel delightful. The next day a really lovely driver picked us up and took us to La Mirage. He was very kind and helpful and managed quite well with his English. There was no need for an actual guide. We had had lunch at La Mirage in 2002 and were so impressed then. You can imagine our delight when we realized it was the same hotel. Our suite was magnificent, the staff were dedicated and efficient and we had a couple of good massages. Our journey back to Quito was great with the arranged stop at the Indian Market. We flew to San Cristobal where we were met by the Sky Dancer crew. Dom, no exaggeration, we have been on many liveaboards, as you know but these guys and the boat are SIMPLY THE BEST. They could not do enough for us including the Captain who was always on the dive deck helping us get on and off the boat as well as helping us undress and handing out warm towels!! We just wished the charter could have been longer. Our cabin was great and the food was excellent. The sea conditions were good though the vis at Darwin and Wolf was not good at all. There was loads of stuff out there but we had difficulty seeing it. We did enjoy a dive being circled by hammerheads and dolphins close enough to film. Gordons Rocks was the best with good currents and everything to see thanks to better vis. Water temperatures were comfortable ranging from 25 degrees C down to 18 in the thermoclines. Thanks for the tip about wearing two hoods, I was not cold at all. We were with a great crowd, mostly British, one American, one guy from St Lucia, a German, an Italian and a Japanese. The German and Italian shared a cabin and their English was not very strong, as was the problem with the Japanese chap but they all got on so well together and became the best of friends, looking out for each other at all times. We found them delightful and Karlheinz was happy to have a fellow country man to chat with now and then in German. We all exchanged mail addresses and hope to keep in touch or at least pass on a photo or two. Our guide, Edwin, was well informed and we enjoyed the land trips with him. We were on the skiff with a young dive guide called Natasha who was fantastic. We were so sad to leave the boat but are looking forward to reliving our holiday when we down load our pictures and edit our video. 

Dom, thank you for everything. This was certainly one of our best trips. 

We will stay in touch! 

All the best from Mary and Karlheinz     [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

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 shaman 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.] 

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.]

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 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 names 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.

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.   [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.]

January 29, 2006

Our trip was wonderful and exhausting and very educational.  All the arrangements you made were excellent and flawless.  Miguel is a very accommodating and responsible agent and tourguide.  The sites for meals (Cienega, Puerto Lago) and lodging (Fuente Piedro, Pinsaqui) were each unique and very hospitable.  Otovalo market is delightful (we could have used more time), with a few actual artisans interspersed among scores of secondary vendors.  Visiting the nearby crafts towns generally exposed us to a higher level of craftsmanship.  Miguel took us to the studio of a weaver in Peguche whose work was outstanding (and now well represented in our house in Ithaca).

Sacha is a delight, but is very different from the naive perspectives we had of the jungle.  We saw many fewer exotic species than we'd anticipated, but this was due to our lack of understanding about diversity and numbers. Outstanding staff, excellent food and lodging.  The trekking is a bit arduous - lots of getting into/out of canoes, the footing on the trails is often uneven, and there is some extensive climbing.  Mary Lee was able to keep up with most, and the guides were very accommodating to her special needs.  The 2.5 hour trip along the Napo is delightful.  If someone wants to see lots of species of toucans and exotic birds up close, they should go to Bush Gardens, but for an easy and enlightening adventure this is a wonderful place.  

Ecoventura is a first rate organization.  The ship was clean, the food and other service were outstanding, and all the staff were very friendly and helpful.  Everyday there were small extras provided, which added significantly to the individual and collective enjoyment of the passengers.  Here again, our guides and crew were very attentive to helping Mary Lee on/off of the pangas (twice daily) without disrupting the activities of the other passengers.  The uniqueness of each of these islands must be seen to be appreciated. 

Some of the passengers on the lower deck reported having air that smelled of diesel and also mentioned the noise from the engines as being disruptive, but our upper deck rooms were very airy and bright, and also more convenient.  I think some air purification system was not functioning properly, but you might want to mention this to future clients.  We were very glad to have paid the extra $$ for the upper deck rooms.  We are infrequent travelers to such exotic places, so a little extra investment to enhance the comfort is worth it.  

On our last day in Quito we hired a guide from Sacha (who was home on break in Quito) to take us to Bellavista and a nearby orchid farm and also a private hummingbird reserve (owned by Tony Nunnery, who leads tours for Victor Emanuael).  We were not especially impressed with the Bellavista lodge, but the other two sites were fantastic.  The bird house has recorded the greatest number of hummingbird species per day of anywhere on earth, and we saw about 15 species.  

That's it in a capsule.  Again, we thank you for all your efforts to make this journey easy and enjoyable for us.  We hope 2006 brings you much happiness.  Please let me know if you are ever coming by Ithaca.  Cornell has a very active herpetology club, and they might be particularly interested in meeting with someone of your experience 
and interests.

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

January 26, 2006

Judy

I just wanted to let you know how wonderful both the Mirage and Del Angels were. We had a great time.

Sharyne & Mitchel W.   [Last name withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

September 19, 2005

Hi All...

Trip back was as always exhausting, but uneventful which is good....

The arrangements in Ecuador were excellent and the car and driver super..... Thanks so much.... Trip was terrific...... Everyone enjoyed everything immensely......

Kudos to Miguel for last minute fix-it on van to Guayaquil from Cuenca..... We had a good trip down but had hoped to have Oswaldo for the day and not just until 2:30 when we were dropped at hotel...but do understand he had to get back to Cuenca and check on Chevy Astro..........

I will be in touch up the road about Peru and perhaps Bolivia when the time comes...Could be a while as the list is pretty full, but I won't forget... Hope all went well for you in Peru, Miguel and thanks for everything Donna... Good job all around....... Robert...... 

PS

I think Ernesto had HR in front of White outside customs at Quito on arrival 16 days ago........I knew that had to be the real thing!

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

Received: September 19, 2005

TRIP REPORT - ECUADOR AND THE GALAPAGOS
AUGUST 12-29, 2005


Friday, August 12th - Departure and Introduction

Jan and I left Washington National Airport around 2 pm on Friday, Aug 12. American Airlines flight to Miami (2 and 1/2 hours), followed by a short lay-over and a very long walk between gates and another American Airlines flight (3 and 1/2 hours) to Quito, the capital of Ecuador, arriving around 8:30 pm. We were met by our tour guide, Miguel, and taken on a relatively short drive to our hotel.

First, a few words about Quito. It's a large city (pop around 2 million), and the capital of Ecuador. It's around 30 miles long (north-south) and only 4 miles wide. Basically, it sits on a high Andean plateau, at around 9,000 feet, in the midst of several large volcanoes. It is a very beautiful setting. In the morning, we looked out our window onto the two large and still active volcanoes, the Pinchinchas. The most recent eruption of these was in the late 1990's and covered the city in ash. The whole area is very active, geologically speaking. Apparently, there are daily "earthquakes" in Quito, but none strong enough to even be felt. The last big one was around ten years ago, seriously damaging several cultural heritage sites. The altitude is high enough that you really notice it. Particularly when climbing stairs. There were mornings that I really felt the hike up and down the two flights of stairs in our hotel (no elevator). I don't think anyone on our trip ever got really altitude sickness (headaches, etc). But we all knew we were up pretty high. In comparison, it is about 1,000 feet higher than the village at Snowmass, Colorado where we have skied.

Our hotel was lovely. We used the same hotel (and actually stayed in the same rooms) whenever we came back to Quito. It was called Mansion del Angel. It was very comfortable. Large rooms, comfortable beds, large showers with lots of hot water, etc. Very nicely decorated. Very helpful and friendly staff. And not terribly expensive. Roses were everywhere. It turns out that, after petroleum products, Ecuador's largest export is roses. When you drive around the highlands, you see all these huge greenhouse complexes that grow roses for shipping to the US and around the world. In Ecuador on the streets, you can buy 25 roses for a dollar. As a result, our hotel was filled with huge bouquets of beautiful roses. And the odor of roses was everywhere. Whenever we were in Quito, we had breakfast on this wonderful, glassed in terrace with views of the mountains.

To read more of this account, Click Here

July 15, 2005

Dear Donna,

What a great trip.  All the arrangements you made came off with out a hitch.  Every time I arrived at the Quito Airport our car and driver were there to greet us.  Monica and Raphael were most gracious and brought two
vehicles to carry all the baggage.  They also arranged dinner for us one night at La Ronda.  Raphael drove us over and picked us up.  Was reasonable in his charges and always prompt and on time.  The hotels were clean comfortable and offered very personal service. 

Del Angel always had our rooms available and ready.  Our luggage that we did not take out to the Galapagos was left in our room and they stored it and put it back in our room when we returned. 

La Mirage was wonderful.  We had the spa to ourselves and used it extensively.  I did a lavender soak and massage, a Swedish massage, and a facial. All were wonderful.  We thoroughly enjoyed La Mirage.  The meals
were a treat in themselves.  The wine list was good and we have no complaints. 

The planning and reservations that LARC did for us were professional and crisply carried out.  We could not have ask anymore from you and Judy, the hotels, or the drivers. 

Thank you for making our trip such a success.


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

Received: July 11, 2005

Galapagos and Guayaquil, Ecuador
June 12 to 24, 2005


Joan planned this exciting and educational trip with grandchildren to Ecuador and the Galapagos Archipelago. The travelers were Joan and I, Gage and Lily C., Hanna W., Florence D., and Michael I.. On Sunday, June 12, Joan and Tom flew to Houston and met Hanna, who flew in from Dallas, and Lily and Gage, who flew in from Denver. We met Florence and Michael, who flew from Boston to Houston. The flight connections went smoothly. We left Houston at about 7 pm and arrived at Guayaquil a little after midnight, June 13.  (Continued...)

For more read: A Personal Account of a Family's Visit to the Galapagos Islands and Guayaquil, Ecuador - June 12 - 24, 2005  

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

July 07, 2005

Correspondence between LARC and a happy customer: 

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

June 27, 2005 

Mr. F., 

I feel so ditzy.... think I neglected to inform you to look for the Mirage transfer person just outside of the airport, they will be holding a sign that says Mansion del Angel or your name.  All of the staff is very nice.



Donna 


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


June 30, 2005
To: LARC

You may feel ditzy but the recommendations you gave me are not.  The plans have been running like a Swiss watch. La Mirage is everything you said and more.  It is beyond wonderful.

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

March 21, 2005

Dear Judy;

Thank you, thank you, thank you for cabin 8 on Beluga! It really was the penthouse. It was strange, almost all the 14 people on the boat were tall and slim like us, so they envied the roominess of cabin 8. However most of them were comfortable, just found it noisy when traveling at night with the engine running.

Silvia, our guide, was really good. She is passionate about the islands and being from Switzerland, she talked freely about the government of Ecuador and how it handled (or mishandled) the Islands park. She is dead set against these bigger boats of 90 people. We saw one pull in at one anchorage and it really is an assault on the fragile islands environment. If you and other brokers can book passengers on the small boats only, maybe it would help.

I can't think of anything to change on the trip. We had two landings a day and snorkeling almost every day. The cook was excellent and was attentive to the few people who had dietary restrictions.

La Mirage is something else, isn't it? Wow. We spent too much money in the leather town and we really enjoyed those few days in the market towns. I must say we were glad we spoke some Spanish. We needed it in Quito.

Thanks again for helping us with a memorable trip.

Fran and Greg   [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

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

[Response from LARC president, Judy Martin: ]

HI FRAN,

SO GLAD YOU ENJOYED THE TRIP!  I LIVE FOR THOSE GOOD COMMENTS, IT IS WHAT MAKES MY JOB WORTHWHILE. 

BEST RGDS,

JUDY

February 22, 2005

[To Judy at LARC:]

Thanks for all your amazing work in taking such good care of my client Randy.

Cheers, Dom

[Dominick Macan            ]
[Reef & Rainforest France]

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

Hi Dom,

What do you think?  Do I look like a vaquero?

If I could sum up this trip with one word it would have to be 'flawless.'  I liked the country; I liked the people; I liked the culture; and I absolutely loved the diving.  In the annals of my diving experience I have rated just 4 sites as the proverbial 10.

Wolf and Darwin far exceeded my expectations. On the first dive in the morning at Wolf we were greeted by schooling Hammerheads, Galapagos Sharks and a very close encounter with Dolphins. At Darwin, on the first dive in the morning, we saw a Whale Shark. Each dive was a truly unique experience where I saw something I had never seen before. The currents at both dive sites made for some wild drift dives but they were fun! The boat could not have been better. The crew was outstanding and so were my diving companions.

As I am sure you aware, there is usually one person who is voted the jerk of the week. On this boat there was no such vote because there weren't any!

I must commend you and Tuula for the incredible [I'm starting to run out of hyperboles] land package you put together. Once again, I don't think it could have worked out better. At Cotopaxi, where the picture of me on horseback was taken, I saw an Andes Condor [according to my guide] and an Ecuadorian Wolf with a rabbit in its mouth! LARC tours were absolutely fantastic! When I arrived Miguel, the owner and one my guides, explained to me the there were two different ways of keeping time, Regular and Ecuadorian. To his, and his employees credit, he adhered to the former.  They were never late. They were also very friendly and went out of their way to make me feel comfortable and welcome in their country. The ocean plus the land portion added up to a perfect vacation. I would not hesitate to visit the country again. It remind me very much of Costa Rica except with more variation.

So Dom I think you realize by now that as far as my arrangements for any future trips go there is only one company I need to do business with. I am not independently wealthy and am only entitled to one vacation a year because I have to work for a living. It is absolutely essential that I maximize the dollar value of my trips. I know with you and Reef and Rainforest that I get what I pay for. In the immortal words of the Governator "I'LL BE BACK!!!!!"

Your friend

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

 

January 14, 2005

Hi Judy,

Audrey and I want to thank you for all the hard work and effort you put into making our holiday in the Galapagos Islands so wonderful. The Royal Palm Hotel was fantastic and the people were so nice and friendly they couldn't do enough for us. We would have to say that it was by far the best place we visited and will always treasure the memories we have of the place and not forgetting the people.  Everything went according to plan and the flights with TAME were great.  If we were thinking of doing more Latin American holidays say Peru / Machu Picchu / Inca Trail would you be able to help us with that. Let me know as we would have no hesitation in dealing with you again.  Hope this note finds you well and eagerly looking forward to 2005.

All the very best,

Wilma/Audrey from Scotland   [Last names withheld in compliance with the LARC privacy policy.]

January 10, 2005

Hi Judy

Thank you for helping me with Galapagos trip.

I thought [Mansion del Angel] was a gem and enjoyed the hotel, one I will definitely recommend to clients.

I liked La Mirage and thought it was an excellent location. The room and food were excellent. The spa left something to be desired and I expressed this to the person in charge. The staff was excellent.

The Eclipse was wonderful and the food was excellent. Better than I had on the Isabella II. The staff, the ship etc. were excellent.

So you can see I thoroughly enjoyed.

Thank you

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

October 01, 2004

This is what Frommer's (the travel guide) web site has to say about LARC: 

"Latin American Reservations Center, PO Box 1435, Dundee, FL 33838 (tel. 800/327-3573; www.larc1.com). If you're traveling from the U.S. to Ecuador, this should be your first phone call. Judy Martin who runs this excellent operation has the best deals with many of the hotels we recommend and knows firsthand some of the best guides in the country."  

Check them out at: www.frommers.com/destinations/ecuador/0811010002.html 

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