Holiday Reviews:
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Holiday Review: Hawaiian Islands Explorer
We are just back from your Hawaiian Islands Explorer holiday and whilst we enjoyed everything about the holiday, these are some particular highlights:
The eruption of Kilauea, on Hawaii's Big Island - we joined all the other passengers on the deck of the cruise ship at 1am to watch the glowing bright red hot lava flowing into the sea from the world's most active volcano which has been erupting non-stop since 1983. Almost as much of a treat was the night sky where, with the lack of light pollution, we could clearly see all the constellations. The following day, on a tour of the Volcanoes National Park, we watched the smoke gushing from the crater of Kilauea before going on to walk through a rainforest and into a lava tube.
On the island of Kauai we visited the locations for South Pacific, Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Blue Hawaii and Outbreak, amongst others. The scenery is extremely varied; from paddy fields to dense rainforests with the sort of vegetation normally found in the hot houses of botanical gardens, house plants gone mad, forests of Swiss Cheese plants, huge waterfalls, hidden valleys and breathtaking beaches fringed by coconut palms and pounded by surf. In the National Tropical Botanical Gardens we admired the beautiful red Torch Ginger flowers and the Moreton Bay Fig Trees, where the dinosaurs' eggs were discovered in Jurassic Park.
Sleepy, pretty Lahaina on Maui was my favourite town. Facing the ocean and backed by high green mountains, it has white beaches, museums, historical buildings, an abundance of art galleries and the second biggest banyan tree in the world which completely fills the main square.
In Honolulu we climbed the steep trail up from the crater to the summit of Diamond Head, the picturesque extinct volcano which lies at one end of Waikiki beach and were glad that we had made the effort when we reached the top and saw the panorama of the whole of the southern coast of Oahu in front of us.
Mick & Linda Jenner, UK
Holiday Review: Western Treasures
I have returned this week from the last trip for this year of Western Treasures. What a fabulous trip and first time with Cosmos/Archers I will definitely use them again.
Our Tour Director Randy Schuster was the tops, together with our driver John we were in good hands.
From San Francisco to Solvang, Sedona, Senora, Santa Barbra, Sacramento = the list goes on! It was miles of good scenery and places and good company, made very memorable with Randy at the helm, his knowledge, helpfulness & friendship made this trip unforgettable.
JENNIE TUSVELD DEVON ENGLAND
Jennie Tusveld, Devon, England
Holiday Review: New England in the Fall
We went on the New England in the Fall holiday, (22/09/09) which went for 11days, being a sea sun and sangria man I was not looking forward to it, but as it was a family holiday (9 adults) I was out voted.
How glad I was, as it turned out to be one of the best holidays I have ever been on (booked again for the 26/09/10). I enjoyed everything except the last day when we went to Albany, I felt safer when we went through the Bronx.
Just like to say once again if your reading this Beth (guide) and Dave (driver) thanks and look forward to seeing you again. For anyone thinking of going on this trip just do it, AND ENJOY YOUR MEMORIES. Don't forget to take a camcorder and extra battery you will need it so much to see, highlight was the whales.
Mr. D Corke (Liverpool)
Mr D Corke, Liverpool
Holiday Review: Western Treasures
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Holiday Review: Western Treasures
We have just returned from this tour having had a truly amazing time. Once again Archers lived up to our expectations. On arrival in San Francisco we were introduced to our tour director, Ken, who worked very hard to ensure that all went smoothly. The next morning we met Randy, our driver for the tour who could be seen early every day washing the windows of the bus and at every stop giving a quick clean up inside the very comfortable coach.
The memories we have are too numerous to mention but it was the information and personal knowledge shared by Ken which made everything relevant and so easy. There was the flight over the Grand Canyon, the sheer beauty of Yosemite National Park, the glitz of Las Vegas, the fun of Los Angeles, the travelling along route 66, the visit to Alcatraz and riding the trams in San Francisco - the list is endless! However, every experience was enhanced by the background information given by Ken; films and music were used to explain and to enhance and to prevent any boredom on the days of travelling. Ken explained the changing landscapes, gave us brief histories of the areas through which we travelled, pointed out all places of interest and generally helped in any way he could.
We ended our trip with a week in Hawaii; fabulous! Honolulu was not the best place on earth but the island was magical, combining the beauty of a tropical island with the culture of the Polynesian people. The highlight was, maybe, the day at the Polynesian Cultural Centre which ended with the 'Breath of Life' show - I believe this rivalled the opera at Verona! Or maybe it was the moving visit to Pearl Harbour or the fun at the Dole pineapple plantation! We did actually make the trek to the rim of Diamond Head Crater - quite an achievement in the heat for someone not as fit as they might be!
With the exception of the hotel in San Francisco, the hotels were excellent and always in superb locations. Most had inviting swimming pools but it seemed a waste to spend time relaxing when there was so much to see and do. The occasional complimentary breakfasts were very welcome - especially the opportunity to cook your own waffles and smother with warmed maple syrup!
If I had to find a criticism it would be the flight on United Airlines; we were fortunate, but many people did not get allocated seats together and the food fell short of adequate. On a ten hour flight there was one reasonable meal followed some eight hours later by a very unsubstantial breakfast!
Once again, a big thank-you to Archers for a well organised tour and a special thank-you to Ken for his unstinting efforts to enable us to get the best from the trip.
Helen and Derek Davies, UK
Holiday Review: The Rocky Mountaineer
Just had to let you know what a wonderful time my husband and I had on our holiday to Canada with Archers.
Great tour guide Wayne and coach driver also called Wayne. The Rocky Mountaineer train was superb as was our guide on our two days through the Rockies. Optional trips well worth the money, saw and did so much it was unbelievable, Banff, Jasper, Vancouver, Victoria and then two extra nights in Vancouver even saw 2 brown bears - fantastic.
Can't wait to do another trip next year, maybe New Zealand.
Sandy & Dorothy Reith, UK
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
My wife Maureen and I have recently returned from the National Parks & Canyon Country Tour.
We thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. On the first day our tour guide, Jim, said 'Remember, you're not on holiday, you're on a coach tour'. From day one it was all go and Jim seemed to know everything about everything. Whether it was which Indian tribe was local to that area, what their traditions were, and much, much more.
The whole party on our bus was happy with everything Archers had arranged and the excursions were so varied and such good value too!
I would whole heartedly recommend this tour to the world.
John Endicott, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
Being Elvis fans, we just had to let everyone know what a fantastic holiday we had on this tour. Our tour guide, Tanya and driver, Doug, were terrific, both very informative and helpful at all times. Staying at Heartbreak Hotel was brilliant and Graceland was just wonderful. All the included excursions were fabulous and also the extra optional ones too. It was great to follow Elvis through his lifetime from Tupelo, Memphis, Nashville, Las Vegas and of course the fantastic Graceland.
It is hard to pick out one highlight event as all of it was just superb, but possibly the visit to Studio B, where we recorded Can't Help Falling in Love and where I shed some tears, will stick out in my memories. Sun Studio, Beale Street and the Honky Tonk bars were great too.
We went on to Las Vegas and had a great time there too. We saw the Legends in Concert show and Matt Lucas the Elvis impersonator was awesome. We would have liked a few more days in Vegas as there was too much to see in 2 days. We have got loads of great photos of this truly wonderful holiday and would certainly recommend it to others. We will certainly do this tour again, especially to go back to Graceland to see the Private Presley collection, which we missed out on as it was closed when we got to it.
Pam and Frank, Middlesex and Surrey
Holiday Review: New England in the Fall
What a wonderful holiday we had there were 9 of us in our group (all family) every one of us had an exceptional time. What wonderful places we visited; the highlight of our holiday was the whale watching it was a very hot day, the sea was calm and we saw lots of whales. The guide on the boat really new his stuff; he was very informative and eager to help. One place we did not like was the trip to Albany.
Our tour guide Beth was very informative and polite and courteous nothing was too much trouble for her. All our hotels were very comfortable and clean and the places we visited were very beautiful the whether was fantastic for that time of year. Dave our coach driver was very helpful and polite he kept the coach in tiptop condition and made our trip very comfortable. Our trip was fantastic from start to finish the only disappointment was the trip to Albany but overall a very enjoyable time we are looking forward to next time.
Alison Kenny, UK
Holiday Review: The Rocky Mountaineer
We recently completed a tour of Canada including the Rocky Mountaineer and Zuiderdam Alaskan Cruise extension and wish to report that the tour part of the holiday was excellent in all respects. Our Tour Director, John Gargrave, was unbelievable! He managed to sort out 41 of us without any fuss, no-one was late on any occasion and we travelled totally stress free thanks to his amazing organisation. His knowledge of the area, history and anecdotal tales was phenomenal. He is the most unassuming and quietly spoken gentleman we have ever met. What a treasure he must be to your organisation?!
As to the tour, it included everything that we could wish for. Unfortunately we did not receive details of the optional trips available from Archers until we had already booked a Whale Watching Excursion with Holland America. This was booked as a result of your letter giving us details of access to the Holland America brochure before sending us your own information. We would have preferred to have booked with yourselves in Victoria as your optional trips were far better value.
The hotels en-route were far better than we expected, luxurious even, but this highlighted the shortcomings of The Lobstick Lodge in Jasper. The breakfast service at this hotel was excellent BUT the rooms were dark and dismal being almost underground!
The Goldstar Service on The Rocky Mountaineer was fantastic, well worth the money despite needing to join AA after we returned home!
This was our second booking with Archers and we have not been disappointed. We will certainly recommend you to our friends.
Dawn Ball & Nola Baker, UK
Holiday Review: Route 66
I was a little nervous going on a coach tour but it was even better than I dreamed. Went with my mum (well past retirement age, she wouldn't let me tell anyone her age!) but the people on the tour were amazing, including myself and mum in any activities. Our tour director Tammy was wonderful, going above and beyond any duties expected of her. Do Archers realise just how much work they put in? Our driver Mark was wonderful also.
Chicago was vibrant, cosmopolitan and fun. Springfield was educational (learnt so much about Lincoln) and St. Louis was fun. I could go on and on and on....... Oklahoma.... karaoke with new found friends singing "route 66" is something I will never forget. Approaching Amarillo singing "is this the way… la la la...". Everyone on the bus joining in is something that will stay with me forever. The feeling of the mother road was like travelling back in time and left me with so many memories. Even cried when some of the party left before us (girls you know who you are!). Thank you Archers for putting together such a wonderful holiday, and I booked the next one yesterday, National Parks & Canyon Country.
Sue, Oxford, Berkshire
Holiday Review: Dixieland & Rhythms
Dixieland & Rhythms was the name of the tour, that's what we chose it for, and it lived up to all our expectations.
We flew to Chicago - a busy, noisy, working city - and had plenty of time to see and enjoy all its attractions. Our first tour stop was St Louis, and this was where we said "hello" to the Mississippi. A tour of the highlights of the city, and a ride on the "Transporter" train which whisks you up and through the giant arch (which towers over the city) showed us most of what is there. We saw, and took photos of all the rest the next morning before leaving.
Next stop - Nashville, which is where the rhythms part of the trip really started. We did our own thing on the afternoon we arrived - we visited the State Capitol Building, as well as other local points of interest (we had done a bit of homework before leaving home!), and enjoyed a memorable night out on the (optional) visit to the local nightclub where we enjoyed an excellent buffet dinner before experiencing real country and western music and humour.
The next morning's sightseeing tour, plus a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame was brilliant, and so was our (included) evening visit to The Grand Ole Oprey.
Next stop was Memphis, and we visited Sun Studios, and other places before the evening. Our visit to Graceland - Elvis Presley's residence - was even more interesting than we had expected, and we had plenty of time in the evenings to enjoy Beale Street and the rest of the town. The food was great - we enjoyed catfish (on both nights!) - a local speciality.
We left by train for Hammond, where our coach was waiting to take us on to Lafayette for an overnight stop before reaching New Orleans - but we were first taken on a boat-ride across swampland after visiting a fairy-tale little town called St Martinville, memorable for its view over the local bayou. New Orleans was, of course, the highlight of our tour, and we had been apprehensive that we would not have sufficient time to enjoy all its attractions - but we had no need to worry - we saw it all - the (optional) paddle-steamer Jazz dinner being one of our best memories, as well as Bourbon Street, Preservation Hall, the above-ground cemeteries, the beignets-and-coffee house on the river-front - the list just goes on and on.
Our rep - Hilary Johnson - was brilliant: she brought it all to life for us, and sorted any problems without anybody realising. We said a sad goodbye to her when our tour ended, and felt like we were losing an old friend.
Lionel Braden, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
I have just returned from Elvis and the Southern Sounds that I had arranged for my daughters 40th birthday surprise. I didn't know what to expect, as this was my first time on a tour. There was no need to worry however as Archers had thought of everything. The majority of the excursions were included in the tour with a few other optional excursions should you wish to partake. All of the main attractions were included in the tour leaving the others truly optional.
We did everything and had a ball with all the details taken care of by Archers Direct. We spent three nights in the Heartbreak Hotel. We went straight to bed on our first night, as we were shattered after our long journey from Scotland. The bed was sooooo comfy so we awoke fresh the next morning looking forward to the day ahead.
Everything on the first day was included in the tour. Memphis sightseeing, visits to the Rock 'n' Roll Museum, and Beale Street. We stood on the stage where Elvis first performed before heading to Graceland. My daughter has been a life long fan of Elvis and when we walked through the door of Graceland and the headphones played Elvis' 'Welcome to my World' she was not the only one that shed a tear. That night we took off with Archers to Beale Street where we had dinner and a show, optional but we are sure glad we did it.
The next day we went to Tupelo, Elvis' birthplace, and Sun Studios, where again everything was taken care of by Archers. Tupelo was lovely, it really gave you an insight into what shaped Elvis' music and how he lived. I won't say too much about Tupelo as I don't want to spoil it for anyone but I can promise you will be pleasantly surprised. We loved it. On our free night in Memphis we took a stretch limo to Marlowes restaurant, courtesy of Marlowes. The food was awesome.
The next day we headed for Nashville stopping off in Jackson at 'The County Store' in Casey Jones Village. What an experience! You can eat and shop until you drop in this fascinating old country store. You will see what I mean when you try it for yourself. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express in Nashville, which was ideally located for the honky-tonk bars. The Grand Ole Oprey is included in your tour and again this is a great night out. The honky-tonk bars are legendary and great fun. It was really busy but we felt really safe and the people are so friendly.
We went off on our own with friends we met on the tour and hit the honky-tonk bars and had a fabulous time. This was after a great night at Nashville Nights. Oh and I mustn't forget to mention our visit to Studio B. That was amazing. We even got to make a CD, courtesy of Archers. That was fantastic; our CD is the best of course - the next Grammy winner!
We met loads of friends on the tour, many of whom we will keep in touch with. As I said this was the first time I had been on a tour. Well - I'm hooked!
I have also booked China and the Yangtze River and Hong Kong add on for myself and my husband with Archers Direct, confident in the knowledge that we will be well looked after and everything will be taken care of by Archers. If this tour is anything like Elvis and the Southern Sounds then I'm sure all of the main highlights will be included leaving the optional excursions exactly that.
Thank you Archers. You have definitely got the balance right!
P.S. I'm now an Elvis fan too.
Jean Thomson, UK
Holiday Review: Heart of the Canadian Rockies
Having booked at short notice, and not having heard of Archers Direct before, we did not know what to expect. Accommodation during the tour was variable but all were clean, of a reasonable standard and conveniently located for local attractions.
We travelled 1,200 miles from Calgary to Vancouver in a fairly comfortable coach. The driver was great and the Tour Director knowledgeable, friendly and went out of her way to be helpful and to meet any requests.
The scenery was spectacular (very difficult to describe in words); and to see black bears and their cubs literally yards from the coach was unbelievable. An optional tour by helicopter over the Rockies was stupendous; its vastness could only be fully appreciated by air. An optional trip to Maligne Lake showed it to be even more wonderful than that of Lake Louise. As the ice had begun to melt the glacier-fed lakes were a remarkable turquoise colour.
Wrap up well for The Columbia Icefield Parkway. Up here it was zero degrees and snowing. The wheels of the snowmobile were almost as tall as my husband! But the further west we travelled the warmer the weather.
Ocean - side Victoria was pretty and a 'walking' city. The free Government Building tour was interesting and the Columbia Museum deserved its rating as one of the top ten museums.
The optional trip on the Athabasca River was an experience as I'm a non - swimmer, and one who does not usually step out of her comfort zone. After muttered choice words, small rapids, lush vegetation, an osprey and nest, and one and a half hours later, I unclenched my hands from the rope onto which I was holding. But it worth the cussing and vice like grip!
Vancouver, on Canada Day, was our last destination. We joined in the celebrations, visited Granville Island and spent time looking at a Comic exhibition in the Vancouver Art Gallery, which was surprisingly interesting.
The downsides to our trip? Not enough time in Vancouver, not seeing any elk, and not always having air conditioning or a fridge in our room….. and my husband missed his cup of English tea!
Julie and Alan Walsh, UK
Holiday Review: Western Treasures
We've recently returned from the excellent Western Treasures holiday. This trip exceeded all our expectations. We experienced such beautiful, contrasting scenery and visited some great cities and towns.
Santa Barbara and Sedona were just lovely, the helicopter trip over the Grand Canyon was amazing, Yosemite was spectacular, and Las Vegas was overwhelming! Hollywood was extraordinary, Universal Studios was great fun, and listening to the Beach Boys whilst gazing at the pacific coastline was unforgettable. Driving along Route 66 was fantastic, as were the great stops we made at Seligman and Hackberry. We have great memories of the desert, the giant cactus, line-dancing at Rustler's Rooster, the Hoover Dam, and the charming streets of Old Sacramento.
San Francisco was wonderful, and what a good time we had on our nights out eating in Chinatown, riding the Cable Car, cocktails in the Fairmont and admiring the lovely San Francisco by night to the strains of Tony Bennett singing "I left my heart……" etc. etc.! It was a holiday shared with some really nice people and one we'll never forget.
Our tour director Jeff Tully and our driver Roger did a magnificent job. Their knowledge of the country was outstanding. They were a great team and helped to make our holiday truly memorable - thanks to them both. This was a Platinum Tourer trip and was certainly worth paying the extra money - we'd recommend it to anyone.
Julie Taylor & Denise Deller, UK
Holiday Review: Trans-American Adventure
Hi Archers!
Well my husband and I have just returned from your Trans-American Adventure. I can honestly say that it was the best holiday we have ever had!
The whole trip was so well organized and our tour director Mary, was so knowledgeable that all we had to do was sit back and enjoy it. The sights we saw and the places we visited were truly magnificent.
The hotels we stayed at were really first class; that is except for the hotel in Chicago - that I gather you will not use again! We went on most of your extra excursions and found them good value for money and very enjoyable. Our fellow voyagers were mainly Australians and some New Zealanders with a few of us from the UK- what camaraderie and fun we had!
The sights we saw were truly magnificent! The architecture and the buildings were spectacular. Walking around Ground Zero in New York was truly humbling, and our trip to the top of The Empire State Building was truly amazing (In fact I kept looking to see if King Kong was going to appear at any time!). Washington was so clean and regal. We stood outside the White House but did not get an invitation to tea! Niagara Falls was stupendous with a glorious cruise around the falls.
We had a lovely trip on an amphibious boat on the Wisconsin Dells and we felt as if we had gone back in time on the paddle steamer on the Mississippi. Pierre, Custer and Cody were idyllic. We had hoped to see a shoot-out in Buffalo Bills daughters' saloon but we spoke to some 'cowboys', and even tasted sarsaparilla!
We visited six of the National Parks and they are truly wonders of the world! The Grand Canyon was spectacular and our night in a log cabin was very interesting. Mount Rushmore was a mighty feat of engineering, as well as the Crazy Horse Monument. Las Vegas and Los Angeles were unforgettable!
An unforgettable holiday.
Mrs Margaret J Squelch, UK
Holiday Review: Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains
Just to say what a good holiday we had in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
We were very impressed with the representatives Arnold Bernstein and Max, who were our reps at the end of the tour on our third day's stay in New York.
One of our cases was lost on our flight from Dulles to Newark. They told us to go and enjoy our holiday and they would chase our luggage up and keep us informed, which they did as our luggage had gone to Hamburg in Germany. We got it back Sunday morning as we were flying home in the afternoon. But through Arnold & Max's efforts, we were able to go and enjoy New York knowing they were sorting things out for us.
In fact, all the staff, the coach driver, tour director were so good, helpful, informative and nothing was to much trouble. We will certainly recommend Archers to our friends.
Thanks for another enjoyable holiday.
Mr & Mrs Watkinson, Lancs
Holiday Review: The Rocky Mountaineer
We have recently returned home from Canada "Rocky Mountaineer" and we would just like to express our thanks for this wonderful holiday which we booked with yourselves.
People are all to quick to write and advise operators when they have had a bad holiday but we can only sing your praises.
May we also bring your attention to your tour director who travelled throughout our holiday with us. Her name is Lynda Brown and she was fantastic. Not only was she very knowledgeable about Canada but she was very courteous and most helpful. We have been on many holidays/excursions but Lynda comes out on top for us.
Thank you very much for making our holiday a most fantastic one.
Mr & Mrs Lawson, Tyne & Wear
Holiday Review: South American Highlights
Well done Archers! - You've excelled yourselves once again.
Setting off on our ninth Archers holiday - this time "The South American Highlights" - we were met at Heathrow by your representative who introduced us to others in the group.
The choice of "The South America Tour Company" for tour guides was excellent for all four countries, and our guides could not have been more helpful; friendly, and knowledgeable. Although we had six nights at 13,000/14,000 feet above sea level (two and a half miles) we all coped pretty well, and the guides and hotel staff were on hand for any problems.
It's impossible to describe the sheer wonder of the sights we experienced. The magnificent world of the Incas; Lake Titicata with the astonishing inhabited floating islands and sacred "Island of the Sun" to the breathtaking wonder of the Iguassu Falls. As for the optional Tango Show and dinner in Buenos Aires - that was delightful.
We chose to add the "Buzios Peninsula" three-day addition at the end of the tour just to relax and to chill out. For us this was the "icing on the cake".
Thank you Archers for compiling such an exciting program. We look forward to our tenth Archers holiday in Autumn.
Mrs C. Brown, Isle of Man
Holiday Review: New York, Niagara Falls & Washington DC
Where do I start to describe our holiday that we were so apprehensive about? After years of sunshine holidays in the Med, this was a complete change. We thought it a busy itinerary but it has been the best holiday of our lives.
Everything was so well organised, we were taken care of superbly. Plenty of legroom with good service on the flights across the Atlantic. Excellently located and spotlessly clean hotels. No point in going into too much detail as the Archers brochure and website do that very well.
This might amuse you…. When we reached Philadelphia we had just got into our room and the phone rang, a deep American voice said he was from reception and our luggage was there. I said our luggage is here. Five minutes later the man called again saying the cases with our name on had been opened and they contained fruit from Canada (which is illegal). I asked if I should go to reception. He said no, they would send security up to our room and would we have our cases open and our passports handy, I said certainly. Loud knocking on our door. I opened it to find a young man and his wife from our coach tour outside laughing their heads off. It is not printable what I said to them, we laughed about it for hours after. A great group of fellow travellers.
One thing I remember our tour guide Penny saying was "look at this sightseeing trip like taking a sip from a bottle of wine." I did. Thank you Archers for my bottle of Dom Perignon.
A. Bell, York
Holiday Review: New York, Niagara Falls & Washington DC
I thought I would take a few minutes to thank Archers for the organisation of the holiday that we recently took with your company.
The Couriers and transport on the tour in the 1st week were excellent as were the hotels that were used. In addition, despite encountering Hurricane Jeanne in Florida, the arrangements that were made by our representative Ms Hilary Campbell-Johnson were outstanding. The extra nights accommodation and the re-arrangement of the flights following the closure of the airport were made without any fuss or worry to us, or indeed any extra expense. We felt very secure in the knowledge that we were with Archers.
Thank you for a wonderful stress-free holiday. We WILL be travelling with Archers again!
P B Foster, UK
Holiday Review: South American Highlights
I cannot believe what we packed into this trip. Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Brazil. I cannot believe what I have seen. Lima, Cuzco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, La Paz, Iguassu, Buenos Aires, Rio and Buzios.
I cannot believe, that, given the itinerary, NOTHING went wrong and I cannot believe how reasonable the cost was. This touring holiday program was inventive, well researched, professional and very comfortable.
My finger is poised to book our next adventure as fast as I can to ensure we get a place!! Well Done.
Anonymous, UK
Holiday Review: Western Treasures
A chance to see the West Coast of the USA plus Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon and Yosemite in Springtime (plus try out the Platinum Tourer service) was just to good to miss. We also had some friends to see in San Francisco so Archers arranged an earlier flight and a four night pre-holiday extension for us at a nominal extra cost. So easy.
We joined the tour party at the Carlton Hotel in San Francisco then set off on what I can only describe as the most high mileage action packed roller coaster of a trip I've ever been on. Be prepared for anything - or on this trip - be prepared for everything.
In Monterey it was so cold we had to buy jackets; in LA it was so wet we had to find umbrellas; in Las Vegas it was so hot we burned and in the Grand Canyon it snowed. (But in San Francisco it was just perfect!)
And that says so much about this tour - each stop on the road is not only completely different, it is totally contrasting. The Pacific coastline must be one of the most beautiful drives in the world, with Monterey a little gem you can't fail to love. Los Angeles on the other hand is vast and sprawling and concrete, much of it scruffy and downbeat, especially in the rain, but Universal Studios is a sheer hoot and a must for children of all ages. Las Vegas is, well, Las Vegas - it's heaven and it's hell and you'll love or you'll hate it. Whichever, I guarantee you'll never forget it.
Then there's the Grand Canyon which is just - Wow! - both from ground level and in the air and then there's the magnificent Hoover Dam and the beautiful Colorado river. Yosemite National Park will test the size of your camera's memory card while the sheer beauty of San Francisco Bay will just take your breath away.
But of course there is more, much more - Solvang, Sonora, Carmel and Sacramento, Santa Barbara ......This is a big trip by any standards. We felt the leather seated comfort and extra space of the Platinum Tourer option more than justified the extra cost and helped cut those long distances down to size.
Two important things to add:
Firstly, the guide and the driver are always your most important travelling companions. In their hands lies your welfare and safety. We enjoyed the company of guide Craig and driver Stan and if there are two nicer guys to be found working on a coach, we haven't met them yet.
Secondly, San Francisco. By any standards San Francisco is a wonderful city, right up there with Barcelona, Rome, Rio et al. If you can afford the time to take a extension, do so - you would regret it if you didn't.
Enjoy.
John Bratley, UK
Holiday Review: San Francisco, Las Vegas & Los Angeles
This was the first holiday that I had taken when it was just my son and I.
I cannot believe how smooth everything went! All the flights, transfers etc were spot on!
San Francisco was amazing Alcatraz was a gem! The hotel was clean, and great for eating breakfast!
I loved Las Vegas, we visited the Hoover Dam which was a very hot day!! The strip was something to see! We visited the Titanic Exhibition, my son is only nine but I found plenty of things for both of us to enjoy.
Los Angeles next, was pretty disappointed at this location as it was quite far away from everything and not much to do at night.
Marie Lewis, UK
Holiday Review: San Francisco, Las Vegas & Los Angeles
We have recently returned from an Archers holiday to San Francisco, Las Vegas and Los Angeles, the latest of many holidays taken with your company. We wish to say a huge thank you for this holiday. We have always been very happy with Archers holidays and this was of the usual high standard.
The organisation was excellent, the quality of the hotel accommodation was high and we felt the tour represented impressive value for money.
We are greeted at the carousel by friendly and helpful Archers representatives and provided with just the right amount of information. We were, therefore, able to be independent travelling in each city.
We have encouraged friends to go on Archers holiday in the past and shall certainly recommend this tour.
We look forward to going on two of the cruise holidays in the Cruise Collection later on this year (Nile & Provence).
Mr & Mrs Peacock, North Yorkshire
Holiday Review: New England in the Fall
The thrill of the New York skyline was a wonderful start to an excellent holiday which we took at the end of September.
Our guide Steve and driver John took very good care of us and provided us with lots of laughs. The tour was very varied with lovely countryside and stunning fall colours, interesting historical sites in Plymouth, Boston and Rhode Island and time spent at the coast.
All the hotels were comfortable and our fellow passengers were a nice friendly crowd.
We took the optional 4 night extension in New York in which time we managed to see an enormous amount thanks to the hop on hop off tourist bus.
We enjoyed it so much we are taking the National Parks and Canyons holiday this September.
Judy and Phil Brattan, UK
Holiday Review: Splendours of the East & West
We have just returned from our first long flight holiday and really have to write and thank all who helped make it the holiday of a lifetime.
We truly enjoyed each and everyone of our 20 days away. The tour itinerary itself was just brilliant, having never been to America before, visiting New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco all on one tour was just fantastic. We couldn't fault any of the holiday - it just wasn't long enough! - especially more time in New York.
We really must give a very, very big and special thank you to our tour director for our first week, Margaret, she knew every inch of the holiday from New York to Niagara Falls to Amish Country and onto Washington. We hope you could let her know of our thanks, she took great care of us all and has a heart of gold.
Mr & Mrs Towns & Mr & Mrs Mulroy, Tyne & Wear
Holiday Review: Splendours of the East & West
Just a line to say what a great time we had last September we took our first Holiday with Archers it was the 21 days east to west across the U.S.A.
Now I could tell you about this for the next 10 pages but just to show how much we enjoyed that trip without hesitation we have booked our next one which is NATIONAL PARK & CANYON COUNTRY 14/NIGHTS16/ DAYS 18th September to 2 October.
We have also booked THE GREAT RIFT VALLEY SAFARI for 7 nts and 7 days at the SUN N SAND HOTEL in March.
There's a song that comes to mind SIMPLY THE BEST.
Kenneth Deary, Merseyside
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
We have just returned from our holiday in Canada. What a delightful time we had, even though the wildlife was in short supply.
Niagara Falls trip and the CN tower in Toronto were breathtaking. The VIA Rail's 'different' sleeping was a fun experience. The scenery was just amazing and the food was excellent. Jasper and Banff were lovely although I did think that someone might have ordered some good weather for us. Vancouver wow, that was a lovely place and the excursions were well worth doing. We would have been very disappointed if we had not been to the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain and the trip to Victoria and the Butchart Gardens were wonderful.
Our tour director Mel Brand was tremendous and a credit to your company. Nothing was too much trouble for him and it was just like having another member of a fantastic group of people with us. We all got along so well even to the point of somebody saying to one of our group 'Are all you people related to one another'. There always has to be one down side to any up bits. In Kamloops the hotel bar shut at 8.30 on a Friday night. I know we had early starts but come on.
I would recommend this Archers tour to any one wanting to see as much of Canada in one go as they can.
Chris & Mike, UK
Holiday Review: Eastern USA & Canada
My husband and I have just returned from our first Archers tour of the East Coast of America and Canada. It was fabulous, we visited some wonderful places, met new friends and the information from the tour guides was first rate.
Whilst we were in New York we saw Bill Clinton outside the David Letterman Studios. Later in the evening we were walking through Central Park when we saw Bill Clinton walking towards us. My husband went up to him and shook his hand and then he posed for a photo. He was really nice and was quite happy to sign autographs and chat to the small crowd that had begun to gather. My husband was over the moon at meeting Bill Clinton and everybody on our coach tour got to see the photo.
It was a brilliant holiday and we would definitely book with Archers again.
Mr & Mrs Whitworth, Bolton
Holiday Review: Eastern USA & Canada
We've been back from our Archers Eastern USA and Canada tour for two weeks now and we're still talking about it. It was a wonderful trip. The changing colours of the trees enroute and the beautiful scenery were unforgettable.
We visited Boston, Quebec, Toronto, Montreal and Washington and actually saw snow in Niagara, unusual for October but looks great on our photos.
We're so glad we decided to take the 4 day add-on in New York, what an amazing place and so much to see and do.
It was a real Archers value for money holiday and I would sincerely recommend it to anyone.
Mrs P Smith, Norfolk
Holiday Review: Eastern USA & Canada
We took our first holiday with Archers last September and had a wonderful time from start to finish.
The driver and tour director were exceptionally knowledgeable and showed us many things that if we had done the tour on our own we would not have even seen.
When we arrived at our new hotel in each city we visited, the luggage was either in our room or arrived shortly after. This was also collected from our rooms on departure.
We were so impressed that we have booked an Australian tour for next September with Archers Direct and would thoroughly recommend this to anyone who likes to tour around.
Lionel and Margaret Burnett, UK
Holiday Review: Eastern USA & Canada
This was our sixth Archers tour: Eastern USA & Canada.
Flying into JFK that lunchtime, we were met by an efficient representative and whisked off to check into our hotel. I had always wanted to see New York, now here we were at the top of the Empire State Building, with a breathtaking view over the city, on a beautiful September afternoon.
Next morning, our adventure began with a tour of the city, courtesy of Eddie. He was the first of several witty, knowledgable & entertaining step-on guides we were treated to during the holiday. From New York we travelled to Boston, then through beautiful New England in the Fall and over the border into Canada.
We visited Quebec, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto, then crossed back into the USA at Niagara Falls, travelling through Amish country to Washington, then back to New York via Philadelphia. We followed the mighty St Lawrence river, we sailed on 'The Maid of the Mist', we visited John F Kennedy's grave and the White House and we saw the Liberty Bell.
It was a trip to remember for the rest of our lives and we thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. Our tour director was wonderful and couldn't have been more helpful. We met some lovely, fun people as usual, and best of all, the organisation and luggage handling was done by someone else. The two
day add-on in New York was a fantastic finale and gave us a welcome rest before going home.
The high points of the trip were literally, the high points!Watching the sun set over Toronto from our dinner table in the revolving restaurant at the top of the CN Tower; a helicopter ride over Niagara Falls on a perfectly clear morning, the view of New York from the Empire State Building and last
but not least, our view of the Capitol building glowing on the nighttime skyline from our Washington hotel room.
We love to travel with Archers. We get to see & do so much and we're already pouring over the brochure for next year; so many tours we want to go on; so little time!
Terry & Charlie Garner, Leeds
Holiday Review: Eastern USA & Canada
What a fantastic time we had; the tour had history from Boston (American Revolution, USS Constitution and the Freedom Trail); to Canada (Ottawa and the Canadian Museum of Natural Life); to Washington D.C. (National War Memorials, Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian Institution).
Washington was where our wonderful tour representative Nancy Welter managed to get us tickets to tour the Gardens of the White House (for free); we saw the Liberty Bell and the actual room where the Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia.
The additional excursions were fantastic value for money, from dinner at the top of the CN Tower in Toronto; the helicopter ride over Niagara Falls; The Amish Restaurant experience. After this experience, I will always take the additional excursions on my future holidays with Archers Direct.
When we were in New York we wanted to go and see the Lion King on Broadway; but it was a sell-out; but Archers managed to get us tickets on the evening that we wanted; at a very much-reduced price, which were delivered to our hotel.
We went up the Rockafeller Centre in New York, walked Wall Street, walked over Brooklyn Bridge, saw Ground Zero, saw Ellis Island and went to the top of the Pedestal Building (on which the Statue of Liberty stands), we hired bikes and cycled all around Central Park, went to the American Natural History Museum.
We saw New England in the Fall which was absolutely fantastic, with (red, yellow, orange, brown and green colours); Nancy would stop at nothing to ensure that we had a really fantastic time; she would know all the best photo stops and always do her utmost to take a photograph from the most awkward of places, so that we could have that dream picture that we had always wanted for our photo album.
Thanks for a fantastic holiday!
Karl Woodward, UK
Holiday Review: The Golden West
Our first holiday with Archers was the Golden West USA. We had such a fantastic time that we used Archers for our next two holidays.
We are already looking at the brochure for next year to plan our next trip.
Catherine McMurray, UK
Holiday Review: The Golden West
We have just returned from a memorable holiday with Archers.
First I would like to say thanks to Linda Watry the tour operator and Paul the driver for making it such a wonderful and educating tour. Saw some fantastic places and wonderful scenery throughout the tour.
We saw so much in the two weeks and enjoyed all the great places we visited. Linda was full of info and a very lively lady kept us laughing most of the time. Met some really nice people as well. I would recommend this holiday to anyone wanting to see a lot for there money and have a great time.
Thanks for a great holiday.
Jean and Tony Hopkins, Bristol
Holiday Review: The Golden West
We have had some wonderful holidays with Archers Direct, all have been excellent value for money.
Last year's holiday to the "Golden West" was lovely, so much to see and do. Our tour guide was Linda Watry, she is such a bubbly and lovely lady, nothing was any trouble to her. Archers has made the world seem smaller and yes it's a wonderful world we live in. Your give much pleasure to many holiday makers.
My husband and I would recommend your tour company and have done so to many of our friends. Thank you Archers Direct.
Mr & Mrs Palliser, North Yorkshire
Holiday Review: The Golden West
I just had to write to say what an amazing holiday we had. We were a bit apprehensive as we had never travelled to America before but from start to finish we were well looked after and nothing was too much trouble. We had thought that trying to see so many places on one trip would be tiring and hectic but it was neither.
We saw so many fantastic places that we needed our photographs to remember them all when we got home. There were so many highlights that it would be an injustice to mention only a few.
We travelled with my daughter and son-in-law who would not have thought to do one of these tours on their own but having had such an amazing time they would not hesitate to go again which shows Archers tours are for all ages.
From San Francisco to Los Angeles and all the places in between, our tour guide was full of information and our coach driver was fantastic. The hotels were all superb and the optional excursions made our holiday complete.
I never imagined we could see so many different sights in such a short time but the organisation made it all possible.
I would recommend this holiday and Archers Direct to everyone. Thank you for such a fantastic time.
Linda White, UK
Holiday Review: The Golden West
We have just returned from the Golden West tour, to celebrate our silver wedding anniversary.
We had a wonderful time, met some lovely people and learnt so much about America. The flights were ok, the coach rides were long on some days, but well worth the time when we arrived at our destinations.
Gundi was our tour director, a lovely lady with lots of character and knowledge. All the hotels were a good standard with an iron, ironing board and hairdryer. You do need to take an adaptor for razors etc.
When you return you will think, how did we see so much in two weeks? I took a diary to write in everyday. I'm so glad I did, I'll always have it as a memory. Yosemite National Park was our favourite place; we ate lunch beside the stream, fed the birds and chatted with our new friends.
We will never forgot our wonderful holiday, hope you enjoy it too.
Robert Eadson, UK
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
I just had to write this letter about the holiday to America.
The Wild West National Parks and Canyons, the best holiday I have had in my life. It proved to be a holiday of a lifetime. The hotels and tours were excellent. I, as a lone traveller, will be booking another holiday. Special thanks to the driver, Robert Toralbo, and to the Tour Operator Lynne Hendrick from San Diego, what a wonderful lady, a very clever lady and very knowledgeable.
I planned only doing half the excursions, but did everything that was going. Every one was superb value for money and so different. A beautiful vast awesome country, every day more and more spectacular and beautiful and the Grand Canyon breathtaking - cannot say in words must be seen to be believed.
The passengers on the Coach were from all over the UK, singles, a French couple and families. We were one big happy family and rotating seats is a great thing to do. Guess what? We also met Kevin Costner at Tatanka.
Since my return home, 2 families have written to me and I have said (and their letters also say) it was a holiday of a lifetime, one we will never forget. Thanks to everyone concerned.
J Mends, Derbyshire
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
My husband and I have just returned from the National Parks and Canyons Tour. We enjoyed every moment of this experience, and congratulations to the people who put this itinerary together.
Our tour director Jackie Hamburg was a real pleasure to be with, her knowledge superb. Our coach driver, Bob Halter was excellent. He kept his coach so clean, a real joy to travel in.
This was our fourth Archers tour and hopefully it will not be the last. All our friends will certainly know how we enjoyed ourselves. The party consisted of 49 people across a wide age span, but it was like a big happy family.
Many thanks again Archers we are saving up already for another experience.
Mrs K Thomas, Rugby
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
My partner and I went on the tour of the canyons in America. What can I say except it was absolutely great and lived up to our expectations. The scenery was spectacular and we visited many memorable places. The itinerary was so varied there was something for everyone.
We enjoyed a beautiful meal in Kevin Costner's restaurant in Deadwood (I expected to see Doris Day walking down the street at any moment).
Another highlights was Zion National Park and the fact that we had time to explore for ourselves was a bonus. We saw plenty of wildlife but the bears unfortunately deluded us, maybe next time!!! The weather varied enormously from snow in Yellow Stone Park to the heat in the desert at Las Vegas.
The logistics of the holiday were well thought out and there was no hassle or unnecessary waiting about getting our luggage or the keys for our rooms (they were actually brought onto the coach). Great we would do it all again.
Pauline & Fred, Halifax
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
My wife and myself have recently returned from a holiday in America with Archers, going to the National Parks and Canyons. We had the most wonderful time and found it excellent value for money. May I suggest that in the future would you include on this holiday a visit to the site of "The Battle of the Little Big Horn" as we would be very interested.
We would like to say a special thank you to our tour director Donna Myer and the coach driver Bob Halter who were excellent at all times and would be very grateful to you if you pass on our comments to them. Thank you very much.
Eddie & Jean Howells, UK
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
Well we've just returned from the National Parks and Canyons tour in the USA and it was a fantastic experience for us all.
As expected, the scenery was simply breathtaking; the food was great with very generous portions and comparatively cheap prices too; the service was excellent and people were genuinely friendly.
Our Archers Tour Director (Lynne Hendricks) was just superb; she not only made the tour absolutely hassle-free but she also gave us so much extra interesting and entertaining information that there was never any chance of boredom even on the longer coach journeys. The portable CD players were not needed!
K P Wilkinson, Kent
Holiday Review: Canadian Rockies
We had never been on a coach tour or had we used Archers Direct before, added to this we had never flown long haul before, so our holiday choice was a whole new experience. The Canadian Rockies was the tour we choose.
I remember putting on the comments form about our tour guide Tanya McKenzie the single word "irreplaceable". She had so much knowledge and an intrinsic love for the areas we visited that our journeys were brought to life. Nothing was too much trouble for her and she helped to make the tour an experience we will never forget.
The itinerary was quite daunting, we had never lived out of a suitcase before, but there was no way to pack these experiences into the holiday time frame.
The pictures in your brochure tell no lies, it is impossible to do justice to the scenery with the space that is available on two pages. Lake Louise is truly so blue and the Rockies seem to simply go on forever.
The accommodation was first class; the Canadians go big on bedrooms. Being the longest married couple on the tour and our wedding anniversary occurring on the trip Tanya gave us the honeymoon suite in Whistler.
For us the highlight was the short time we spent on Vancouver Island, even the Americans speak highly of it. Butchart Gardens are simply beyond anything I have found in England as a local in Victoria had said " they will blow you away". We plan to go back, perhaps Archers can help?
We took the seven day extension to Hawaii, what a contrast in both scenery and temperature.
Holidays are milestones in our lives and Archers have helped to make this experience both memorable and enjoyable. Would we use them again yes. This August we are on the Discover Tuscany tour. You would probably find it impossible to find a better value for money holiday company offering so many different countries to visit.
Wendy and Roy Wickenden, UK
Holiday Review: Canadian Rockies
Missing Vancouver already after spending some nights there at the end of the Canadian Rockies tour. Whilst some days seemed endless as we covered vast distances, which seemed just afternoon strolls on the map, the scenery along the way was always spectacular.
The coach was comfortable, the accommodation good and the only concern each day was to get up in time and get the suitcase outside the room door at the appropriate hour.
The best included trip was that to the Columbian Icefield - we were very fortunate to bask in brilliant sunshine with a rich blue sky which contrasted with the "Holywood dentist" shining white snow and ice. This was on the way to Jasper, and whilst there we took the optional excursion to Maligne Lake with the boat trip to Spirit Island. The narrated cruise was very informative and once again the scenery was breath taking.
We had a very brief stay at Sun Peaks but it was interesting to have our evening meal overlooking a ski slope on which a mother bear was grazing with her 2 cubs. The restaurant even provided binoculars to offer a better view.
Whilst we saw many wild animals during the trip, the big one had to be the killer whales whilst staying in Victoria. Two pods were chasing a shoal of salmon to the shore and we were there to witness this display of nature. The camera never pointing in the right direction at the right time alas.
Overall, the trip was very enjoyable with good company and plenty to see and do. The only downside was that it was over too quickly.
John New, Colwyn Bay
Holiday Review: Canadian Rockies
I am writing to congratulate you on a marvellous and
well-organised holiday to the Canadian Rockies with Archers.
The coach was exceptionally clean with a good size toilet and wonderful kitchen area. Seating was excellent and having more legroom was a joy. The idea of rotating your seat each day was a good and fair way of ensuring that all members of the party had good views of the places we visited.
Terry Greenwood, our driver, was always courteous, cheerful and willing to help the passengers despite the fact that some travellers were very rude and hard to please. He drove with due care and attention.
I have nothing but praise and admiration for our tour guide Cheryl Bandurchuck. Her vast knowledge of the areas visited was so interesting and enjoyable. Throughout the tour she was always polite and friendly and tried very hard to appease some very difficult and rude passengers whose behaviour made me feel very ashamed to be English.
Having done a platinum tour with Cosmos to the United States last year, visiting the National Park and Canyons I can honestly say that by far the tour to the Canadian Rockies was far more superior, mainly because the coach was much more comfortable and both the driver and tour manager made sure that the passengers had a good time and a terrific holiday.
I can honestly say that there was no fault to be found with this tour other than a few passengers trying to create trouble for the tour manager and driver. Perhaps you ought to vet future passengers to ensure that they have a sense of humour!!!!
Rest assured that I will be using your company next year when a friend and I will be doing your Trans American tour.
Please ensure that both Terry and Cheryl get a copy of this letter so that they can be made aware how much I and my two friends enjoyed the holiday. They made our dream holiday come true.
Thank you.
Miss Patricia Williams, Hertfordshire
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
My wife and I plus three friends have just returned from Canada, where we have thoroughly enjoyed your Grand Canadian Rail and Rockies Holiday.
It was a wonderful experience with some great and awesome sightseeing excursions such as Niagara Falls and the Maid of the Mist cruise, Butchart Gardens (out of this world) and the Columbia Icefield.
All the hotels where we stayed were clean, comfortable and we were well looked after, which also applied to the train. The professional tour director Sue Hartlieb was very competent at her job, she was very communicative and nothing was ever too much trouble, whether on the train, at the hotels or on the coach which for a first time long distance traveller I found reassuring.
Many thanks for a fantastic holiday.
C Pearson, Lincolnshire
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
We recently returned from the Grand Canadian Rail & Rockies tour and had a truly excellent holiday.
Canada was somewhere we had always wanted to travel to and we were not disappointed. From the busy cities of Toronto and Vancouver to the absolute beauty of the Rockies it was a very memorable trip.
We really enjoyed the travel on the Canadian rail where we met new friends not only from England but from various parts of the USA. Niagara Falls is one of the most amazing sights, the power of all that water. Whilst in the Rockies we were fortunate to see brown bears, elk and a wolf. To experience the trip to the Columbia Icefield also was something special. Our last trip whilst in Vancouver was to Vancouver Island where we saw the fabulous Butchart Gardens.
All in all a really wonderful holiday, one which we will never forget and hopefully we will be able to return there again in the future.
Norma King (Mrs), Leicester
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
We have just returned from a Archers Direct Holiday, " Grand Canadian Rail and the Rockies" and it lived up to everything we have come to expect from an Archers Direct Tours.
Everything went like clockwork, organised by the expertise of Archers and the Tour Guide, Peter.
We spent two days exploring Toronto and the Niagara Falls and then off on a 3 day train journey across Canada to Jasper. This was an unforgetable experience through the vast and magnificent open spaces of Canada capped off
by excellent cuisine.
From Jasper we were then treated to the wonders of the Rocky Mountains in all their glory, Lake Louise, Maligne Lake and Spirit Island to name but three. The scenery blew us away, the Columbia Icefields are something else, the like of which we have never seen.
The Whistler Mountaineer took us on a rail jouney up into the Blackcomb Mountains. It just got better.
The tour ended in the city of Vancouver which has something for all from the scenic Stanley Park and Marineland, designer shops in Robson Street and a romantic evening diner cruise.
It was a truly wonderful experince and one that will be with us forever.
I have attatched a couple photos from the tour. Thanks for a great holiday, we are now planning the next one.
Malcolm & Jackie Halstead, Ackworth, West Yorkshire
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
I was reading some customer reviews on your website as we're looking to book another holiday with you and though I'd add my own review from a tour we went on, the Grand Canadian Rail and Rockies.
This was definitely a holiday of a lifetime, a life enhancing experience and fantastic memories, not to mention very impressive 'postcard like' photos, all some 130 of them!
Without going into every detail, as that would take a whole essay, we were so very glad we went for this holiday. Even though we were the youngest couple (in our late 20s) while most other guys were our parents/grandparents' age it didn't really matter too much as we were all part of a team which was hosted by our team leader or Tour Director Linda Brown.
Linda made it so much more special than it would otherwise already have been, we felt like part of a family or a big school trip for grown ups, didn't have to worry about anything just be up on time and return to the meeting destination on time that is all you have to remember. Linda sorted everything else out so thank you so much!
I will be honest I had my reservations on the first jet lagged day when I found out it was a very early morning start the next day and that the holiday would involve much travel by coach. I will admit it I had a little whine to my partner worrying about my travel sickness and my bad back, don't ask why I didn't think of that before booking. Anyway it turns out it's a good thing I did book it because you soon get used to the early mornings and late evening returns I swear!
It makes life so exciting to know you will stay in a different destination everyday or every other day, you become really organized with your packing and efficient. You plan to take travel sickness pills on time and they work so you have no sickness! Always carry drinking water bottles and for me pretzel nibbles for the journey. I did my back stretches every day and experienced no pain mainly thanks to the amazingly comfortable coach we had, the driver was brilliant and it really was a luxury coach so soft after several hours of sitting, the air conditioning and tinted but always clean windows made such a difference (not to mention our own name tags above our seats, thanks Linda!).
I wasn't going to go into the details, but I felt these bits were important because it's what makes a good tour an excellent one. Linda made sure we had plenty of stops and not just anywhere what would otherwise have been a really long coach journey we got to see several highlights along the way. We all thought we'd get to see more mountains on the train though, just to warn you on this train trip you don't, but it doesn't matter, the food was out of this world on the train and we all got really fat just because of those meals!
Also you get more than plenty of mountains once you arrive in Jasper. Jasper is really magical and so is the whole of Alberta. Ooh go on the raft trip it's not scary at all, it was fun even for the much older guys! I really really recommend the helicopter ride, I didn't realise I'd be scared until we got up to 10k feet and there was some turbulence (which is normal). I will admit I was sweating and a bit terrified but I am so very glad I did it. There is no view like it seeing the mountaintops and lakes from that far up, worth every penny. In fact we went for most of the excursions, which you have to pay if they are optional but you only live once and we had no regrets.
I'm not telling the story in chronological order, just getting a bit excited about the memories, Niagara Falls was stunning and we have such stunning photos they make me so happy to look at them all. I loved the CN tower; I can forgive the busy waiter who mixed up my order, as the views of Toronto were stunning in the sunset. All the wildlife we saw in Alberta, and to those people who choose to get out of their vehicles to take a snap at the wildlife 1) its dangerous 2) inconsiderate to the animal and others so you can take really amazing photos from the vehicle like I did. Even managed to see a little black bear that came out to say hello at Jasper!
By the way nothing happens at Kamloops it's just a stop off overnight so don't get your hopes up but the plus point was there was air conditioning in our hotel and a swimming pool which I recommend to use after long journeys.
Oh just remembered if you are vegetarian you may be a minority in Canada so always stress to the waiter no meat because there were times I got what I assumed vegetarian dish with bits of bacon or something, so just watch out.
Vancouver was lovely, strangely enough the one day we had to ourselves to do what we wanted (as we were always on excursions) we suddenly felt tired and lazy. We're the sort of people that need someone to take the lead and organise the day for us, so this was an ideal holiday and in my view, worth the money. Vancouver English Bay beach is really lovely, we spent our last few hours of the holiday there in the sunshine before departure.
This has made us really want to carry on travelling and exploring, I'm sure that if you go you will absolutely be in love with the beautiful sights. I've missed a lot of the other highlights as there were more but the best way is to go yourselves and experience it, and take lots and lots of photos!
Honor Burza, UK
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
The BA flights were excellent. We used the National Express service to the airport, which was very good. All the hotels on the tour were good clean good facilities. Two had very good pools and hot tubs. Worth taking bathing things. They were all well appointed near restaurants and shops. Only one - the Lopstick Lodge had uncomfortable beds.
The guide was excellent. She had cast knowledge of each area and she gave valuable info in every place of good eating-places and clean toilets. The coach was comfortable and clean, and had a good driver. Niagara Falls was very good but not enough time. It needed an extra day so the dinner in the CN Tower could be on a different day.
The train was excellent and a highlight for us. It was spoilt only by its late arrival. We wanted to go into the Rockies by train. It was past midnight when we arrived so it was dark and saw nothing. The staff and food on the train was excellent. The cabins good clean and very comfortable beds. Loads of food to eat with free tea coffee and snacks always available. The info before we departed said something warm for the evenings. Well it was cold in the day several days even in Vancouver. Several of our group bought warm clothes.
It was also wet so take macs and umbrellas. The added excursions the two we did were good and good value the lake trip and the gondola. The sunset cruise in Vancouver was poor and over priced. It was 30 dollars more than booking it locally with a free pick up. Also the groups were given tables on the lower deck. If we had booked independently we would have saved money and probably had a good table. The food was good the entertainment was awful. We have done these cruises in other places and this was not worth it. Transfers to and from the airport were very good.
The tour was very well organised. It is the fourth Archers/Cosmos tour we have done and we will be doing more.
Kath Johnson, UK
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
I have recently returned from the Grand Canadian Rail and The Rockies tour commencing on October 7th. Whilst the beauty and awesome scenery of the Majestic Rockies was more than enough to keep anyone entranced, our entire tour was enhanced by the Tour Director Sue Hartlieb. I cannot speak highly enough of Sue, as her love of her job and of her beloved Canada shone through, and kept us all in a state of delight as her knowledge and incredible grasp of even the finest detail was passed on to us.
Our holiday plans were aimed at my wife's birthday on October 8th and our Ruby Anniversary on Oct 10th, and we could not have picked a better way of celebrating than our holiday. Please accept our thanks for a wonderful time, and an equally wonderful tour, and please pass our personal thanks to Sue and also to Sue's friend and our coach driver Carol Leitch, who should be congratulated for all the work she did and the standard of her driving. They were lovely ladies with lovely personalities.
Our tour groups have exchanged addresses and personal details and some have been in touch already, so who knows what might develop from new friendships. Once again many thanks.
Mr K W & Mrs L J Roberts, Stafford
Holiday Review: Canadian Coastal Adventure
We travelled on the Canadian Coastal Adventure and wish to say how much we enjoyed the tour. The content of the tour was wonderful, but the tour was made more memorable by the driver, Mr Don McKinnon, and your tour manager, Mr Peter McLearn. They complimented one another with their knowledge of the area and the facilities available. They were both courteous and concerned and always in good humour.
Mr McKinnon was an excellent driver, with his passengers always forefront in his mind. Mr Peter McLearn, the tour manager was extraordinary in the depth of his knowledge of the areas through which we travelled and he imparted all the information in his easy manner and his humour was thoroughly enjoyable. We had thirteen days of enjoyment, wonderful vistas, great information and lots of fun.
The hotels you selected were very good and convenient, except for the hotel in Monkton, which did not have a restaurant, nor were there any convenient alternatives. Maybe you will look into this?
Walter and June Nelson, Chippenham
Holiday Review: South American Highlights
Everyone expected Machu Picchu to be spectacular and we were not disappointed.
After two interesting days in Lima we reach Cuzco from where we visited the Sacred Valley of the Incas, then the very next day we were there. Without exception everyone found it an extraordinarily moving experience, one that we felt could not be beaten. However, we were wrong … there was more to come.
We travelled by coach over the High Andean Plateau to Puno on Lake Titicaca, from where we went by boat to see the homes of the Uros Indians on the Reed Islands. We met now only the indigenous people, who were delightful, we came face to face with a condor.
We saw more of Lake Titicaca travelling along the south-western shore, via Juli (where the local shaman was blessing cars) into Bolivia. On Sun Island in the southern lake there was even a shaman who, after making the appropriate sacrifices, blessed us. Our venue that night was La Paz, the highest capital city in the world and certainly one of the most interesting with its Valley of the Moon and colourful Aymaran Indians.
Buenos Aires was next. The artistic quarter of the Caminito was lovely; the cemetery where Eva Peron is buried was popular; the Tango Night was amazing and we enjoyed a day at a ranch where we could go horse riding and see how the gauchos worked. The steaks were huge and the shopping was good. There was something for everyone. Then came the Iguassu Falls - what a sight they were.
Both the Argentinian falls and the Brazilian are breathtaking. The jet boat ride at the base of the Brazilian falls did more than take one's breath away - we got soaked - but it was such fun.
Then came Rio! The peak of Sugarloaf Mountain was reached by cable car and we ascended Corcovado to see the statue of Christ the Redeemer on a funicular train. We could see Copacabana Beach from the summits and that was where we were staying. It can't get much better than that.
Congratulations Archers Direct - it was fabulous. Thank you.
Mrs Joan Richards, Kent
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
With reference to an Archers Trans Canada Holiday, taken this September, you might like to include it on your website, or Travel Writer newsletter or competition. I also include some pictures of our Tour Director, Dianna Albora, and one of our coach drivers.
Archers Trans Canada Explorer, City and Rockies coach holiday, the first ever taken with Archers, was with excellent hotels, comfortable coaches and excellent drivers, a thoroughly delightful holiday experience.
Made even more enjoyable by our excellent Tour Director, Dianne. Having over many years been on many holidays with many different holiday companies, and having been on both sides of the tourism "fence", I can say without hesitation, and having spoken on return to practically every one of our party, that they all agree, that Dianne is with her knowledge, commentary, good humour and helpful advice, the most professional and efficient Tour Director, I have ever been with. If she ever guides another Archers Canadian or American holiday, I will be one of the first to book it. Dianne Albora, you're the best.
Mr P. Davis, Sittingbourne
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
We have just returned from the Trans Canada Explorer trip.
We are tired but exhilarated from the holiday. We have seen and learnt so much. Our Tour guide, Lynda Brown was superb and the two drivers, Bill in the East and Doug in the West were excellent.
Lynda was full of information on every aspect of the tour and great fun. There many competitions on the coach when we had long journeys and the time passed very enjoyably.
The cities in the East were beautiful, especially, Quebec and the scenery in the Rockies was even better than the many photos we had ever seen.
Our only criticism was that the holiday had to end!!!!
Jennifer and Sidney Goodey, UK
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
We have now come down to earth after our return from our amazing trip to both East and West Canada and the additional cruise to Alaska. This was our very first ever coach touring holiday, also our first trip with Archers Direct.
Although we did find the touring tiring (quite a few early mornings), we kept telling ourselves it was a small price to pay to see such wonderful sights and do things we would never have dreamt of ever doing.
We have had such a wonderful holiday that we felt we must write and say thank you for our fantastic tour director, John Gargrave. He made every day interesting with his wealth of knowledge, humour and most of all, his organisation for smooth transfers each day to and from the hotels. He is a great ambassador for Archers Direct Holidays.
We must mention our two coach drivers, Dave on the East side and Bruce in the West. Both very pleasant, polite and helpful gentlemen, not to mention their extremely smooth driving, particular thanks to Bruce who somehow managed to stop in time and smoothly every time the shout went up for "Bear" or some other species of wildlife in amongst the pine trees, enabling us to take photos out of the coach window.
It was our 37th wedding anniversary the day we were in Jasper, so for my present, the day before in Banff, my husband had booked me on a helicopter flight over the Rockies (he doesn't like heights). What a WOW experience, particularly as John our tour director spoke to the helicopter people for him and arranged for me to have the front seat next to the pilot. We were so lucky as John had told us that nine of his previous ten trips had been cancelled due to inclement weather, but we awoke in Banff that morning to the most incredible clear blue sky. Soaring 10,000 feet up over the Rockies was the most exhilarating feeling.
We added the Alaskan Cruise on the Ryndam with Holland America so that we had a rest at the end of the trip. Again the sights we saw were wonderful - everything was so well organised and smooth running, food and entertainment good. Cruising Glacier Bay was the highlight, where we were lucky enough to see whales, bear, golden eagles and best of all the Glacier calving. We had two National Park Rangers board the ship for the day to give a commentary on what to look out for.
I could go on for evermore and attach hundreds of pictures but why don't you people reading this go ahead and book your trip - you won't regret it.
Ray & Rita Cooper, Norfolk
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
I am writing to thank you for such a wonderful holiday in Canada. The itinerary was excellent. The hotels along the route were very good indeed.
The tour Director, John Gargrave, looked after us exceedingly well. His friendship, organisational skills and a great sense of humour, together with his expert knowledge and information made the tour a very smooth and interesting one. Also, our two coach drivers, Michael in the East and Doug in the West, played their part in our enjoyment. The two coaches were very good and comfortable.
The only downside was trying to reserve seats with Air Canada in advance of the flights. However, both flights were very comfortable and the service provided by the cabin staff was great.
We look forward to our next holiday with you which is French Panorama.
Once again, thank you very much for such a wonderful Canadian experience.
Mr Ron Pulling, Kent
Holiday Review: National Parks & Trains of Colorado
Oh dear! What have we let ourselves in for? Fancy booking a holiday to ride trains when we know nothing of steam locomotives. Our fellow travellers, in their anoraks, will be discussing connecting rods and the merits of superheaters while we stand around in dumb silence.
Nightmares quickly pass and we are sitting on a comfortable coach, without an anorak in sight, listening to our amazingly knowledgeable tour guide Denise, unravelling the history and topography of a remarkably beautiful landscape.
Our first train was Pike's Peak cog railway; at 14,000 feet the world's highest, opening up the vista that inspired Katherine Lee Bets to write the work that was to become her country's best known hymn 'America the Beautiful'. Then three successive steam trains, climbing through magnificent gorges to the high mountain passes in excess of 10,000 feet. No wonder Hollywood has chosen these railways to feature in some of their spectacular films. Our favourite was the Durango to Silverton, where, as Denise had predicted, the local sheriff had turned out to greet us. All of six foot three and dressed in black complete with Winchester rifle, he was an impressive sight, although, some of us did notice that he bore a strong resemblance to our driver Paul.
And then there were the National Parks. Mesa Verde built into vertical cliffs where the Anasazi Native Americans constructed astonishing buildings, some requiring ladders for entry. Arches National Park has the world's finest rock spans, some spanning more than a hundred feet. The grand finale was the Rocky Mountain National Park, a spectacular feast to finish with.
Denise and Paul sure have vaudeville genes in their blood and made this a tour to remember.
Bob & Elaine Currier, Birmingham
Holiday Review: Highlights of the Canyonlands
Brenda and myself set off for what turned out to be one of the best tours I have ever done.
It was very full on and every evening we were shattered but wow what we saw was awesome - it knocked your socks off!
The tour guide Cynthia and the driver Nathan were outstanding in every way, they made us feel safe and looked after - nothing was too much trouble.
The Grand Canyon was fabulous; everyone should do the helicopter ride, you just don't want to miss the thrill as you fly over the canyon. It is one of our favourite moments!
We got up at 5.30am to go to watch the sunrise over the canyon - spectacular. You would think you cant better this but just wait when you go to Gouldings lodge and see the views from your room.
So up for another sunrise over Monument Valley. Don't miss the cookout it was such good fun. This tour has so much more - Bryce Canyon is possibly one of my favourites canyons. The walk from one view point to another is mega awesome and don't miss Antelope Canyons no matter how tired you are; the walk through the slots are a must.
I could go on forever telling you about this tour - all I can say is if your thinking about this tour, stop thinking and book it - you wont regret it!
This was Brenda's first tour and she loved every minute although she was tired but said there was plenty of time to sleep when were home! I myself have done loads of tours but this was the best.
Our fellow travellers were fabulous and we made some great new friends and will keep in touch with them.
On closing, I must say a very big thanks to Cynthia and Nathan - there the best.
Saving to do the Rocky Mountaineer next - fingers crossed!
Gillian Hickerman, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
I am writing to let you know about the fabulous holiday we have just had with Archers. We went on the Elvis and the Southern Sounds tour.
We loved every aspect of the holiday and the hotels were fantastic. But the most memorable thing was the trip to Graceland, home of Elvis Presley. I will never forget that for as long as I live.
I'm looking forward to my next Archers holiday.
Mrs C Hallat, South Yorks
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
When my friend Sharon and I set off on our first Archers holiday it was a lifelong dream come true for us to visit Graceland and the home of our idol, Elvis Presley.
We wondered if it would be a big disappointment to us because it was such a special trip...Would we see all we wanted to see? Would we feel awkward with a group of strangers on a coach far from home?
We needn't have worried because from the moment we met our guide Sherry and our driver Paul we felt totally at ease and just sat back and enjoyed every minute of the trip.
Sherry really made us all relax and have fun while making sure that we got as much out of the trip as possible. Everybody on our particular trip thought the world of this hard working "lady". So much so that we penned the following prose..sung to the tune of "Heartbreak Hotel":
Our Angel in Disguise (with one wing in the fire)
1.When we met out Angel Sherry
We needed a place to dwell,
She took us down to lonely Street to Heartbreak Hotel.
Our Angel she left us, oh yeah she left us, she left us so lonely we could die.
2.The next day she dun greet us,
with a driver she called Paul,
They took us out of Lonely Street
With the words "Hi there ya'll"
Our Angel she took us, oh yeah she took us, our Angel took us to see it all.
3.Ya'll know that we love Elvis,
He'll always be our King
But Sherry she dun told us
With this video ya'll sing
Our Angel she told us, oh yeah she told us, our Angel told us ya'll sing!
4.We go here, ya'll have to get off
When you dun been ! you get back on
In the end , ya'll don't know
Have ya been off or have ya been on?
Our Angel she said on, our Angel she said off, oh Angel please tell us what to do!
5.We all went up to Grand ole Opery
And Sherry lead our team,
She wore her hat so funny
But still remained our Queen.
Our Angel our Queenie, oh yes our Queenie, our Angel our Queenie till we die.
6.Have you ever scrubbed a washboard
Or struck the Liberty Bell?
Or pulled upon your heart strings
Because Sherry's the very gal
Our Sherry's our trifle, our sherry trifle, she's so sweet
7. We're sorry we are going to leave you
we are sorry we got to go
But not if you take us to Lonely Street and Heartbreak Hotel.
We wanna go back there, we wanna go back there, we wanna go back there Sherry please.
8.We're leaving you Sherry for Vegas
Thanks for all that you have have done,
Your the best tour guide we could have had
and now we're moving on.
Oh Sherry we're leaving, oh yes we're leaving, oh Sherry we're leaving you alone.
9.If your looking for a tour guide
And can't find one to hire
Just ask for Angel Sherry
With one wing in the fire.
Just ask for Sherry, our Angel Sherry, our Angel Sherry, our Angel Sherry in disguise"
We loved downtown Memphis, Graceland and Tupelo and can't wait to go back. In fact if we have one complaint it was that we would have loved to have spent our last day back in Memphis.....Although we loved Nashville.. the talent there is amazing ...the live music in the honky-tonks was brilliant.
The Grand Ole Opery wasn't our scene though it may have suited others in the group. We went shopping and we tried the local restaurants.. all in all an excellent 10 day trip to Elvis country!! We certainly would recommend Archers for the professional but friendly tour service.
Thanks for the memories.
Pat Stringer & Sharon Allen, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
We really had to write to thank Archers for our holiday of a lifetime. It was our first holiday to America and our first coach tour.
Our tour director Sherry Guy was exceptional, great sense of humour and very funny she made the holiday one we will never forget, and Paul our driver was A1. We think Sherry is a great asset to your company. We will travel with Archers again, and hope Sherry is the tour guide
Graceland was something else, Beale Street was amazing, Memphis was great, then on to Nashville; would go back any day. Brilliant!
Lynda & Elizabeth Shotts, Scotland
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
We had a truly memorable holiday in Tennessee visiting Memphis and Nashville. We experienced the wonderful 'Southern Hospitality' and learnt so many interesting facts and sayings from our fantastic tour director, Penny.
The whole trip was so well planned and executed that there is nothing I would change about the itinerary. We enjoyed all of the shows, museums, trips and the company of others on the coach.
Highlights were Graceland, Sun Studios and RCA studios and the Nashville Nightlife Dinner Show. What a lot of fun we had - especially doing our own recording in RCA studio B. Everything was 'Just fine'.
Many thanks to all those who plan and book these trips - an excellent job has been done.
Barbara & Mick Pooley, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
I really don't know where to start - there were 4 of us all out to enjoy ourselves and have a good laugh, which we certainly did. The tone of the holiday was set when we arrived in Memphis. Our tour guide Sherry (Trifle as we later learnt) was there to greet us & put us in taxis to take us to the Heartbreak Hotel at the bottom of Lonely Street (yes really!!) as we had landed early & would have had a 1 ½ hour wait for the coach.
Trifle really made the holiday - she had a really good sense of humor (same as the Brits) and did a job over & above what we expected. If it was anyone's birthday or it was a special occasion she went out of her way to ensure that all had a good time. We have agreed with others who were on the trip to revisit Memphis & do this tour again in 5 years - you never know we might make it!! Of course we would have to have Trifle as the guide. (Hope I said what you told me Sherry - please send my £10 as soon as possible!!!).
The tours were very well organized & Trifle let us know where we would go, what to expect & some general information. She always set the scene with her choice of music & she was never short of interesting trivia. There were a couple of times when the performers would come onto our coach at the end of the evening & traded 'insults' with Sherry. This made the evening special - in particular Diane Morrell got onto the coach and asked if there was a particular song we would have liked to hear. My friend Jan told her she would have liked to hear 'I will always love you'. Diane shocked us by singing the song on the coach mic - she was awesome!!
The trip to Studio B stands out as one of the highlights of the tour - it was really moving and we (as in the group) cut a CD & Keith (who showed us around) told us we were good (no he doesn't say that to each group). He was lovely & obviously loved his job.
I don't want to go into too much detail of the tour as there were some nice unexpected surprises so wouldn't want to spoil it for anyone. I can assure you that if you liked Elvis but wasn't really a fan before the holiday you will be a fan at the end of the holiday.
A big thank you to Sherry & Paul (our driver) and to all the people who helped make this a holiday to remember.
Ya'll have a nice day & we will be back in 5 years so beware!!
Vicki, Jackie, Lin & Janet UK, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
Having just returned from this tour and Las Vegas, we must congratulate you on making this such a fantastic memorable tour.
The whole tour went so smoothly everything was done for us all we had to do was turn up on time! Miss Penny (a real southern gal) our tour director's organisation was great right down to the seating on the coach!!
The hotels, sightseeing of Memphis and Nashville were superb, Graceland was really special and emotional as was Tupelo, we really enjoyed our visit to R.C.A. recording studio where the tour group of 50 recorded an Elvis song,(which sounds great I might add) then were each given a copy to take home - what a lovely personal thing to do.
We had an excellent night at the Grande Ole Opry, they were celebrating their 83rd birthday the weekend we were there, Kenny Rogers appeared on our night, which was great as we didn't know about it until Penny told us on the coach.What a brilliant time we had, cannot fault a thing!!
Once again Archers, thanks for a very memorable holiday and for looking after us the whole time even on our extension to Las Vegas, looking forward to our next holiday with you.
Well done to all involved at Archers Direct, our tour director Penny and not forgetting our driver Dion.
Val and Rita, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
I couldn't bear to throw away the Archers tour itinerary until I finally got around to sending in my review. Just back from this terrific Archers holiday with my mum. We had THE best time. Penny the guide was superb and with the exception of Elvis, made the holiday!
Praise indeed also for Dion the driver. He was so nice and friendly, got on so well with Penny - it was like a double act, not to mention he's really cute!
Memphis was great, just loved Graceland and Beale Street. Then Studio B was so moving listening to 'Are You Lonesome Tonight' with the mood lighting and then recording our own song. We will never forget it.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend a holiday with Archers. The trip was so well organised and fun. Met so many lovely people and just had a brilliant time. Looking forward to the next trip!
Lynn McIntosh, Fife, Scotland
Holiday Review: New England in the Fall
Our holiday was a great experience, in glaring contrast to our "Platinum French Panorama Tour".
Our flights to and from Edinburgh were timely and efficient with the usual reservations about the food. We were met and looked after by various Archers reps who looked after us until we were met by our very efficient tour guide Dianne, who along with our driver, helped to make our holiday such an interesting and happy time.
The Holiday Inn Manhattan was a bit of a downer with no rooms ready for arrival and the rooms being so small and cramped that there wasn't room to open two suitcases at the same time, aside from that all the other hotels were of a very high standard with very good service.
The trip was well planned with time to see so many stunning views and places. The optional excursions we took also helped to broaden our holiday experience, especially the Murder Mystery Dinner at Burlington. Our return to New York was a great opportunity to browse and relax. Our return to Newark was well co-ordinated so that we all arrived home in great shape. Thank you to all the reps, drivers and planners who made this into a great holiday.
My very best regards to all at Archers for a great holiday and we hope to see you all again in 2009.
William & Mary Lowe, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
We have just returned from this fabulous trip. Far exceeded our expectations.
Tour guide Sherry and Driver Paul made the holiday special with their expert knowledge.
Memphis was great, Las Vegas (what an experience) but our favourite place was Nashville especially our visit to Studio B and the recording.
We will definately recommend your tours, here are a couple of photos:
Ken and Sue Ogden, UK
Holiday Review: New Orleans, the Old South & Florida
We have just returned from an Archers holiday and want to say what a brilliant time we've had. This was one of many American holidays we have taken with your company but the first to the southern states. From beginning to end it was superb! Our hotels were of a high standard and were well situated centrally for us to take full advantage of the great places we visited. The staff in all were helpful and courteous.
We thoroughly enjoyed the tours by local guides who gave such enthusiastic and informative commentaries. Our tour guide and driver were excellent and they too provided us with further information on each destination and useful advice on what to see and where to eat.
We have always been given a warm welcome by the citizens of America and we certainly were not disappointed by southern hospitality. Everyone we met wanted to chat and we had lots of interesting conversations wherever we went.
We wish to congratulate Archers on putting together a splendid itinerary - the music, the history, the culture were all there and then we had the magic of Disney and Sea World to round off a wonderful holiday. Thank you!
We have already pencilled in Jewels of Georgia for next year!
Colin and Janet Peacock, North Yorkshire
Holiday Review: New Orleans, the Old South & Florida
Just returned from a coach trip to New Orleans and the Old South. This was the first ever coach trip undertaken by myself and my husband and it was memorable.
The tour director Brenda Green and our driver Al did everything possible to make the trip enjoyable. The places visited and the accommodation booked en route were very good.
I would highly recommend this itinerary and definitely higjly commend Brenda and Al. Look forward to our next trip.
Sheila Currie, UK
Holiday Review: Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains
I have recently returned from the Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains tour and had a wonderful time. The tour combines wonderful scenery, remarkable natural phenomena (such as the Luray Caverns), fine mansions, impressive monuments and memorials, plenty of great music and food, fascinating history and Dollywood.
We travelled the back roads and mountain roads and stayed a night in charming log cabins in the Shenandoah National Park. The next morning none of us wanted to leave!
Many of the places we visited were almost untouched by tourism, especially West Virginia, but those who haven't been there simply don't know what they are missing. Not only is the scenery superb but we also stopped at some delightful little towns.
For anyone who likes history, Colonial Williamsburg is a dream-come-true. The town has been preserved very much as it was in the 1770's. 88 of the buildings are original and those that aren't have been recreated as they were. People still live in the town so it certainly isn't Disneyland. I was there for a good seven hours and really needed longer.
Towards the end of the tour we stayed in Gettysburg, and as well as visiting this historic town, we also had a guided tour of the battlefield which has been preserved largely as it was during the 1863 battle. After the battlefield we went to the amazing visitors' centre, which apart from anything else, has a stupendous cyclorama, which depicts the famous battle. It's gargantuan cylindrical painting (painted in the 1880's) with a diorama in front of it. Highly effective lighting, a stirring narration and the sound of roaring cannon all add to the drama.
We finished the tour with a great meal in historic Alexandria (it's worth a day's exploration on its own) followed by a "Washington by night" bus tour where we saw the monuments all lit up and visited the Jefferson Monument and the Kennedy Art Centre. A great way to end a great tour, expertly lead by tour manager Hilary Campbell-Johnstone.
A very satisfied customer.
Dave Bradley, Milton Keynes
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
I am writing to say how absolutely thrilled we have been with your holiday service. We have just returned from the Canada tour + Hawaii extension. I shall be sending a review online but I wanted you to know how pleased we are. All the details were exactly as planned. United Airlines were very good indeed with kind, attentive stewards.
The absolute highlight was your tour director, Dianne Alboro. She is always smiling, despite a broken bone in her foot, and so helpful. You could not ask for a better person to keep us on time and inform and arrange than Dianne. I do hope it is possible for you to forward on a personal letter to thank her. We were all concerned about her home in Houston, also her mother's home in Galveston with the hurricane.
What made the holiday so special were the excellent hotels, especially Jasper, and the included and optional tours available. I'm afraid we took advantage of most of them but they were excellent value for money. I think the tours around Niagara Falls, Jasper - Edith Cavell Mountain, and Banff river rafting were particularly good. And Hawaii!!!
All in all, well done, Archers you provided a superb experience at a cost that was amazing value. We will certainly travel with you again and have already sung your praises to friends and family.
Thanks for making our special holiday superb.
Karen & Barry Taylor, Sheffield
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
I have recently returned from "The Grand Canadian Rail and the Rockies" Tour.
I have to say it's the best holiday I've ever had. The scenery was stunning and the group was great. Your Tour Director Mel Brand was absolutely brilliant, as nothing was too much trouble. His knowledge was outstanding.
Along with Kon our main driver; what a team!!!
Thank you Archers and Mel for a holiday I won't forget.
Jean Lathey, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
Tried to email you the review, however lost it 3 times so thought I had better write.
Although a little apprehensive before we went (not being ardent fans of the 'King' and because we had never booked a tour before or been with Archers) we had no need to worry.
The trip from start to finish was amazing and excellent value for money. The standard of the hotels (especially in Nashville) the knowledge and helpfulness of the tour guides/bus drivers were first class. All trips were included in the price, even a performance at the Grand Ole Opry. The music scene in Memphis and Nashville was fantastic and lots of fun. Our feet barely touched for the 6 nights/8 days we were there. The trip to Graceland was something else as were the visits to Sun Studios and Studio B. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable experience.
The only downside was the 5 hour wait for our connecting flight from Atlanta to Memphis which, after a 9 hour flight from Manchester, made for a very long and exhausting day.
Having said that, we are already planning our next little excursion and it will definitely be with Archers Direct.
Thank you for an excellent holiday (We are now converted Elvis fans)
C and F Wyatt, Burnley
Holiday Review: New York, Niagara Falls & Washington DC
Received your letter welcoming me home and thank you for that. However you beat me to it as my letter was ready to be posted to express my appreciation.
So, I'm writing to thank you Company for the 9-days Tour Holiday to New York, Niagara Falls, Philadelphia and Washington DC and the other places. It was absolutely wonderful.
I've never been on holiday before without my husband and was nervous about the trip, but what great fellowship it was! I need not have worried. Everyone was very friendly and sociable with even knowing each other on first names only. I got on splendidly with my room mate in spite of our age difference (me 72 years old) also the Tour Director and Driver couldn't fault them. Well done to you all.
I will certainly recommend your company and definitely use Archers Direct again.
Many thanks again for a fantastic holiday.
Mrs Eleanor Moore, Bedfordshire
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
We recently returned from the above tour and I feel I must contact you to inform you how much we enjoyed it.
Never having been on any touring holidays before, we were slightly apprehensive having only done our own thing in the past.
The whole holiday from start to finish was so well organised. The flights on time, the transfers and hotels very good. Our Tour Director, Sherry, was particularly impressive. Her knowledge of each destination was so good and delivered with such humour and wit. It was a pleasure to get on the coach each day to see what she was going to say. Her choice of music and in one case a DVD to suit each trip as we travelled made the journeys a pleasure and not a chore.
The highlight, course, was seeing Graceland and staying at the Heartbreak Hotel, but I would like to say how much we enjoyed the tour of Studio B in Nashville. Once again the guide was superb and the finale of us all singing and being recorded was just great. To receive a copy, even though we certainly will never get a recording contract, was so special. We put it in our hand luggage as we were so worried that if our suitcases went astray, we would lose it!
We added on Las Vegas, which has to be seen to be believed, but, I must say that here we would have liked an extra night or two as we did not see a fraction of what we had planned. Thank you Cosmos for giving us the best holiday of our lives. It is so easy to complain when things are not right that I thought you would like to receive a letter of appreciation.
If in future we plan another holiday of this sort, it will be your company every time and I have already recommended it to friends who expressed a desire to see Graceland.
Thank you once again from two satisfied customers.
Mrs G Boomer, London
Holiday Review: Peru & the Treasures of the Incas
My first holiday to South America in Peru with Archers Direct was so great, I booked the same trip for the following year. You see, I knit hats for the children in Peru and give them out to the children and babies when I'm on my tour.
It is such a boost to see the delight on their little faces wearing the hats I've knitted for them.
The Peruvians are so polite and caring even though so many live in poverty, their country is just so amazing.
At 71 I still manage to keep up with the group and have climbed Machu Picchu twice now, I just couldn't believe it all the first time and just had to do it again.
The first time in Peru on the Archers tour we saw Bill Gates at the festival and I took some nice photos of him.
Ann King, Carlisle
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
This is a coach tour which can be highly recommended for anyone interested in visiting and seeing the Nation Monuments, Parks and Canyons in the USA mid-west. We had in Al Laporte an excellent tour manager whose encyclopaedic knowledge was exceptional. Not only did we learn in great detail the historical background of the native population but geology, geography and natural history were covered in equal expertise.
This was all in addition to managing the general running of the tour with all that entailed, even when problems arose and these were dealt with without any fuss.
Mention too must be made of our extremely careful and courteous driver, Leon. Nothing seemed to perturb him.
A copious supply of information leaflets were handed out en route which magnified that we had already heard and it saved the need to write many notes.
In a very international mix of 48 passengers, everyone enjoyed the trip and apart from a very few times, we were seldom later than the suggested departure times.
We saw the dramatic rock sculpture of Crazy Horse, still under construction and the four presidents at Mount Rushmore. Yellowstone National Park devastated by fire twenty years ago is now re-generating naturally. Grand Teton National Park and later Bryce, Zion and Grand Canyon National Parks showed the great diversity of these natural geological formations.
However, despite it being June, be prepared for all extremes in weather. As we waited for "Old Faithful" geyser to erupt in Yellowstone, it was bitterly cold. The following morning, June 11th, we opened the curtains to find that three inches (7cm) of snow had fallen overnight and the temperature was 28o F. A few days later in Las Vegas it was 112o F.
Plant and wildlife contrasts were equally great ranging from the forests of ponderosa pines on the Black Hills of Dakota and the lodgepole pines used by the Red Indian tribes to support their tepees to the prickly flowering cacti. Bison, elk and deer dwarfed the cheeky chipmunks and having seen numerous birds including ospreys and bald eagles, the final highlight was to see the majestic condors riding the thermals and gliding round the Grand Canyon.
William A. Tait, UK
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
Following your invitation for articles about your clients' holidays, here is my epistle.
As we were about to arrive at Las Vegas airport from where a group from Sacramento were departing, I went forward to the tour manager and asked if I could use the microphone and say a few words. With a quizzical look he handed it over and I proceeded to give he and the driver a vote of thanks. It would appear that has seldom happened.
We are considering doing the South African Garden Route tour next year. Originally we had intended doing the National Parks and Canyon Country tour in September or October but such the popularity, the one we went on was our 7th choice of dates!
William A. Tait, Edinburgh
Holiday Review: Canadian Coastal Adventure
We have just returned from the above touring holiday which was excellent. It was varied and always interesting with so much to do.
This holiday depended so much on the quality of the tour director and the skill and ability of the driver. Both were exceptional. The tour director was without doubt the best, most accomplished we've had and used her experience and love of the area where she lived to great effect. Our driver, Ed, was equally skilled and worked well with Claudette. His rapport with her and the group was superb.
We've done countless coach holidays including eight to North America. This was the best for the experience and the quality of the personnel.
Ann and Glyn Young, Cheshire
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
May I congratulate you on your brilliant holiday that we had on Grand Canadian Rail and Rockies, the tour director Peter and the coach driver was excellent and the accommodation was very good, the food we had on the train brilliant.
Do you do Cruise Holidays for the Med? If you do could you please send me a brochure for 2009 when it comes out.
Once again may I congratulate you on the holiday and we will certainly recommend you.
S. and H. Roberts, Caernarfon
Holiday Review: Cities of Eastern Canada
Dear Archers,
I have just returned from a nine-day trip from Eastern Canada and just wanted to say how well organised the whole trip was from start to finish. Our tour operator 'John Gargrave' was always welcome and well versed in all the cities/locations we visited during our tour. He made sure everyone was aware of the day's events and that everyone was happy.
There was so much to see during the whole tour that the nine days just didn't seem enough. Nevertheless, we saw the amazing sights that Canada had to offer which obviously included Niagara Falls and the CN Tower. Niagara Falls has to be seen to be believed. The 'maid of the mist' was something I read about but in reality was truly stunning and spectacular. The sheer volume of water and sound as you go near the falls is literally phenomenal and an experience to remember forever.
The CN Tower was another incredibly highlight of the holiday. My friend and I had the opportunity of having dinner at the CN Tower which was first class and seeing the sun set while dining there was an added bonus. It was an awesome sight to see for miles around and at the same time seeing the city move
into night time as the night lights come on for miles around. At the time my friend and I didn't realise the CN Tower was an added extra to visit at night. The tour operator 'John' went out of his way to make a last minute booking with the rest of the group for both of us - thank you John.
There is so much you can talk about during the whole trip but one other person needs a definite mention. The coach driver 'Sven' (sorry I never did catch his surname!) was such a pleasant and cheerful person during the whole tour.
Even the amount of time he was driving he was never annoyed at anything or anyone - even when my friend and I were late coming to the coach one morning he just smiled. He and John made the holiday really great and memorable.
THANK YOU ARCHERS.
Richard Ignatowicz, UK
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
Tour Director: John Gargrave, Drivers: Mike & Gary.
We had planned this "holiday of a lifetime" for some time; it had to be following my retirement. I had examined other holidays provided by other major Tour Operators and concluded that the Archers Itinerary appeared to provide the best value for money.
We had previously travelled in Europe with Archers but Canada just had to be something special. Well you can take it from us that we were entirely satisfied with all aspects and that cannot often be said of many holiday experiences.
The flights, the accommodation along the way, the coaches with their excellent drivers, the optional excursions and then the Cruise up the inside passage to Alaska, all went without a hitch.
However if you choose an accompanied tour then the Tour Director is the person who can provide the "icing on the cake". There are references to "John" in other similar holiday reviews; it must be the same person. He was a real credit to Archers Direct and I can only agree with all the adjectives, which have been used. His organisational ability, his wit, the numerous aspects of his knowledge of the people, the country, its culture and history all ensured that our time spent in his care could not have been in better hands.
Many thanks John, many thanks Archers for so many treasured memories.
Ian & Muriel Sturrock, Rochdale
Holiday Review: Western Treasures
We have just returned from our tour of Western USA and would like to say a big thank you to Archers and especially to Linda Perez our tour director - she made the holiday for everyone on the coach with her attention to detail of everyone's needs and information. Nothing was too much trouble and she made everything run smoothly with a great sense of humour. The places we travelled to, were great and made even better by the information she gave us and all the tips about where to visit and where to eat. She even had us chanting and singing! We would love to have Linda as our tour director again.
Going on the Platinum Tourer coach was good in as far as there were less people on the coach and we had a lovely group of people but because of the seat belt laws in the USA the extra leg room was not as much as everyone expected and the tea and coffee service was a bit of a chore for Roger our coach driver but he never complained!
Overall the hotels we stayed in were clean and of a good standard, they did vary from Days Inn to Marriott Hotels but all were fine, we all especially liked it when the hotels were small and gave a reception on arrival which was a good time for everyone to get to know each other, it was also a nice surprise to get free breakfasts and free internet at some of the hotels. We never had to wait long to book in as Linda rang to let the hotels know when we would be arriving and then went in to collect the keys so there was never any queuing up.
We did lots of the optional excursions and found all were of good value, rafting down the Colorado River starting off at the Hoover Dam was fantastic and would recommend to anyone but you do get wet! But as the temperature was 115f that day no-one minded, and the Wild West dinner optional excursion was good, I think all our coach booked this one so again it was a good time to talk to people you hadn't got round to speaking to.
Linda never pushed the optional excursions but explained them well so you could make up your own mind and she also allowed you to change your mind on most of them if you wanted to during the tour.
The Helicopter ride over the Grand Canon is a must. We booked an Alcatraz night tour before going and that was just amazing.
We stayed an extra two days in San Francisco and were really luckily with the weather it was in the 70s which I understand is rare for there. Two days was just enough time to do the sights.
We travelled with Archers last year on the Eastern USA and Canada tour, which was good and have already booked two tours, Switzerland and Thailand for next year. For value for money and seeing lots of new places I would recommend Archers to friends and family.
Hazel Beard, UK
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
We have just returned from our first holiday with Archers Direct to "National Parks and Canyon Country", everything went really well for us.
We have had many lovely holidays but this one was the very best ever. The Tour Director and Driver were always there if you needed any help. We can't wait for our next holiday with Archers Direct.
Thank you for this fantastic Holiday.
John & Christine Clarke, UK
Holiday Review: Canadian Rockies
I have just returned from my Canadian Rockies tour that was everything I had hoped. Our tour manager, Tarek, was excellent in every way and the Platinum Tourer was well worth the small extra charge.
Brenda Castle, UK
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
We recently took our first touring holiday with you and wondered what to expect but can honestly say it was one of the best holidays we have ever had.
Toronto and Niagara Falls were wonderful and the views from the CN tower were spectacular. We were then up bright and early Saturday morning to arrive at the rail station in Toronto ready to board the Via Canadian - this proved to be the highlight of our holiday as what an experience it was, everyone was so friendly and we had such a laugh, the dining experience was something else. The food was great and the staff were marvelous.
We calculated that by the time we reached Jasper we had traveled 2251 miles and as we approached the Rockies the sight was something else. We did as many of the tours as we could, including the helicopter trip that is a must for all who do this tour. The weather was very kind to us during our stay in Jasper and Banff and felt we would have liked more time to explore these delightful towns.
There is so much to do there and not enough time which means we will go again sometime. We stayed the extra days in Vancouver and had a great time. We took the trolley bus and hopped on and off to take in all the sights did Vancouver Island and the Buchart Gardens, took a day trip to Whistler on the bus and had a super guide who was so knowledgeable and very interesting.
Last but not least we would like to say our tour director Lisa May was brilliant and a credit to your company nothing was too much trouble for her.
It was the first time we have used Archers Direct but not the last.
Christine Skinner, UK
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
We have recently returned from an amazing two weeks in the United States.
We went on the National Parks and Canyon Country tour and had an amazing experience. It was one of the best holidays we have ever had. Our Tour Guide Donna was exceptional - she went out of her way to make sure we were always comfortable and her knowledge of all aspects of our tour was impressive.
Brian our Driver was excellent; quiet but a very efficient driver. He was very helpful and always lowered the front of the coach when he saw me approaching (I twisted my knee) - a lovely man. We opted for The Platinum Tourer and it was very comfortable. Brian kept it immaculate.
Tony & Angela Richards, UK
Holiday Review: South American Highlights
We have recently returned from the above tour, which was exceptional. We have been on a number of Archers Tours all of them very good with good value for money but the South American tour was outstanding.
I will admit that we had reservations because of the crime there. However, we listened to the advice given by the local guides and I also visited the FCO website. We took their advice and had no problems whatsoever. Although there was a lot of poverty, the people were helpful and friendly.
Each country had its own highlights but Machu Picchu and Iguassu Falls were spectacular. The scenery on the train journey to Machu Picchu was stunning and well worth the 4.30 a.m. wake up call. The Iguassu Falls were breathtaking and I have never seen so many beautiful butterflies. The optional boat trip to the falls was exciting even though we all got wet.
The included boat trips to the floating reed islands on Lake Titicaca and to Bolivia via the Island of the Sun were excellent and just added to an already brilliant holiday.
La Paz was an amazing place that looked as if it had been formed from a crater but was in fact a lake at one time. Moon Valley really looked as if it was on the moon.
I loved Buenos Aires, which had beautiful shops and some interesting museums.
And finally to Rio de Janeiro, which had two incredible trips to Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain where the views were wonderful as well as our visit to Copacabana beach.
It was an unforgettable holiday where we made new friends and have some wonderful memories.
Morag MacKintosh, East Kilbride
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
My partner and I have recently returned from the Grand Canyon and National Parks tour. We thoroughly recommend this holiday with Archers to anybody interested in seeing this area of the world.
We particularly wish to thank our tour guide Al Lapore for his expert help, guidance in all areas and excellent knowledge of the area. We also offer our thanks to Jim the driver who also helped to take care of us all.
A wonderful holiday with many happy memories.
Gary Arlett and Tracy Nott, UK
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
We have just returned from the Trans Canada Explorer and we had a great time! We were treated really well and we had a great tour guide (his name was john) and he had a wealth of knowledge about the holiday and nothing was too much trouble for him. He really went out of his way to make our holiday special.
Those 18 days we spent touring round Canada were out of this world and I can recommend to anyone to take this trip you will not be disappointed.
Anne Hartley, UK
Holiday Review: The Golden West
My Husband, Peter and I were lucky enough to participate in the Golden West Tour and have spent a lot of time longing to be back on it since!
It was with some trepidation we sent out on this venture to celebrate our Silver Anniversary as we had never even been abroad before. However, from the very moment of arrival in San Francisco everything was fabulous. All hotels were excellent, Tour Guide Larry Stern is incomparable - his attention to detail and cheery manner made such a huge contribution to the enjoyment of the tour. Drivers Joe (in San Fran) and Richard (for the Tour) were outstanding. Our fellow holidaymakers were all lovely, friendly people and from our first day on the road we were completely at ease.
We had initially thought that maybe we were trying to cram too much into too short a space of time but we never felt rushed at all. We would have appreciated a little longer at the Farmers Market in LA though. The whole tour had so much to see and do it was amazing. There were plenty of optional extras as well but no pressure to purchase. Transfers to Honolulu and back were all organised to perfection (I was a little afraid to be going on without Larry's guiding hand but it was great).
I would not hesitate to recommend this tour and Archers Direct to anyone. We have been researching another possible USA holiday and are finding that no other tour companies measure up, so we will almost definitely book with Archers again.
Many thanks to all for such a special experience.
Helen Carmichael, Fort William, Scotland
Holiday Review: South American Highlights
BRILLIANT
Well organised tour-guides in each country did everything to make our trip a memorable experience.
We had read about altitude sickness and were aware of the symptoms that might arise on arriving in Cuzco. Coca tea works wonders BUT the best advice is LISTEN to what the local guides tell you about what to eat for the first couple of days and drink plenty of bottled water, whilst your body adapts to the altitude.
Each country had its own uniqueness and yes there are some very early morning starts BUT they are worth it.
Words cannot describe Machu Picchu or Iguassu Falls you have to see it for yourself.
All we would say is if you are thinking about this tour is GO -YOU WILL HAVE A WONDERFUL TIME
Bruce & Judy Jamieson, Preston
Holiday Review: New England in the Fall
Thank you for our lovely holiday in New England - an area of contrasts from the bustling city of New York to the aptly named Lake Placid.
We walked through Central Park and down 5th Avenue. A word to the wise, don't go out on the parapet of the Empire State Building wearing a skirt! I did a Marilyn Monroe, but hopefully everyone was too busy admiring the view to notice.
The Vanderbilts' home, The Breakers, is sumptuous, with panoramic views over the ocean. In contrast, in Plymouth we met Wampanoag people and actors portraying early settlers. A tour of Mayflower 2 impressed on us how uncomfortable their journey to the New World must have been. We watched the antics of seven whales, two of which surfaced within feet of our boat.
The centre of Boston has been beautifully landscaped and an elegant bridge now spans the river. On the common we were amused to see a guide in 17th century dress using a mobile phone!
We visited Cape Cod on a blustery day when the wind whipped waves against the rocky base of the lighthouse. Thank goodness it wasn't crew changeover day as the only access to the lighthouse was by a bosun's chair swaying on its wire.
Stutsey's restaurant in Ogunquit served the best steak my husband had tasted in over 30 years, and the Motor Inn at Shelburne had excellent meals at great prices.
The owner of the maple syrup farm had us all in fits of laughter with his dry wit. His syrup was lovely too. Another wit was the owner of the apple cider farm. One Californian was unlucky enough to ask if there were worms in the apples. The answer caused great hilarity amongst us all.
Across lakes, up mountains, we wended our way. The fall colours were beautiful, best appreciated from the top of the Olympic ski jump at Lake Placid.
Our tour director was local with a wealth of knowledge. We miss his cheery "all righty" but who knows, he may lead us again one day.
Sandra Stroud, UK
Holiday Review: Alaska & the Yukon
I am pleased to enclose a short report about my wonderful Archers holiday in Alaska and the Yukon.
My tour of Alaska and the Yukon was fantastic and far exceed my high expectations! Our tour director, Brian, and driver, Doc, were excellent; they were a mine of information about the area.
We were an international group from various English-speaking countries. The programme was very varied. It included quaint old towns, such as Skagway and Dawson City, and impressive landscapes. We heard all about the Gold Rush and we tried gold panning ourselves.
We travelled by coach, train and boat and on an optional excursion in a small plane as well. Some great sightseeing trips were included. We got really close to some spectacular glaciers on the 26 Glacier Cruise. The river tour in Fairbanks on the sternwheeler Discovery was one of the highlights of the trip for me.
I was especially interested in Athabascan culture, which was explained in the Chena Village. We watched a bush plane take off from the water and learned a lot about huskies and the Iditarod dog sled race.
I booked quite a few optional tours because I wanted to see as much as possible. I particularly enjoyed the Arctic Circle trip. It was fascinating to learn about life in an isolated wilderness community from someone who has chosen this way of life.
The Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali National Park and Reserve was amazing: we saw moose, caribou, a ptarmigan, Dall sheep, a snowshoe hare and five grizzly bears (one came really close to our bus).
The weather was much better than I was expecting: we only had two rainy days and it was pleasantly warm most of the time. At the end of August there were hardly any mosquitoes.
I had read a lot about Alaska before my holiday but it was still full of surprises for me. You can't really imagine the vast expanse of unspoilt countryside, you have to see it for yourself.
Penny Thompson, UK
Holiday Review: Florida Discovery
I am writing on behalf of myself and my friend Margaret Tacher. We recently had our holiday with Cosmos, Florida Discovery.
We cannot praise our guide Penny enough. She was kind, considerate, very witty, and attentive and made our sometimes long journeys very comfortable and very interesting. She was the best person on this job that we have come across.
Thank you, thank you, Penny.
Also our driver Carl, he was very careful, considerate, always pleasant, and reliable and never drove on his brakes as we say. A great duo making our holiday very comfortable and memorable.
Lots of complaints must flood into offices with the way people are these days so we thought because these two people were special on this great holiday that we should write in with praise due and deserved.
Thank you.
Mrs Patricia Banks, Lancashire
Holiday Review: Eastern USA & Canada
I have been on two Archers tours so far Eastern USA and Canada, and Splendours of the East and West.
Having never heard of Archers before booking my first holiday I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived in the USA to meet a group of people who raved about your tours and I have to say I agree.
The two holidays I have been on have been fantastic as they were both very well organised; the tour directors were all fantastic and very knowledgeable. I think both of my holidays have had so much packed into them and the optional extras supplemented the tours very well.
Some of my highlights from this year were walking along the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, rafting down the Colorado River starting off at the Hoover dam, and the Wild West dinner optional excursion.
On both holidays I have been a single traveller and on both holidays I have made friends. If you have always wanted to travel but don't have anyone to go with Archers tours are very good options as they give you a chance to make friends and everything is organised for you.
I would recommend Archers to all of my family and friends and I have enjoyed by holidays so much that I have just booked to go on your Great Rift Valley Safari in March and I am planning another trip to Thailand in the summer with one of the friends I made on tour this year.
Laura Thompson, UK
Holiday Review: New England in the Fall
From the moment we landed at J.F.K. in New York everything started to go smoothly. The journey to our hotel at 72nd St and Broadway took longer than we thought but then the traffic was immense and it was a slog.
We were met in the foyer by Mary our tour director and she took over all the arrangements for the duration of the tour. Next day we boarded the luxurious coach with leather upholstered seats and a lounge area with on board toilet and drink making facilities that was to prove invaluable throughout the tour and definitely made it worth the extra cost.
All the hotels were comfortable that we stayed in. It was easy to choose places to eat as there was always very good food. Mary made sure we went to good places.
We did not realise how the Pilgrim Fathers had to struggle to build their settlement and Plymouth was a highlight to us. The cruise for whale watching was exciting and we saw several whales and have the photos to prove it!
Everywhere we went was interesting. When we reached the area for the trees' changing in colour it was breathtaking; no one can describe the beauty that you are seeing. We have all had a laugh at Eddie the Eagle but when you get to Lake Placid and go to the top of the ski jump you realise the guts he had to make the attempt.
All too soon the Tour is over but we are left some good memories of the places and the people we have been with.
Fortunately we decided on the four-day extension in New York; what a contrast! It was fantastic as we did everything from bus tours, the Empire State Building, boat trips and the Staten Island Ferry. We also hit the shops, an experience we are glad we have not missed.
Thanks Archers especially Mary.
Carol & Mike Palmer, UK
Holiday Review: New England in the Fall
With reference to the New England in the Fall tour, I write to thank you for the excellent service we received.
From the initial telephone conversation with your office re booking through to arrival of invoices and travel arrangements all aspects were completed correctly and without delay.
I would ask you, also, to pass on our thanks to the tour director, Larry Schwartz and the driver, Michael Brown. Larry showed himself to be a very capable, friendly fellow who dealt with all areas of the job in a straightforward and positive way. Michael was such a calm and safe driver that we had complete confidence in his ability. Their input to the holiday added a great deal to the success of our trip.
Mrs M Thain, Essex
Holiday Review: New Orleans, the Old South & Florida
We had our first coach holiday this October and we went to the USA with Archers. It was the best holiday we have ever been on.
The holiday was perfectly organised and we were amazed with how professional and trouble free each step of the holiday was. A lot of this was down to our superb tour guide Sherry Guy and our driver Carl. They were so incredibly friendly, helpful and professional it was a joy being on tour with them. It meant we had nothing whatsoever to worry about as everything was taken care of and we had the most relaxing holiday we have ever had as a result. Sherry kept us entertained and informed every step of the way and we were amazed at the service we received.
The accommodation at each stop was above our expectations and the service levels were extremely good in particular Derrick our doorman in New Orleans. It was obvious the staff knew the Sherry and Carl and treated them like old friends and in return offered us great service and were very friendly and helpful.
We were worried that we would have to spend all our time surrounded by fellow coach passengers and would have no time to ourselves but this proved to be incorrect. The included excursions were excellent as indeed were the optional ones and very good value for money. However we had plenty of time to explore by ourselves and with the amount of information provided by Sherry about each of the places we explored we felt safe and knowledgeable.
We would have no problem in recommending Archers and this tour to anybody and we will definitely be travelling with Archers again on our next holiday and hoping that we are lucky enough to have Sherry and Carl as our companions.
Many thanks for a wonderful time.
Tannia & Andrew Holmes and Kay Curtin, UK
Holiday Review: New Orleans, the Old South & Florida
We have just returned from an excellent holiday with Archers. We travelled from New Orleans ending in Florida.
This was our first coach tour and we were concerned about actual travelling time. Thanks to our Tour Director Sherry Guy our journey was great fun and travelling time passed very quickly. The organisation and attention to detail was amazing. The information pack supplied by Sherry was extremely helpful and gave more information than we expected. We were impressed by all the trips included in the itinery
Carl was our coach driver and thanks to both Sherry and Carl our trip was extremely enjoyable.
We would have no hesitation in recommending this trip and thank you Archers, Sherry and Carl for a fantastic holiday.
George & Brenda Cansick, UK
Holiday Review: Canadian Rockies
For many years we had wanted to visit Canada and the only sad part was that it was the death of my parents that enabled us to have the money to go. Having said that they would have been delighted that they had helped us achieve a lifetime ambition and we were not disappointed.
The holiday was helped enormously by the wonderful tour director John and our driver Peter. John had a great wit as well as an immense knowledge not only of the area but of the wildlife, history, culture, politics and any other aspect we may have been interested in. He ensured our comfort and ease of passage at all times. Peter was an excellent driver so we could relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
We would recommend this trip to anyone wanting to see the best that Canada has to offer and hope to do a trip to the East Coast before too long.
Geoff & Anna Franklin, UK
Holiday Review: Hawaiian Islands
I have just returned from your Hawaiian Islands Tour.. It was my fifth holiday with Archers and was, as always, absolutely brilliant.
Kimo Grigsby, our Tour Director excelled at his job. He was so well organised and laid back making sure we were all looked after throughout the Tour. The coach company used and the other companies used for optional excursions were excellent. I did many of the excursions and saw so much of the islands, the scenery was spectacular.
I had a great time and am looking forward to my tour I have booked with you next year to New Orleans and the Old South. Thanks once again for a marvellous holiday.
Ms J Locorriere, Brighton
Holiday Review: Hawaiian Islands
Last month my mum and I went on the Hawaiian Islands tour with your company and really enjoyed it we would like to go on it again in 2 years time.
But I would like to make a suggestion, it is to spend one day less on the island of Kauai and that extra day on the Big Island of Hawaii and I spoke to other people on the tour and they agreed with me.
Many thanks
Anne Hall, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
Holiday Review - Chris and Lenny Revell, Jenny and Mick Hall - October 2007
Hi y'all! Just back from this wonderfull Archers tour and just want to tell everyone what a fantastic time we all had. The tour guide, Penny, was such a character - a real southern gal - with so many stories to tell along the way and what a fantastic driver we had - Paul, he was such a kind, considerate person and nothing seemed too much trouble. They both certainly took great care of us all.
Having booked this trip as a surprise birthday present for my husband and close friend I was really hoping that this would be a trip of a lifetime and I have to say it certainly met all my expectations.
We crammed in so much during our eight day stay and enjoyed every single minute from the deeply moving trip to Graceland to the Honky Tonk in Nashville - so much to experience. Beale Street in Memphis is something else and the visit to Tupelo was very emotional.
The recording session by the group at Studio B in Nashville felt very special and the CD we produced has been on constant play since our arrival home!
I could go on and on but you really need to experience this trip yourselves to really know what it's all about. As they say down south - "Y'all come back you hear" and that's exactly what we intend to do.
Christine Revell, UK
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
CANADA - my journey from the east to west coast was AWESOME!
What a wonderful young country full of such natural beauty. Everywhere you looked a breathtaking vista lay before you from the lakes and forests, through the prairies to the snow and glaciers of the Rocky mountains. When you thought it couldn't get any better...it did. How exhilarating to see the deer and elk, black bears and smaller mammals roaming their natural habitats.
With Toronto at the start and Vancouver at the end everything was so clean and modern and the natives were so friendly. Archers excelled themselves with this tour... it was far better than we all expected.
Never in my wildest dreams at 63 years of age did I imagine I would be in a helicopter over Niagara Falls and again flying through the Rockies....or on a raft through some mild rapids...or dining at the top of the CN Tower the highest building in the world. These were of course at extra cost but Archers made the experiences available and organised everything perfectly.
This is a MUST DO journey .... don't miss the opportunity.
Tony Harman, New Eltham, London
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
We have recently returned from a wonderful holiday in Canada - The Trans Canada Explorer.
My husband and I went on the Rocky Mountaineer Tour five years ago to celebrate our silver wedding anniversary and again had a wonderful time.
This time our two sons who are 23 and 26 accompanied us. I was a little wary of whether they would enjoy a tour with people who were mainly older than themselves (in fact all the party were older than them) but they got on well with everyone and thoroughly enjoyed the company. They were also as impressed as we were with the fantastic scenery in the Rockies which contrasted greatly with the city tours of the East.
This tour was to celebrate our thirtieth wedding anniversary. It was also in memory of our parents - our sons grandparents because we used money we had inherited to pay for the trip. It was certainly a trip to remember for all the right reasons.
We have now been on four Archers' tours and hope to go on another next year. They are excellent value for money and we recommend them to our friends and family.
Mrs Dorne Knott, UK
Holiday Review: Alaska & the Yukon
We went on your tour to Alaska and it exceeded our expectations. The Tour Director and driver were first class, making sure no-one missed any points of interest and assisting in every way possible. You have a great team working for you.
We booked the Alaska holiday after going on an Archers Trans Canada holiday in 2003 which had the same high standard.
I have worked in the coach and tour industry in the UK and Europe and I appreciate the work that goes into successful tours.
p.s. The service from your administration was excellent when I phoned them.
John & Gillian Effingham, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
Our second tour with Archer's - and a most memorable one. Our tour guide, Sherry Guy and driver, Paul Duncan absolutely made this holiday such fun and stressfree.
What can we say, everything about it was great ! Would recommend to anyone.
Rae & Jim Munro, Scotland
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
My husband and I have recently returned from a 'Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies' tour with your company, Archers Direct. We both feel compelled to write and say just how much we enjoyed ourselves.
Neither my husband nor myself had been on a touring before and it is fair to say that we approached it with a certain amount of trepidation. How fortunate we were to have Mr Peter McLearn as our tour director.
Being a 'more mature couple' we were anxious about having a young representative who simply rattled off a pre-rehearsed script and who had little genuine interest in the people on tour. Peter was none of these. Being of more mature years himself, he was quickly able to strike up an excellent rapport with everyone.
Peter has a wonderful sense of humour, one that appeals to all personalities. As a result, there was never a dull moment on the tour! His caring nature and genuine interest in the needs and wishes of his 'charges' was apparent on many occasions. Right at the start of our tour, Peter emphasised the importance of leaving on time. It surely is a testament to his ability as a tour director that we were never late to leave anywhere!!
We have had a wonderful and memorable holiday and firmly believe that much of the enjoyment was down to the skills and experience of Peter McLearn.
We would both like to commend Archers Direct for realising that more mature tour directors have so much to offer, through a vast wealth of experience.
Pauline Evans, Irby, Wirral
Holiday Review: Best of Western Canada
We have just returned from the above holiday and would like to say how much we enjoyed it. Last year we had the unfortunate experience of missing the same holiday because of the increased airport security when the British Airways flight left without most of its passengers and Archers were brilliant in letting us rebook the holiday or having a full refund.
We were very anxious this year after the problems we encountered last August but this time everything went according to plan. We were met at Heathrow by one of your representatives who made sure we knew where to check in with Air Canada, the flights were good and the rest of the tour was excellent. Our tour leader Vedrana Ashcroft was first class, very knowledgeable and extremely conscientious.
This was our third Archers long-haul holiday and will definitely not be our last (funds permitting!!)
Once again, many thanks for an excellent holiday.
Sue & John Bancroft, West Sussex
Holiday Review: Best of Western Canada
We returned on 18th August from our Best of Western Canada holiday and have just found time to write and thank you for a really enjoyable trip.
This was to have been our holiday last August, but we were caught up in the security chaos at Heathrow and British Airways did not manage to get us to our plane. Consequently, we waited almost 2 years for the holiday, and were delighted to finally arrive in Vancouver, this time with Air Canada.
It was very reassuring and helpful this time to be approached by an Archers representative at the entrance to Terminal 3.
In Canada we were very impressed with our Tour Manager, Vedrana Ashcroft, who was a mine of information on the areas we covered and was extremely well organised and hard working.
We booked several optional excursions and had a very full schedule.
We understand that this holiday is running in the opposite direction next year, which seems a shame as it works very well this way round, with Victoria and Vancouver at the end. Also, maybe the tour needs to be longer as it was quite rushed and you would also have very little time in Vancouver if you did not book the 2-day extension.
These are just suggestions for improving the tour - we still had an excellent time.
Thank you again and perhaps you could pass on our thanks and good wishes to Vedrana.
One last thing, could we please have a copy of next year's brochure so we can start looking again?!
Mrs Mary Madden, Burgess Hill, West Sussex
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
I would like to express my thanks on a wonderful holiday.
On the 16th May to 2nd June we went on the National Parks & Canyon Country Tour. This was our third West American trip with you and every time gets better and better.
Our tour rep Donna Mayes and coach driver Bob excelled themselves to make sure everything ran smoothly and we enjoyed ourselves to the full. Listening to Donna about the history, tales, jokes, were fascinating we had so many laughs, she and Bob were amazing.
I hope I will be travelling with you again in the near future.
Ms R Harman, West Sussex
Holiday Review: The Golden West
It was our first time with Archers on this fully escorted tour of the Golden West in May. The trip exceeded our expectations, and ran like clockwork from start to finish.
Our tour guide Linda Perez was amazing, she bent over backwards above and beyond the call of duty to ensure our trip ran smoothly. She provided us with movies on the long coach trips, and kept us entertained with her knowledge and wit.
The scenery is amazing, we are definitely doing another trip, hopefully Australia next year!
Jon and Tina Watts, UK
Holiday Review: The Golden West
Our last trip to USA was to "The Golden West" where we had our best holiday ever.
Attached is a photo at the Universal Studios in Hollywood with Jaws !!! A fisherman's dream!!!!" also my wife Pilar finding she had the same sized hands as Marilyn Monroe!!!!
Memories of a lifetime, we'll be going back to USA for sure next year!!! Archers can't be bettered for value.
Les Hamilton, UK
Holiday Review: Canadian Rockies
I was one of the 7 people who joined your Canadian Rockies & Vancouver tour on 5 June. Often we only write to the tour operator after our tour because we had some complaints to make, however, I feel that it is as equally important to give merit where merit is due. Therefore I am writing to let you know how much I enjoyed our tour and my personal view regarding the tour and its' organisation.
After a long flight we finally arrived at Calgary late Monday night on 5 June. We were transferred to our hotel where our tour guide, Tarek Sabet awaited to greet us. After a brief introduction he handed us a welcome letter with all the necessary information and suggested we should meet again next day morning prior to our tour, began to go through everything in detail. I thought that was very thoughtful of him as he could appreciate how tired we all were and rest was the only thing we had in mind.
That evening I found out from the lady I shared a room with that the 7 of us were actually joining up with the rest of the group from the Trans-Canada Explorer tour which started a week earlier.
Our tour began with a warm welcomed from Tarek and the other 37 member of the group next day morning. We travelled through the Rockies and Vancouver pleasantly together for the next 8 days.
Canada is a beautiful and clean country. The Canadians are friendly and nice people. The foods were delicious but huge in quantity! The scenery along the Rockies was breathtaking! Vancouver was also very nice and I wished we could have stayed at least for an extra day as I was having difficulty in deciding which optional excursions (The Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain or the Whistler Day trip) to take. I finally decide to take the advice from a lady in the tour and chose the former. It was definitely the right decision! However, I would have loved to spend a day in Whistler as well if time permitted.
To sum up my holiday, I had a fantastic time! The included and optional excursions were excellent. Our tour guide, Tarek, was excellent! He is friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. He was well organised and informative. He enjoyed his job and always making sure we enjoy our holiday. Even thought there are 44 of us in total, we all got on very well and had a wonderful time together. The lady I shared a room with was very nice. We got on very well together. She was by far the best room-shared I have ever had!
I had a wonderful holiday even though we didn't get to see any whales while whale watching in Victoria. I will definitely recommend this tour to my friends and colleagues.
Ms Julia Sia, London
Holiday Review: Cities of Eastern Canada
What can we say about our Tour? WOW! Everything was well organised.
Tour Director and Driver, Cheryl and David were excellent, informative and good fun to be with. Hotels were First Class. This was our first long haul overseas tour a "once in a lifetime trip". But, after the excellent service and experiences of Canada and the friendliness of everyone we met, we will be planning other trips.
J & S Beaven, Godalming
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
I have just returned from a holiday in Canada. I am writing to say what a wonderful time we had on the tour.
Everything that Archers provided went superbly well. The Tour Director, Dianne Albora, was excellent, one of the best we have ever had. She organised everything superbly, we saw all the sights and her skills made the tour go very smoothly.
An excellent holiday.
J. Gregory, Cheshire
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
Having recently returned home following a great holiday in Canada (Trans-Canada Explorer 3230Z), I wish to thank you for the excellent arrangements which ensured that everything ran smoothly, with no criticism of any aspect of the holiday, which proved to be great value for money.
However, the main reason for this letter is to compliment the tour direct, James Saunders, whose contributions to the overall enjoyment of the tour was invaluable. My wife and I are experienced travellers, but had not previously taken a coach tour. If all tour directs were as knowledgeable and efficient as James Saunders, then we would have no hesitation in taking another.
His organisational skills proved to be first class and the friendly manner which he displayed to all on the tour ensured that everyone thoroughly enjoyed the experience. He is a veritable mine of information, not only about the places visited, but about the country as a whole and the facts and figures which he quoted authoritatively gave everyone a much better understanding of Canada and the people.
During the tour my wife and I received some bad news from home concerning the death of a close relative. At this difficult time James was of great assistance and support to us and went out of his way to help in a number of ways. He offered sound advice, based on his experience in similar situations, which assisted us in making the difficult decision regarding whether or not to return home, which we eventually decided against. This ultimately proved to be the correct decision, but had we decided otherwise James had already started to make arrangements for our return if this is what we had wanted.
I cannot speak too highly of the contribution which James Saunders made to our overall enjoyment of the holiday. He is a fine ambassador for your company and has ensured that we will use Archers when booking future holidays.
Mr M. Watson, Lincoln
Holiday Review: Trans-Canada Explorer
We took this trip in September and had a wonderful "holiday of the lifetime". We started In Toronto and the following morning set off in brilliant sunshine for a City Tour and off to Niagara, which was fabulous. The volume of water in the falls has to be seen to be believed and to have an included trip of the Maid of the Mist was fantastic!
We took the option trip for Dinner at the CN Tower and watched the sunset over the City.
We sent to Ottawa, which is a beautiful, clean and attractive City and the included guided tour gave us a taste of the monuments, museums and wonderful buildings reminiscent of London.
Quebec was more reminiscent of France which excellent old buildings, churches, restaurants and cafes, again shown to us by an excellent Quebec Guide with plenty of time left for an excellent lunch and look round at our leisure.
Montreal was interesting and we flew from their to Calgary - all the arrangements went very smoothly thanks to our excellent Tour Manager Diane - she really made the trip memorable - a wealth of knowledge and a wicked sense of humour - we could not fault her at all.
Calgary was wet but we had a brief tour and trip to Fort Calgary and we then sent off towards the Rockies. During the journey it began to snow and the tall fir trees looked so pretty = Diane said you will never see it looking better than this. The snow had settled in Banff, which is a lovely mountain town, with riverside walks, plenty of little shops etc. Unfortunately the Mountain was shrouded in cloud but the second day saw the snow melting and some sunshine. Onwards through the Rockies with stops at some beautiful sights - Lake Louse being one of the best and the Athabasca Glacier one the most exciting! En route we watched for wild animals and saw quite a few. All the other stops were fascinating and as we left Sun Peaks for British Columbia we were fortunate to see Mount Robson in a clear light with the sun shining down on it. Fantastic.
Despite some rain we found Victoria and Vancouver lovely places where you could spend a lot longer another time. We saw lots of Whales in Victoria and some of Vancouver with a great trip to the North Shore - up Grouse Mountain we at last saw a couple of bears.
All the Hotels throughout the trip were excellent, we enjoyed some great meals and good company throughout.
I can highly recommend this trip to anyone
Joan Gould, UK
Holiday Review: The Golden West
Brochures, photos, videos, talking to those who had already been - Nothing could have prepared us for the amazing "Archer's holiday The Golden West."
My advice to all who try this particular tour of the west side of the USA is to keep a diary of everything that happens to you because you will experience and see such an enormous amount of wonderful things that by the end of the tour you will be asking yourselves things like - "where was it that we had the superb meal looking out to sea? Where did we meet the Navaho Indians? Where did we sit in the cocktail bar and watch the artificial rain storm? Where did we go shopping in town straight out of a "Wild West" film and where did we sit high over the city lights in a revolving bar?" There will be these and so many other wonderful memories.
Of course, some things you won't be able to mistake, The Grand Canyon, Yosemite National Park, Hollywood and there can't be anywhere in the world quite like Las Vegas. This truly is a city that has to be seen to be believed, and even then, unless you take some photos you soon begin to wonder if it was all true or was it a dream. Canals, Circuses, Rollercoasters etc all INSIDE hotels.
Pat and I arrived back on Tuesday 21st September and can truthfully say that Archers "The Golden West" really was the trip of a lifetime.
B Razey, Oxon
Holiday Review: The Golden West
Looking back now I can't believe that I was feeling a little apprehensive about our coach tour in the USA, I suppose that I had some preconceived ideas about long boring hours on the coach, early mornings, and no time for ourselves.
However I can honestly say that Geoff, my husband, myself and two friends Pru and Gareth have just returned from a wonderful holiday. We saw so much in California, Arizona and Nevada. All so different and so interesting from San Francisco to the magnificent Yosemite Park, cowboy hills of Sedona, glitzy unreal Los Angeles and of course the awe inspiring Grand Canyon, and much more.
I am not one easily moved but when the helicopter left the flat forest plains and tipped over into the Canyon accompanied by the strains of the 2001 Space Odyssey, I had tears in my eyes it was so spectacular.
We had a great time on some of the excursions, especially the Rawhide night was a cowboy/country and western experience. We sang, danced, ate a tasty steak and tried Rattlesnake (cooked of course)! We also had a magnificent meal in Los Angeles.
Of all our stops LA was the least place I looked forward to visiting, but I am glad that we took the two day excursion as there was so much to see and do and we took full advantage of this, seeing the Queen Mary at Long Beach, Universal Studios, Hollywood and Santa Monica.
We made many friends on this trip and it has left us with a definite desire to try another tour - perhaps next year??
S Hutchins, Torquay
Holiday Review: The Golden West
I am writing to say how much I enjoyed your Golden West Adventure in the United States. The date I went was the 3 rd November until 20 th November, taking advantage of the two day extension in Los Angeles.
It was the first holiday I have taken on my own, having previously taken them with family (parents, husband and children). The hotels were well catered and the rooms were very clean.
The reason I am writing is about the tour representation. His name was Adriano Bartoli. He was very helpful and full of information about where to eat and what to see in our free time. He was also able to give good advice on the best excursions for someone in my age group (over 50 and unfit). I even went on my first helicopter flight. He had everyone on friendly terms from our first day together (and we were a mixed bunch in everything from age to countries).
As I say he helped to make my first holiday alone one to remember with pleasure and to look forward to going again on my own soon.
Mrs C. Norville, Pontypool
Holiday Review: The Golden West
We went on The Golden West USA tour in May, and had a memorable time. Every part of the tour ran like clockwork, mostly due to our tour manager Linda Perez and fantastic driver. She bent over backwards for all of us, above and beyond the call of duty. We didn't have to worry about a thing.
We have amazing photos to show for it, and are looking forward to trying another tour in the future, Australia maybe?
Mr & Mrs Watts, London
Holiday Review: The Golden West
Our tour of The Golden West on the 28th. of March was a celebration of our Golden Wedding anniversary which we thought was appropriate to this occasion.
First may we comment on our tour director Linda Perez who was fabulous and most knowledgeable and helpful in every way nothing was too much trouble and she made one feel relaxed and important. Linda knew every group member by their first name. When she found out this was a special trip for us (Golden Wedding) she made it a very memorable occasion for us.
The driver was excellent and the coach was always immaculate and may we say always on time.
All in all a very interesting tour and we visited numerous places we had always dreamed of. We have recommended Archers Direct to all our family and friends. Thank you for a trip of a lifetime.
Ernie & Elizabeth Nash, Glasgow
Holiday Review: The Golden West
We did the Golden West Touring Holiday starting on the 24th April. From the moment we arrived at Heathrow and were met by an Archers Rep right through to departing home from Los Angeles we could not have been better looked after.
The itinerary was great from seeing all the sites in San Francisco, the beautiful setting of Yosemite, the awesomeness of the Grand Canyon, the glitz of Las Vegas and the fun of Los Angeles.
Our Tour Guide Gundi was absolutely superb and full of information and wonderful stories. She took care of all our needs and at every stop making arriving at each hotel an effortless transition.
I would definitely recommend this holiday and Archers Direct. Well done all and many thanks.
Jan and Phil Brooker, UK
Holiday Review: The Rocky Mountaineer
We have returned from our second holiday with Archers Direct and just want to say that like the first holiday last year, it was superb with the organisation being first class and a well planned tour.
We had the Rocky Mountaineer holiday with the Vancouver bolt on. Our tour manager was Elaine Wright from Victoria and she was very informative and great fun to be with. The highlight of course is the two days on the Rocky Mountaineer Train, and we can confirm that our treatment, and hospitality was first class with courteous and caring attendants, not to mention the food and scenery, wow!
In Vancouver, we took up the day tour to Grouse Mountain and the Capilano Bridge. Really great day out and recommend the lumberjack show at the top of the mountain.
This holiday reminded us of our trip last year on the Lakes and Mountains Tour of Switzerland with the excellent tour manager Dagmar from Austria.
The tour, the train trips, the free time periods all fit in perfectly with each other, and that you can break the trip and stay in Interlaken for a week is an excellent "bolt on" and I would recommend that to everyone.
Mr & Mrs Hayward, Hampshire
Holiday Review: The Rocky Mountaineer
Canada was like a dream come true.
The Rocky Mountaineer train surpassed all expectations giving us amazing view of the Rocky Mountains as we went from Jasper over the mountains to Vancouver City. I also liked seeing the Wild Life - sea eagles, mouse etc from standing on the viewing platforms between the carriages. The sightseeing tour of Vancouver has given us a taste of what we could expect when we go again.
The ferry across to Vancouver Island and Victoria gave us more wonderful sea and landscape views. We thoroughly enjoyed Victoria, the regional capital of British Columbia especially the shopping, whale-watching and the guided tour of their houses of Parliament based on our own.
I have wonderful memories of this holiday - from seeing the black bears, walking on the Athabasca Glacier to white water rafting as well as sitting on a very comfortable coach enjoying the scenery!
This was my 2 nd visit to Canada there will definitely be a third next time on the Alaskan cruise. Throughout the entire trip starting in Calgary - on to Banff - Jasper - Vancouver - Victoria and back to Vancouver to catch the plane we had the services of very impressive tour guides who know their stuff and couldn't have been more helpful. Well done to Archers.
C Wood, Middlesex
Holiday Review: The Rocky Mountaineer
We would just like to say thank you for the very well organised holiday we have just returned from (Rocky Mountaineer + Zuiderdam cruise). The hotels were all excellent and the Scotsman in Victoria was the Icing on the cake, the coach was very comfortable, the Train a great experience and the cruise ship again was excellent.
We had a wonderful holiday and will look forward to booking again with you. Once again, thank you to all your staff for their hard work.
Mrs B Rose, West Sussex
Holiday Review: San Francisco, Las Vegas & Los Angeles
I cannot praise the staff at Archers Direct enough!
I booked a multi-centre tour with my boyfriend and I came back from the tour with a husband!
We went to San Francisco, Las Vegas and Los Angeles and in each location on the on-site representatives could not have been more helpful in booking trips, giving advice and generally helping make the holiday one to remember.
I would thoroughly recommend to anybody thinking of a multi-centre holiday to use Archers Direct, the package we chose was the best value for money out of any of the holiday companies we had seen and the quality of all the services was second to none!
Thank you Archers, we will be using you again!
Elaine & Aaron Austin, UK
Holiday Review: Western Treasures
Dear Archers Team,
Even though it's 3 months since we returned from our Western Treasures Tour, this holiday remains in the forefront of our memories and we talk about it often as a family and amongst friends.
We travelled with our two children, aged 14 and 12 (who, incidentally, were the only children on the tour) but this didn't deter us since everyone was so friendly and welcoming. Our driver and tour director made this trip the huge success that it was. We were bowled over by their professionalism and knowledge but more than that they both clearly enjoy their jobs and put their 'all' into making it a holiday of a lifetime for all us.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Archers Direct. In fact, we are already planning our next trip with them.
Kind regards,
The Adams Family (Mark, Anita, Gemma & Lewis)
P.S.
I have attached a photo of Pete our driver, on the left, and Robert, our tour director. The reflection in the coach window is of Union Square in San Francisco. I hope you like it and would love to see it on the website or in a future brochure!! If you should decide to use it I'd be grateful if you could let me know. Many thanks.
The Adams Family, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
Let's get this straight. I'm not the Elvis fan - my husband is. It's his holiday, OK? I quite like Country music, so Nashville will be fine, and surely I can manage three days in Memphis.
It starts well, with an Archers rep meeting us at Heathrow. Yes, before we even fly! At Memphis, tour guide Sherry greets us with a bright 'Hi, y'all!' We find that we've been booked into a smoking room by mistake, but I'm willing to sleep anywhere after the long flight.
By the time we reach Heartbreak Hotel (on Lonely Street, off Elvis Presley Boulevard - well, I've just got to go with it) Sherry has changed the room, and the hotel is terrific!
During the days that follow - on an extremely comfortable coach, with a super group of people, skilled driver Paul, and the incomparable, entertaining Sherry - I watch my husband realising his long held dream of tracing the footsteps of The King, and it's all worth it.
In Nashville, Country is added to the Memphis mix of Rock, Blues and Gospel - for this perfectly paced and superbly organised Archers tour is a true celebration of the way music evolves and blends and changes. The Grand Ole Oprey throws up a new name, and I buy his CD at the famous Ernest Tubbs record shop the next day. And then we arrive at Studio B, recording home of so many great singers. Inside this unassuming building, I will experience one of the highlights of the whole tour.
Thank you so much, Archers! (Sorry, if you wanna know, you gotta go.) All too soon it's over. My husband, the Elvis fan, has had a brilliant holiday. But I realise that I'm the one with the Heartbreak Hotel lapel badge, the Elvis umbrella, tee shirt, 'All Shook Up' pen, and paper serviettes (two packs, of course). I'm the one who grabbed the Sun Studio microphone before anyone else, didn't want to leave the peace of Tupelo, cheered Elvis impersonator Joe Kent, and played Elvis' piano in Studio B. And I'm the one who cried in Graceland.
Eleanor Fossey, Devon
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
We recently had the pleasure of travelling with your company to America, National Parks & Canyons tour, which was extremely beautiful we would thoroughly recommend this trip to all our friends.
The thing that made this trip so special was Lynn Barber our tour Manager not only was she kind, helpful , and caring, her knowledge of America was second to none she really made this trip a fantastic holiday for all of us.
This is not to forget Dick our driver who drove the coach with great care and safety and made sure all our luggage was taken care of plus he also kept the coach immaculate.
Enclosed is a picture of Lynn Barber if there is a way that you could forward this picture to her, we would be very grateful as this scene of Yellow Stone has memories from her childhood.
Chas & Dorothy Fildes, UK
Holiday Review: Western Treasures
I did fill in a review whilst on holiday. It was very positive and I am glad that I went on the holiday. I would recommend an Archer's holiday to others ( already done so with my church members and friends.
I hope to go again on an Archer's holiday next year.
Peter Richards (Rev), UK
Holiday Review: Eastern USA & Canada
We have just returned from Eastern USA and Canada tour , and had a fantastic time.
Everything was perfect , the coach, the guide, the hotels and the views, it was just what we hoped it would be. Overall we loved Quebec, Niagara Falls and Washington best but everywhere was great ... how do we follow that next year??? any ideas ?????
Ann & Pete, UK
Holiday Review: San Francisco, Las Vegas & Los Angeles
We took in your splendid offer of San Francisco, Las Vegas and LA but also added a week of our own to visit San Diego, Santa Barbara, Monteray, Pebble Beach and the 17 mile drive.
We found your appointed hotels excellent, the reps to be of use to "point you in the right direction" and the experience of running free in a wonderful country and enjoying the people, the food and wine, the sights of great beauty in making our anniversary such a lovely memory to treasure in the cold months ahead.
A G Sweet, Scotland
Holiday Review: South American Highlights
We had a splendid in South America last April but my only complaint was that we were offered an upgrade of Hotel rooms but it was not made clear that we were located in different Hotels to the rest of the group, 20 miles away at one location,this meant that for most of the holiday we were isolated.
Bob Barrett, UK
Holiday Review: Canadian Rockies
We have just returned from an absolutely fabulous holiday in the Canadian Rockies. We were blessed with excellent weather and excellent company in the form of 29 other like-minded travellers, Sharon, our wonderful Tour Director who provided us with many tales along the way and Eric, our ever observant Coach Driver/wildlife-spotter.
We saw black bears, bald eagles, elk, mule dear, big-horn sheep and a variety of other animals and birds but not, unfortunately, that elusive mousse! We'll have to save that one for another trip. Both Sharon & Eric worked hard to ensure we had an enjoyable time and they certainly excelled themselves - Congratulations to them both!
Apart from the wildlife, the scenery on this tour was majestic: the snow covered mountain ranges dominated the skyline, the glaciers were awesome and the waterfalls were in full flow - we're so glad we went at this time of year.
We went on several "optional" trips and we can truly recommend the following: Vancouver - Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge; Banff - Gondola/Bow Falls and Oh Canada, Eh! dinner show (the cast are amazing); Jasper - Maligne Lake & Canyon; Sun Peaks - Fur Traders feast; Victoria - Whale watching (yes, we did see orca whales), go on the Zodiac rubber boats for added thrills!
We did wonder if, having travelled this far, we should have chosen the tour with the Rocky Mountaineer, but then we realised how lucky we were to be on a coach which could stop to view wildlife, should any suddenly appear. We couldn't have done this on the train! We have Eric to thank enormously for providing us with these opportunities.
It may be back to work for both of us now, but the memories from this holiday will go on and on.........
Les and Glenda Harber, UK
Holiday Review: Canadian Rockies
Since studying the geology of Western Canada for his Open University degree, it had been my husband's ambition to visit the Rockies. Coupled with his fascination for glaciers we were delighted to find the perfect holiday with Archers Canadian Rockies Adventure and Cruise to Alaska and set off at the end of June.
From our arrival, 'til our departure, the weather could not have been better and we experienced snow-capped peaks, glaciers, green-blue lakes and vast forests, all in beautiful sunshine, allowing unrestricted views. Mount Robson stood out in splendour for us while, amazingly, humming birds fed nearby.
Two days in Vancouver allowed us to relax after the flight and appreciate the sightseeing tour. We took advantage of the integrated transport system with a water taxi across the harbour then bus to visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge - truly incredible.
Our Tour Director, Doug, proved a wealth of knowledge and a sharp wit as he guided us from one jaw-dropping sight to the next. Our travelling companions soon became friends to share experiences with. Was the lovely Peyto Lake greener or more beautiful than Lake Louise? Did we prefer the thundering Athabasca Falls to the Bow Falls? Could we believe there were seven storeys of ice under our feet on the Columbia Ice-Fields. In Sun Parks we panned for gold and in Whistler the mountain bikers left us imagining the green slopes covered with snow, another holiday perhaps?
Our cruise, aboard the luxurious Zuiderdam, gave us the chance to relax, overeat and enjoy the excellent on-board entertainment. Nothing could have prepared us for the wonderful sight of Tracey Arm fjord, with it's icebergs and whales, or the house sized chunks of ice falling from Majorie Glacier, a totally different world. Skagway and Ketchikan were like stepping back in time with boardwalks and Wild West air.
Home now with my small nugget of gold, bought from Poker Creek after panning produced just a speck, and lots of photos to keep the memories alive. We can truly say that it's going to be difficult finding a better holiday for next year!
Mrs H Mitchell, Aberdeen
Holiday Review: Western Treasures
Having returned from our tour last weekend, writing to let you know how much we enjoyed this.
Over 2500 miles coaching and never at all bored, the tour having virtually everything and the add on excursions fitted in extremely well and were good value for the money. All of this helped by the Tour Director John Ploszat who worked hard (sometimes too hard) to ensure the smooth running of the tour through-out, no easy thing when there are some 40 plus people travelling together.
Not forgetting the input and efforts of your resident LA representative Paula. Both are a credit and asset to your tours in the Western USA of America, it would be appreciated if thanks could be passed on to John and Paula.
Mr & Mrs Alexander, Suffolk
Holiday Review: Peru & the Treasures of the Incas
I have just returned from my holiday of a lifetime to Peru.
This was my first tour experience and overall the tour was very good. I really enjoyed the train trip to Machhu Pichhu and the Orient express from Cusco to Puno. Machhu Pichhu was mesmerising. The tour has a very packed itinerary and there are a lot of early starts but I felt that the early starts were necessary to make the most of the days sightseeing.
The tour guides throughout the trip were good and very knowledgeable especially our tour guide Everlyn in Cusco and Machhu Pichhu. The local people are very friendly and the views and scenery was just breathtaking throughout the trip.
The hotel in Lima and the jungle lodge were excellent. I would recommend the extension to the Amazon jungle. The tour guide at the jungle lodge organised the sightseeing very well. We had both time for sightseeing and leisure time.
There are some faults that can be found on a trip like this but I will certainly recommend this tour to my friends. Thank you Archers.
A Jivan, UK
Holiday Review: San Francisco & Las Vegas
My wife and I have recently returned from an Archers Direct holiday to San Francisco and Las Vegas. We thought the holiday was real value for money and the organisation on the flights and connections was first class.
What a lot of sights to see. While in San Francisco we found visiting Alcatraz was an interesting experience. We also took a ride on the Golden Gate Bridge. We then moved on to Las Vegas where things to do and see are endless. Our hotel was right in the middle of the Vegas Strip. The hotel was excellent. The food was very good and not expensive. All the hotels on the strip are unbelievable to see and you can go into any of them and are made to feel welcome.
One trip we did not want to miss was the helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon for a champagne lunch. You can not explain in words how magnificent the sights from the helicopter - it has to be done to be believed.
Thank you Archers for such a great time
Mr E Pickering, Manchester
Holiday Review: Eastern USA & Canada
I am writing to tell you what a fantastic journey my husband and I have been on with Archers Direct. We have just returned from your 15 day tour through Eastern USA and Canada.
It was our first USA tour and I must say it way exceeded anything I could have imagined. Starting in New York it was a dream of a lifetime, to be experiencing all the sights, which I had so often seen on my TV, even just sitting in a New York diner, looking out at the yellow cabs going by, was special.
Setting off from New York, the day after arriving I though that nothing would beat the sights and sounds of that city. How wrong I was. Boarding the coach, I realised that I was going to see so much more. Our coach was a pleasure to travel in. Our tour director, David, was very knowledgeable. Also our coach driver, Karen, was first class.
The scenery from city to city was breathtaking, especially as it was the fall and the trees foliage was at its best. It was fascinating to see so many different styles of housing, as we travelled into Canada. Quebec City was an absolute gem, so pretty I couldn't stop filming the little stress with the French Colonial housing.
Each day I couldn't wait to board the coach, for another city, and another adventure in it. One moment I will not forget in Toronto, was my dinner in the CN Tower restaurant, it was very unreal to be dining with helicopters passing by outside the restaurant window, an excellent optional excursion evening. All the optional excursions were very good value. Niagara Falls, I will remember for the rest of my life. The weather was perfect. The falls were just awesome.
Each city we stayed at had something special and unique, they were all so different, and so unexpected. Washington took my breath away, with its huge memorials and monuments. Another unreal moment was to stand outside the White House.
All the hotels on our tour were well placed for us to go out and explore and also feel safe. The hotels were of a good standard. I couldn't have picked a better tour or a better company than Archers, everything went so smoothly. It was also relaxing, which I never thought a tour would be. We are at the moment reliving our tour through the films that we took while away and cannot wait for our next journey with you.
Thank you for an excellent tour, with good hotels, comfortable coaches and very good value excursions. First class.
Mrs Kirchen, Beds
Holiday Review: Eastern USA & Canada
I had a wonderful holiday in Eastern USA and Canada, which all soon came to an end. I have always had my holiday in Europe. My daughter had received your brochure and said to me "mum, you've always wanted to visit New York and Canada's Niagara Falls, why don't you go." I rang and booked the next day to my daughter's great surprise. When I arrived in New York I had a room on my own looking out to the Empire State Building. Afterwards I shared with a young lady from a district near me, we got on very well.
My daughter lent me her digital camera. Our trip round New York boat trip and helicopter trip over the city, I took some lovely photos. Also the ones I took of Niagara Falls were from another helicopter trip.
Pennsylvania was our next trip, a lovely place and saw the Liberty Bell, a guide gave us a brief history of George Washington.
Our final stop was Washington where a guide took us round Arlington Cemetery. He spoke to us about the various statues. The Korean patrol were the most impressive to me.
Both our couriers were helpful and excellent. Our lady driver was very, very good and most knowledgeable. Everyone on the coach were friendly, we all got on very well and had some good laughs. My daughter text me everyday for she said she was worried about me.
I will be booking another great holiday with you for next year. Can't wait for the brochure.
Mrs H. Dillnutt, Gloucester
Holiday Review: Eastern USA & Canada
As we finally paid off the mortgage we decided that we would treat ourselves to a nice holiday. We enjoyed it very much.
The varied colours of the fall modern city's historical Quebec City & vibrant New York. Great travelling companions and excellent exchange rates.
A holiday to remember
Mr & Mrs Quittenden & P Christensen, Greenhithe
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
What can I say, to say it was fantastic is an understatement. We did this holiday as a celebration of our 40th Wedding Anniversary and we could not have chose better. The coach was full of great people, our rep Lynn was lovely and Dick our driver was excellent. Everyone made it that little bit special.
The parks and canyons are breathtaking and we could not get over how clean everywhere was. We cant stop talking about it. We opt for the flight over monument valley and it was everything and more to what we expected.
We cant wait to book another Archers holiday.
Lin and John, UK
Holiday Review: National Parks & Canyon Country
Our Canyon Country adventure holiday was fantastic. We travelled with a super bunch of people, a great driver and a superb tour director.
Your welcome home letter arrived on a day, it was pouring with rain, my husband remarked of the weather, not being quite like we experienced in the Glen Canyon, Arizona, our minds and conversation went back to just one, of the most wonderful and unforgettable days we spent on our Canyon adventure holiday.
We had been concerned the evening before that, our raft trip into Glen Canyon may be cancelled due to rain, but fortunately for us it hadn't. What an experience. We boarded the raft and off we went, a light rain had begun, we continued through the Canyon, our pilot guide, being most informative and interesting, the rain became much, much heavier, our pilot issued us all with hooded capes, the rain became even heavier, our pilot apologised for the bad weather and for how wet we were, also, for us all to please excuse his excitement.
He then explained that all his time working on the river in Glen Canyon (12 years) he had never witnessed any scenes like we were now seeing, as we travelled through the Canyon the rain was so heavy, water falls were appearing, it was fantastic. For my husband and myself, being soaked to the skin, just didn't matter. We were caught up in the pilot's excitement and could understand and appreciate how he felt.
We felt so humble and privileged to have witnessed such a spectacle, also privileged to have shared this wonderment with out pilot guide as, he told us, it was his last season working on the Canyon river raft, he would be working on another part of the Glen Canyon the next season.
What a very special memory from him, one he would never forget and one we will never forget either.
Mr & Mrs Bland, Bedfordshire
Holiday Review: New Orleans, the Old South & Florida
I'm writing to thank you for the wonderful time I had on the New Orleans, Old South and Florida tour I've just returned from.
Brenda Green our tour director and Carl Moenius our driver both excelled themselves with their friendliness and true southern hospitality! From New Orleans to Memphis, Nashville, Atlanta, Savannah and down into Florida they were wonderful. Carl even took another route just so we could see Martin Luther King Jr's birthplace!
The scenery was great and the excursions, included and optional were all brilliant. We were lucky enough to meet Carl's wife Sherry who is also a tour director for you when her coach turned up at a car park In Mississippi at the same time as us!
I've been on eight tours with you, seven of them in the US so I know that the service you give is always consistently high. Thank you once more for a truly unforgettable holiday!
Jeannette Locorriere, UK
Holiday Review: Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
I travelled, September, on the Grand Canadian Rail and The Rockies tour. It was my first visit to Canada, after many years of wanting to travel in that part of the world, and also a first for experiencing a coach tour holiday. On both counts I was not disappointed.
I would like to express my thanks for the excellent service that your company provided. The tour guide was extremely helpful and both he and the many coach drivers were very professional and knowledgeable about the terrain that we were passing through, the wildlife that we saw and the history and culture of this vast country. Our accommodation was very comfortable and the itinerary proved both varied and interesting.
The train journey across Canada with VIA rail was something not to be missed and gave one a taste for more. The extension stay in Whistler and the journey on the Whistler Express, for the six of us who chose that option, provided to be the jewel in the crown of a perfect holiday experience.
I kept two journals of drawings and writings to compliment the photographs taken on the holiday. On this occasion, because so many people requested a copy, I published an account of the journey. Copies now reside in Australia, Canada, USA and many parts of Britain. The letters received from fellow travellers indicate how much they all enjoyed this trip. The letters from friends, who have not yet been to Canada, reveal how much the account has awakened their interest in making such a trip.
'Feedback' is a buzzword in the education world that I am most familiar with, but I wondered if feedback, in the form of a copy of my account of this tour, might offer you a window on the world of the traveller. This might prove helpful when planning and marketing similar experience for others to enjoy. Long may you continue to offer such excellent tours.
Dr W.M. Burke, Somerset
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
We went to Memphis and Nashville last March and had the best holiday ever, especially with me being a huge Elvis fan, it was just the best thing to go to Graceland, and Tupelo. We couldn't have had a better guide than Sherry Guy, she was fun, helpful, and had a brilliant sense of humour.
My parents have just returned from the same tour last night and were full of praise for Sherry and Paul the driver.
I would recommend this tour to anyone who is an Elvis fan.....and even if not.....you soon will be.
Joanne and Keith Dobson, UK
Holiday Review: Elvis & the Southern Sounds
This trip (made in November) was a great experience for us, and surpassed our high expectations.
From the first morning with the arrival of our gleaming white Gray Line bus, which magically remained immaculate throughout the holiday (actually due to the diligent attentions of our marvellous driver Paul, who was always eager to please and amenable to everyone's needs) the holiday went by in an all too brief whirl - there were many highlights.
Just driving through cotton-fields, or seeing the sun set over the Mississippi was evocative enough, but there was plenty on offer. Although not the world's number one Elvis fans, we became convinced as to his talent and humble, respectful personality, traits that seem to be the norm for the friendly and warm people of the Southern States.
Being in Sun Studios and listening to "That's Alright Mama" blasting out of the speakers, it was as though we were hearing that song for the first time, and re-experiencing the birth of modern Rock music. The trip to Tupelo was a real gem, and it was very moving to sit alone in Elvis' chapel, listening to him singing gentle Gospel.The actual town of Tupelo is lovely, the trees were looking at their best, and it really did look like God's own country.
Nashville was a delight, such an exciting place. We won't ever forget the famed "Nashville Skyline" or our walk across the Shelby Bridge to the Hard Rock Café, or our excitement each time we discovered a new painted guitar, or found ourselves drinking in the honky-tonk bars.
Our hotels were fine, and our tour-guide Sherry was friendly, approachable, knowledgeable and (above all) fun. She went above and beyond, even allowing us to use her computer, and she took pains to find out about extra information for us. We also met some very nice fellow-travellers, and although everybody got on famously, there was enough time for us to "do our own thing" if we wanted to.
This was our first trip with Archers, and we would unreservedly recommend them as tour-operators, as they gave us total satisfaction and were excellent value for money. We look forward to joining them on more trips in the future.
So long y'all!
David & Denise Menashy, London
Holiday Review: New Orleans, the Old South & Florida
My husband and I had the most wonderful holiday this year with yourselves. As first time travellers with Archers, the tour we chose exceeded all expectations.
New Orleans The Old South and Florida was absolutely fabulous and as it was my 60th birthday during the holiday it was made all the more special for on that day we had a tour of Graceland. Being an avid Elvis fan it was just the ICING ON THE CAKE so to speak. Everything was perfect from start to finish.
May I also say the courier on our tour was absolutely wonderful. Arlene was a very knowledgeable lady and although she was seventy plus, she had plenty of get up and go and entertained us no end.
I'll treasure these memories for years to come and look forward to travelling with yourselves again in the not too distant future.
Mrs C Weir, West Lothian
Holiday Review: Canadian Rockies
My wife and I went on your Canadian Rockies and Alaska Cruise Trip, the whole trip was fantastic; the coach, the driver and our brilliant and fun to be with tour director Diane made the trip better.
The views were breathtaking from the coach and the Rocky Mountaineer train. The staff of which really look after all your needs.
This is an excellent sight seeing trip and not too hurried. The highlight of which was the optional helicopter flight over the mountains, trees, sea, rivers and glaciers, ending up by landing on the glacier and boarding a snow cat to be taken to a Husky dog camp to ride a dog sled team, and sample life on the ice. Then flown back - brilliant!
A highly memorable and recommendable holiday. Big thanks to all concerned.
Mr Kirk, Lancashire
Holiday Review: Heart of the Canadian Rockies
I was one of the 7 people who joined your Canadian Rockies & Vancouver tour on 5 June. Often we only write to the tour operator after our tour because we had some complaints to make, however, I feel that it is as equally important to give merit where merit is due. Therefore I am writing to let you know how much I enjoyed our tour and my personal view regarding the tour and its' organisation.
After a long flight we finally arrived at Calgary late Monday night on 5 June. We were transferred to our hotel where our tour guide, Tarek Sabet awaited to greet us. After a brief introduction he handed us a welcome letter with all the necessary information and suggested we should meet again next day morning prior to our tour, began to go through everything in detail. I thought that was very thoughtful of him as he could appreciate how tired we all were and rest was the only thing we had in mind.
That evening I found out from the lady I shared a room with that the 7 of us were actually joining up with the rest of the group from the Trans-Canada Explorer tour which started a week earlier.
Our tour began with a warm welcomed from Tarek and the other 37 member of the group next day morning. We travelled through the Rockies and Vancouver pleasantly together for the next 8 days.
Canada is a beautiful and clean country. The Canadians are friendly and nice people. The foods were delicious but huge in quantity! The scenery along the Rockies was breathtaking! Vancouver was also very nice and I wished we could have stayed at least for an extra day as I was having difficulty in deciding which optional excursions (The Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain or the Whistler Day trip) to take. I finally decide to take the advice from a lady in the tour and chose the former. It was definitely the right decision! However, I would have loved to spend a day in Whistler as well if time permitted.
To sum up my holiday, I had a fantastic time! The included and optional excursions were excellent. Our tour guide, Tarek, was excellent! He is friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. He was well organised and informative. He enjoyed his job and always making sure we enjoy our holiday. Even thought there are 44 of us in total, we all got on very well and had a wonderful time together. The lady I shared a room with was very nice. We got on very well together. She was by far the best room-shared I have ever had!
I had a wonderful holiday even though we didn't get to see any whales while whale watching in Victoria. I will definitely recommend this tour to my friends and colleagues.
Ms Julia Sia, London
Holiday Review: New England in the Fall
Well, I'll tell you what. What a good 'un we got.
I don't only mean the tour, that was fantastic enough, the good'un was the tour director, Arlene. If you took the most demanding of client and said "What would you want your Tour Director to do?" she did it. Excellently. And with a daily dose of massive amounts of laughter, "thoughts" of the day, jokes and stories. And a bowl of sweets to be passed around.
Those on the daily coach rotational system that found themselves up front were asked to introduce themselves, and then the rest were asked to introduce themselves to their neighbours. This was a funny, riotous affair! At every stop she would hand out tourist maps. She was the last to retire night-time and the first up. She was so knowledgeable about all aspects of the tour.
The coach was very comfortable, with plenty of stops, for sightseeing, etc. We crammed in a huge amount, whale-watching, moose hunting, a maple syrup farm, big cities and tiny communities, and we got through New England safe & sound.
Bring on the next one!!
Mr & Mrs Scales, UK
Holiday Review: Peru & the Treasures of the Incas
It was nice of you to welcome us back from our holiday in Peru, our third time of travelling with Archers.
We had a really exhausting but adventurous holiday, really enjoyed the train journeys, the internal flights, the Amazon Basin and the good company of our fellow travellers. The altitude was hard to cope with but well worth it, when we discovered Machu Picchu and the friendliness of the local people.
Miss Waring, Stoke-on-Trent
Holiday Review: Peru & the Treasures of the Incas
We would like to congratulate you on a very well organised and put together tour. All our guides, without exception, were first class and contributed enormously with their local knowledge to our enjoyment.
The memories of this trip will last forever, helped of course by the many photographs taken.
Mrs S Wright, Nr. Stockport
Holiday Review: New Orleans, the Old South & Florida
Just a brief letter to express our appreciation to your company for the holiday we have just enjoyed in America.
Apart from staying in some excellent hotels and visiting some wonderful places, we did want to let you know that both the Tour Guide Kathy Russell and our driver Chuck looked after us very well.
During the time we were there "Hurricane Ivan" was due to hit from New Orleans area on the first few days of our holiday and Kathy did an excellent job in making alternative arrangements with Archers to stay in another hotel, and visit different places, away from the storms. All in all, she was very interesting and informative and definitely added to our enjoyment of the holiday.
Once again, thank you to all involved in the holiday and as we have done, after trips to the USA east coast and Italy, we would certainly recommend Archers to our friends.
S & M Keenan, Liverpool
Holiday Review: New England in the Fall
We have just returned from our first and by no means last holiday of a lifetime with Archers Direct. The driver's smile, tour leader's humour, information and efficient arrangements set the scene for a holiday that had something for everyone.
Excellent hotels and meals awaited the end of each interest packed day. Yes the colour of the fall was there but much more. From "Mayflower' story" to shopping, - wildlife to Olympic ski jumping, lakes and mountains to a maple syrup farm, and yes if you like lobster it was there.
And for snags? Yes I left the guidebook on the coach and the Library want it back!! Now there is a challenge for Archers Direct!!
B & J Whitehouse, West Midlands
Holiday Review: Florida Discovery
I decided that I had to write to congratulate you on the new brochure. You really have excelled yourselves this time. Your brochure always gives me hours of pleasure but now I just want to take next year off to go on Archers' holidays.
The last tour we did with you was Florida, which was absolutely amazing due to the date we had chosen. We were there for the Daytona Bikefest and the Fantasyfest at Key West.
Mrs Woodward, Birmingham
Holiday Review: Alaska Cruise & Vancouver
Please accept our thanks for the pleasure and delight we enjoyed on yet another Archers holiday namely the Alaska Cruise (inside Passage) and 7 extra nights in Hawaii.
We looked upon these destinations as 2 holidays in 1 !! Each week offered a different kind of excitement and the accommodation, travel plans, excursions, scenery, services of staff etc etc were all first class.
K & V Whittamore, St Helens
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