Trafalgar Reviews
The 1,795 Trafalgar reviews listed below are from past clients of Global Journeys that have travelled with Trafalgar. Each review has been individually verified by our team.
The 1,795 Trafalgar reviews listed below are from past clients of Global Journeys that have travelled with Trafalgar. Each review has been individually verified by our team.
Fantastic tour of East Coast USA and Canada 7
East Coast USA and Canada
David & Dianna, VIC, Australia, Apr 2019
For us the tour was very comprehensive and extremely well constructed. The tour director Ben Conti had an incredible general knowledge of the areas we visited and also had the ability to disseminate information in a very interesting way. The driver, Jose, was extremely careful and no one was ever worried about his driving.
For us the whole trip read more was a highlight and we all got on really well and enjoyed each others company. If pressed for highlights, we would include America's stately capital, Washington, the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls, the incredibly beautiful Quebec City and historical Boston. But to be fair, the highlight was the whole trip itself.
The hotels we stayed at were of a high standard and, importantly, were always centrally located. This allowed us to make the most of the free time we sometimes had to further explore each city we visited. For what we got, we believe that the whole tour was well-priced and certainly value for money.
For us the whole trip read more was a highlight and we all got on really well and enjoyed each others company. If pressed for highlights, we would include America's stately capital, Washington, the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls, the incredibly beautiful Quebec City and historical Boston. But to be fair, the highlight was the whole trip itself.
The hotels we stayed at were of a high standard and, importantly, were always centrally located. This allowed us to make the most of the free time we sometimes had to further explore each city we visited. For what we got, we believe that the whole tour was well-priced and certainly value for money.
The trip included everything on my Irish bucket list (Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Giant's Causeway) and took me to more sights in Scotland to add to a previous visit. Accommodation was all 4 star hotels. I still occasionally had the problem of a room which was too warm for the bedding (duvet only) and no way to adjust the temperature.
Of the read more 36 on the coach 5 were Australians, 2 Singaporean, while all the rest were from the US or Canada. As a consequence the Australians tended to find the coach temperature too low. Everybody seemed to be experienced travellers and we had very few problems with people being late at any time.
The landscapes traversed are marvellous. Included in the tour were several optional experiences, which did cost extra, but generally should not be missed. And gratuities are not included and will cost more also. The weather was a little brisk at times (April 2019) but by no means impossible. Our indispensable Tour Director's advice was very sound - dress like an onion with detachable layers.
I have seen tour groups bond together before, but must admit to being a little surprised at how well this one did so. No name tags were used, but by the second week we all knew one another's names.
I should also mention the musical experiences - the Irish and Scottish evening performances (and dinners) were a highlight. The most difficult part was the stretch where we only stayed one night in each hotel, but the porterage was excellent. I enjoyed the trip very much.
Of the read more 36 on the coach 5 were Australians, 2 Singaporean, while all the rest were from the US or Canada. As a consequence the Australians tended to find the coach temperature too low. Everybody seemed to be experienced travellers and we had very few problems with people being late at any time.
The landscapes traversed are marvellous. Included in the tour were several optional experiences, which did cost extra, but generally should not be missed. And gratuities are not included and will cost more also. The weather was a little brisk at times (April 2019) but by no means impossible. Our indispensable Tour Director's advice was very sound - dress like an onion with detachable layers.
I have seen tour groups bond together before, but must admit to being a little surprised at how well this one did so. No name tags were used, but by the second week we all knew one another's names.
I should also mention the musical experiences - the Irish and Scottish evening performances (and dinners) were a highlight. The most difficult part was the stretch where we only stayed one night in each hotel, but the porterage was excellent. I enjoyed the trip very much.
Canals, Windmills and Tulips in Benelux 5
Country Roads of Belgium, Luxembourg & the Netherlands
J & P, VIC, Australia, Apr 2019
What a wonderful tour! April-May is the time to go, as the weather is improving (we had many days in the mid-20s Celsius after a cool beginning), and the Keukenhof Gardens are open and, in our case, were included in the tour. Our wonderful tour director, Philip Orna, went out of his way to ensure we had the best tour possible, and our driver, Ludwig, read more was also excellent.
There were a few downsides. The accommodation in Bruges is a brand new Radisson, which is still teething, is understaffed and is not well located (next to the rail yards). Apparently chosen by Insight because they received a lot of bad feedback regarding the previous hotel.
The NH hotel in Amsterdam is also new to Insight, and is very tired. It is apparently due to be renovated this year (2019), so should be in good shape by 2020, but may not be so good this year.
The Chateau D'Urspelt is lovely, but it is a true country stay. It is a long drive from Luxembourg, so those who choose not to take the optional excursion to Trier will have to remain in Luxembourg until the excursion returns. Trier is certainly worthwhile, so we would recommend taking this excursion.
We went on the majority of the optional excursions and recommend doing the same. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and made many friends among our travelling companions.
There were a few downsides. The accommodation in Bruges is a brand new Radisson, which is still teething, is understaffed and is not well located (next to the rail yards). Apparently chosen by Insight because they received a lot of bad feedback regarding the previous hotel.
The NH hotel in Amsterdam is also new to Insight, and is very tired. It is apparently due to be renovated this year (2019), so should be in good shape by 2020, but may not be so good this year.
The Chateau D'Urspelt is lovely, but it is a true country stay. It is a long drive from Luxembourg, so those who choose not to take the optional excursion to Trier will have to remain in Luxembourg until the excursion returns. Trier is certainly worthwhile, so we would recommend taking this excursion.
We went on the majority of the optional excursions and recommend doing the same. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and made many friends among our travelling companions.
Tour of Portugal even better second time around 6
Country Roads of Portugal
Emilia, Australia, Apr 2019
I did a comprehensive tour of Portugal over a decade ago and thought it was time to revisit this beautiful country. I have travelled with Insight Vacations more than a dozen times, so choosing a tour operator was easy.
Although the itinerary was similar to the previous tour, this time there were new inclusions and a broader cultural focus, both read more of which made a difference. For example, in each region we tasted local delicacies: pastel de nata in Lisbon, doce fino in Algarve, ginjinha in Obidos, pastel de Tentugal in Coimbra, tibia in Braga, etc. etc. These are small touches, but were appreciated by all, since they and the stories behind them are all threads in the tapestry that is Portugal.
Accommodation was comfortable and very close to city centres and historic sites. Included food was excellent, particularly in the local restaurants Frade dos mares in Lisbon, Sem-Fim in Monsaraz, farm-to-table dinner in Quinta de Maroccos in Peso da Regua... Both included and optional excursions were excellent and were a real value-add to an already great choice of locations and sightseeing.
The local guides were superb - they were passionate about their cities, knowledgeable and entertaining. The tour director and the driver were great too: professional and attentive. The former was friendly, personable, well organised, able to quickly solve problems and displayed excellent attention to detail.
Overall, the tour was very well organised. If anything, I think it should be a bit longer- additional two days would have allowed for some more time to be spent in locations worthy of more exploration. My only criticism would be the stay in Almancil. While the stroll on the beach was nice, there really wasn't anything else to do in the afternoon/evening. Perhaps a different location for an overnight should be considered? Apart from that, the tour was a thoroughly enjoyable experience and I would recommend it to anyone who has an interest in gaining a deeper insight into Portugal.
On a separate note - this was the first time I've booked a tour with Global Journeys, an agency I came across accidentally while doing an online search. At first I was a little sceptical and concerned about whether I'd made the right choice of an agent. I must say that I was pleasantly surprised. Global Journeys provided service of a high standard: communication was timely, responses to questions prompt, information accurate. I have already recommended them to friends and would use them again myself.
Although the itinerary was similar to the previous tour, this time there were new inclusions and a broader cultural focus, both read more of which made a difference. For example, in each region we tasted local delicacies: pastel de nata in Lisbon, doce fino in Algarve, ginjinha in Obidos, pastel de Tentugal in Coimbra, tibia in Braga, etc. etc. These are small touches, but were appreciated by all, since they and the stories behind them are all threads in the tapestry that is Portugal.
Accommodation was comfortable and very close to city centres and historic sites. Included food was excellent, particularly in the local restaurants Frade dos mares in Lisbon, Sem-Fim in Monsaraz, farm-to-table dinner in Quinta de Maroccos in Peso da Regua... Both included and optional excursions were excellent and were a real value-add to an already great choice of locations and sightseeing.
The local guides were superb - they were passionate about their cities, knowledgeable and entertaining. The tour director and the driver were great too: professional and attentive. The former was friendly, personable, well organised, able to quickly solve problems and displayed excellent attention to detail.
Overall, the tour was very well organised. If anything, I think it should be a bit longer- additional two days would have allowed for some more time to be spent in locations worthy of more exploration. My only criticism would be the stay in Almancil. While the stroll on the beach was nice, there really wasn't anything else to do in the afternoon/evening. Perhaps a different location for an overnight should be considered? Apart from that, the tour was a thoroughly enjoyable experience and I would recommend it to anyone who has an interest in gaining a deeper insight into Portugal.
On a separate note - this was the first time I've booked a tour with Global Journeys, an agency I came across accidentally while doing an online search. At first I was a little sceptical and concerned about whether I'd made the right choice of an agent. I must say that I was pleasantly surprised. Global Journeys provided service of a high standard: communication was timely, responses to questions prompt, information accurate. I have already recommended them to friends and would use them again myself.
Wonderful springtime tour of Japan 5
Splendours of Japan with Hiroshima
Marilyn, NSW, Australia, Apr 2019
All aspects, from the booking of this trip with Hannah at Global Journeys to the trip itself, went problem free. Our Trafalgar tour director, Nana, was very knowledgeable of Japanese history and her culture and took great care to ensure everyone in our small group was having a good time. Nana was an absolute joy and her spoken English, excellent. read more
We stayed in first class hotels in central areas, ate at excellent eateries and travelled in large, comfortable coaches so people could spread out if desired. I loved Japan, the people are so friendly and polite. Their cities/towns, public transport and public toilets are extremely clean.
Loved seeing the cherry blossom trees in all their beauty and the “old” Japan. One special memory for me was when one late afternoon we viewed Mt. Fuji draped in sunshine after an overcast morning and the next morning awoke to a winter wonderland. It had started snowing overnight and continued snowing lightly well into the morning.
I highly commend Global Journeys and Trafalgar Tours.
We stayed in first class hotels in central areas, ate at excellent eateries and travelled in large, comfortable coaches so people could spread out if desired. I loved Japan, the people are so friendly and polite. Their cities/towns, public transport and public toilets are extremely clean.
Loved seeing the cherry blossom trees in all their beauty and the “old” Japan. One special memory for me was when one late afternoon we viewed Mt. Fuji draped in sunshine after an overcast morning and the next morning awoke to a winter wonderland. It had started snowing overnight and continued snowing lightly well into the morning.
I highly commend Global Journeys and Trafalgar Tours.
Enjoyed the rich history, beautiful architecture in Italy and wonderful scenery in Switzerland. This would not have been possible without Madeline's professional care and thorough follow ups with us. Thank you immensely!
Great service from Global Journeys. Trafalgar tour was great and our guide was excellent. Hotels were a bit out of town though and need to do all optional excursions to make it a good trip, so be prepared for the extra cost. That being said I highly recommend it and it was the trip of a lifetime!
We both thoroughly enjoyed our seven day Italian adventure. The tour company was excellent and the tour guide was an extremely well organised person with a wealth of knowledge and anecdotes, The standard of the hotels was very good and in great locations. Top marks to everyone involved in our package holiday.
Toured Spain and Portugal with Paddy and Insight Vacations. Paddy is the best tour director we have ever had. He went above and beyond anything we had ever experienced before and always with a smile on his face and a geniune warmth in his heart.....our next Tour director will have some big shoes to fill. Some days were long drives but that's what's read more required to get to see different places. Accommodation was good. We felt safe and well cared for the whole journey, which is important travelling overseas. If you want amazing memories just jump into everything on offer. Yvonne from Global Journeys was fantastic and organised our holiday to perfection.
Love Insight. They really make you feel safe and looked after. Worries disappear once you're on the road with them. And Global Journeys takes the worries out even before you start travelling - and keep the cost down.
9 day tour of the 'gems' of the east coast of South America. There was a lot of free time, and many optionals (which were good, if fairly expensive). Hotels were fairly basic but clean, spacious and well-maintained. Tour guide was very good. The weather (April) was (unusually) fairly uncooperative, but it didn't detract too much from the experience. read more The 3 stops gave us good variety: spectacular Rio, awe-inspiring Iguassu Falls and cosmopolitan and stylish BA. A lot of really nice people on the tour, from all over the (english-speaking) world.
This was our 4th Trafalgar tour so we were confident that we would have an experienced tour director and driver and that the itinerary would provide us with the very best opportunity to see the highlights of Turkey. Istanbul - a city of 18 million people is breathtaking with the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar and the Hagia Sophia highlights read more of this vibrant city. Our stop at Gallipoli was poignant and Lone Pine allowed us to reflect on lives lost.
Troy and Ephesus were spectacular reminders of the power of ancient Rome and Greece, the surreal landscape of Cappadocia was unlike any other and the open air museum at Goreme was a reminder of the difficult life of early Christians in this region. Our visit to Ankara included a visit to the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk - the founder of modern Turkey.
We would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in history and Turkish culture. We booked this tour through Global Journeys - because we have always had excellent service and this was no exception. Georgie is very professional and always quick to respond to any query - 10/10!!
Troy and Ephesus were spectacular reminders of the power of ancient Rome and Greece, the surreal landscape of Cappadocia was unlike any other and the open air museum at Goreme was a reminder of the difficult life of early Christians in this region. Our visit to Ankara included a visit to the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk - the founder of modern Turkey.
We would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in history and Turkish culture. We booked this tour through Global Journeys - because we have always had excellent service and this was no exception. Georgie is very professional and always quick to respond to any query - 10/10!!
I would travel with Insight Vacations again. Nice group of people. Tour Director was great and coach driver amazing. Some of the meals on the optional excursions were below my expectations.
We travelled with Insight Vacations again ... to Morocco this time. Pretty well perfect as usual. Some days were long drives but that's what's required to get to see different places. Accommodation was good. We felt safe and well cared for the whole journey, which is important in a strange country. So much colour and life to see in Morocco, so different read more to our western world. We learnt how to haggle quite well after a while and how to say "no" politely but with authority. We went for a camel ride in the Sahara to watch the sunset. If you want amazing memories just jump into everything on offer. Yvonne from Global Journeys was fantastic and organised our holiday to perfection.
Ramadan was simply an excellent tour leader. His knowledge of hieroglyphics, history and all-things Egyptian was great and he imparted this in a clear, friendly and professional way. He highlighted the most important things we were viewing and experiencing during this jam packed tour. The hotels and river boat were all great; very comfortable, good read more food choices and helpful workers.
We have travelled to nearly 80 countries and also visited Cairo before but this tour clearly ranked amongst the best. Global Journeys' pre-journey processes and information were also fabulous with Hannah keeping us well-informed during all aspects of the booking, payment and documentation stages. Thanks to all. Our first time with Trafalgar and Global Journeys — more than likely not our last.
We have travelled to nearly 80 countries and also visited Cairo before but this tour clearly ranked amongst the best. Global Journeys' pre-journey processes and information were also fabulous with Hannah keeping us well-informed during all aspects of the booking, payment and documentation stages. Thanks to all. Our first time with Trafalgar and Global Journeys — more than likely not our last.
Great tour or Spain Portugal and Morocco 3
Treasures of Spain, Portugal & Morocco
John & Anne, ACT , Australia, Feb 2019
This tour was a terrific way to experience these three diverse countries in one go, an almost essential criteria after having to travel so far. The booking process and the management of the booking by Global Journeys was smooth and seamless from start to finish and we rate them very highly. As for the tour itself, the experience provided by Insight read more Vacations was exceptional.
The motor coach, driver and the Tour Director were of the highest standard, however the quality of the accommodation varied considerably across the tour. Overall the accommodation was very good but in a couple of locations it was not really up to expectations. The group was quite varied and overall got along very well, which makes a trip like this very interesting as travel stories are shared and enjoyed.
If there was any complaint, the number of optional experiences was excessive and overpriced. Compared to past tours we have experienced we would have expected many of what were presented as extra cost options would have been included in a tour of this quality and cost, however, overall the tour was a very high quality offering and a great way to experience such diverse countries
The motor coach, driver and the Tour Director were of the highest standard, however the quality of the accommodation varied considerably across the tour. Overall the accommodation was very good but in a couple of locations it was not really up to expectations. The group was quite varied and overall got along very well, which makes a trip like this very interesting as travel stories are shared and enjoyed.
If there was any complaint, the number of optional experiences was excessive and overpriced. Compared to past tours we have experienced we would have expected many of what were presented as extra cost options would have been included in a tour of this quality and cost, however, overall the tour was a very high quality offering and a great way to experience such diverse countries
This was a great way to see the highlights of Spain & Portugal. We were so incredibly fortunate to have Brad as our truly exceptional Tour Director. His knowledge of every aspect of both countries added an extra dimension to the trip. The quality of accommodation was very good & the optional tours were worthwhile with excellent guides. February proved read more to be a perfect time to travel as the crowds were smaller than at other times & the weather was sunny & mild. I would be happy to travel with Insight again.
Great trip, covered a lot in a short period therefore very fast paced. Would have been nice to spend more time in some places to explore. Taking this trip in summer when it is warmer and longer daylight would be a plus but overall great tour.
Turkey was a great experience. Loved every minute of it. My group of fellow travellers were great company. Tour Director Tolga and driver Sarban were excellent, I felt completely safe at all times. Would greatly recommend this tour.
This Trafalgar tour is for those who are looking to see a lot in a short period. It’s like having a European road trip. Great sightseeing and fun add ons.
