Holiday Reviews:
Europe
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Holiday Review: Spain, Portugal & Morocco
This is the second time we have travelled with your company and found the whole experience wonderful. It was a 14-day tour, which could have been exhausting, but the tour director ensured that the whole experience of moving from hotel to hotel and country to country went as smoothly as possible.
The excursions and the knowledge of the guides were exceptional and the optional excursions were of a high standard and extremely enjoyable. . Deciding to book the Platinum coach for this trip was the icing on the cake and made this trip a wonderful experience.
Thanks
Ann and Eddie White
Anne and Eddie White, Renfrewshire, Scotland
Holiday Review: Prague, Vienna & Budapest
Dear Archers,
I would like to pass my thanks on to the Tour Director (Barbara) and the driver (Kristian) for their efforts and skill in adding to the great itinerary of this exceptional tour.
The three main cities at which we stayed in were added to by stops in Bratislava (Slovak Republic), Brno (Czech Republic), and a superb two-hour lunch stop in picturesque Cesky Krumlov (Czech Republic).
We added to the itinerary by taking in ALL of the optional excursions, which included three cultural evening dinners, with dance, which were great fun, plus a truly unforgettable evening concert at the Vienna Hofburger Orchestra playing Strauss and Mozart.
The cities offer so many sights and experiences, and combined in a fantastic tour - Great value.
Steuart & Janice Neale, UK
Holiday Review: Venice, Florence & Rome Platinum
This was the first time we have used Archers Direct for our holiday to Italy in the September of this year.
The advantage of the three main stays - Venice, Rome and Florence were great and being able to add a further week in Lake Garda could not have been better. The accommodation and the guides were excellent.
We will be booking a Rhine cruise for another great holiday and certainly be using Archers again. Thank you.
Mr D Eastup, Bristol
Holiday Review: Discover Tuscany
In June my husband and I went with Archers on the Discovering Tuscany tour followed by a week's stay in Lake Garda. The weather for the two weeks was very hot.
We arrived in Venice at the Poppi Hotel where a selection of cold meats and cheese was provided for us as we had missed dinner. The Hotel Poppi is not somewhere where we would want to spend much time as it is on a very busy road with nothing else around, quite a way out of Venice. Our room was very small and dark but adequate for one overnight stay.
After a lovely day in Venice we were taken to Montecatini where we stayed in the Grand Plaza Hotel, right in the square in the middle of the town. The public rooms in the hotel were well presented, although the hotel had obviously seen better days. Our room was quite large but in need of refurbishment, as was the old fashioned bathroom. The hotel staff were very friendly, with the exception of one receptionist who everyone complained about. Our safe was broken on arrival and despite repeated requests it was never mended so we could not use it. The pool in the hotel was very nice and welcome after a day's sightseeing and there was also a nice courtyard where you could relax with a drink before dinner. The food in the hotel was on the whole very good with waiter service.
Our tour leader, Raja was excellent and I cannot praise her enough for her organisational skills, helpfulness and her wealth of information.
We were very surprised at how nice Montecatini was. A trip on the funicular railway to Montecatini Alto is a must where the views are fantastic and also a visit to the thermal spa is a relaxing experience if you can work out how to get in there as we couldn't find any signs in English! It was well worth the 5 euro entrance fee to wander around the beautiful grounds, have a coffee and pastry and listen to the small orchestra playing a variety of styles of music. The atmosphere in the town was lively, especially at night, when everyone seemed to congregate in the square and in the cafes and bars around the square.
Whilst based at Montecatini we took trips to Florence, Lucca and Pisa, a trip to the Chianti wine growing region of Tuscany and an optional extra to a beautiful restaurant just outside Montecatini for a typical Tuscan dinner. The trips were very well organised, although the supposed half-day trip to the countryside ended with an unadvertised stop at Greve in Chianti and we didn't get back until after 3pm. Whilst in Florence we took up the option to go to the Uffizi Museum which was fantastic if you appreciate art. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the works of art but unfortunately his pronunciation of some words and the overall background noise made it difficult to hear his commentary. The Botticellis were magnificent. If you like shopping then Florence is the place for you! Lucca was a picturesque mediaeval town - you could walk or cycle around the town walls which we would love to do when we return at a future date.
We had chosen the Hotel Splendid at Limone for our second week and were absolutely delighted that we had. It was in a perfect position very close to the lake and every room had a balcony with lake view. The scenery in Limone was superb and we would definitely return to the hotel in the future. There were two very nice outdoor pools and a lovely indoor pool as well as plenty of terraces to sunbathe on and we always seemed to be able to get a sunbed and umbrella despite the number of Germans in the hotel! One nice touch in the hotel was that all the drinks at dinner were free and 'on tap'. These were red, white or rose wine, beer, still or fizzy water and fruit juice. All meals were buffet style and there was a wide selection so you could always find something you liked. The staff in the hotel were very helpful and friendly. The hotel was well situated for the boats and we took a trip over to Malcesine which was a lovely town with castle overlooking the lake.
Whilst staying in Limone we went to the opera in Verona to see Nabucco. This was certainly an unforgettable experience, although a little uncomfortable as we had step 'seats'. We had been advised to take cushions which did help but you can hire cushions at 3 euros each. Next time we would pay the extra for a proper seat! If you are on the steps you can take a picnic and drinks with you, but no glass bottles. Everything on sale in the arena seemed to be 5 euros (paninis, wine, water), so it is advisable to take your own.
Overall, we had a very enjoyable holiday and it was certainly good value for money. The first week was probably more tiring than perhaps we had anticipated but the second week was a perfect contrast as we were able to relax completely in beautiful surroundings.
Susan Parry, UK
Holiday Review: Venice, Florence & Rome Platinum
My husband and I found the trip very exhausting however, that may be due to the fact that we did every excursion that was going. What we should have done was to be far more selective and we will take account of this next time for another coach holiday again. Personally I didn't feel we had any down time, and no time to shop (husband was pleased).
In saying all that I did see a lot of Italy, and the particular points of interest. Some of the local guides did go on a bit and eventually I switched off, (literary). It would again be better if we had a choice to be with them on an excursion or just left to our own devices. My degree is in Art History and therefore I didn't really need the explanation of certain pieces of art and architecture …. In hindsight I should have just gone on my own, but we did get in quicker being part of a Tour.
I would, however, like to thank the Archers team, and in particular our Tour Operator was great. For our 30th Wedding Anniversary whilst we were in Venice she arranged a gondolier ride in the singers gondolier and we had a cake and candle at the excursion meal.
My husband like the trip to the 'Barons' restaurant and found that really funny, however, the trip was cut short and we were all marched onto the bus as we had to go back to the hotel????
Virginia Castle, England
Holiday Review: Grand Tour of Turkey
We've previously visited Turkey on daytrips and enjoyed it but felt this type of resort was not for us, what a change of mind!! We toured "Classical Greece" with Archers and thoroughly enjoyed it and with research we thought Turkey would be a super follow on to the historical theme we started in Greece.
It was full of wonderful sights, modern villages too, Pamukkalee and Capodocia was a true wonder. Our guides were great, full of information that you would not find in history or reference books.
Later this year we are booked to tour America, we hope we're not in for too much of a culture shock...but if it is as good as our previous holidays with Archers we'll have a fab time. Really looking forward to it.
Carol & Dave Bowen, UK
Holiday Review: Ischia
We have recently returned from a wonderful two weeks on Ischia.
We'd been before, but this was our first trip with Archers. Everything about the hotel - the Grazia Terme - was perfect. Your representative - Veronica - was charming, and we felt as though we were talking to a friend, not a "rep".
We'll be back!!
And here's a couple of entries for the photo competition - taken from Lacco Ameno harbour early one morning - with Vesuvius in the background.
Pam & Bob Ward, UK
Holiday Review: Costa del Sol
Lovely quiet hotel. I love the pool because the deep end is only 5ft & I never have to go out of my depth!!
Have been here 6 times with Archers because unable to book it myself cheaper! A must is a sea view worth the extra money. Half board not worth the extra because there are so many good restaurants near the Balcon de Europa.
Last holiday in April this year & am looking to book again for September.
Lovely can't wait to go again.
Kate Smith, UK
Holiday Review: Malta
We booked our holiday to Malta mostly online.
My wife injured herself at work, requiring her to be in a wheelchair just 4 weeks before we were due to fly. We spoke to Archers over the phone regarding this problem, and they made all the arrangements for wheelchair transfers and people to meet us at both airports - this all went like clockwork. We were met as soon as we past from the arrivals exit, by a minibus driver to transfer us to Qwara ,(he wouldn't take a tip from us even after taking both our cases and loading and unloading the wheelchair and taking us into the hotel reception).
We had a sea view room with a balcony on the first floor next to the lift. The hotel Qwara Palace was very nice with a choice of three or more main meals at evening dinner or you could eat at the pizza restaurant or bar restaurant. The main pool area was large with plenty of sun beds, one smaller pool for the little ones was a nice touch so was the indoor pool with two whirlpool tubs to keep those midday rays off delicate skin.
We took our first trip out on the evening we arrived. It was via horse and cart around the local area, a little pricey but well worth it. The next morning we were met by our rep with drinks and a host of local information.
We booked two trips with her, the round Malta cruise and a trip to Gozo with lunch. Both trips were good but with a wheelchair, the stop at Comino to swim at the Blue Grotto was not so easy, access was limited for my wife (too many steps) so she was unable to do much during the three hour stop.
Night time in Malta is when it really comes to life, fireworks can be seen most nights and all the locals come out for walks along the proms next to the sea front. We went every night for an evening stroll - well a push anyway to the next town Bugibba and back passing street traders but were never hassled -so refreshing.
We hired a car one day to travel round the island at our own pace, driving on the left same as here. Unfortunately I did travel too fast through the tunnel at Triq Mikiel Anton Vassalli regional road and yes the speeding fine does catch up with you in the UK and yes you do have to pay it (the wonders of the EU).
Our trip to Gozo was very nice an escorted tour visiting Azzure window and the inland sea, several small villages and lunch overlooking a small bay. the afternoon we visited the Ggantija temples the oldest megalithic free standing structure in the world. this is where my photos look like I've captured Bart Simson banging on the wall.
Our final day trip was to Valletta. It was from here at the Barracca Gardens (free to get in)that you can see the firing of the noonday gun and also enjoy the fantastic views of the harbour. Whilst in Valletta you should go to Fort Almo and see the George Cross awarded to the Maltese people and reflect on what they went through during the war.
The old joke about Malta, is it will be nice when its finished- a lot of building work is being undertaken on the islands and some of its charm has been lost in its strive to become a part of the modern EU but look beyond this and some fantastic places still exist.
A test of how good a holiday is to me, is "would I return" my answer in this case is "I wish I was still there"
Paul Henson, UK
Holiday Review: Hidden Treasures of Northern Italy
We thoroughly enjoyed this 8-day tour although you have to be prepared to do plenty of walking.
The weather was very hot but where possible the tour director organised excursions around the cooler parts of the day. Venice was amazing and well worth the visit as was the outing to Parma. The included visit to the Cinque Terre was excellent as all 5 villages are extremely beautiful. The only excursion that was a disappointment was to Milan. We weren't impressed by the over inflated prices and found Verona and Vicenza much, much nicer.
It was lovely being based in one hotel for 5 days instead of moving around every couple of days and Salsomaggiore was a busy, but very nice Italian spa resort. The only other downside was Marco Polo airport - a nightmare for checking in. We were there early and still only got booked in as our flight was boarding.
All in all though this tour was well worth the money.
No name given, UK
Holiday Review: Rome, Vesuvius, Capri & Sorrento
Archers scored with us all at this lovely hotel on the isle of capri - the original hotel in our itinerary was full of other archers clients!
A touch of romance at numerous venues on the rome sorrento capri tour. These optional viewing extras came free!!!
Gloria Dennis, UK
Holiday Review: Highlights of Germany
Just had to write to say how much I enjoyed the Tour of Germany this year. Budi our Tour Guide and Dieter our driver were both professional and friendly and I would recommend this tour to anyone who wants to see Germany.
On our coach we had Americans, Australians, Kiwis, British and what a fantastic group of people there were, who clicked from the start. All our hotels were good as were the optional tours, the weather helped as it was in the 80's all the time but you always had the air conditioning on the coach to go back to. This tour was at a good pace and not rushed and we saw so many lovely places.
This is my 5th tour that I take alone and have not been disappointed yet, here's to the next one. Thank you Archers
M Chambers, Blackburn, Lancashire
Holiday Review: Discover Tuscany
My wife and I have just returned from a 2-week holiday in northern Italy made up of a week on the Discover Tuscany tour and a week in Lido di Jesolo.
This was our first trip with Archers and I have to commend them and there staff on a faultless holiday. All our transfers were seamless and well planned and the excursions were well organised and conducted by our tour manager Sonia and driver Jhuri.
The hotels were allocated on arrival the first week with the Hotel IL Burchiello on the first night, what can I say - clean, comfortable, friendly, good food and on a scale of 1 to 10 for a 4* hotel I have to give it an 8.
We then went to Montecatini Terme for the rest of our first week and spent it in the Hotel Santa Barbara which overlooked the town and the view was fantastic and again I have to give this hotel an 8 - clean, comfortable, etc.
During the first week we toured as per the itinerary and were escorted by Sonia, and when handed over to our guide we were all issued with a whisper radio which meant you could here all the information the guide was giving no matter where you stood, the guides were informative and knowledgeable. All I can say is wow - what a week! The pace is buzzy but even the eldest members of our party kept up with no problems.
Our second week we chose to stay at the Hotel Cambridge again the hotel was all you could want for a worry free holiday and I would give it an 8.
Lido di Jesolo gives you the best of both worlds, as it is a tourist town surrounded by beauty, i.e. Venice and the islands and all sorts of small towns, which are easily accessible by local buses.
I have tried to keep this short but again I must say it was a hassle free holiday, which I could recommend to young and old alike, and I will have no hesitation in booking with Archers again.
Good Trip to all
Karen & Paul, UK
Holiday Review: Discover Sicily
We returned from our Holiday in Sicily (Discover Sicily) on 19th September, and would like to congratulate Archers for a most enjoyable tour.
We stayed at the Hotel Bai Del Capitano in Cefalu for 3 nights, which was a bit out of the way, but ideal for a short stay on tour. The hotel was small and very clean with friendly and helpful staff. It had a lovely pool, gardens and a roof terrace from which you could see the beautiful sunsets.
We stayed at the hotel Sant Alphio Gardens in Giardini Naxos for 11 nights on our second part of the tour. This hotel was much larger, but also very nice. The pool was not very busy so there were no problems getting a sunbed, and the food was very nice. The hotel was approximately half an hour walk from Giardini Naxos harbour, but there were bars and restaurants along the way.
Our representative on the tour for the week was Giancarlo, who was very caring and informative and was very passionate about his country. He made sure everything was ok for us and when we arrived at the airport he made sure we were at the correct check in desk and said goodbye to everyone personally.
Also our driver Enzo, even though he could not speak much English, tried to communicate with everyone and was always cheerful and a very careful driver, which made the tour more enjoyable.
Thank you Archers for another superb holiday.
Mr & Mrs Brooks, Kent
Holiday Review: Grand Tour of Turkey
We have just returned from the Grand Tour of Turkey and once again Archers have done us proud.
We have been with Archers on about eight holidays now and can honestly say that we have never been disappointed on any one of them. From the standard of the hotels, the food, choice of locations and the excursions, they have all been excellent and great value for money.
The sights, sounds and smells of Istanbul were a wonderful experience and one that we would like to return to. Gallipoli was very moving and it was intriguing to see the beaches and the terrain that was once a major battlefield. The highlights were undoubtedly Pumukkale and Cappadocia, we tried to explain to people exactly what we had seen but it was impossible without the help of photographs. To enter the area of Cappadocia was truly awesome and very hard to believe what we were seeing, most definitely one of the natural wonders of the world.
I would recommend this tour to anyone who wants to experience something different. We are already looking forward to next years holiday (with Archers of course).
Dave & Elaine Dempsey, Watford
Holiday Review: Highlights of Andalucia
I must tell everyone about the amazing holiday my husband and I had with Archers when we joined the tour of Andalucia.
We visited Granada, Cordoba, and Seville to mention just a few of the breathtaking tours. We went in May, and the wonderful aroma of orange blossom remained with us for the whole holiday. All the tour guides were very informed, and welcomed us, referring to us as their 'family' throughout the tour. We could not believe how much we had crammed into 8 days.
We would confidently recommend Archers to everyone, and four of our friends have already taken our advice, and enjoyed their holiday as much as we did.
Mrs Brown, Southampton
Holiday Review: Rome, Vesuvius, Capri & Sorrento
I am writing to tell you how much we enjoyed our holiday with Archers to Sorrento.
For several years I have had a yearning to visit Italy especially Sorrento but always thought it was too far and too expensive. However, as it was my 65th birthday on June 11th, I decided to go for it.
The flight, rep, included trips were excellent and Sue our rep in Sorrento was great.
Mrs M Dutton, Manchester
Holiday Review: Grand Tour of Turkey
Last year we chose to do the Roman Discovery holiday in August, which we enjoyed enormously.
Then, after a few weeks rest, we did the Grand Tour of Turkey in October, which was the experience of a lifetime, with a wonderful tour guide, Bourcu and a terrific driver, Baki.
Mrs P Byrne, East Sussex
Holiday Review: Northern Highlights & the Arctic Circle
We wish to thank all concerned for a wonderful holiday to the Northern Highlights and the Arctic Circle from 23rd August to 5th September.
It was a great holiday to celebrate our Golden Wedding Anniversary. A holiday we won't forget, also thank you for no hidden extras.
We hope very soon to book another holiday with you for next year.
Mrs & Mrs Taylor, Suffolk
Holiday Review: Discover Medieval Italy
We booked our 'Medieval Italy' tour and just wanted to write and say we had a wonderful holiday.
Our tour guide was Danilo and he was charming with endless patience and good local knowledge. The itinerary was excellent and we have many wonderful memories of breathtaking views from the hilltop towns, in particular Pienza was ravishing and the climb up to the Duomo in Urbino was worth it! The trip to the wine tasting in Montepulciano was wonderful and the people so hospitable everyone on the coach thought it was a perfect day out.
The last night in Venice was so lovely and we were lucky to have a warm balmy evening for our walking tour and dinner. None of us wanted the evening to end especially when we were walking back through St Mark's Square and the orchestras were playing and people were dancing - we were reluctant to get back into our water taxi - hence the patience of our guide Danilo!
It was all fabulous and I have been watching the BBC's 'Top to Toe of Italy' with Francesco Da Mosta and the programme on Tuscany was great because we had just been there on your tour (I thought ours was better though!)
Our thanks to everyone who organised the Tour - it was wonderful! Our only problem is choosing where to go next.
Mr & Mrs Taylor, Stalybridge
Holiday Review: Alpine Adventure & Glacier Express
Just a few lines about our trip in September. It was really very good so I thought I'd write and tell you that we enjoyed it very much. Our tour guide Martina was really very good on her surroundings and geography.
To us Zermatt was the highlight of the trip. Anyhow this is just to say thank you and to say we had an excellent driver who knew his bends, as his drive to Grossglockner proved, it was also a great trip.
Mr & Mrs O'Brien, Ireland
Holiday Review: Discover Crete
My husband and I have recently returned from a most memorable holiday. Your "Discover Crete" tour was the perfect choice as it gave us an opportunity to experience the "real Crete" with a two centre stay.
Our first base was the Hotel Hermes in Aghios Nikolaos. The resort is spectacular in it's setting and the hotel was perfectly located and provided top class amenities. My husband celebrated his 65th birthday there and was surprised by a lovely cake provided by the hotel and resort staff.
After four wonderful days which included trips to Elounda and the Lasithi Plateau we moved west to Rethymnon. On our way there we were given a fascinating tour of the Minoan ruins of Malia and Knosses. We arrived in Heraklion in time to join in the "Ochi" Day celebrations.
Rethymnon was a contrast with its port and narrow streets in the old town. Our hotel The Ideon was again ideally located. We chose bed and breakfast here which gave us the opportunity to enjoy eating out at the local tavernas. Another tour was included to Chania and the surrounding area.
The weather had been perfect for the week but on our last evening a spectacular storm broke over the island. The day of our departure saw the wind lashing huge waves over the breakwater. By lunchtime, the sea deferees had been breached and the coast road closed. We were stranded or so we thought. Eventually an intrepid coach driver rescued us by reversing down the only part of the road left open. We then made a dash to the airport. What a relief to see Jackie, one of your reps, waiting at the door and on to the waiting plane which was ready for take off.
A truly exciting end to a holiday we will never forget.
Mr & Mrs Burrows, Cheshire
Holiday Review: Venice, Florence & Rome Platinum
When we booked our Venice, Florence and Rome holiday with an add-on to Lake Garda, we couldn't imagine what happy times it would lead to.
My husband and I have been on quite a few holidays with Archers and have always found them to be helpful and good value for money.
Mrs Daniel, Barnsley
Holiday Review: Discover the Mountains & Trains of Austria
My friend and I went on this holiday at the beginning of September 2008. The city we stayed in, Zell am See, was lovely, lots to do, concerts in the evening, nice shopping and close to the lake with delightful boat trips.
The hotel was excellent, good food, clean and comfortable and very nice staff. The hotel is in a very good position for walking out, both in the day and evening. Every day we had an interesting and fulfilling tour and we saw some beautiful scenery.
This particular holiday, I feel, has everything needed for a delightful and satisfying week and my friend and I would recommend it wholeheartedly.
P.S. The hotel caters extremely well for vegetarians.
Linda Ford, UK
Holiday Review: French Panorama
Once again I must write on behalf of my wife and myself to thank you for another wonderful holiday.
The tour itinerary was really excellent. The tour manager, Simeon, had an extensive knowledge of all the places the tour covered and both the coach drivers, Lionel and Michael, were very safe and careful drivers, knew the best routes and all the team were fun to be with. Our thanks to them all for making it such a memorable holiday.
We learnt quite a lot about French history and culture and we were particularly interested in seeing two of the allied invasion beaches, the Bayeux Tapestry, the ancient walled cities and towns of Mont St Michel, La Rochelle, Rocamadour, Carcassonne and St Paul de Vence. It was also great to see the well know Riviera area of Cannes, Nice and Monte Carlo.
All the other cities and towns outlined in the itinerary were also of particular interest, especially those with Roman history, Aix-en-Provence and Paris with all its historic cathedrals, buildings and areas.
Our two favourite meals on the optional excursions were the regional Loire dinner at the restaurant "Leonardo da Vinci" and the farewell dinner in Paris which, although very noisy, was great.
Once again thank you very much for such a memorable holiday, which covered the various departments of France.
Ron Pulling, Bexleyheath
Holiday Review: Baltic Capitals Cruise
For the past two years, my husband Bob and I have been on holidays booked through Archers Direct. The first was to the Baltic, visiting the fascinating capital cities of those countries that border that sea. Having thoroughly enjoyed it, we decide to take a Costa Cruise to Norway and this was equally captivating as we sailed the fiords and viewed the wonderful scenery.
During the winter we told our many friends of our wonderful holidays with Archers and thought about where we would like to go next.
Now we are busy telling more friends about this year's holiday and looking though the Archers brochures, planning our next exciting trip.
E Duke, Doncaster
Holiday Review: Norwegian Fjords Cruise
For the past two years, my husband Bob and I have been on Costa Cruise holidays, booked through Archers Direct. The first was to the Baltics, visiting the fascinating capital cities of those countries that border that sea. Having thoroughly enjoyed it, we decided to take a Costa Cruise to Norway and this was equally captivating as we sailed the fjords and viewed the wonderful scenery.
During the winter we told our many friends of our wonderful holidays with Archers and thought about where we would like to go next.
Now we are busy telling more friends about this year's holiday and looking though the Archers brochures, planning our next exciting trip.
E Duke, Doncaster
Holiday Review: Classic Central & Eastern Europe
We had a wonderful time on our Classic Central and Eastern Europe tour this August with Archers. This is our second trip recently with Archers/Cosmos, and it certainly surpassed our expectations!
On this tour, Archers transported us into the world of the majestic Austro-Hungarian Empire. As we journeyed through Prague, Vienna and Budapest, it was so interesting to have the story of the grand empire unfold before us with the expert tour guides; all we had to do was relax and soak in the history, culture and art...
We were quite selective with the optional excursions that we chose, as we wanted to retain some independence and do things a little bit off the tourist track to get a more real experience of the cities. For example, in Budapest, we spent an afternoon bathing in the incredible thermal baths and having relaxing massages. In Vienna, we decided to spend time relaxing in the city gardens and exploring the treasures in the museums. My brother had been to Prague before and guided us through the castle complex.
That said, we thoroughly enjoyed the optional excursions that we did go on - a delightful classical concert of Mozart and Strauss in Vienna, a superb evening cruise down the Danube in Budapest, and the picturesque tours in Salzburg.
Meera Shah, UK
Holiday Review: Prague, Vienna & Budapest
I am hastening to write to say a big THANK YOU for all the hard work which went into planning the above holiday. It was a very enjoyable time for me and I shall remember it until the day I die.
My enjoyment came about because you had thought of everything in planning the programme. The options you had presented to us i.e. the Czech Dinner, the Heurigen Dinner, the Hungarian night, the visits covering Medieval Prague, the Schonbrunn Palace and the Hofburg concert were well researched and the local guides you had put in place were all excellent.
The Tour Director, Petra Polakova, was exceptional and she is an asset to your company. Her enthusiasm never waned and during my many years of travel I have never come across anyone more helpful. Regrettably, there were a couple of ladies on our tour who seemed to find fault with absolutely everything. I came out of the lift one day to see one of these (ugly!) ladies waving a finger at Petra and shouting at her. Petra was visibly upset, as anyone would be, as the onslaught was unremitting. (I think the lady was complaining about the state of the Novotel at Wien-West, Austria.) This hotel was, indeed, very run down and I do hope you will reconsider using it again in future years as they do not deserve to have your business - would you believe that they only had three safes!
Your Italian driver, Alexandro, also did a wonderful job and he and Petra were a delight to be with.
Please can you congratulate the members of your staff who were responsible for planning such a varied itinerary and also let Petra and Alexandro know that their professionalism was very much appreciated.
Mrs Irene Yarnell, Derbyshire
Holiday Review: Northern Highlights & the Arctic Circle
I am writing to express our thanks for our recent holiday to the Arctic Circle and the Northern Cape.
This was the first holiday we had taken since I had my right leg amputated in May 2007. Although I was confident in my ability to get on and off the coach and walk short distances there were still some unknowns. Thanks to your staff we were helped with these throughout the holiday; from the arrangements at the airport to the Tour Manager obtaining a plastic stool so I could use the shower. The Tour Manager and driver were so helpful in providing advice and assistance that we did not feel we missed out on anything.
Thank you once again.
Andrew Hardy, Derbyshire
Holiday Review: Grand Tour of Turkey
I have been meaning to write to you since May!! I just wanted to say how much we enjoyed "The Grand Tour of Turkey".
It was a brilliant holiday, all the hotels were excellent and the food was good. We had a superb leader in Buecu, nothing was too much trouble for her. She had a great sense of humour and was great fun. The coach driver was extremely good too.
All in all it was a wonderful holiday and excellent value for money.
We will definitely travel with Cosmos Tourama again and have recommended it to many of our friends.
Wonderful organisation from start to finish.
Mrs Carol S. Lucking, Worthing
Holiday Review: Cities of Eastern Europe
My friend Mrs M. Coggan and I recently returned from the above holiday, our first experience of an Archers holiday, and I feel I really must write to tell you what a marvellous holiday we had. Not only was it a comprehensive and informative tour, the organisation was excellent.
The success of our holiday was ensured by the driver, Franco, who apart from being an excellent driver was helpful and always cheerful. Our tour director Eszter Bokros (am not sure of the spelling) made absolutely sure we had a great holiday, she was informative, pleasant, friendly and helpful, and over more than 20 years of touring holidays I can honestly say she was the best I have ever encountered.
I only hope we have the opportunity of travelling with you again at some time and that we are as lucky as we were this time.
Anne Fryer, Leeds
Holiday Review: Prague, Vienna & Budapest
We have recently returned from a coach tour with you to Prague, Vienna and Budapest.
We would like you to be aware that it was a very enjoyable trip but, more importantly, that it was greatly enhanced by the excellent service provided by your tour guide, Andrea. Nothing was too much trouble for her and everything was delivered in a friendly cheerful manner.
Similarly, we would comment on our driver Alessandro. Once again he remained cheerful and accommodating throughout the entire holiday and his driving skills were obviously superb.
Both Andrea and Alessandro contributed enormously to our enjoyment of this holiday and we would like you to pass on our thanks to your excellent people.
Many thanks
Mr & Mrs D. O'Neill, Devon
Holiday Review: Discover the Amalfi Coast
'Discover the Amalfi Coast' is a holiday that almost anyone, young or old, could enjoy. Amalfi itself is the perfect base for exploring this lovely part of Italy. The first full day of the holiday was spent getting to know the town. Amongst many delights, there was time to discover the shady Cloister of Paradise in the glorious cathedral.
Highlights of the week included the famous Amalfi Drive, the 'road of a thousand bends' where everyone (except the driver!) had an unforgettable treat. In Sorrento there was the chance to admire the dramatic cliff scenery, to wander through the streets of the old town and to sample the delicious locally made limoncello.
Positano, which is almost vertical, with pastel-coloured villas tumbling down to the sea, was another memorable destination. Apart from its natural beauty, it offers many trendy boutiques and restaurants to tempt the visitor.
An enjoyable day was spent in Capri, which must be one of the loveliest islands in the Mediterranean. We visited the Gardens of Augustus, founded by Caesar himself, where a wide variety of plants and flowers grow on terraces with enticing views of the sea.
One morning was spent in Ravello with its stunning location perched above the Amalfi coast. We explored the Villa Rufolo and saw the garden which inspired Wagner, before enjoying lunch in the town square.
An unexpected pleasure was the visit to Paestum, with its well-preserved Greek temples; the ruins stand on a green and peaceful plain. The insights of the expert local guide made the experience even more fascinating. In its own way, Paestum is as interesting as the more renowned Pompeii; also including in one of the optional excursions.
This very well organised holiday showed some of the best that Italy has to offer - beautiful landscapes, history, culture, great food and shops and friendly people.
Thank you, Archers Direct, for a delightful holiday!
Jenny Parkinson, Wigan
Holiday Review: Discover Sicily
I am writing to congratulate you in organising a superb holiday in Sicily (Discover Sicily- September 2009). The weather was hot, the women were beautiful and the sites we visited were amazing. Our Sicilian guide (Giancarlo) was jammed packed with information.
The two hotels we stayed in were also pretty good. The first 3 days were spent in the Hotel Bai Del Capitano in Cefalu: a small traditional hotel with helpful staff. The remainder of the stay was spent in the Sant Alphio Gardens: a more modern hotel with a nice pool and less then a minute away from the beach.
My only criticism is that you could have added a few more sites to the itinerary to make the tour last a couple more days!!
Miah, London
Holiday Review: The Legendary Danube
The "Legendary Danube" was our first cruise of any description and was a special treat to celebrate our Ruby Wedding anniversary. We weren't disappointed.
The first three days in Prague gave us the opportunity to unwind and sample Central European culture and also staying at the Prague Hilton proved to be a comfortable experience.
Our ship the MS Artistry exceeded our expectations. In particular our cabin on the Royal Deck was spacious and extremely well designed. There was room for everything both in the bedroom and the bathroom, which had better facilities than some hotels we've stayed in. Our cabin was always serviced by the time we had finished breakfast and in the evening any wet towels, shower mats etc were replaced with fresh ones. Sonya, our attendant, was also quite artistic with our nightwear - see photo.
Our Cruise Director, Dragan, proved to be an immediate hit with the passengers, not only for his efficiency and local knowledge but also his humour. At our safety drill talk before we set sail he emphasised the need to carefully follow crew instructions, especially when passing under very low bridges and reminded us that " up to now no passenger has survived an impact with a three lane German Autobahn". His pre-dinner port talks were always well attended and very humorous.
Now the important bit - the food.This was excellent at all times with plenty of choice and no shortage of quantity. The evening dinner was a multi-course affair with waiter service and the quality of the included wines was exceptional.
The onboard entertainment consisted of an excellent keyboard musician/singer who catered well to the age groups of the passengers and soon had us dancing after dinner.
The crew also gave us a good laugh one night when they performed various sketches.
The Danube is a lovely river and there was always something of interest to watch, particularly the huge locks. An optional excursion to Saltzburg was well worth it.
Vienna was wonderful and we enjoyed the optional Strauss concert. Budapest provided a fitting finale to a magnificent and memorable holiday.
Mr and Mrs A Jackson, UK
Holiday Review: Discover the Dalmatian Coast
We have just returned from our holiday 'Discover the Dalmatian Coast, Hotel Croatia'. Once again Archers have done us proud and we had a wonderful tour followed by an extra week in the idyllic and unspoilt resort of Cavtat.
We have returned home with very happy memories and plenty of photos to look back on (please find a small selection attached). The Hotel Croatia was superb, the Croatian people welcoming and friendly, the scenery fantastic and the tours interesting and enjoyable.
So thank you again Archers, we look forward to our next holiday with you.
Mr and Mrs R Phillips, Royston
Holiday Review: Costa del Sol
So many people are quick enough to complain, but I can only congratulate Archers on the excellent holiday we enjoyed at Nerja Costa Del Sol. From start to finish the whole holiday was very well organised, the transfer taxi was waiting for us on our arrival and was on time to collect us from our hotel for our departure. Have attached a view from our Hotel Balcony. Well done Archers and thank you.
Sue Usher, UK
Holiday Review: Discover the Dalmatian Coast
My wife and I have just returned from the "Discover the Dalmatian Coast" tour.
The first thing I noticed was the efficiency of the airport, from landing to being on our coach took no longer than 20 mins.
We stayed in Cavtat at the Hotel Croatia. The hotel has just undergone a complete makeover so everything was crisp and new. It is located in the most fantastic setting overlooking the beautiful harbour of Cavtat, which is accessible from the hotel by a rather steep flight of steps but well worth the walk. The food in the hotel was a buffet type but plenty of choice and variety and of a high standard.
The harbour has plenty of lovely restaurants and bars all reasonably prices and serving good quality food.
The included tours were well organised and interesting. Dubrovnik and Montenegro were my personal favourites. Both places were nothing like I imagined they were spotlessly clean and full of wonderful architecture. They also had the most fantastic scenery. People are very helpful and friendly and seem genuinely pleased that you are visiting their country.
I would highly recommend the Dalmatian coast it is relatively un-spoilt and not overly crowded.
Simon Powell, UK
Holiday Review: Venice, Florence & Rome Platinum
To celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary we decided to we would like to see Italy. Having taken a previous holiday with you we found the tour visiting the above major cities was the one for us. All the booking arrangements went without a hitch, and soon we were jetting off to Venice.
Our tour guide Tamara was excellent and over the next 7 days looked after us really well. The included highlights were very well organised, and we got to see wonderful sights in Venice (St. Marks Square) along with the Grand Canal, Bridge of Sighs etc.
Our hotel was very good with the staff being very helpful. We travelled on to Rome via Assisi, our driver Massimo being a superb driver. Our included sightseeing in Rome was exciting as we got to the Pope in St Peters Square.
We also visited the Coliseum, very impressive, and the Trevi Fountain to make a wish! The local guides used for all the sightseeing trips were knowledgeable and their English was impeccable. Our journey from Rome to Pisa was through some beautiful countryside and Pisa itself was amazing.
We managed to get up the Leaning Tower to have a wonderful view of the Square of Miracles. From Pisa on to Florence, what a beautiful city with so much to see. The buildings in the Piazza del Duomo were stunning, and the number of statues in the city is amazing. We can honestly say that we were suitably impressed with the whole trip, the organisation of everything was superb, and the few optional trips we made were very good value for money.
We will definitely use Archers Direct again at some time as you can fit so much into a comparatively short space of time when it is so well organised.
Keith & Val Arbery, UK
Holiday Review: Venice, Florence & Rome Platinum
We enjoyed our tour very much. The transfer from the Airport in Venice was well coordinated with plenty of reps to guide you.
Our tour director Ricardo Camilloni was outstanding. He had the mix of information on everything just right and could not have been more helpful if he had tried, but without being over the top. José (I think that's right) our driver was a very courteous man - very smooth journeys and always there to help you off the coach.
Hotel Albatros Mestre
This hotel is a basic hotel with very friendly staff that you would expect on a tour. Independent transportation to Venice from here was only about half hour if that by bus which operates a few yards from the hotel the reception gave us all details we needed we arrived very early in the day so took full advantage of this service.
Hotel Resid Parco Tirreno
The best of our hotels by far has its own little kitchenette and sitting area. A pool at additional cost set in lovely gardens and al fresco style bar with entertainment.
Independent travel from this hotel again is simple. A ten-minute stroll brings you to the Metro where you can get into the centre very quickly.
Hotel Europa Signa
This hotel is in quite a remote position with not much there but the railway and maybe a shop. Not open many hours. A very quiet place with a very basic hotel. We had the tiniest shower I have ever seen but had a wonderful view from the breakfast room of local scenery.
The staff were very helpful and friendly and once again it would be easy to get into Florence independently via the train that stops opposite the hotel. I think it would take about half hour. The tour manager or reception would be able to help with this.
Overall
The tour was very good value for money, taking in many sights.
The balance was good for included sightseeing. Independent free time or chance to join optional excursions.
The hotels are clean basic and friendly and as long as you don't mind early mornings and some moderately late nights this is a good way to get a taste of Venice, Florence Rome. Assi and Pisa.
Our fellow travellers were all lovely friendly people and Ricardo was the major factor of this tour being such a success. Everyone was thrilled when he joined in the dancing on Tuscan Flavours optional tour. He truly is a great ambassador for archers and his country in general.
My only tip for anyone travelling to Italy is bring a travel kettle as hotels do not supply them in your room
Mr & Mrs Groves, Essex
Holiday Review: Rome at leisure
We booked the Hotel Ponte Sisto for our Rome at Leisure trip with Archers Direct and had a fantastic time! We can't recommend the hotel enough. Walking distance to absolutely everything and the best coffee at breakfast I've ever had. Breakfast in the courtyard is a sheer delight and there is a peace and tranquillity there which is an absolute must when you're bang in the centre of any capital city.
You can stroll to the Pantheon and Trevi fountain within 10 minutes. Campo Di Fiori and Piazza Navonna are just around the corner. The Vatican is a 20-minute walk along the river. There are a number of restaurants in a 60 second walk over the bridge in Trastevere and the Gelateria's are selling the best ice cream on planet earth! There's a nice little supermarket next door where you buy cheap bottled water for your trips.
On the Sunday we did the organised trip to Tivoli, which was also a delight but a bit rushed. You spend less than an hour at Villa Este, which isn't enough. Probably better to take the local bus from Ponte Mammolo station, so you can spend the whole day there.
Stephen Gale, UK
Holiday Review: Rome, Vesuvius, Capri & Sorrento
My partner and I have recently returned from our tour of Rome, Vesuvius, Capri & Sorrento and we really could not have had a more enjoyable holiday. Ivana our tour guide was marvellous and work incredibly hard to make the holiday run smoothly. She could not have done more. She even got the hotel to turn on the air conditioning before the 1st of June!
The hotels were all of a good standard and the Hotel La Residenza on Capri was particularly lovely. The included meals were all of a good standard too. Our tour was slightly altered from the brochure itinerary as there was a second group on the holiday at the same time so our group spent two nights in Sorrento before going to Capri which worked out very well. Some of us had to stay at the Hotel Ascot across the road from the Tirrenia but the hotel was comfortable and welcoming.
My partner and I spent our second week at the Tirrenia in Sorrento and the staff there were, at all times, friendly and helpful. The food was good and the waiters made sure that as we were staying with them for 7 nights that the food was interesting and varied. They happily recommended dishes to us and on occasion offered us an additional selection. We were able to visit all the sights we had hoped and the weather was perfect.
I would recommend to anyone thinking of doing this tour that they take up the option to stay a second week in Sorrento as it gives you a chance to relax and see the other sights that the region has to offer. The local public transport system is very good and very cheap so it's easy to travel around the area.
I would strongly recommend this holiday to anyone who has a love of history as the region has so much to offer.
Caroline Denyer, UK
Holiday Review: Moscow & St Petersburg
I have just come back from your Moscow-St Petersburg tour with my daughter. I would just like to let you know how much we both enjoyed the tour.
Your guides on this tour really made it and they were hard working, helpful, with a lovely sense of humour. I found it a wonderful experience.
Mr & Mrs Bradbeer, Devon
Holiday Review: Grand Tour of Turkey
Thank you for a really enjoyable and satisfying holiday - our first with you but hopefully not our last.
Much of the success of the holiday was due to the efforts of our Guide, Gokham. Always polite, always helpful and despite various difficulties encountered, always calm. We were impressed by the way he got us booked into each hotel, allocated rooms and distributed keys speedily and without fuss or bother. He was always there when needed, but never intrusive.
Despite, or perhaps because of, the make-up of the large party, which consisted of no less than 11 different nationalities and a wide age range from students to senior citizens, the group 'gelled' very quickly.
The daily seating plan changes met with favour all round and during some of the long journeys when some of the scenery was less interesting, Gokham kept us amused with historical, geographical and cultural facts and from time to time a selection of jokes.
The itinerary could not have been bettered. We saw all we had hoped to see and more. All hotels were clean, comfortable and well situated and the food was excellent. All in all, good value for money.
Again, many thanks.
Mrs Kathleen Baldwin, Hythe
Holiday Review: Scenic Scandinavia
I would like to say how much we enjoyed this tour. As it went on there was a surprise round every corner. The driver Kim and courier Daniel were really great, they made the holiday great fun. We had monuments, waterfalls, castles, the cruise and thrown in in Norway snow, great fun.
The whole lot was very good, great mix of company, American, Indonesian, Australians and a few English thrown in.
Doreen & Tony Watts, Hampshire
Holiday Review: Scenic Switzerland by Rail
Our group of Americans; Australians, and Brits. met with our delightful guide Firenze in Zurich, and together we boarded a train on the following morning to the picturesque city of Lucerne. Some took the Lake Excursion whilst others explored the beauty of the surroundings on foot in brilliant sunshine. The Folknight aquainted us with some Swiss culture and cuisine.
The next day we took the Golden Pass train for a memorable journey to Lausanne. The delights of the day were not only the spectacular scenery, but visiting towns of interest en-route, including Meringen; Interlaken, and Gstaad.
Our Guide was experimenting with individual radio headsets to give us awareness of items of special interest as we walked around; and to brief us on the daily programmes.
On the shores of Lake Geneva we travelled to the beautiful resort of Montreaux with it's extensive floral promenade stretching to the impressive Chillon Castle. After lunch we travelled by an excellent train to Visp; thence by rack-railway to the delightful care-free ski resort of Zermatt. Two nights in the exceptionally pleasant family-run Hotel Walliserhof, were interspersed with our exciting (and cold) trip to the Gornergrat summit. Sadly the Matterhorn was mostly cloud covered.
Our eagerly anticipated next train adventure was the Glacier Express the whole way to St. Moritz, and all on narrow gauge. We were not disappointed with the spectacular scenery through the Alps - from fertile green valleys through long tunnels to emerge to thick snow everywhere!
Our next two nights were in the comfortable Sporthotel Baeren in up-market St. Moritz.
From St. Moritz we took the Bernina Express train (one-in-fourteen gradients without racks!) to Tirano in Italy. The line features viaducts rather than tunnels; with amazing views both up in Alp Grum or down by Lake Poschiavo. Tirano was well worth the visit for it's beautiful Cathedral and picturesque Old Town.
Next day, leaving the snow of St. Moritz, we boarded our train for the last time and relaxed our way back to Zurich via Klosters - no Royal visitors in sight!
Back in Zurich we had the opportunity to re-visit the City using local trams, or relax in the Novotel swimming pool. Sadly we said our goodbyes having made many friends.
Yet again, the Archers quality is sustained for another different and fascinating holiday.
Jack & Christine Brown, UK
Holiday Review: Discover the Dalmatian Coast
Dubrovnik has been billed as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic' and Croatia as 'the Mediterranean as it used to be' so it had quite a lot to live up to as a holiday destination. This was our first visit to Croatia and we were quite excited at the prospect of a busy week here since our friends, colleagues and the guidebooks all said positive things about it.
On Tuesday evening we were whisked from the airport to our Hotel by private taxi in just under 10 minutes to be based in a small coastal village called Cavtat for a week. The Hotel Croatia was an idyllic private hideout whose setting wouldn't put James Bond's enemies to shame. Although it was a vast hotel with 480 rooms there is a warm welcome and very efficient staff to see everything is in order. We have already made enquiries about returning next year only to be informed that the hotel is having a complete overhaul and refurbishment and will be closed from November 2007 until May 2008. If they are trying to improve on an already immaculate place then we might be returning to paradise next year!
Unfortunately we arrived in gentle rain and had to persevere with poor weather for the first few days. The rain was very welcomed by the Croatians though because there had been a series of serious brush and forest fires which had caused death and destruction in the vicinity around Dubrovnik. This foul weather culminated in a tremendous storm in the early hours of Friday morning which lasted until lunchtime. The locals told us that there hadn't been a storm like that in living memory-just our luck but at least it was warm rain. After that we basked in beautiful sunshine and got quite healthily tanned and everything looked far more beautiful and appealing.
The itinerary organised for us showed us four main highlights of the local and more distant areas of the Dalmatian coastline. All the trips were well organised although the full days were very long but informative. They certainly wetted our appetite for further exploration of both Dubrovnik and our hotel locality in Cavtat without the need to travel long distances. Local transport on the boat or bus seemed to be very reliable in our experience.
The highlight of our stay was completely unplanned since we did not know of its existence before we arrived in Cavtat. We happened upon the Epidaurus Festival which was being held in Cavtat from 21st-30th September 2007 (Epidaurum is the ancient name for modern Cavtat). This was a locally organised festival of Arts and Music and it allowed us to see a live concert nearly every evening of our stay. It only involved walking down the 128 steps from the hotel to the town below. Ironically we stayed in Dubrovnik on Thursday night to see the Dubrvnik Symphony Orchestra perform. Then saw them at the Cultural Centre (like the Village Hall) on the Saturday night at the closing concert of the festival. We paid 200 kunas for the concert in Dubrovnik-excellent value and 30 kunas for the concert in Cavtat-amazing value!!!!
Would we return again? Definitely
Would we be based in Cavtat? Enthusiastically
Would we stay at the Hotel Croatia? Luxuriously
Would we travel with Archers? Thankfully
Many thanks for a truly memorable holiday, which we were certainly ready for this year. Your tours should however come with the warning that our guide on the Prague, Vienna, Budapest tour gave us last year-this not a holiday but an education! You certainly pack in plenty to do in really wonderful locations. I can't wait to book our next break with you.
Jacquie Faller, UK
Holiday Review: Discover the Mountains & Trains of Austria
In June we flew to Munich,
Then coach to Zell-am-See
Our hotel was excellent
Many things to do and see
The weather was warm
Not to hot for me, fortunately
The Austrian ice-cream sundaes
Were a tasty speciality!!
Thank you to Archers
For planning our holiday so well
Many people I would like to tell
Danke schon; auf wiedersehen.
Mr J, Mrs N & Miss J White, Feltham
Holiday Review: Spanish Panorama
Many thanks for a wonderful holiday in Spain "Spanish Panorama".
Even though I was diverted via Frankfurt a few weeks before departure - even though I sat in the plane at London for 2 hours and missed my connection to Madrid and was put on Spanish Air to Madrid. My luggage arrived with me and a taxi was waiting for me - can you believe that?! Boy you do know how to raise the stress levels.
Your tour Director Ires Torro is the best director I have ever met. She is absolutely lovely, very funny - very informed on every town and city we visited - very happy obviously loves her job and we were allowed to shop.
Please, I would be very grateful if you could convey to your colleagues in Spain how great she is. I have toured for about 10 years on my own now, and she is really wonderful.
Thanks again for a really good tour.
Mrs V Rimmer, St Albans
Holiday Review: Cities of Eastern Europe
I am now some four weeks returned from the above tour and not that the dust has settled and the euphoria subsided and I can view matters in a more objective manner, I would like to congratulate you on putting together a most interesting, informative, entertaining and, above all, enjoyable tour.
Altogether I have been on some 6/7 Archers/Cosmos tours, have enjoyed every one, and hope to continue touring with you in the future.
This tour lived up to your usual high standards and I would like to express my thanks to the Tour Manager, Petra Polauova, for her friendliness, enthusiasm an dedication, not forgetting having the acumen to implement and enforce a necessary fair and reasonable seat rotation system as the voluntary system was being abused by some tour members.
I would also like to express my gratitude to, so often the unsung heroes, driver Eddie, for his unfailing courtesy and, of course, his skilful, safe and careful driving. Together they made an excellent team and did much to enhance the enjoyment of an already excellent tour.
I have booked for China next year and look forward to many more trips in the future.
Mr McInnes, Airdrie
Holiday Review: Highlights of Germany
I would like to say how much my friend and I enjoyed our recently holiday with you in Germany. We saw such a variety of places and found all of them interesting, while on the included city tours the guides gave us plenty of information and detail.
All the hotels were specious and most comfortable and the breakfast buffets plentiful with lots of choice.
Beata, our escort, was bright and cheerful, always pleasant and able to give good advice regarding eating places and Michael drove us carefully and safely throughout our tour. He, too, was most pleasant and friendly, reliable and always helpful. Our thanks go to them and all those who planned and organised this excellent tour.
Miss R Waters, Leicester
Holiday Review: Scenic Switzerland by Rail
Having recently experienced the Scenic Rail Tour of Switzerland, which was fantastic, I want to tell you about our Tour Manager, Christian Lucchini.
This young man is exceptionally good at his job. He is very enthusiastic and knowledgeable, giving us the history of the country, towns and villages we visited.
He was very respectful of the elder members of the group and also the single travellers (like myself). He was available 24 hours if required.
Christian worked tremendously hard to ensure our entire journey was superb, and did this always with a pleasant manner and a happy smile.
We all felt that he had contributed a great deal and added something extra to our wonderful holiday.
Mrs S Evans, Nottinghamshire
Holiday Review: Scenic Slovenia & Croatia
We have recently returned from our holiday touring Slovenia and Croatia.
The travel arrangements from UK to Lubjlana were excellent .On arrival we were met and taken to our overnight hotel where we had our welcome meeting outlining the next days arrangements.
Every day was well planned and carried out with the utmost efficiency and our comfort in mind. The hotels were of a good standard and the food good and varied. The luggage was always taken care of and we did not need to handle it much at all. The trips were carefully planned and sufficient time allowed for one to wander off alone if you wanted to.
All in all a most enjoyable and educational holiday.
As a bonus we opted for the Porec add-on. This proved to be a good move as it allowed one to relax at a wonderful resort after a weeks touring-I thoroughly recommend.
We personally looked forward to seeing the Mostar bridge in Bosnia. We were not disappointed as my photo shows.
N B Warren, Northants
Holiday Review: Highlights of Andalucia
What a fabulous holiday. The tour was great with a good range of hotels, and a really good tour director called Samuel.
First stop Malaga and overnight at the Novotel, which was a little way out of the city but we had a typical Spanish meal and enjoyed trying to speak the language.
After a good breakfast we were off on the tour Granada, Cordoba, Seville with sight seeing in all the grand places and overnight stays in good hotels. Flamenco gypsy style in Granada, the Alhambra, the Cathedral in Cordoba, all added up to make a fabulous tour.
Seville was a treasure and the hotel had a roof top swimming pool which overlooked Seville. Having been on this tour before I wanted to go to the classical Flamenco show in Seville at a place called the Patio, perfect, I would recommend anyone who likes Flamenco to visit this venue.
The week on the Costa del Sol was brilliant, The Hotel Balcon de Europa was very good, food was good the rooms perhaps could do with a little brightening up, but on the whole it was smashing. Friendly staff, clean beach, delicious grilled sardines from the beach bar, overall I would recommend this holiday to anyone.
We are in our 50/60's and there were 4 of us on this holiday we all enjoyed it and look forward to our next holiday hopefully with Archers.
Pat Waistnidge, UK
Holiday Review: Scenic Slovenia & Croatia
Attached are 3 entries for the Photo competition
- Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
- Ljubljana river cruise by night
- Dubrovnik old town and harbour
John Madew, Cheshire
Holiday Review: The Magic of the Italian Lakes
We have recently returned from this holiday which we thoroughly enjoyed.
The tour manager (Katerina) was excellent in her organisation and knowledge and her very clear communication. We felt that the tour was very well planned and all the timings perfect.
The optional excursions were all well worth doing and the included ones were all memorable and well thought out. It was a very varied itinerary and the inclusion of Venice and Switzerland were added bonuses.
The second week at the Hotel Sole at Riva was excellent. We were picked up from the Bristol Hotel by private Taxi at 10am and driven to the door of the Sole. Our room was ready for us - and arguably the best in the hotel with a balcony and views of the lake which exceeded all expectation .
We were surprised and delighted to receive complimentary champagne and a basket of fruit which were delivered to our room shortly after our arrival. Everything about this hotel was first class - the room, the service, the food and the staff .
We have had many holidays abroad and this one proved to be among the most enjoyable. We will certainly book another holiday with you in the future.
Brian and Carole Parsons, UK
Holiday Review: Discover Tuscany
Usually holiday on my own but waste a lot of time trying to find out about local transport etc. and on a short break this can really eat into the time.
This package was perfect because I didn't have to think about anything except getting to and from the airport - everything else was taken care of. The schedule was ideal for someone who doesn't want to spend days on a beach and/or isolated because of single status; nor do I want to be pigeon holed by age or single status.
The cost of the package was also ideal for someone who has to have an eye on their budget without sacrificing comfort - in fact my hotel room was excellent and much bigger than I have previously had in Italy.
My only complaint was the time allocated for the day trip to Lucca and Pisa. Lucca deserves much more time than Pisa - Pisa is the pits. If Pisa didn't have a leaning tower, someone would have to build one to make the place worth a visit. The best part of the programme was the optional trip to Sienna - maybe it should replace Pisa.
Thinking about taking another of your Italian tours next year - probably Rome. Saving up, starting now.
Margaret Borsey, UK
Holiday Review: Bohemian Rhapsody
My husband and I returned on 21 June after travelling on the Bohemian Rhapsody tour. Having never done a coach tour before, we were slightly apprehensive as we like to do our own thing - not having our time earmarked 24/7.
We were so impressed at the high standard of hotels and coach journey. Our tour included a sightseeing excursions with a local guide and then we were able to browse the cities in our own time as we had at least 1 day free.
Our guide, Esther, was brilliant, nothing was too much trouble. She ensured everyone on the tour had a wonderful holiday. We also met other travellers on the tour from far and wide, Canada, Australia, America, Wales and England whose company we thoroughly enjoyed.
In summary, we had a most wonderful cultural tour and learnt so much about the countries we travelled in and through.
Gerald and Jill Green, UK
Holiday Review: Moscow & St Petersburg
We have recently returned from one of your tours to Moscow and St Petersburg.
We would just like to say how much we enjoyed the tour. The reps and local guides were fantastic - very helpful and knowledgeable - and they made the whole trip run very smoothly.
We would certainly recommend this tour and Archers Direct to friends and family. The tour was great value for money and Archers again organised lovely hotels in good locations. In fact, we have already had two sets of friends going on your holidays due to our recommendations…
Thanks to all at Archers for some truly wonderful holidays.
Mr & Mrs Brandon, Cheshire
Holiday Review: Russian River Cruise (St Petersburg to Moscow)
We had a wonderful holiday and even the weather co-operated by being unseasonably warm for May. We saw some fantastic places and the cruise boat, although a little basic, was good value for money and the meals were good too.
Our only problem was the chaos at Moscow airport when we arrived but once that was sorted everything went smoothly.
Thank you also Archers for being so helpful when one of our party had to cancel due to illness four weeks before we left.
We took almost 200 pics in Russia and definitely intend to go there again. Thanks for a wonderful holiday.
Val Gornell, Cumbria
Holiday Review: Russian River Cruise (Moscow to St Petersburg)
We had a wonderful holiday and even the weather co-operated by being unseasonably warm for May. We saw some fantastic places and the cruise boat, although a little basic, was good value for money and the meals were good too.
Our only problem was the chaos at Moscow airport when we arrived but once that was sorted everything went smoothly.
Thank you also Archers for being so helpful when one of our party had to cancel due to illness four weeks before we left.
We took almost 200 pics in Russia and definitely intend to go there again. Thanks for a wonderful holiday.
Val Gornell, Cumbria
Holiday Review: Discover Sicily
My wife and I went to your discover Sicily tour and we extremely enjoyed it. The tour, the hotels and especially Giancarlo the tour guide where first class.
Giuseppe Evangelista, UK
Holiday Review: Ischia
What a beautiful Island....even though we took your choice hotel when we took Island tour, we were delighted that you had given us the best area in our opinion.
Casamiccola and Lacco Ameno were just what we wanted, we could walk or catch bus if feeling lazy to either resort. We took boat trip around island + a day to Sorrento..as our optional trips they were both brill,,,only fault found that the commentary on round Island trip was not even in broken english,,but we still enjoyed it all.
Hotel was only basic but what we expected for price. The time allowed for Airport trip on return must be looked at...it was to last minute to get onto plane...we were panicking as the plane was boarding as we got to chekin.. it was panic stations.
We have always enjoyed Archers holidays this being the 3rd,,,we have travelled with Cosmos also.
Gillian & Cyril Robinson, UK
Holiday Review: Venice, Florence & Rome Platinum
We are writing to thank you for an amazing holiday to Venice, Florence and Rome and Hotel Caravel in Sorrento.
The staff and the care were unsurpassable. Our rep Rita was superb as was our coach driver Francesco. The coach was immaculately clean every-time we went out in it. Our other rep Alison was also very helpful at all times. Italy is such a fabulous country and we packed a lot of it on our tour.
Great sights, great memories and great company of our fellow travellers. Thank you
Mr & Mrs Dewhurst and Mr & Mrs Heyes, Bolton
Holiday Review: Discover Tuscany
After being bounced by another tour company from a Tuscany touring holiday we found Archers Direct offered something similar - but even better than the original - it included Venice!
My wife and I have a soft spot for Italy, having previously visited Sorrento, Taormina in Sicily also Rome and Naples, so Tuscany was next on the agenda! Archer's "Discover Tuscany" fitted the bill in a one week tour with optional extensions.
Flying direct from our local airport at Glasgow to Venice by bmi (a fantastic airline) on the Sunday we were transferred to the ubiquitous Hotel Poppi, far too far away from Venice lagoon to make sightseeing on the Sunday a realistic proposition. Hotel Poppi for one night at a push, but somewhere better quality and closer would have been preferred.
Venice was a half day visit only, but time enough for a Gondola ride (optional extra but at a fixed price paid to the tour guide) an inclusive "tour" of St Marks's Square before a quick bite to eat and off on a 4 hour coach journey to the main base for the remainder of the week at Montecatini Terme in the heart of Tuscany.
On the agenda for the rest of the week included delights such as Florence, Lucca, Pisa, a wine tasting visit in Chianti country, and options included Siena, San Gimignano, a Tuscan dinner and to Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo.
This meant in practice quite long coach journeys every day so by the end of the week with the final 4 hour stint back to Venice Airport at 4am we were getting somewhat tired of coaching!
We did chill out locally on Saturday and took advantage of the excellent spa facilities of Montecatini for a relaxing "introductory" course at the Excelsior Terme including saunas and massage - and very nice it was too! A trip by the 19th Century funicular to Montecatini Alto gave excellent views over the main town, and a quiet place to stroll and enjoy a meal concluded the final day.
Our young Croatian guide, Denis, was a cheerful chap, helpful, albeit inexperienced, and helped to get everything and everybody organised (well almost!) and also for praise was driver Mauricio who drove us safely even when the front door of the coach decided not to close properly one day!
The party was billeted at four hotels in Montecatini Terme, our experience of the Grand Plaza was marred by loud music from a piazza at the back of the hotel nearly every evening until midnight, not welcome when exhausted after a busy day with an early start required the following morning! Food was not all to my personal taste, and my wife found the quantity excessive, but opinions vary, others had no problem with it.
Montecatini Termi is a central location for touring and itself a vibrant spa town with shops, parks and loads of hotels. A railway line through the city would have made an option for us had an extra day been included and the line runs from Florence through Lucca to Viareggio on the coast.
This was a most enjoyable week, well organised by Archers and ticked the boxes for what we were looking for. To be recommended.
Colin and Marion Dalziel, Hamilton, Scotland
Holiday Review: Moscow & St Petersburg
Thank you for a wonderful experience visiting these two great cities - a truly memorable time was had by us both. Everything was first class from hotels to tour guides.
Looking forward to our next Archers holiday in September when we visit USA/Canada.
Irene & Patrick Gormley, West Lothian
Holiday Review: French Panorama
We have just returned from an excellent touring holiday - French Panorama. The Coach was excellent, only 6 months old and the driver was very competent and obliging.
We have no hesitation in wishing to book again through Archers Direct, the tours in Scandinavia, Germany and Portugal all look good.
Mr & Mrs Toms, Cornwall
Holiday Review: Scenic Slovenia & Croatia
We have just returned from the touring holiday in Scenic Slovenia and Croatia with an add-on week in Pamoroz.
We have been on two previous Archers holidays (Prague Krakow and Budapest) and Poland which we enjoyed enormously, but we feel that this tour was particularly special. It must have taken some courage to put together in a tour covering such large distances and to include Bosnia but we would not have missed any of it.
The long journeys were full of breath taking scenery - The Dalmatian Coast - a real eye opener - the two days spent in Bosnia. It was a privilege to see the Mostar Bridge and Sarajevo gave us a fascinating and salutary glimpse into history.
Our guide (Osmond) was excellent throughout the week and could not have done a better job in helping us to understand the complexities of the area.I am pleased to see you have included this tour again in your brochure and would be tempted to do it again except that we have booked the Rocky Mountaineer so I am busy persuading all my friends to go to Croatia, Slovenia and Bosnia on your tour.
Congratulations once again to the tour operator - it was brilliant!!!!
Mrs Windridge, Cheshire
Holiday Review: Italian Showcase
Our trip to Italy in September, doing the Tour, was everything we expected and more. I'd just finished reading Dan Brown's novels so our tour of Rome took on a new dimension - thrilling!
We had a superb coach driver, Umberto, who took all the strain, which allowed us to really relax and enjoy being dropped in the centre of the cities. Our tour guide, Chero, was also superb; his attention of detail was great. Our hotels were varied and good bases to explore from.
We loved the magnificent gardens and waterfalls of Tivoli, outside Rome. Whilst sipping our drinks on a sun-kissed terrace we were serenaded by a classical choral group accompanied by a harpsichord.
The numerous fine cathedrals and Duomos we visited deserve a mention, but my favourite was the lower Basilica at Assissi. Wherever we went, especially in the restaurants, where the wine and music flowed, we were welcomed warmly. Visiting Monte Cassino was a moving experience especially the visit to the war graves.
The Tuscan scenery was delightful from the rolling hills covered in vineyards and cypress trees to the timeless medieval towns perched on hill tops, as portrayed in many a Renaissance painting.
We loved exploring the side streets of Venice, Florence, Siena and Verona. The waterbuses of Venice were ideal and we enjoyed our visit to the Guggenheim Gallery.
On returning to Naples, we visited the beautiful island of Capri. We saw magical views after travelling by chair-lift to the highest point on Capri. Vesuvius dominated the Bay of Naples. Our ultimate trip was to Pompeii, which lived up to our expectations as being quite unique.
As a tribute to our super tour director, Chero, we wrote and dedicated a song to him, which my partner sang on our last night out in a Neopolitan restaurant. The chorus was joined in by the rest of our coach party. It summed up all the spectacular treasures we'd seen and the fun we had on this memorable holidays.
Mrs E Buxton, Cheshire
Holiday Review: The Magic of the Italian Lakes
We certainly did have the most enjoyable holiday … the first week touring the Italian Lakes and the second week relaxing in Garda town.
D Humphrys, Leicester
Holiday Review: Venice, Florence & Rome Platinum
We went on this holiday in August and had a fantastic time.
The tour reps were so helpful and the Hotels were very good. Only slight disappointment was the location of the hotels as they were quite far from the centre, however the whole holiday was very well organised.
Ann Lyle, UK
Holiday Review: Moscow & St Petersburg
We have just returned from a trip to Moscow and St.Petersburg which was wonderful. Apart from the problems which most of our group had at our arrival airport, not being met satisfactorily?
The rest of the holiday was great. Our tour director was excellent and our 2 local guides were extremely knowledgeable. They all helped to make our holiday success.
We look forward to travelling with Archers again.
Margaret and Hugh Pettigrew, UK
Holiday Review: Wonders of Ancient Greece
We have just returned from our 6th Archers holiday and feel that this was the best of them all.
Each day surpassed the one before, there was so much to see and the days were well planned with visits and travelling interspersed so we didn't feel as though the whole week was spent on a bus! Our tour guide, Marianna, was excellent, and our driver, Leo, was also fantastic. We had a great time, and shared it with a group of lovely people on our coach.
Greece is such a beautiful country with amazing scenery and so much history. We recommend going at early season (April / May) as the flowers and blossom on the trees and beautiful and the weather glorious - just warm enough to sight see comfortably in t-shirt and shorts!
A fantastic holiday not to be missed!
Linda Finch, UK
Holiday Review: Discover Medieval Italy
Please find below comments on our recent holiday. We hope that you will smile when reading them, but bet you don't smile as broadly as we did whilst we were travelling. We have travelled many enjoyable miles with your Tour Directors to various European destinations and also a wonderful Nile Cruise.
Once again Archers organisational skills coupled with the hard work of our Tour Director Christina made our holiday to Medieval Italy very enjoyable and memorable.
Visiting magnificent Assisi and St Francis Basilica with a local guide was amazing.
The town of Orvieto situated high on a rock face, (but thankfully easily reached due to the funicular railway and local bus) was unbelievable as nothing prepares you for the awe inspiring Duomo as you turn into the main square, the size, the details, the vividness of colours, the frescoes and mosaics all absolutely beautiful.
We have been on many wine tasting trips but the one included on this tour has to be the best. We visited a family concern in Montepulciano we were welcomed through their cellars and into a cavern, we were seated on a table of ten and after a brief introduction to their wines each table was given a bottle of white and red wine followed by a dessert wine, plus tasty Italian breads to dip into their famous Olive Oil. As you can imagine we were loathed to leave our wine tasting venue but the climb to the top of Montepulciano felt much easier somehow, and certainly the drive back to our Hotel was quite quiet.
Our second week was spent in Limone on Lake Garda amongst wonderful scenery.
One of the most natural and beautiful sights of Italy are the fields of bright yellow sunflowers which follow the sun through to the end of the day and turn to wait for the sun rise again.
We always meet so many different and interesting people on our holidays some become long lasting letter writing friends other we remember as acquaintances who contribute to our holiday memories.
We have already booked two holidays with you for this year, the first in June to the Douro Valley in Portugal and also China The Middle Kingdom in September, a holiday we have been talking about for a long time but is now going to be a reality.
We know that we can rely on Archers to provide good customer care and excellent logistical organisation so that we don't have to worry about anything other than having another truly memorable holiday.
Mr & Mrs Arnold, Cambs
Holiday Review: Discover Tuscany
My wife and I have just returned from one of your tours (Discover Tuscany) staying at the Hotel Millennium in Montecatini from the 14th to the 25th May. We would both like to congratulate you on a first class tour and we have not enjoyed a holiday so much for many years, the organisation was extremely efficient at all times.
We would like to commend the coach driver Raoul for his skill at all times, however we must single out your tour leader, Christine for special praise, at all times she was cheerful, helpful and a real credit to your company and coming from Tuscany she was a delight to tour with as she describes the countryside. We both hope that you would pass on our thanks to her.
We nearly forgot the Hotel Millennium was extremely good and the food beyond reproach, once again thank you for a wonderful holiday.
Mr D. Alsop, High Peak
Holiday Review: Venice, Florence & Rome Platinum
An uncomplicated internet booking with Archers, a quick flights from our chosen airport to Venice, a good night's sleep and a short waterbus ride and we were experiencing the unique wonders of Venetian architecture and culture.
The incomparable Piazza St Marco, with it's Campanile Clock Tower, Basilica and Palazzo Duale, the Bridge of sighs, the iconic Rialto Bride, the waterfront stroll and the gondola ride down peaceful backwaters to the gentle sound of Neapolitan music. A trip to the quaint, picturesque island of Burano to see lace making and the leaning campanile, a Venetian dinner followed by a moonlight boat ride completed a memorable day.
A brief interlude in Assissi, in the quietness of St Francis Basilica and then, Rome, the eternal, multi-historical city of contrasts. An evening stroll, taking in the Trevi fountain and Spanish steps, then a night-time drive to marvel at the illuminated monuments of the ancient city.
Daytime presented opportunity to explore endless wonders of the ancient city. Daytime presented opportunity to explore endless wonders of past civilisations. The Vatican city, the immense Colosseum, Foru, Circus Maximus, Castel S. Angelo, the Emperor's Palace, never-ending temples and arches and walks on 200 year old roads.
Too soon we were travelling northwards on the picturesque west coast road with a break at Pisa where we stood transfixed by the dazzling sight of the Field of Miracles, and the Leaning Tower, then onto Florence the city of timeless treasures.
We could only marvel at the sky-piercing Companile, the Duomo and its massive dome and the Baptisty's Gates of Paradise. The treasures of this beautiful city seem limitless, from the Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio and scores of historical churches and museums to the fascinating shops selling all manner of handmade products and market stalls selling something for everyone.
Finally the drive back to Venice through the glorious Apenines taking with us many wonderful memories, not least of which were evening visits to the Villa Este fountains, Castelle Gandolpha and Tivoli and some very enjoyable Italian meals and entertainment.
We went for a taste of Italy and came back having sampled a feast. We shall return.
Mr & Mrs Greenway, Pembrokeshire
Holiday Review: Discover Tuscany
I wish you to know that I had a superb time on the Discover Tuscany Tour. Everything was just fine; it is a holiday I would hope to repeat at some time in the future.
Meanwhile, I have already booked with a friend of mine, for a holiday next year - Discover Northern Portugal and the Douro Valley. My friend did your tour Discover Medieval Italy last year and thoroughly enjoyed it.
We have also booked previous holidays with you and have no reason to think that next year's will not be anything but just as good.
Mrs Rigby, Lancashire
Holiday Review: Prague, Vienna & Budapest
As expected I had a wonderful, informative tour of Vienna, Prague and Budapest with a delightful guide, but there was an added bonus for me.
Starting on my own, I look forward to mixing with my fellow travellers, however my expectations were exceeded, for in the party were lovely people of all ages, nationalities and races who mixed in very well. So much so, that on our final evening an impromptu party erupted after our meal with us all singing "For she's a jolly good fellow" to our Hungarian guide, Judith.
Finally, I can still relive one wonderful evening by playing a CD of the Czech Folk Group, who entertained us so well.
Mrs Eileen Clarke, Liverpool
Holiday Review: Images of Iceland
We have just returned from our 5 day break in Europe's hottest spot - Iceland.
The late autumn scenery was stunning with vivid colours of gold and pinks on the moor lands. The sunsets were incredible, lighting up the sky for almost an hour. (Being 1o South of the Arctic Circle, the sun sets very slowly).
Our hotel was welcoming and cosy; hot water and heating provided by the geothermally generated electricity. Our Icelandic guide John provided us with a detailed background to the country, from descriptions of the establishment of the world's first parliament, to stories of the most recent volcanic eruptions.
The well organised tour took in the highlights of Iceland's breathtaking scenery, with spectacular waterfalls and of course the world famous geysers and hot bubbling mud pools. We walked on glaciers, and visited one of the worlds top ten beaches (the only one on the list outside the tropics).
Our final visit before returning home was a swim in the Blue Lagoon where we floated in the silica-rich warm water with it's cleaning and energising properties, and yes we did feel ten years younger as a result as promised.
Thank you Archers for such a cleverly designed break, that gave us such an unforgettable insight into this small but fascinating country.
Mrs V Perrin, N. Somerset
Holiday Review: Alpine Adventure & Glacier Express
After many holidays with Archers Direct, I have no hesitation in recommending the firm to all friends and family.
So far this year my husband and self have been with them to Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, last month in Austria and next week we go to Morocco. I look forward with absolute confidence to having a great time in a country I have not yet visited.
Next year we are going with our friends down the Nile. This will be our 5th time in Egypt and our friends were so tempted by our enjoyment that they asked if we would book them in next time we go. It will be their first time and I would not risk their friendship if I did not believe they would be in for an unforgettable experience with us.
A big thank you Archers Direct……. carry on the good work
Mrs H Frances, Barnsley
Holiday Review: Lido di Jesolo
I am writing to say how much we enjoyed our holiday to Lido di Jesolo which we took out of your Special Offers brochure.
We didn't know which hotel we were going to but were delighted with your choice which was the Hotel Cambridge.
We had a marvellous time both in Lido and in Venice, cycling up and down the Lido prom on the hotel's free bikes and sailing across the lagoon to Venice up and down on the water buses.
We are now looking forward to our next planned holiday with Archers, this time on your "Discover Tuscany" leisure tour plus an add on week in Lido di Jesolo, again at the Hotel Cambridge. Keep up the good work, sorry holidays.
Mr T Jones, North Yorkshire
Holiday Review: The Magic of the Italian Lakes
My wife and I have been on eight Archers/Cosmos holidays and we have just signed up for the ninth. And I expect there will be many more. We endlessly chat about hot good they have all been and we can never agree about what was best or even about what was the best things we have seen - it is a very good-natured argument.
My own favourites have been Alhambra, Canada, the Mezquita at Cordoba and the awesome Neuschwanstein Castle while my wife simply loved Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore, the magical island of Capri, and the Tuscan countryside. What we can agree, however, is that every holiday has been terrific - we have seen wonderful things and been to great places. We also have had excellent tour directors and our fellow travelling companions have all been great company - every holiday has been a winner, only personal preference provokes discussion. As soon as the new Archers brochure comes out it is avidly studied - it is my favourite book! We are looking forward to more travels in 2007.
Thanks to all at Archers for some truly wonderful holidays.
Dr G. T. Bell, Renfrewshire
Holiday Review: Russian River Cruise (St Petersburg to Moscow)
Belated but nevertheless sincere note of appreciation. The enjoyable and comprehensive itinerary associated with the above cruise.
Our visits to Moscow and St Petersburg were magical to say the least with the cruise between these exciting cities sprinkled with visits to towns en route which gave a flavour of reality to Russia.
Throughout the town my wife and I enjoyed the services of highly professional and informative guides and the courteous efficient attention of the crew and staff aboard the M.S. Dr Zhivajo.
The holiday was a delightful experience, never to be forgotten. Excellent value for money this tour is highly recommended.
Mr & Mrs Wright, Surrey
Holiday Review: Russian River Cruise (Moscow to St Petersburg)
Belated but nevertheless sincere note of appreciation. The enjoyable and comprehensive itinerary associated with the above cruise.
Our visits to Moscow and St Petersburg were magical to say the least with the cruise between these exciting cities sprinkled with visits to towns en route which gave a flavour of reality to Russia.
Throughout the town my wife and I enjoyed the services of highly professional and informative guides and the courteous efficient attention of the crew and staff aboard the M.S. Dr Zhivajo.
The holiday was a delightful experience, never to be forgotten. Excellent value for money this tour is highly recommended.
Mr & Mrs Wright, Surrey
Holiday Review: Highlights of Andalucia
We really enjoyed our Highlights of Andalucia tour with an extra week in the Algarve.
Seville has that exciting feel to it that all foreign places used to have when I was young, with it's throngs of students, the animated outdoor life and of course, authentic flamenco. Carmen's cigarette factory is still there and had us humming the Habanera under the palms with an April temperature of 27oC. To be honest, I've reached the age of cathedral fatigue - but Cordoba's Mesquita has that WOW factor that most of the others haven't got. Nor am I a would be David Attenborough, but the sight of hundreds of storks nests in Huelva and Faro gave me such a thrill that I bought binoculars.
Our week in Quateira was good value, and greatly enhanced by the entertainment manager's series of interesting local walks and excursions and a fado evening.
All holidays can be affected by the people you spend them with. This is our 3rd Archers tour and we sense there's an Archer's family of compatible folk out there, because we always seem to get on happily together.
Talking of Archers, what of them? Well, they did what they said they'd do by soothing out the logistics pleasantly with a great guide and driver who struck that difficult balance between leadership and unobtrusiveness. Well Done! I particularly endorse the use of centrally situated hotels. We have been on other tours where hotels have been located out of town to save money I suppose, but give me one in the centre every time.
I could go on about fabled Granada and the apes of Gibraltar but I've got to peruse my brochures.
Mr B Sharp, Worthing
Holiday Review: Prague, Vienna & Budapest
I decided to respond to your invitation to tell about our trip with Archers Direct. I had never travelled with them before and knew nothing about the company. My daughter, Catherine and I decided to take a trip together, and my sister in law in England did all the research for us. It was Shirley who found the Archers brochure and led us to the website.
There were 28 in our group of travellers; the majority of the group were British, with four from Hong Kong, one Australian, and the two Canadians.
From our pick up at the Munich airport, we were in the hands of our wonderful tour guide, Tunde, a young Hungarian woman with a great deal of knowledge about every point we visited, a sincere ambition to make our tour memorable and a good grasp of a number of languages.
Our bus driver, Pietro, was equally as skilled and efficient and managed to get our tour bus in and out of some of the narrowest ancient cobbled streets I have ever seen.
Tour 1050 is a busy eight days, and we covered a lot of ground and saw so many things, with Tunde as a mind of information. We visited Nuremberg, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Melk and Salzburg - all of them never to be forgotten. Some of the highlights of the trip were the evening dinner cruise on the Danube in Budapest, the Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, the incredible beauty of the Abbey at Melk, and the delightful city of Nuremberg.
We stayed at excellent hotels, the most memorable of which was the Hotel Budapest, a unique Art Deco hotel. The people whom we met in the former communist countries could not do enough for us, always asking, "Do you like our city? Will you come again?" I would love to go again, but with any luck, my next trips will be to Poland - with Archers of course.
I must add that we took all of the optional extras offered on the tour and feels it is an excellent way to see and learn about the places visited in the limited time available. I would urge all to do so, if at all possible.
Mrs H Mettham, Canada
Holiday Review: Scenic Slovenia & Croatia
The Slovenia, Croatia and Bosnia trip appealed because it's packed in so much in a short time but I was worried about how I would cope with a lot of coach travel and being a single traveller in the group.
However, although the pace of the trip was tiring I now have wonderful memories of seeing so many fascinating places and so much beautiful scenery, the other travellers were very friendly, good company and the hotels fine.
I feel that I have done something really worthwhile this year by gong on this trip and visiting such inspiring places.
A Davidson, Surrey
Holiday Review: Discover the Dalmatian Coast
We have recently returned from Dubrovnik having spent a most enjoyable and thought provoking holiday there.
Our hotel was excellent overlooking the Lapad Bay, we have open air covered dining on food beyond expectation with many choices and the staff were very helpful. Of course the weather was perfect and the short flights to and from UK just right.
We walked early morning around the city walls, a must do walk for the stunning views, we walked around the cliff path and lazed on beaches with the clearest water. Fish is abundant which quayside restaurants cook to order. There are many islands to visit by boat also a trip to Cavtat resort from which we took the bus back.
There are coach trips two of which we took, the first to Mostar where the Bosnian War scenes of destruction are still evident along with the cemetery monuments of the many young men lost there, the mosques and churches and the new bridge reopened by Prince Charles last year, very mixed emotions were felt. We also visited Montenegro, which is becoming a charming beach resort with a large yacht harbour.
The different cultures and currencies, the border controls when crossing into neighbouring countries, their differing economies all made this trip so memorable. We will definitely explore Croatia further.
Mrs Pilkington, W. Sussex
Holiday Review: French Panorama
Yesterday I returned from the above tour and am writing to express my appreciation of the services rendered by the above named tour director (Mr Phil Taylor).
This was the third time that I have been on an Archers Tour and whilst previous directors carried out duties in an adequate fashion, their efforts paled into insignificance when compared to Mr Taylor - he was even on hand when I required medicine for a chest infection.
Mr Goodacre, Leicester
Holiday Review: Lido di Jesolo
After a hectic year of change to our lifestyle my wife Pauline and I needed a relaxing break and as regular travellers with Archers we eventually settled on a week in Lido di Jesolo on the Venetian Riviera.
We are devoted fans of Italy having travelled to many parts of this beautiful country and wanted to combine a week of relaxation with a chance to visit the delightful city of Venice again.
We chose to stay at the Principe Palace Hotel as it was described as having an excellent location in the centre of the resort facing the Piazza Mazzini and we were not disappointed. The hotel was elegant and delightful, the ever helpful and friendly staff and excellent cuisine added much to our holiday.
The rooftop sundeck and swimming pool, which always had plenty of sunbeds available gave us ample opportunity to relax and forget about out troublesome year. The resort itself was a delight, teeming with shops, bars, cafes and restaurants and catering for all the family. Particularly enchanting was the strolling of families with young children in the evening when no traffic was allowed in the resort centre, just people all having a good time and enjoying their holiday.
We also took our trip to Venice, the afternoon and evening excursion organised by our Archers rep was all we had hoped for, we wanted to see Venice after dark and we were captivated by the experience, it's a magical place by day but in the evening with the orchestra playing classical music in Saint Marks Square and the lights twinkling on the Grand Canal you can imagine all the history of this wonderful city coming back to life and you are transported back in time.
So we both agreed, our holiday had achieved it's aim, we both returned to England relaxed and invigorated and looking forward to once again leafing through the Archers brochure to select our next escape.
Mr & Mrs Mason, Liverpool
Holiday Review: Discover the Mountains & Trains of Austria
I feel I must put pen to paper to say how much my wife and I enjoyed our latest holiday with your company.
We have had a most wonderful week in Austria staying at the Hotel Lebzelter which was wonderful. We have been with your firm a few times, but this holiday in Zellamsee was the best, made more so by your rep Viktoria, nothing was too much trouble for her. My wife has trouble walking, she saw to it that there was always a lift handy, always a hand to help her on and off the coach and all done with a wonderful smile on her face. She really is an asset to your company. The coach driver Mick was first class though we went up some tricky roads in the cliffs, one felt at ease.
My wife and I thought your company would like to pay a big thank you to Viktoria and Micky for making our holiday a week to remember.
A Porter, Manchester
Holiday Review: Discover the Mountains & Trains of Austria
"Thank you"! for a fantastic holiday, comfortable hotels at Zell-um-see and Munich (Holiday Inn).
The excursions were excellent and we were cared for very well by an excellent friendly tour manager, Judith. On the coach, she delivered a lot of factual information as we travelled with much interest and much enthusiasm. She looked after us all very well.
I am sure I reflect the opinions of everyone on the holiday. Thanks again for a wonderful time and I look forward to booking with you again.
Miss White, Middlesex
Holiday Review: Highlights of Andalucia
Our tour director Ann (Highlights of Andalucia Tour) was absolutely excellent. Her knowledge of the cities visited was invaluable. Her sunny disposition made it a pleasure to travel with her.
If your guides are half as good again, I will be going with Archers again.
Mr I Simpson, UK
Holiday Review: Venice, Florence & Rome Platinum
I feel that I must write to you following my holiday under the above booking reference to Venice, Florence and Rome.
I would like to say that I was very impressed with the Tour Director on this tour who made the whole holiday most enjoyable.
I feel it is important to give praise where praise is due and in my opinion this Tour Director was efficient, had a sense of humour at all times, gave the whole tour an informative look at Italy and dealt with the whole tour in a professional way.
K S Tyler, Dorset
Holiday Review: The Baltic States, Russia & Scandinavia
My wife and I would like to pass on our compliments to you for a very enjoyable and interesting tour (Baltic States, Russia and Scandinavia).
Our highest praise goes to your Tour Manager, Viktor, who was always informative and helpful even to the extent of our obtaining Russian visas for us after we had been let down by the Royal Mail whilst applying for them in the UK.
The tour was very good value for money and we would have no hesitation in recommending it in the future.
K J Hooper, West Yorkshire
Holiday Review: Lido di Jesolo
My son and I have just returned from our weeks holiday at the Hotel D'Annunzio in Lido Josolo. Everything in the hotel was excellent and everyone there is made very welcome and as we have been going there for many years, we meet friends who are also old customers at this hotel.
We must also praise your excellent courier Alistair (the best we have ever had) and also the courier to the Airport at Venice (Jose) for her very able assistance.
As we always have an enjoyable time in Josolo, and the pleasure of meeting up again with old friends, who are also regulars, we have already made a booking with you for September and recommend anyone visiting Josolo of a warm welcome at the Hotel D'Annunzio.
G S Orme, Warwickshire
Holiday Review: Discover Tuscany
We have just had a great holiday in Italy, with excellent service by Archers couriers throughout. The first week was "Discover Tuscany".
We were very efficiently transferred for our second week to the seaside resort of Viarregio where we had a superb hotel "The Astor". We thoroughly enjoyed the holiday and would recommend it.
Thank you Archers from four satisfied friends.
A & H Purdy and J & P Disley, North Yorkshire
Holiday Review: Discover Tuscany
We have recently returned from your Discover Tuscany holiday. This is included in the 'Leisurely Touring' section of the brochure and the outstanding feature of the trip was the excellent timing and pace of the various visits.
'Discover Tuscany' we certainly did and we would not hesitate to go again with Archers and recommend this itinerary to friends.
M & J Chalkley, Watford
Holiday Review: Discover Sicily
I have been letting everyone I know, how wonderful your tour of Sicily is.
I'm not a backpacking, trail-blazing animal, but I still want interesting holidays. For this reason, together with a friend, I booked an Archers tour of Sicily and got a lot more than I expected. So much so, that I came home feeling no holiday will live up to this one.
C Hook, Blackburn
Holiday Review: Prague, Vienna & Budapest
On Monday we returned from our holiday in Prague, Vienna and Budapest and we enjoyed it very much, The Tour Director (Melke) was very good and made our Golden Wedding Anniversary a day we will always remember.
Mrs Guy, Birmingham
Holiday Review: The Baltic States, Russia & Scandinavia
In June this year, we took the Archers' tour of the Baltic States, Russia and Scandinavia.
Nine cities, two ferry-crossings and two flights - not to mention numerous different currencies. However, the tour proved to be a most organised, exciting and stimulating experience.
F Sackett, Stockport
Holiday Review: Scenic Scandinavia
Not just the itinerary itself, but the care and kindness of Nicole, our tour director, and Bjorn, our driver, certainly made my holiday a memorable one.
Ms C Din, Scotland
Holiday Review: Spain, Portugal & Morocco
Our 30th wedding anniversary had to be something different from all our other holidays. As first time coachers we weren't sure what to expect but our tour of Spain, Portugal and Morocco more than surpassed our expectations. We had a fantastic 15 days touring and we have made friends from all over the world and we share amazing memories. We would definitely travel with Archers Direct again and recommend them to friends with confidence.
S & M Hendry, Sheffield
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