If you are a McDonalds or Starbucks fan this holiday is NOT for you as it's towards the end of day five before you'll see one.
I believe we were the guinea pigs for this tour and what a great trip it turned out to be. Quite a lot of travelling in the north European plain, which is flat and monotonous, but the towns/cities/parks etc., in between made up for it. Riga is particularly attractive with its many art deco buildings, and all the walking tours were interesting.
Excursions.
All were included with no optional ones. All except Thomas Mann's house and the boat trip were of interest. Time at Mann's house would have been better spent following the Witch's Trail further. Although not on anyone's essential to do list, the visits to Karosta prison and Ligatne bunker turned out to be two of the highlights of the trip. All trips were as described in the brochure and I don't think any one was disappointed.
Travelling.
Morning starts were either 8.00 or 9.00 so not too early. Day 3 was very long (11.5 hours) but worth it to see the Hill of Crosses. I feel the length of this day could be reduced if the boat trip on the lake the previous day was replaced by the tour of Kaunas which was done on the third morning. The boat trip consisted of sailing round several islands, seeing the back of the castle, a house under renovation (4 times) and millions of trees.
We had an excellent driver for whom nothing was too much trouble.
Hotels.
All of an excellent standard although two did not have tea/coffee facilities in the room. All had hair dryers.
Food.
Beyond all expectations. I don't think we had a poor meal. Although it was a set menu the food was very tasty and different. I won't mention the meal on the final night as it would spoil the surprise. All meals were provided except lunch on the last day. Tea or coffee was free after every evening meal.
I believe the vegetarian on the trip will be writing about her meals which I believe on the whole were more than acceptable.
Beer in the hotels was quite expensive at euro 4.50 per half litre. Not being a wine drinker I cannot comment on that but several bottles were consumed!!! by some of the group.
Weather.
Heavy showers on several days but with some sunny and pleasantly warm ones as well. It would pay to take a collapsible umbrella with you.
Tour Manager.
Xenia Kyriaku was brilliant and really was the icing on the cake for the holiday. Not even phased when the group were departing to three different airports at different times to what she had been advised. So instead of travelling to the airport after breakfast for a late afternoon flight she managed to arrange for the coach to stay until mid afternoon.
Summary.
Another excellent JY holiday in which the group gelled well and it was the first time for me that men exceeded women. Do not worry about the travelling (if you are thinking about this holiday) as everything else makes up for it. I've probably not covered everything but just ask if you need to know more.
Roger.
